Villa Maria College
General Information
About (Overview)
Villa Maria College is a private Catholic institution located in Buffalo, New York. Established in 1961 by the Felician Sisters, the college was originally founded to provide the first two years of college education for their Sisters preparing to become schoolteachers. Over the years, Villa Maria College has evolved into a coeducational institution offering a diverse range of programs. The college emphasizes personalized attention, fostering a close-knit community where students are defined by their potential rather than their financial status. Villa Maria College is committed to providing innovative strategies to educate and empower a diverse student body, enabling them to positively impact their communities.
Contact Information
- Address:
240 Pine Ridge Road
Buffalo, NY 14225 - Phone:
(716) 896-0700 - Email:
admissions@villa.edu
School Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1961 |
| Motto | “Where Talent Takes You” |
| Type | Private Catholic College |
| Religious Affiliation | Felician Sisters (Roman Catholic) |
| Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Student Enrollment | Approximately 630 students (2025) |
Villa Maria College Rankings
| Ranking Category | Rank |
|---|---|
| Best Regional Colleges in the North | Top 100 |
| Best Value Schools in New York | Top 50 |
| Best Colleges for Animation | Top 20 |
Academics
Faculties / Departments
- Arts and Humanities
- Business
- Criminal Justice
- Digital Media and Communications
- Fine Arts
- Health Sciences
- Music
- Natural Sciences and Mathematics
Courses and Programs / Majors
- Animation
- Business Administration
- Computer Software Development
- Criminal Justice
- Digital Filmmaking
- Digital Media and Communications
- Digital Media Design
- Fine Art
- Game Design
- Graphic Design
- Integrated Arts
- Interior Design
- Liberal Arts
- Motion Design
- Music Industry
Online Learning
Villa Maria College offers a blend of in-person and online learning options. While the majority of courses are conducted on-campus to provide hands-on experience, certain programs may offer online courses to accommodate diverse learning preferences.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| SAT | Not Applicable |
| ACT | Not Applicable |
Note: Standardized test scores are not required for admission to Villa Maria College.
Retention and Graduation Rates
- Retention Rate: Approximately 75%
- Graduation Rate: Approximately 31%
These rates reflect the college’s commitment to student success and the effectiveness of its programs in preparing students for careers in their chosen fields.
Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
- GPA Range: Not Applicable
- SAT Range: Not Applicable
- ACT Range: Not Applicable
Note: Admission to Villa Maria College is based on program-specific requirements rather than standardized test scores.
Acceptance Rate
| Acceptance Rate |
|---|
| 87% |
Villa Maria College maintains an open admissions policy, ensuring access to its programs for all eligible applicants.
Application Requirements
Admission requirements vary by program. Generally, applicants must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Some programs may require additional assessments or prerequisites. Specific requirements are detailed for each program.
Application Process
- Review program-specific admission requirements.
- Complete the online application form.
- Submit required documents (e.g., high school diploma, transcripts).
- Attend an interview or assessment, if required.
- Await admission decision and further instructions.
Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Program | Application Deadline |
|---|---|
| Animation | Rolling Admissions |
| Business Administration | Rolling Admissions |
| Computer Software Development | Rolling Admissions |
| Criminal Justice | Rolling Admissions |
| Digital Filmmaking | Rolling Admissions |
| Digital Media and Communications | Rolling Admissions |
| Fine Art | Rolling Admissions |
| Game Design | Rolling Admissions |
| Graphic Design | Rolling Admissions |
| Integrated Arts | Rolling Admissions |
| Interior Design | Rolling Admissions |
| Liberal Arts | Rolling Admissions |
| Motion Design | Rolling Admissions |
| Music Industry | Rolling Admissions |
Note: Deadlines may vary by program. It is recommended to contact the admissions office for specific dates.
Essay Prompt
An essay is not typically required for admission to Villa Maria College programs. However, some programs may request a personal statement or letter of intent as part of the application process.
Scholarships
Villa Maria College offers various scholarship opportunities to support students in their educational pursuits. These scholarships are typically merit-based and may be available through specific programs or external organizations. Students are encouraged to inquire about available scholarships during the application process.
Tuition and Fees
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| In-State Tuition | $28,670 per year |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $28,670 per year |
| Books and Supplies | Varies |
| Personal Expenses | $3,300 per year |
| Room and Board | Not Applicable |
| Total Estimated Cost | Varies |
Note: These figures are approximate and may vary based on program and personal circumstances.
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
- Gender: Approximately 60% female, 40% male
- Age: Majority under 22 years old
- Race/Ethnicity:
- African American: 36%
- Asian: 4%
- Hispanic: 7%
- Multiracial: 8%
- Native American: 1%
- Pacific Islander: 0%
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Villa Maria College is committed to providing equitable educational opportunities. The institution offers support services for low-income students and those with disabilities, ensuring access to necessary resources and accommodations to facilitate academic success.
Student Body
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total Students | 630 |
| International Students | Not Available |
| Full-Time Students | Not Available |
| Part-Time Students | Not Available |
Note: Enrollment figures are approximate and may vary.
University Diversity
Villa Maria College fosters a diverse and inclusive educational environment, serving a wide range of students from various backgrounds, including different racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups. This diversity enriches the learning experience, promoting cultural awareness and mutual respect among students and staff. The commitment to diversity is reflected in the curriculum, support services, and community engagement initiatives that aim to create an inclusive atmosphere for all learners.
Average Earnings
Graduates of Villa Maria College often experience positive employment outcomes. Many find employment in their field of study shortly after completing their programs. The hands-on training and industry-specific skills gained through these programs equip students with the competencies sought by employers. While exact salary figures vary by program and individual circumstances, the practical experience and certifications obtained through Villa Maria College contribute to enhanced employability and career advancement opportunities.
Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Villa Maria College employs a dedicated team of educators and support staff committed to student success. The faculty includes experienced professionals with expertise in various technical and vocational fields. Staff members provide essential services ranging from academic advising to career counseling, ensuring that students receive comprehensive support throughout their educational journey.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty members at Villa Maria College bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the classroom. Many instructors hold industry certifications and have practical experience in their respective fields. Their achievements include contributions to curriculum development, participation in professional development activities, and involvement in industry partnerships that enhance the quality of education offered.
Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Villa Maria College does not offer on-campus housing. However, the college partners with Collegiate Village, a student-focused apartment community located less than 10 minutes away from campus. Collegiate Village provides premium apartments at an affordable cost to all students. Students can choose from studio apartments, shared suites, or multi-bedroom units. The community houses students from various nearby colleges, offering a chance to meet peers from different institutions.
Transportation
Access to the Pine Ridge Road campus is facilitated through various transportation options. Public transportation services are available in the vicinity of the campus, providing students with convenient means to commute. Additionally, the institution may offer shuttle services or collaborate with local transit authorities to ensure that students have reliable access to campus facilities. On-campus mobility is supported by accessible pathways and parking facilities to accommodate all students.