Bradley University Market Research Report

Background

Overview

Bradley University, established in 1897 by philanthropist Lydia Moss Bradley, is a private institution located in Peoria, Illinois. The university offers a comprehensive educational experience, blending professional preparation with liberal arts and sciences. Its mission is to empower students for immediate and sustained success in their personal and professional endeavors.

Campus and Facilities

The 85-acre campus is situated in Peoria's historic West Bluff neighborhood, approximately one mile from downtown. The university comprises 87 buildings, including the Markin Family Student Recreation Center and the Renaissance Coliseum, which hosts various athletic events.

Key Strategic Focus

Academic Programs

Bradley University offers over 100 undergraduate programs and more than 30 graduate programs across five colleges:

Foster College of Business

Slane College of Communications and Fine Arts

College of Education and Health Sciences

Caterpillar College of Engineering and Technology

College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

Notable programs include entrepreneurship, game design, nursing, and sports communication.

Student Demographics

The university enrolls approximately 3,600 undergraduate and 1,200 graduate students from 36 states and 55 countries. The student body is diverse, with 48% of the first-year class identifying as students of color.

Student-Faculty Interaction

With a student-faculty ratio of 11:1 and an average class size of 17, Bradley emphasizes personalized education. Over 340 full-time faculty members, 82% of whom hold doctorate or terminal degrees, contribute to this environment.

Financials and Funding

Tuition and Financial Aid

For the 2024–2025 academic year, undergraduate tuition and fees are $42,160, with room and board estimated at $13,500. Approximately 97% of undergraduate students receive financial aid, with an average package of $34,824.

Endowment

As of May 31, 2024, Bradley University's endowment stands at $380 million, reflecting financial stability and support for its academic initiatives.

Pipeline Development

Academic Innovations

Bradley has been a leader in game design and development, offering top-ranked undergraduate and master's programs in this discipline. The Center for Cybersecurity provides cutting-edge education and collaborates with local companies to facilitate research in this growing high-tech field. Additionally, Bradley's Charley Steiner School of Sports Communication was the first named sports communication school in the country.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Digital Campus Initiatives

Through the Digitally Connected Campus initiative, Bradley has embraced technology to enhance the learning experience, integrating digital infrastructure and cybersecurity measures to support a digitally integrated campus environment.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

President: Stephen Standifird, who became the university’s 12th president in 2020, following the retirement of Gary R. Roberts.

Provost: Walter Zakahi, overseeing academic affairs and initiatives.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

Bradley University operates within the competitive landscape of private higher education institutions in the Midwest. The university's emphasis on personalized education, diverse academic offerings, and strong career placement rates positions it favorably among peers.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors include Illinois State University, Drake University, and Loyola University Chicago. These institutions offer similar programs and compete for a comparable student demographic. Bradley's unique programs in game design, cybersecurity, and sports communication provide distinct advantages in attracting students.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Industry Engagement

Bradley collaborates with local companies through its Center for Cybersecurity, facilitating research and providing students with real-world experience. The Turner Center for Entrepreneurship offers resources and support for student ventures, fostering innovation and business development.

Operational Insights

Athletics

The university's athletic teams, known as the Braves, participate in the NCAA Division I Missouri Valley Conference. The men's basketball team has a storied history, with multiple NCAA tournament appearances and NIT championships.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Expansion of Online Programs

With the growing trend of remote learning, Bradley has launched online undergraduate bachelor degree programs in engineering, adapting to the evolving educational landscape and reaching a broader student base.

Enhanced Career Services

The Smith Career Center provides comprehensive support, including job fairs, individual advisement, and on-campus interviews, contributing to a 91% career placement rate within six months of graduation.