Undergraduate Institutional Data

Peterson’s undergraduate data set is one of the most comprehensive and complete databases in the field of higher education. It features information highlighting nearly 4,200 two-year and four-year undergraduate institutions throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, and a number of institutions abroad. While used as the framework for many college search tools—including our own, this data fuels research conducted by think tanks, financial institutions, consumer marketing agencies, and more.

Unparalleled Quality

Data Verification & Methodology
Data is only as valuable as its level of accuracy. Peterson’s dedicated data team validates college and university data, using a rigorous verification process. We work in concert with college administrative personnel and others, to produce results you can trust.

When Peterson’s first started data collection in the late 1960’s, it was a slow process using paper and pencil surveys mailed to universities. Now, digital questionnaires are sent to qualified institutions. School officials (such as institutional research personnel or registrars) confirm that pre-existing information is correct or provide updated information.

A thorough data cleansing process is utilized after surveys are received to verify unusual figures and resolve discrepancies. Institutions are also contacted directly to obtain missing key data elements, all toward the goal of ensuring the greatest possible accuracy and comprehensiveness of the database.

Data Versatility and Scope
Using our college data for your research project or website is easy with our structured databases, specifically made for developers and data scientists alike. The undergraduate database is organizes hundreds of data points into 31 separate tables enabling you to search and utilize only the data fields you need quickly.

Licensees can opt to use a flat file or take advantage of our API to receive updates in real time.

The undergraduate database represents a broad range of accredited institutions in the United States and U.S. territories (43,985), Canada (102), Mexico (26), and 20 other nations (37).

Further, an institution must grant a degree at the associate’s or baccalaureate level and have full accreditation or pre-accreditation status granted by an institutional or specialized accrediting body that is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

Please contact research@petersons.com to inquire about including or amending your institution’s data

Data Timeliness
We pride ourselves on producing the most up-to-date information from the current academic year. Our data collection team compiles new information annually, and updates current data as changes occur. In addition to the Common Data Set (CDS) information collected, we work with our partners to include other points of interest in our queries. As the higher education landscape changes, our surveys evolve to include pertinent and timely information.

Is there a question you’d like to see included in our surveys? Let us know!