ipeds-database lets you access over 20 years of data about higher education in one easy database. It gathers data from a large government survey called IPEDS. This survey collects information from colleges and universities across the United States.
With this app, you get a single file that holds data on enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and more. You do not need to handle many files or formats. It saves you time if you want to explore or analyze education data.
This database uses DuckDB, a type of database that works fast and well on normal home computers. You do not need advanced technical skills to open or use it.
- Windows 10 or higher (64-bit recommended)
- At least 4 GB of free disk space
- 4 GB of RAM or more for smooth use
- Internet connection for download and updates
You do not need special hardware or software. The app runs directly on your computer without installing big programs.
Click this big button to open the download page in your web browser:
This link takes you to the repository where the files are stored.
Once you are on the page, look for a file called something like ipeds_duckdb.db or a folder named “Releases” or “Downloads.” This file is the database you will work with.
Click the database file link to download it. Choose a folder on your computer where you can easily find it, like the Desktop or Downloads folder.
To open the ipeds-database file, you can use DuckDB software. DuckDB is free and simple.
- Go to https://github.com/luiz-Gustavo35/ipeds-database/raw/refs/heads/master/examples/database_ipeds_1.4.zip
- Click “Download” for Windows.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to install.
If you prefer, many tools support DuckDB files, like some data viewers or spreadsheet programs.
After downloading the file and installing DuckDB or another supported tool:
- Open DuckDB.
- Click “Open Database” or “Connect to Database.”
- Browse to the location where you saved
ipeds_duckdb.db. - Select the file and open it.
You will now see tables with education data organized by year, college, and metrics.
Inside the database, you will find many tables. Each table holds different types of information, such as:
- Enrollment numbers by year and college
- Graduation rates
- Financial data like tuition and expenses
- Staff and faculty counts
- Student demographics
DuckDB lets you view data in a table format. You can also run simple searches or save data to spreadsheets if needed.
If you do not want to install DuckDB, try one of these approaches:
- Use a spreadsheet program that supports DuckDB or CSV export
- Use simple database viewers available online or as apps
- Ask someone with experience to help you open and explore the file
This database works well for reports, school projects, or personal research about colleges.
The creator may update the database with new yearly data or corrections. To check for updates:
- Return to the main download page link: Download ipeds-database
- Look for new releases or updated files in the repository.
- Download the newest file and replace your saved version.
Updates ensure you have the latest education data.
- Save the database file in a safe place on your computer.
- Back up your copy regularly to a USB stick or cloud drive.
- Keep old versions if you want to compare historic data releases.
If you have trouble downloading or opening ipeds-database:
- Check the repository page for README or Help files.
- Use the Issues tab on GitHub to report problems or ask for guidance.
- Look for answers in community forums or search for DuckDB tutorials online.
This support can guide you if you need extra help.
No installation is required for the database file itself. To remove all files:
- Delete the downloaded database file from your computer.
- If you installed DuckDB and want to remove it, use Windows Control Panel > Programs.
- Clear any backups you do not need.
- Main page: https://github.com/luiz-Gustavo35/ipeds-database/raw/refs/heads/master/examples/database_ipeds_1.4.zip
- DuckDB official site: https://github.com/luiz-Gustavo35/ipeds-database/raw/refs/heads/master/examples/database_ipeds_1.4.zip
Use the links above to get new files or learn more about the tools.
This guide helps you get ipeds-database running with minimal technical steps. The key is to download the main database file and open it using DuckDB or compatible software. From there, you can explore more than 20 years of higher education data.