Anderson University
Acceptance rate
54.7%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$34,970
$47,690 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
3,683
Student-faculty ratio 13:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
53.9%
4-year; 6-year rate 60.3%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Anderson University, located in Anderson, Indiana, is a private Christian university that emphasizes a holistic approach to education, integrating faith with learning. Established in 1917, the university is affiliated with the Church of God and offers a vibrant campus culture that encourages students to develop their spiritual, academic, and social lives. The university's mission is to foster a diverse community where students can explore their purpose and potential, guided by the Christian principles of love and service. The campus is known for its welcoming atmosphere, where students from various backgrounds come together to engage in meaningful discussions and activities, enhancing their overall college experience.
Academically, Anderson University provides a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including business, education, health sciences, and the arts. The university is particularly recognized for its strong emphasis on experiential learning, providing students with opportunities for internships, research projects, and community service. This practical approach equips graduates with the skills and experiences needed to succeed in their careers. Additionally, the faculty at Anderson University are dedicated and experienced, often bringing real-world expertise into the classroom, which enriches the learning environment. The university also boasts modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, a well-equipped library, and recreational spaces that promote a balanced student life. Overall, Anderson University fosters a nurturing environment that prepares students for both professional success and personal growth.
Analysis of Tuition Trends and Graduation Rates at Anderson University
The tuition costs at Anderson University have shown a consistent upward trend over the years. For instance, undergraduate tuition for both in-state and out-of-state students rose from $22,790 in 2014 to $33,580 by 2024, marking an increase of approximately 47%. This steady rise in tuition can put a strain on students and families, particularly in the current economic climate where many are grappling with the implications of student debt and the rising cost of living. The increase in tuition is particularly pronounced for graduate programs, where in-state tuition jumped from $8,384 in 2014 to $15,483 in 2024, a staggering 84% increase.
In addition to tuition increases, graduation rates at Anderson University have also exhibited variability. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates saw a peak of about 55.1% in 2021 before declining slightly to 50.9% in 2023. This fluctuation raises concerns regarding student support services and academic preparedness, which are critical for ensuring students can complete their degrees in a timely manner.
Retention rates, which serve as an indicator of student satisfaction and institutional support, have been relatively strong, peaking at approximately 85% in 2022. However, the slight dip to 80.7% in 2023 suggests that maintaining student engagement and support will remain crucial for the university moving forward.
Lastly, the male-to-female ratio among undergraduates has remained relatively stable, with females consistently making up a larger percentage of the student body. This demographic trend reflects broader shifts in higher education demographics, where female enrollment has generally outpaced male enrollment in recent years.
Overall, while Anderson University shows promising trends in retention and demographic diversity, the rising tuition costs and fluctuating graduation rates highlight areas that require attention to foster a supportive educational environment.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Small city
- Nearest major city
- Greenville, about 25 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), about 110 mi
- Also known as
- AU
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Baptist
- President
- Evans Whitaker (President)
- Phone
- 8642312000
- City
- Anderson, South Carolina
- Address
- 316 Boulevard, Anderson, SC 29621-4035
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 70.1%, women 68.1%.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Rates and Enrollment at Anderson University
The admission data from Anderson University over the years reveals significant fluctuations in both male and female acceptance rates, as well as enrollment numbers. Notably, the male acceptance rate peaked at approximately 79.1% in 2018, while the female acceptance rate reached its highest point of 81.3% in 2009. This disparity in acceptance rates for male and female applicants has presented a consistent trend, with female applicants often experiencing a higher acceptance rate.
In recent years, particularly from 2021 to 2023, there has been a marked decline in acceptance rates for both genders, coinciding with a substantial increase in the number of applicants denied admission. For instance, in 2023, the male acceptance rate dropped to 47.7%, and the female acceptance rate fell to 44.4%. This sharp decline could indicate a more competitive admissions process, potentially influenced by broader trends in higher education, such as an increase in the number of applicants to universities across the nation.
Furthermore, the enrollment figures exhibit a continual rise until 2018, after which they began to stabilize despite the increasing number of applicants being denied admission. This trend suggests that while more students are vying for a spot at Anderson University, the institution may be adhering to a more selective admissions strategy, aligning with national trends towards increased selectivity among higher education institutions.
Overall, the data points to a dynamic and changing landscape in university admissions at Anderson University, reflecting larger trends in higher education, gender dynamics in admissions, and the ongoing challenges faced by institutions in managing applicant pools amidst fluctuating acceptance rates.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 45% submitted SAT, 32% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Test Scores at Anderson University
The examination performance data from Anderson University highlights significant trends in SAT scores and participation over the years. While the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, it has generally remained high, with notable peaks in certain years. For instance, in 2007, 89% of the admitted students submitted their SAT scores, a trend that was mirrored in 2008. However, by 2019, this percentage had dropped to 72%, indicating a potential shift in applicant behavior or the increasing acceptance of alternative assessments like the ACT.
Looking at the score ranges, we can observe a gradual increase in the starting and ending scores for SAT reading and math sections from 2007 to 2023. In 2007, the 25th percentile for SAT reading was 450, rising to 530 by 2018. This upward trend may reflect the university's growing selectivity, as higher scores often correlate with a more competitive admissions process. The continuity of high score ranges suggests that Anderson University is attracting academically strong applicants.
Moreover, despite the relatively stable participation rates in recent years, the consistent score ranges indicate that the quality of the applicant pool remains robust. The university's commitment to maintaining rigorous admission standards is evident, and as higher education institutions increasingly emphasize holistic admissions practices, it will be crucial for Anderson University to balance test scores with other applicant qualities. Overall, this data underscores the evolving landscape of college admissions, where both test scores and applicant behavior continue to adapt to changing educational norms.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 5 in 10
4,548 applicants in 2025, 54.7% admitted
2,488 admitted 2,060 not admitted Yield 32.5%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Education, General · Master's67 (0% international)
- Data Analytics, General · Master's50 (100% international)
- Nursing Practice · Master's39 (5% international)
- Management Science · Master's33 (15% international)
- Educational, Instructional, and Curriculum Supervision · Doctoral28 (4% international)
- Educational/Instructional Technology · Master's27 (4% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Statistics at Anderson University
The graduation statistics from Anderson University for 2023 reveal several noteworthy trends across various disciplines. In the healthcare field, the Registered Nursing program stands out with 87 graduates. This reflects a significant commitment to nursing education, which is crucial given the ongoing demand for healthcare professionals, especially post-pandemic. The absence of international students in this program indicates a primarily domestic focus, highlighting the local community's reliance on homegrown talent to meet healthcare needs.
In education, the master's programs have produced 65 and 55 graduates in general education and educational technology, respectively. This suggests a robust interest in advancing educational methodologies and practices. However, the lack of bachelor's graduates in these areas may point towards an oversaturation of master's programs or a shift in focus towards higher-level qualifications among prospective educators.
Interestingly, the business administration program saw 47 master’s graduates, including one international student. This could suggest a growing interest in business education, perhaps influenced by the current economic climate and the desire for advanced skills in management and administration.
Additionally, it is important to note the absence of graduates in fields like computer programming and various performing arts disciplines. This may indicate lower enrollment numbers or shifting interests among students, potentially reflecting broader trends in job market demands or cultural factors.
Overall, these statistics not only provide insight into the university's academic offerings but also mirror larger societal trends in education and workforce needs. As industries evolve, universities must adapt their programs to better prepare graduates for future challenges.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | $49,838 | |||
| Educational, Instructional, and Curriculum Supervision. | $58,955 | |||
| Superintendency and Educational System Administration. | $58,955 | |||
| Educational/Instructional Technology. | $52,881 | |||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $42,008 | |||
| Teacher Education, Multiple Levels. | $42,008 | |||
| Art Teacher Education. | $41,199-$64,095 | |||
| English/Language Arts Teacher Education. | $41,199-$64,095 | |||
| Mathematics Teacher Education. | $41,199-$64,095 | |||
| Music Teacher Education. | $41,199-$64,095 | |||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | $41,199-$64,095 | |||
| Social Studies Teacher Education. | $41,199-$64,095 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $59,135-$62,318 | |||
| Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management. | $59,135-$62,318 | |||
| Organizational Leadership. | $59,135-$62,318 | |||
| Accounting. | $50,738 | |||
| Finance, General. | - | |||
| Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General. | - | |||
| Management Science. | - | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $52,437 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Pathology/Pathologist Assistant. | - | |||
| Health Services Administration. | - | |||
| Physical Therapy/Therapist. | $74,441 | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $78,656-$99,898 | |||
| Nursing Practice. | $78,656-$99,898 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dance, General. | - | |||
| Graphic Design. | - | |||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | $25,817 | |||
| Acting. | $25,817 | |||
| Musical Theatre. | $25,817 | |||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | $32,535 | |||
| Music Performance, General. | - | |||
| Music Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | - | |||
| Data Analytics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $36,229 | |||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $36,229 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, Other. | - | |||
| Computer Science. | - | |||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $45,439 | |||
| Corrections and Criminal Justice, Other. | $45,439 | |||
| Homeland Security. | - | |||
| Cyber/Computer Forensics and Counterterrorism. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Human Development and Family Studies, General. | $36,518 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Christian Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | $41,193 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bible/Biblical Studies. | - | |||
| Worship Ministry. | - | |||
| Divinity/Ministry. | $52,478 | |||
| Theology and Religious Vocations, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interior Architecture. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical and Electronics Engineering. | - | |||
| Mechanical Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - | |||
| Applied Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | $39,244 | |||
| Public Administration. | - | |||
| Public Policy Analysis, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
4,710 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 39:61 · Freshman retention 81.9%
- Continuing undergraduates 2,199
- First-year undergraduates 808
- Graduate students 1,027
- Transfers and others 676
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,683)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Anderson University in 2023
The demographic data from Anderson University reveals interesting insights into the composition of its student body for the year 2023. The university hosts a total of 3,041 students across various categories, including first-year undergraduates, continuing undergraduates, transfer students, and graduate students. Notably, first-year undergraduates represent a significant portion, with 798 students, predominantly female at 64.8% compared to 35.2% male. This gender disparity is further echoed among the continuing undergraduates, where females constitute an even larger share at 68.7%.
Transfer students and graduate students show a more balanced gender distribution, with males making up 46.2% and 41.6%, respectively. This indicates a gradual shift towards a more equitable enrollment among upperclassmen and graduate levels, which may reflect broader societal trends toward gender parity in higher education.
The data also highlights the ethnic diversity within the student population, although specific statistics regarding racial composition were not fully disclosed for all categories. However, the representation of White students appears significant across all classifications, indicating a potential area for the university to further enhance its recruitment efforts to improve diversity.
In summary, Anderson University demonstrates a strong female presence in its undergraduate programs, while also showing progress in gender balance among transfer and graduate students. The university may benefit from initiatives aimed at increasing the diversity of its student body, particularly to attract underrepresented groups in higher education. As institutions worldwide grapple with issues of inclusion and equity, Anderson's demographic trends offer a glimpse into the evolving landscape of higher education.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Anderson University in 2023
The age distribution of students at Anderson University in 2023 reveals significant insights into the demographics of the student body. Notably, the majority of students fall within the 18-21 age range, with a total of 2,218 students, indicative of a traditionally younger undergraduate population. This trend aligns with national patterns in higher education, where younger students often lead enrollment figures.
The data shows that students under 18 comprise a small segment, with 66 males and 151 females, suggesting that early college programs may be attracting younger individuals. The 18-19 age group dominates the undergraduate demographic, with 429 male and 929 female students, emphasizing the appeal of university education to recent high school graduates.
Interestingly, the data indicates a decline in enrollment as age increases, particularly in the 25-29 and 30-34 age brackets, which could reflect the challenges faced by older students, such as balancing work, family, and education. However, the presence of graduate students aged 22-24 and 25-29 shows that there is a segment of the population that returns to education later in life, possibly seeking to advance their careers.
Moreover, the age group of 40-49 shows a notable number of graduate students, with 80 males and 93 females, suggesting a trend of mid-career individuals seeking further education for professional development. This aligns with a broader trend in the workforce, where continuous education is becoming increasingly important.
Overall, Anderson University's age composition illustrates a vibrant community of young learners, while also highlighting the importance of accommodating non-traditional students who may seek to enrich their education at a later stage in life.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
0 in 2025 · 0.8% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 2.1% in 2016
Data insights
Overview of International Student Enrollment at Anderson University
The data on international student enrollment at Anderson University reveals intriguing trends over the years. From 2004 to 2022, the number of international undergraduate students has varied significantly, with a notable peak in 2020, where the percentage of international undergraduate students reached 2.04%. This indicates a growing interest from international students in pursuing undergraduate studies at the institution, particularly during a time when many universities worldwide were experiencing declines in enrollment due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Conversely, the enrollment of international graduate students shows a more fluctuating pattern. Starting from just 0.68% in 2010, the proportion of international graduate students increased to 2.07% by 2016, before experiencing ups and downs in subsequent years. The highest recorded percentage of international graduate students was 1.64% in 2019, while the percentage declined to 1.41% by 2022.
These statistics reflect broader trends in higher education where universities are becoming increasingly internationalized, attracting students from various backgrounds. Factors such as the global economy, changes in immigration policies, and the university’s marketing strategies can greatly influence these fluctuations.
The data also highlights the importance of creating a welcoming environment and providing support services for international students, which can enhance their educational experience and facilitate their integration into campus life. As globalization continues to shape higher education, Anderson University may need to adapt its strategies to maintain and increase its appeal to international students in the competitive landscape of global education.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$47,690
- Undergraduate tuition
- $34,970
- Room and board
- $12,720
- Graduate tuition
- $13,759
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 41% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 44%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$101M
Expenses$94.3M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · South Atlantic Conference
South Atlantic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 87 | 70 |
| Football | 112 | - |
| Lacrosse | 48 | 32 |
| Soccer | 38 | 28 |
| Baseball | 50 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 15 |
| Tennis | 16 | 14 |
| Golf | 13 | 8 |
| Softball | - | 18 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 93 | 68 |
| Lacrosse | 48 | 35 |
| Soccer | 32 | 27 |
| Baseball | 53 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 22 |
| Tennis | 14 | 11 |
| Volleyball | - | 20 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Golf | 10 | 7 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 67 | 72 |
| Lacrosse | 42 | 26 |
| Soccer | 31 | 23 |
| Baseball | 45 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 24 |
| Tennis | 17 | 13 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Softball | - | 16 |
| Golf | 7 | 8 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Clemson UniversityClemson · 15.9 mi
U.S. News #80
-
Furman UniversityGreenville · 30.5 mi
Liberal Arts #57
-
Wofford CollegeSpartanburg · 50.5 mi
Liberal Arts #68
-
University of GeorgiaAthens · 57.0 mi
U.S. News #52
-
University of South Carolina-ColumbiaColumbia · 98.9 mi
U.S. News #121
-
Agnes Scott CollegeDecatur · 107.8 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
Emory UniversityAtlanta · 108.6 mi
U.S. News #23
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main CampusAtlanta · 112.7 mi
U.S. News #29
-
Georgia State UniversityAtlanta · 112.9 mi
U.S. News #191
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Anderson University:
-
Clemson University - Ranked 86th in the 2024 US News rankings, Clemson University is a comprehensive university known for its strong engineering and business programs.
-
Furman University - With a ranking of 46, Furman University is a liberal arts college that emphasizes a personalized education and offers a variety of undergraduate degrees.
-
Wofford College - This liberal arts college is ranked 59th and is known for its small class sizes and focus on student engagement.
-
University of Georgia - A comprehensive university ranked 47th, the University of Georgia is renowned for its research opportunities and vibrant campus life.
-
Emory University - Ranked 24th, Emory is a prestigious comprehensive university known for its strong emphasis on research, public service, and healthcare programs.
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus - With a ranking of 33, this comprehensive university is particularly well-regarded for its engineering and technology programs.
-
Davidson College - Davidson College ranks 16th among liberal arts colleges and is known for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to honor and integrity.
These institutions offer a variety of academic programs and are highly regarded in their respective fields.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Data at Anderson University
The crime data from Anderson University over the years presents an interesting yet concerning trend. In 2013, the average crime rate per 1000 students was 2.26, significantly lower than the peak in 2016, which soared to 6.54. This sharp increase in crime during that year could be attributed to various factors, including changes in campus policies or external societal influences impacting student behavior.
Notably, the data shows fluctuations in crime rates over the years, with a considerable drop to 1.35 in 2014. This reduction may indicate effective crime prevention strategies or a decrease in incidents. However, the resurgence in 2019, with a rate of 4.72, raises questions about the effectiveness of these strategies over time.
The types of arrests reported show a mix of issues, including drug-related offenses and alcohol-related incidents. The presence of domestic violence and dating crimes highlights ongoing concerns about safety and the need for supportive resources for students. The most recent data for 2023 shows a slight increase in crime rates, reaffirming the need for continuous monitoring and proactive measures to enhance campus safety.
Overall, the fluctuating crime rates at Anderson University underscore the importance of ongoing efforts to foster a secure environment for students. Colleges and universities must remain vigilant in addressing these issues, promoting awareness, and ensuring that help is readily available to those in need. For further information on calculating crime rates, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.