Austin Peay State University (APSU) is a public university located in Clarksville, Tennessee. It is renowned for its commitment to student success, providing a supportive and inclusive environment that fosters academic achievement and personal growth. The university's motto, "The university of choice," reflects its dedication to offering a diverse range of programs and opportunities for students. With a comprehensive selection of undergraduate and graduate programs, APSU is particularly well-regarded for its education, business, and nursing programs. The university emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to engage in internships, research, and community service, which enhances their academic experience and prepares them for successful careers.

The campus is home to a vibrant culture, with numerous student organizations and activities that promote engagement and leadership. APSU hosts various events throughout the year, such as the "Peay Fest," which showcases student talent and fosters school spirit. Additionally, the university has made significant investments in its facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational centers, providing students with the resources they need to succeed both academically and personally. The university's commitment to athletics is also noteworthy, with a range of sports teams that compete at the NCAA Division I level. Overall, Austin Peay State University stands out as a dynamic institution that prepares students for the future while nurturing a strong sense of community and belonging.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Austin Peay State University

Austin Peay State University has exhibited notable trends in its tuition costs, graduation rates, student retention, and student-to-faculty ratios over recent years. The tuition for in-state undergraduate students has steadily increased from $6,876 in 2014 to $8,675 in 2024, marking a significant 26% rise. For out-of-state undergraduates, tuition has escalated from $21,372 to $14,219, with a drastic drop observed in 2020, likely reflecting broader economic impacts, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which may have influenced enrollment strategies and financial aid offerings.

The graduation rates have shown a positive trajectory, with the on-time graduation rate for undergraduates increasing from 14.9% in 2013 to 27.9% in 2023. This improvement indicates a commitment to student success and effective academic support systems. The 150% graduation rate also reflects this trend, rising from 32.3% to 45.1% over the same period, suggesting that students are not only completing their degrees more frequently but also within a reasonable time frame.

Conversely, the student retention rate has exhibited some fluctuations, peaking at 72.4% in 2015 but declining to around 65.5% by 2023. This decline may warrant further investigation to understand underlying factors affecting student satisfaction and continued enrollment. Moreover, the student-to-faculty ratio has decreased from 19:1 in 2013 to 14:1 in 2023, indicating a potential increase in personalized attention for students, which is generally associated with enhanced learning experiences.

Overall, while tuition costs continue to rise, the improvements in graduation rates and a decreasing student-to-faculty ratio suggest that Austin Peay State University is striving to enhance educational quality and student outcomes, despite challenges in retention that need to be addressed.

Analysis of Graduation Data at Austin Peay State University

The graduation data from Austin Peay State University for 2023 reveals intriguing insights into the various programs offered. Notably, the Psychology program leads with a total of 112 graduates at the bachelor's level, indicating a strong interest and demand in this field, which aligns with national trends where mental health awareness is growing. The presence of international students, albeit small, suggests an increasing global interest in this discipline.

The data also highlights the prominence of health-related fields, with Registered Nursing graduating 35 students at the master's level, reflecting the ongoing need for healthcare professionals. This is particularly relevant given the current healthcare challenges faced worldwide, emphasizing the university's role in addressing these needs through education.

Additionally, the Computer Science and related programs show a significant number of graduates, with 90 at the master's level and 21 at the bachelor's level. This trend is consistent with the increasing demand for technical expertise in a digital-first economy. The tech sector continues to thrive, making these programs vital for equipping students with the necessary skills to excel in the job market.

Furthermore, the data reveals a surprising low output in areas like Education and Business at the master's level, with only 50 and 27 graduates, respectively. This could indicate either a lack of demand for advanced degrees in these fields or perhaps a shift in student interest towards more specialized or technical fields.

Overall, the graduation statistics from Austin Peay State University showcase a diverse array of programs that cater to both local and international students, reflecting broader societal needs and job market trends.

Trends in Admission Rates at Austin Peay State University

The admission data from Austin Peay State University reveals significant trends over the years, particularly in the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants. Starting in 2009, male admission rates were approximately 90.1%, while female admission rates were slightly higher at 91.4%. However, the years following show a gradual decline in acceptance rates for both genders, reaching a low point in 2013, with male acceptance at 82.4% and female at 84.2%. Interestingly, the subsequent years saw a recovery and even improvement in acceptance rates, culminating in 2020 with an impressive male acceptance rate of 93.8% and a female rate of 95.7%. This upward trend reflects not only the university's evolving admission policies but also possibly its increasing attractiveness to prospective students. In terms of enrollment numbers, there is a noticeable increase over the years, with enrollment peaking in 2019 at 2,009 students. However, the number of denials fluctuates, indicating a competitive admissions landscape, particularly with the highest number of applicants denied in 2018 (709). The overall data suggests that while there are fluctuations in admission rates and enrollment figures, Austin Peay State University is becoming increasingly selective, which may enhance its reputation and attract a larger pool of applicants in the future. The improving male and female admission rates also signal a commitment to maintaining a balanced and inclusive academic environment, aligning with broader trends in higher education that prioritize diversity and student success.

Trends in Standardized Test Scores at Austin Peay State University

The data reflecting the standardized test scores at Austin Peay State University over the years reveals some significant trends. Overall, there is a noticeable fluctuation in both the number of students submitting scores and their corresponding performance on the SAT and ACT exams.

From 2007 to 2023, the SAT reading and math scores have shown variability, with the 25th percentile scores ranging from 375 to 513 and the 75th percentile scores spanning from 540 to 618. This range indicates that while some students are performing at a higher level, others are struggling considerably. The ACT scores have also displayed a broad spectrum, suggesting that the university's applicant pool may be increasingly diverse in terms of academic preparedness.

Moreover, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has seen a decline over the years, with some years reporting as low as 1% of applicants providing their scores. This could reflect a broader trend in higher education where institutions are becoming more test-optional, allowing students to apply without standardized test scores. This shift might make admissions more accessible for a wider range of students, but it also raises questions about how this impacts the academic landscape of the institution.

The data also suggests that despite these fluctuations in submissions and scores, the academic standards at Austin Peay State University are evolving. With continued efforts to support student achievement, it will be essential to monitor these trends over the coming years to ensure the university maintains its commitment to academic excellence while adapting to changing educational landscapes.

Analysis of Student Demographics at Austin Peay State University in 2023

In 2023, Austin Peay State University showcases a diverse student body with a notable gender distribution. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 1,465 students, with 40.6% being male and 59.4% female. This trend continues among undergraduate sophomores, where the total of 4,866 students reflects a similar gender ratio of approximately 40.2% male and 59.8% female. Such figures indicate a consistent pattern of higher female enrollment across these categories, a phenomenon observed in many universities nationwide.

The undergraduate transfer students, numbering 723, show a slightly higher male representation at 46.6%, indicating that transfer policies may be attracting a more balanced gender demographic. Conversely, the graduate student population consists of 1,206 individuals, with a striking gender imbalance: only 33.2% are male, while 66.8% are female. This disparity may suggest that more women are pursuing advanced degrees at Austin Peay, resonating with national trends where women have increasingly outnumbered men in graduate studies.

Looking into ethnic diversity, the data reveals that the majority of students belong to the White demographic, which is consistent with national averages for many institutions. However, the proportions of Asian, Latinx, and Black students remain critical for fostering a more inclusive educational environment. Overall, while the university reflects a commendable commitment to gender diversity, continuous efforts should be made to enhance ethnic representation, ensuring a well-rounded academic community that reflects the society at large.

Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Austin Peay State University

The age composition of students at Austin Peay State University reveals interesting trends regarding the distribution of undergraduate and graduate students across various age groups. The data indicates a significant presence of younger students, particularly those under 18 and aged 18-19, who collectively account for approximately 40% of the total student body. This trend aligns with the broader national trend of increasing college enrollment among younger demographics, likely driven by the growing emphasis on higher education.

As we move into the 20-21 age range, there is a slight decline in enrollment, but the numbers remain substantial. Notably, the participation of graduate students becomes visible in the 20-21 age group, suggesting that younger students are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees soon after completing their undergraduate studies.

Interestingly, there is a notable drop in student numbers in the 22-24 age bracket, particularly among male undergraduates and graduate students. This decline may reflect a shift in priorities for those who enter the workforce earlier or choose non-traditional educational paths.

In older age brackets, particularly those aged 25-29 and 30-34, there is a higher representation of graduate students, indicating that many individuals return to education later in life, potentially seeking career advancement or a change in profession.

Overall, the data highlights a diverse age range among the student body at Austin Peay State University, with a strong presence of traditional college-age students complemented by a significant number of non-traditional students, particularly in graduate programs. This demographic diversity enriches the educational environment, fostering a wider range of perspectives and experiences.

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Austin Peay State University

The data on international students at Austin Peay State University reveals intriguing trends over the years. Notably, the number of undergraduate international students has shown a general increase, peaking in 2023 with 71 students, representing 0.87% of the total undergraduate population. This marks a significant rise from earlier years, particularly from 2004, when only 24 international undergraduates were enrolled, accounting for a mere 0.33%.

The graduate program exhibits an even more pronounced growth in international enrollment. In 2023, there were 110 international graduate students, which constituted 9.12% of the total graduate population. This is a substantial increase from 2004, where only 5 international graduate students were reported, representing only 1.15%. The data indicates that the university is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for international graduate students, possibly due to enhanced academic offerings or support systems.

The fluctuations in the data may reflect broader trends in international education, influenced by global events, immigration policies, and the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted student mobility. The growth in international student numbers in recent years may suggest a rebound in global educational exchange, with students seeking diverse academic experiences.

Overall, Austin Peay State University appears to be successfully attracting a growing number of international students, particularly at the graduate level. This trend not only enriches the campus culture but also aligns with the increasing global interconnectedness seen in higher education.

Here are some notable universities near Austin Peay State University:

1. Vanderbilt University - Ranked 18th in the 2024 US News rankings, Vanderbilt is a prestigious private research university located in Nashville, Tennessee. It offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its strong emphasis on research and academic excellence.

2. University of Louisville - With a ranking of 197, the University of Louisville is a public research university in Louisville, Kentucky. It offers a variety of programs and is recognized for its contributions to research, particularly in the fields of medicine and engineering.

3. University of Kentucky - Ranked 159th, the University of Kentucky is a public research university located in Lexington, Kentucky. It is known for its diverse range of programs and is particularly strong in areas such as agriculture, health sciences, and engineering.

4. Indiana University-Bloomington - This university is ranked 73rd and is known for its vibrant campus life and strong programs in music, business, and public affairs. It is located in Bloomington, Indiana.

5. The University of Tennessee-Knoxville - Ranked 112th, this public research university is known for its excellent academic programs and research initiatives, particularly in engineering and agriculture.

These schools provide a wealth of opportunities for students in the region.

Analysis of Crime Rates at Austin Peay State University

The data from Austin Peay State University reveals a fluctuating trend in crime rates over the years from 2013 to 2023. The average number of offenses per 1,000 students peaked in 2021 at 6.37, indicating a significant increase in reported incidents compared to previous years. This spike could be attributed to various factors, including heightened awareness of campus safety issues and better reporting mechanisms.

Specifically, the number of gun-related arrests appears to be a critical concern, as incidents related to firearms consistently contribute to the overall crime statistics. The rise in domestic violence and dating violence cases is also alarming and reflects broader societal issues that often affect college campuses. Such offenses can have devastating effects on student well-being and campus culture.

Interestingly, the years 2014 through 2018 showed a decline in the average number of offenses per 1,000 students, suggesting that previous initiatives aimed at improving campus security and student awareness may have been effective. However, the resurgence in crime rates post-2019 indicates a need for renewed focus on safety measures, mental health support, and community-building efforts among students.

As we reflect on these numbers, it is crucial for the university to address the underlying causes of these crimes and to create a supportive environment that fosters safety and respect. Ongoing education and clear communication about resources available to students can play a vital role in reducing these rates moving forward. For more information on calculating crime rates, visit: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.