Baker University
2025 USNews Best Colleges Ranking: 371(↓26) (Click for schools/majors ranking)
Abbreviation/Alias: Baker | BU | Baker U
School Characteristics: Private, non-Profit (4-Years)
Calendar systerm: Semester
Religious Affiliation: United Methodist
School Chief: Dr. Lynne Murray (President)
Website: https://www.bakeru.edu/; Phone: 7855946451
Location: 615 Dearborn Street, Baldwin City, KS, 66006-0065

Baker University Important Facts
Analysis of Tuition Rates and Student Enrollment Trends
The tuition costs at Baker University have shown a consistent upward trend over the years, particularly for undergraduate programs. For instance, from 2014 to 2024, in-state undergraduate tuition rose from $25,580 to $33,800, representing a significant increase of approximately 32% over this ten-year span. Such tuition hikes can place a considerable financial burden on students and their families, potentially discouraging enrollment or increasing reliance on student loans to finance education.
Simultaneously, the student enrollment numbers reflect interesting trends. The number of undergraduate students peaked at 1,897 in 2014 but has been in decline since, reaching only 1,457 projected for 2024. This trend may correlate with rising tuition costs, as higher expenses can lead to reduced accessibility and affordability for prospective students. The drop in enrollment indicates a critical challenge for the university that could affect its funding and resources in the long term.
Moreover, the graduation rates have displayed some improvement over the years, with the on-time graduation rate for undergraduates increasing from about 40% in 2014 to nearly 50% in 2023. This improvement can be a positive indicator of student success, but it may also reflect a narrowing of the student population that remains enrolled long enough to graduate, as seen with the declining numbers.
Additionally, the retention rates have fluctuated but showed a concerning decrease in recent years, dipping to approximately 67% in 2022 before rebounding to about 80% for 2023. Effective retention strategies will be essential for maintaining enrollment numbers and ensuring that students not only enroll but also continue and successfully complete their degrees.
Overall, the interplay of rising tuition, declining enrollment, and variable retention and graduation rates highlights significant challenges and opportunities for Baker University as it navigates the evolving landscape of higher education. Addressing these issues proactively will be crucial in ensuring the institution's sustainability and student success in the years to come.
Baker University Degrees and Majors
Analysis of 2023 Graduation Data from Baker University
The graduation data for 2023 at Baker University reveals distinct trends across various academic programs, reflecting both student interests and societal needs. Notably, the field of Registered Nursing stands out, with a significant number of graduates receiving bachelor's degrees. This trend likely aligns with the increasing demand for healthcare professionals, a need amplified by the ongoing global health challenges. Moreover, the absence of international students in this category indicates a potential area for growth as universities look to expand their global reach.
In the realm of Business Administration, a solid number of master's degrees awarded illustrates the value placed on advanced education in this sector. The prominence of Organization Leadership and International Business also highlights an important shift towards innovative leadership and global engagement, skills that are crucial in today’s interconnected economy.
Additionally, the education sector showcases a balanced distribution of graduates across various specializations, demonstrating the wide-ranging appeal of educational careers. However, there's a noticeable lack of graduates in fields like Philosophy and Theology, which could reflect shifting societal values or career priorities among students.
Furthermore, the data indicates that fields such as Psychology and Sociology continue to attract students, suggesting a growing interest in understanding human behavior and social structures, which are vital in addressing contemporary issues like mental health and social justice.
Overall, Baker University’s graduation data illustrates a dynamic landscape of academic pursuits, influenced heavily by both market demands and emerging societal challenges. The insights gleaned from this data can inform future academic offerings and strategic planning to align programs with workforce needs.
Baker University Ranking and Admission
Trends in Admission Rates and Rankings at Baker University
Baker University has experienced significant fluctuations in both admission rates and its national ranking over recent years. The latest data for 2025 shows a ranking of 371, marking a continued decline from previous years, where the university ranked 345 in 2024 and 285 in 2023. This downward trend in rankings raises questions about the factors influencing potential applicants' perceptions of the institution's quality. In terms of admission rates, both male and female acceptance rates have varied markedly over time. For instance, in 2022, the male admission rate was impressive at nearly 100%, while the female rate was slightly lower at around 99.6%. However, the data also indicates some fluctuation in total enrollment numbers, with a peak enrollment of 258 in 2018, however, a decrease in applications and admissions can negatively impact the university's resources and program offerings. Moreover, as the admission rate for males has decreased from 99.6% in 2022 to about 91% in 2024, it signifies a more competitive admission process that may reflect larger trends in higher education. Decreasing admission rates, coupled with a tumble in rankings, suggest that Baker University faces challenges in maintaining its attractiveness to prospective students. To regain its standing, the university must enhance its strategic marketing, bolster academic programs, and invest in initiatives that foster student engagement and retention.
Baker University Admission Score Requires
*Numbers at left represent SAT/ACT submitting percentage, numbers on blue blocks represent 25%-75% admission scores
**Drag green block to check data for different years, click blue block to check scores trends
Baker University Admission Scores Analysis
The admission statistics for Baker University over the years reveal intriguing trends concerning standardized test submissions and score distributions. Notably, the proportion of applicants submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, with the highest recorded rate being 13% in 2007 and 2008. However, this figure gradually declined, reaching a low of just 1% in both 2023 and 2024. This decrease may suggest a growing trend in the test-optional admissions landscape, aligning with broader national trends where many colleges are moving away from mandatory standardized testing due to concerns over accessibility and equity.
Examining the score ranges, we see a mixed performance in the SAT reading and mathematics sections throughout the years. The 25th percentile marks for those admitted have shown slight variations, with lower bounds around 405 in 2016 and a recent increase to 460 by 2023. Conversely, the upper limits also exhibit variability, peaking at 620 for the reading section in 2017. This variability in scores indicates a shifting demographic or academic profile of applicants, potentially influenced by external factors such as changing high school educational standards or the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on testing availability.
Additionally, ACT scores reflect similar trends, with both the composite and individual section scores remaining within a relatively competitive range for most years. The trends exhibit a narrative of fluctuating selectivity, which could attract diverse student populations while responding to a changing educational environment.
Overall, the transition towards a more inclusive admissions process alongside these score trends presents both challenges and opportunities for Baker University as it aims to balance academic standards with accessibility in future recruitment strategies.
Baker University Students Diversity
Analysis of Student Demographics at Baker University for 2024
The data from Baker University for the 2024 academic year reveals interesting trends in student demographics, particularly in terms of gender distribution and racial composition among different categories of students.
Starting with undergraduate freshmen, they comprise a total of 236 students, with a notable male proportion of 55.1% and female representation at 44.9%. This relatively high percentage of male students suggests a continuing trend where more males are enrolling in university programs as freshmen.
Looking at undergraduate juniors, who number 721, there's a shift in gender distribution, where females represent a majority at 53.3%, while males account for 46.7%. This change in the demographic may indicate varying engagement levels and retention rates across genders in different years of study.
Undergraduate transfer students total 123, with females outnumbering males, demonstrating an inclination towards female students switching institutions or entering further studies. Graduate students, however, show a significant skew towards females, with 68.2% being women and only 31.8% men. This is reflective of broader trends in higher education where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees, perhaps due to significant support and initiatives aimed at enhancing female representation in graduate programs.
Furthermore, the data indicates a predominant representation of white students across these groups, with substantial numbers in each category, highlighting the diversity (or lack thereof) within the university's student body.
Overall, these statistics not only reflect the gender diversity present within Baker University's enrollment for the year 2024 but also hint at larger societal trends impacting student demographics in higher education today.
Baker University Students Age Distribution
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Baker University
The age distribution of students at Baker University reveals intriguing insights into the demographic trends within the campus community. The largest cohorts are concentrated under the age of 24, with over 60% of the total student body falling in the under-18 and 18-19 age brackets. This suggests that the university attracts a significant number of traditional-age students, who typically pursue higher education directly after high school.
However, as we examine older age groups, a noticeable decline in enrollment occurs. For example, only about 8% of students are between 25 and 29, and this percentage dwindles further among those aged 50 and above with only 1% representation. This trend mirrors broader national patterns, where older students are often underrepresented in traditional undergraduate programs, often due to life commitments such as careers and family responsibilities.
The female student population is also noteworthy, particularly in the 40-49 age bracket, where there are significantly more female students than male, indicating a potential trend of women seeking education later in life, possibly to advance their careers or transition into new fields. Additionally, the high proportion of graduate female students in this age range underscores their increasing participation in postgraduate education.
Overall, the data reflects a growing trend in higher education, where younger students dominate the demographics, but older students, particularly females, are increasingly joining the academic fold, emphasizing Baker University's diverse and evolving academic environment.
Baker University International Students Trends
International Student Trends at Baker University
Baker University has shown a notable evolution in its international student demographics over the years. Beginning in 2005, the percentage of undergraduate international students was fairly low at 0.35%. However, there has been a steady upward trend, culminating in an impressive 2.39% representation in 2023. This change indicates a growing interest among international students, possibly due to improved global outreach and favorable academic offerings.
The significant spikes in international student enrollment, particularly in 2015 and beyond, reflect a broader trend in higher education where institutions increasingly recognize the value that international students bring to their campuses. The diversity they introduce enriches the learning environment, fostering cross-cultural exchanges that benefit all students.
For graduate programs, the numbers tell a less consistent story. The percentage of international graduate students varied widely, peaking at 0.33% in 2020. This fluctuation suggests that Baker may need to explore more effective recruitment strategies aimed at graduate candidates. The overall lower percentages in graduate programs compared to undergraduate ones might also reflect the competitive nature of graduate education and the challenges faced by institutions in attracting international talent in specialized fields.
The data from Baker University reflects a growing trend within U.S. higher education institutions, as many strive to augment their international student populations amidst increasing global competition for talent. Efforts to foster an inclusive and supportive environment for international students are likely to yield positive outcomes, both for the students themselves and for the university's standing in the global academic landscape.
Baker University Campus and Safety
Nearby Top Colleges
Here are some prominent higher education institutions surrounding Baker University:
University of Kansas - Ranked 152nd in the 2025 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its research programs and vibrant campus life.
University of Missouri-Kansas City - Holding the 244th position, UMKC offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is deeply engaged with the Kansas City community.
Kansas State University - Ranked 165th, K-State is recognized for its strong programs in agriculture, engineering, and business.
University of Missouri-Columbia - With a rank of 109, Mizzou is known for its research capabilities and a wide array of academic offerings.
Creighton University - This university is ranked 121st and offers a unique blend of liberal arts education and professional studies, particularly known for its health sciences programs.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln - Ranked 152nd, it offers a comprehensive range of academic programs with an emphasis on research and outreach.
Grinnell College - As a highly regarded liberal arts college with a rank of 19, Grinnell is known for its rigorous academics and strong emphasis on social justice.
Washington University in St. Louis - This prestigious university ranks 21st and is noted for its outstanding programs in medicine, law, and business.
These institutions represent a mix of large comprehensive universities and smaller liberal arts colleges, providing a variety of academic opportunities for students in the area.
Campus Safety
Analysis of Crime Trends at Baker University
The crime data for Baker University reveals significant fluctuations in reported incidents over the years analyzed. Starting in 2013 with a low of 1.06 incidents per 1,000 students, the rate experienced a dramatic increase, peaking in 2018 at an alarming 12.99 per 1,000 students. This sharp rise could potentially reflect broader national trends regarding campus safety and the rising awareness of issues surrounding substance-related offenses.
In 2018, the increase in reported incidents of crimes such as drug and alcohol arrests could suggest that universities are adopting more stringent measures for reporting and addressing these issues, particularly in response to previous criticism over campus safety policies. The subsequent decline in 2022 and a moderate rise in 2023 merit attention, as it might indicate effective strategies being implemented at the institutional level to curb these disturbing trends.
Although there are fluctuations, it is crucial for the university administration to ensure that preventive measures are consistently enforced to safeguard the student body. Moreover, understanding the nuances behind reported incidents, such as the context and demographics involved, is vital when addressing these issues. Key metrics like the rates of domestic violence, stalking, and drug-related arrests highlight the necessity for ongoing discussions around mental health support, crime prevention, and awareness campaigns among students.
In conclusion, while some years show a decrease in incidents, the notable peaks in the crime statistics emphasize the ongoing challenges that institutions face. Providers and policymakers should prioritize development and implementation of safety programs tailored to students' specific needs. For further information on crime reporting and statistics calculation, refer to this link: Calculation Methodology.
Reference
- Baker University Official Website
- USNews Best Colleges Ranking
- USNews Bset Global Universities Ranking
- THE World University Ranking
- QS World University Ranking
- ARWU World University Ranking
- US Department of Education College Scorecard
- National Center for Education Statistics
- Forward Pathway US College Ranking Database
Baker University Related News
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Published on: August 13, 2024 | Updated on: August 13, 2024
The Importance of Welcoming New Students: A Closer Look at Orientation Programs As the academic year approaches, universities across the United States are gearing up to welcome their newest members: the incoming freshmen. One such institution, the University of Virginia (2024 USNews Ranking: 24) , i...
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Baker University Important Facts Trends
Baker University degrees/majors
Baker University major details
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2023 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 | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Business/Commerce, General. | - | ||||
Business Administration and Management, General. | $59,145-$74,847 | ||||
Organizational Leadership. | $59,145-$74,847 | ||||
Accounting. | - | ||||
International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Education, General. | $54,404 | ||||
Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | $61,915-$88,110 | ||||
Higher Education/Higher Education Administration. | $61,915-$88,110 | ||||
Educational/Instructional Technology. | - | ||||
Special Education and Teaching, General. | $53,485 | ||||
Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | ||||
Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching. | - | ||||
Secondary Education and Teaching. | - | ||||
Music Teacher Education. | - | ||||
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Public Health, Other. | - | ||||
Nursing Education. | - | ||||
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $70,720 | ||||
Nursing Administration. | $70,720 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Studies. | - | ||||
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - | ||||
Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Psychology, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||||
Biochemistry. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Human Biology. | - | ||||
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - | ||||
Mass Communication/Media Studies. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Criminology. | - | ||||
Economics, General. | - | ||||
Sociology, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
History, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
English Language and Literature, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Mathematics, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Chemistry, General. | - | ||||
Physics, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | ||||
Music, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Computer Science. | - |
Baker University Schools/Majors Ranking
Under Ranking (2025)
Grad Ranking (2025)
*Rankings have been updated to 2025USNews schools/majors ranking, rankings are for reference only
*numbers in bracket represent rankings change compare to last version
Baker University Varsity Athletes
NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
---|---|---|
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 73 | 73 |
Football | 110 | - |
Soccer | 57 | 30 |
Baseball | 63 | - |
Wrestling | 29 | 25 |
Basketball | 31 | 14 |
Bowling | 20 | 15 |
Golf | 15 | 10 |
Softball | - | 21 |
Volleyball | - | 21 |
Tennis | 7 | 7 |
Other Sports | - | - |
NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
---|---|---|
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 94 | 84 |
Football | 108 | - |
Soccer | 50 | 33 |
Wrestling | 37 | 21 |
Baseball | 51 | - |
Basketball | 28 | 21 |
Golf | 17 | 13 |
Tennis | 17 | 13 |
Bowling | 15 | 14 |
Volleyball | - | 24 |
Softball | - | 19 |
Other Sports | - | - |
NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
---|---|---|
All Track Combined | 90 | 79 |
Football | 112 | - |
Soccer | 56 | 31 |
Baseball | 56 | - |
Wrestling | 38 | 18 |
Basketball | 27 | 13 |
Bowling | 15 | 14 |
Golf | 14 | 13 |
Softball | - | 23 |
Volleyball | - | 23 |
Tennis | 7 | 7 |
Other Sports | - | - |
Baker University, located in Baldwin City, Kansas, is a private liberal arts university known for its rich history and strong academic programs. Established in 1858, it is one of the oldest universities in the state and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various fields, including business, education, and the arts. The university's commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its small class sizes, enabling personalized attention and fostering a close-knit learning environment. This quality is accentuated by a dedicated faculty who not only excel in their respective fields but also prioritize mentorship and student support.
The campus culture at Baker University is vibrant and inclusive, offering a wealth of extracurricular activities that enrich the student experience. Students have numerous opportunities to engage in athletics, arts, and community service, promoting a well-rounded education. The university is home to various student organizations and clubs, encouraging involvement and leadership development. Baker’s commitment to enhancing student life is evident in its modern facilities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center and various study spaces. Additionally, the university’s core values are encapsulated in its mission to instill an appreciation for diversity and community involvement, making it a nurturing environment for personal and academic growth. Baker University is not only recognized for its influential alumni but also for creating a strong foundation for future success, likening the experience there to a thorough preparation for life beyond the campus.