Belhaven University, located in Jackson, Mississippi, is a private Christian liberal arts university with a strong commitment to integrating faith and learning. Founded in 1883, it has a rich history and a mission focused on shaping students' lives through a Christ-centered education. The university's motto, "To Serve, Not To Be Served," encapsulates its dedication to community service and leadership. Belhaven offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including arts, business, education, and theology, providing students with a well-rounded academic experience.

The campus is known for its vibrant community and supportive environment, which fosters personal and spiritual growth. Belhaven University emphasizes a holistic approach to education, encouraging students to engage in extracurricular activities, including athletics, arts, and service projects. The university boasts modern facilities, such as state-of-the-art classrooms, art studios, and athletic fields, enhancing the overall learning experience. With a commitment to student success, Belhaven has a strong track record of graduate employment, as the university prepares its students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in their chosen careers. The emphasis on character development and ethical leadership ensures that its graduates are not only well-equipped professionally but also personally committed to making a positive impact in their communities.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Belhaven University

Belhaven University, a private institution, has shown significant trends in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention over recent years. The tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has experienced a consistent annual increase, rising from $19,970 in 2014 to $28,375 in 2023. This 42% increase over the span of nearly a decade highlights the growing financial burden on students and their families, which is a reflection of a broader trend in higher education where tuition rates continue to outpace inflation.

In terms of student outcomes, the graduation rates have fluctuated, with the on-time graduation rate dropping from 39.66% in 2013 to 34.63% in 2023. A declining graduation rate indicates potential challenges in student support and academic preparedness, which can affect the institution’s reputation and attractiveness to prospective students. Conversely, the 150% graduation rate has remained relatively stable, suggesting that while students may take longer to complete their degrees, many do eventually succeed.

Retention rates have also shown some fluctuation, with a high of 72.30% in 2013 and a low of 60% in 2014, but they have since stabilized around 67% in recent years. This stability could be an encouraging sign that the university is successfully engaging students, even amidst the challenges they may face, such as the rising cost of attendance.

Overall, while Belhaven University exhibits some positive trends in student retention, the rising tuition costs and declining graduation rates warrant attention to ensure that students receive the support they need to succeed and graduate in a timely manner. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the university's future growth and reputation in an increasingly competitive educational landscape.

Analysis of Graduation Data at Belhaven University in 2023

The graduation data from Belhaven University presents some intriguing insights into the academic landscape of the institution. Notably, the fields of Business Administration and Education dominate the master's degree graduate numbers, reflecting a broader trend in higher education where these disciplines are increasingly valued for their applicability in various professional sectors. The substantial number of graduates in Registered Nursing indicates a robust response to the ongoing healthcare workforce demand, especially in light of the recent global health crises that have underscored the importance of healthcare professionals.

Interestingly, the absence of international students graduating with bachelor's or master's degrees in many programs suggests a potential area for growth. This could be a strategic focus for the university to enhance its international recruitment efforts, especially in popular fields such as Computer Science and Psychology, where recent trends indicate a growing global interest.

Moreover, the data reveals a clear divergence in graduation rates between associate and higher-level degrees. While there are few associate degree graduates, master's programs like Educational Leadership are producing a notable number of graduates, indicating a shift in educational pathways and the increasing pursuit of advanced qualifications among students.

Finally, the lack of graduates in several disciplines raises questions about the viability and attractiveness of those programs. It may be beneficial for the university to assess and potentially revitalize underperforming programs to ensure they align with current job market demands and student interests. Overall, the data suggests a dynamic educational environment at Belhaven University, with opportunities for growth and development in key areas.

Trends in Belhaven University's Admissions and Ranking

Belhaven University has exhibited significant fluctuations in both its admissions rates and its overall ranking over the years. Most notably, the acceptance rates for male and female applicants have varied widely, highlighting changing dynamics in the applicant pool. For instance, in 2015, the acceptance rate for males soared to an impressive 72.35%, while in 2023, it dropped to 45.14%. Similarly, the acceptance rate for females decreased from a high of 71.29% in 2015 to 41.04% in 2023. This trend may suggest a more competitive admissions environment, possibly reflecting an increase in the quality or quantity of applications. The enrollment numbers have also fluctuated, with a peak of 689 students in 2010 before gradually declining to 262 in 2023. The number of denied applicants has remained relatively high, underscoring the selective nature of the institution. The increase in deferred admissions in some years indicates that the university may be strategically managing its enrollment figures, allowing for a more controlled growth in student population. Moreover, the university's rankings have seen a notable decline, with the latest available data showing a rank of 394 in 2024, compared to 331 in 2023. This downward trend in ranking could further impact the university's appeal to prospective students, given that rankings often influence college choice among applicants. Overall, these trends reflect broader patterns in higher education, where institutions face increasing competition and must adapt to changing demographics and applicant expectations. The challenge for Belhaven University will be to maintain a balance between selectivity and accessibility while enhancing its reputation in an increasingly competitive landscape.

Trends in Admission Test Scores and Submission Rates at Belhaven University

The data from Belhaven University over the years presents a notable trend in both the submission rates of standardized test scores and the corresponding score ranges for admitted students. From 2007 to 2023, there has been a significant fluctuation in the number of students submitting their SAT and ACT scores, with the peak in submission rate occurring in 2007 at 44%. However, by 2022 and 2023, this figure dropped to a mere 6%, indicating a possible shift in applicant behavior or a change in the university's admissions policy regarding standardized testing.

In terms of scores, the 25th percentile for SAT reading and math has seen some variability, with the highest recorded score range being between 470 and 690 in 2007. This range has fluctuated in subsequent years, with the most recent scores (2023) reflecting a range from 485 to 640. Notably, the 75th percentile scores have also seen a decline, suggesting that while fewer students are submitting scores, the ones that do are possibly less competitive compared to those in earlier years.

The decline in submission rates and the shifting score ranges may reflect a broader trend in higher education, where standardized tests are being viewed with increasing skepticism. Many universities are moving towards a more holistic admissions process, potentially leading to fewer students prioritizing test preparation. This shift raises important questions about equity in admissions and the future role of standardized testing in evaluating student potential. Overall, this data showcases a significant evolution in the admissions landscape at Belhaven University, mirroring national trends in higher education.

Student Demographics at Belhaven University in 2023

In 2023, Belhaven University presents a diverse student body, with a total of 3,634 students across various categories. The undergraduate new students constitute 262 individuals, with a nearly balanced gender ratio of 48.1% males and 51.9% females. This slight female majority aligns with national trends in higher education, where female enrollment has been steadily increasing.

The undergraduate continuing students represent a larger group of 980, characterized by a significant female majority at 65.6%. This gender disparity highlights the challenges faced by male students in retaining their college enrollment, a trend observed across many institutions in recent years. Similarly, the undergraduate transfer students, totaling 172, also show a predominance of females at 64.0%.

Graduate students form the largest segment at 2,126, with only 27.8% being male, leaving 72.2% as female. This trend may reflect the growing number of women pursuing advanced degrees, particularly in fields traditionally dominated by men.

While the data also provides insights into the ethnic composition of the student body, specific details are limited. However, the overall demographics suggest a commitment to diversity, which is critical in today’s educational landscape. As universities strive to create inclusive environments, the gender and ethnic representation at Belhaven University indicates a positive step toward fostering a multicultural academic community. This aligns with broader societal trends seeking to promote balance and equity in higher education.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Belhaven University in 2023

The age composition of students at Belhaven University in 2023 reveals a diverse demographic landscape. Notably, the largest group of students falls into the 25-29 age range, with a significant number of both undergraduate and graduate females, highlighting a growing trend of mature students pursuing higher education. This could reflect a broader societal shift towards lifelong learning, where individuals seek education at various stages of their lives.

The data also indicates a substantial presence of students aged 40-49, who make up a considerable portion of the total enrollment, particularly among graduate males and females. This trend may suggest that working professionals are increasingly recognizing the value of advanced degrees for career advancement or transitions, especially in a competitive job market where continuous education can enhance employability.

Conversely, the population of students under 18 remains relatively small, with only 38 enrolled. This could indicate that high school students are either opting for earlier college completion or pursuing alternative educational pathways. Similarly, the representation of students over 65 is minimal, which is consistent with traditional expectations of age demographics in higher education.

Furthermore, the gender distribution shows a balanced participation, with females generally outnumbering males in both undergraduate and graduate categories. This aligns with national trends where female enrollment in higher education has been increasing steadily.

Overall, Belhaven University’s age composition reflects the evolving nature of education, where diverse age groups and genders contribute to a rich academic community. It will be interesting to observe how these trends develop in the coming years, particularly as societal attitudes towards education continue to evolve.

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Belhaven University

The data on international student enrollment at Belhaven University over the years reveals significant fluctuations in both undergraduate and graduate populations. Initially, in 2004, the undergraduate international student percentage was relatively low at 1.53%, with three international graduate students making for a mere 0.91%. As the years progressed, the undergraduate numbers saw a peak in 2015, with 3.31% of undergraduates being international students, a positive upward trend compared to previous years.

However, this upward trajectory was not consistent. By 2021, the percentage of international undergraduates dropped to 0.84%, highlighting potential challenges in attracting or retaining these students. The most recent data from 2023 indicates a slight recovery in the undergraduate international population to 1.53%. For graduate students, the percentage of international enrollment saw a notable increase by 2023, jumping to 2.96% with 63 international graduate students, contrasting sharply with earlier years where the numbers were significantly lower and sometimes non-existent.

This data is reflective of broader trends observed in U.S. higher education, where international student enrollment has been influenced by various factors including immigration policies, global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and shifting perceptions about studying abroad. The current geopolitical climate and changes in visa regulations may further impact these enrollment figures in the future. As institutions like Belhaven University strive to enhance their global presence, understanding these trends will be vital for developing effective recruitment strategies and fostering an inclusive academic environment for international students.

Here are some notable universities near Belhaven University:

1. Vanderbilt University - Ranked 18th in the 2025 US News rankings, this prestigious university is located in Nashville, Tennessee. It is well-known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.

2. Tulane University of Louisiana - With a ranking of 63, Tulane is located in New Orleans, Louisiana. It offers a diverse range of programs and is recognized for its research initiatives and community engagement.

3. University of Mississippi - Also known as Ole Miss, this university ranks 171st and is located in Oxford, Mississippi. It has a rich history and offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs.

4. Mississippi State University - Ranked 214th, this university is located in Starkville, Mississippi. It is known for its research programs and offers a variety of degrees across multiple disciplines.

5. The University of Alabama at Birmingham - This university ranks 136th and is recognized for its strong health sciences programs and research facilities.

These institutions contribute significantly to the academic landscape surrounding Belhaven University, offering students a variety of educational opportunities and experiences.

Belhaven University Crime Trends Analysis

Belhaven University has shown a noteworthy decline in crime rates over the years from 2013 to 2023. The average crime rate per 1000 students peaked in 2013 at 3.68 but has steadily decreased, illustrating a significant drop to 0.00 in 2022, which is particularly impressive given the university's growth and expansion during this period. The data indicates a total of 13 recorded incidents in 2013, with a gradual decrease in subsequent years, culminating in a mere 1 incident in 2021 and 2022.

However, the university experienced a slight uptick in 2023 with a crime rate of 2.65. This fluctuation might warrant further investigation to understand the underlying causes, as it indicates a resurgence in certain criminal activities.

The most frequent offenses reported were related to firearm arrests, with some years showing notable incidents. The absence of reported cases of serious offenses such as murder, rape, and robbery in recent years is reassuring and reflects positively on campus safety initiatives.

The decline in overall crime rates may correlate with heightened awareness and preventive measures taken by the university, including increased campus security and educational programs aimed at promoting safe behaviors among students. As universities across the nation contend with issues of campus safety, Belhaven University’s track record serves as a potential model for effective crime prevention strategies.

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