Benedict College, located in Columbia, South Carolina, is a historically black college that has a rich legacy of academic excellence and community service. Founded in 1870, the college has developed a strong emphasis on liberal arts education, offering a diverse range of undergraduate programs across various fields such as business, education, and social sciences. The college's mission is to provide a high-quality education that empowers students to become leaders in their communities, fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect for diversity. The campus culture is vibrant and engaging, with numerous student organizations and activities that promote leadership development and personal growth.

The college places a strong emphasis on student success, which is reflected in its dedicated faculty and support services. Benedict College boasts a low student-to-faculty ratio, allowing for personalized attention and mentorship opportunities. The college's commitment to academic excellence is mirrored in its facilities, which include modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas that support both academic and extracurricular pursuits. The athletic programs at Benedict College also thrive, with numerous teams competing in various sports, fostering camaraderie and school spirit among students. With a focus on holistic development, Benedict College prepares its graduates for successful careers and community engagement, making it an excellent choice for students seeking a well-rounded educational experience.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Benedict College

Benedict College, a private institution, has displayed notable trends in several crucial metrics over the past decade. One of the most striking aspects is the fluctuation in tuition fees for undergraduate students. From 2014 to 2023, tuition steadily increased from approximately $18,254 to $17,938, with a significant peak in 2018 at $19,958. This pattern highlights the ongoing challenges of rising educational costs, which can deter potential students and affect enrollment numbers.

The student population has also seen a decline, dropping from 2,917 in 2013 to 1,796 in 2023. This reduction in enrollment is concerning as it may impact the institution's financial viability and its ability to provide diverse programs and services. The retention rate, which hovered around 56-69% in recent years, indicates that while the college is able to keep some students, there is still room for improvement in student satisfaction and engagement, especially given the declining enrollment figures.

Graduation rates have shown slight improvement, with the on-time graduation rate for undergraduates increasing from approximately 11.4% in 2013 to 15.2% in 2023. While this is a positive trend, it remains relatively low and suggests that the college needs to enhance its support systems to better assist students in completing their degrees.

Another noteworthy trend is the gender ratio among undergraduate students. Over the years, the proportion of male students has decreased, with females representing a significant majority of the student body by 2023. This shift raises questions about the college's recruitment strategies and its appeal to male students.

In summary, while Benedict College has made some advancements in graduation rates, the institution faces challenges related to rising tuition costs, declining enrollment, and retention rates. Addressing these issues will be critical for the college's future success and sustainability.

Analysis of Graduation Data from Benedict College 2023

The graduation data from Benedict College for 2023 reveals several interesting trends across different fields of study. Notably, the Bachelor’s degrees in Biology and Criminal Justice are leading, with 53 and 28 graduates, respectively. This highlights the growing demand for careers in the health sciences and law enforcement, reflecting societal interests and needs. International students comprise a significant portion of these programs, particularly in Biology, where 20 out of 53 graduates are international, indicating Benedict College's appeal in global education.

In the realm of master's degrees, the trend shifts towards specialized fields such as Sport and Fitness Administration, with 13 graduates. This signifies an increasing recognition of the importance of health and wellness industries, especially in a post-pandemic world where public health awareness is paramount. The international representation in this program, with 2 graduates, also emphasizes the program's global appeal.

Conversely, certain fields such as Computer Science and Engineering show lower graduation numbers, which may reflect a broader trend of declining interest in traditional STEM fields among students. This could be attributed to a saturated job market or a shift in student preferences towards more interdisciplinary studies or emerging fields like Cybersecurity, which is not represented prominently in the data.

Overall, the data suggests a dynamic educational landscape at Benedict College, with strong representation in health sciences and criminal justice, while also shedding light on the evolving interests of students in the 21st century. As these trends continue, institutions may need to adapt their offerings to better align with student interests and market demands.

Analysis of Benedict College Admission Trends

Benedict College has shown a notable fluctuation in its admission statistics over the past few years. The acceptance rates for both male and female applicants reveal an interesting trend. In 2020, the admission rate for males was approximately 76.9%, while females had a similar acceptance rate of 76.7%. However, by 2023, these rates had decreased significantly to about 66.5% for males and 68.6% for females. This decline suggests that the college may be becoming more competitive in its admissions process, possibly due to an increased number of applications or a strategic shift in enrollment goals. The enrollment numbers also reflect these changes, peaking in 2020 with 739 students, but dropping to 381 in 2023. The substantial number of denials, reaching 2,077 in 2023, speaks to the college's rigorous selection criteria. It’s crucial to note the large number of deferred admissions as well, which may indicate that the institution is attempting to manage its enrollment numbers effectively while still considering qualified candidates for future terms. Moreover, the increasing total number of applicants over the years could be attributed to Benedict College's growing reputation, particularly among historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), which have gained recognition and support in recent times. This aligns with national trends where HBCUs are increasingly seen as viable options for a quality education, leading to heightened interest from prospective students. In conclusion, Benedict College's admission data indicates a growing competitiveness and a strategic approach to managing its enrollment, which reflects broader trends in higher education, particularly within the HBCU community.

Analysis of Benedict College Admission Test Scores

The data from Benedict College reveals a consistent trend in standardized testing scores across the years, particularly from 2020 to 2023. The SAT reading and math scores, along with ACT scores, show a range that indicates a stable performance among admitted students. For instance, the 25th percentile SAT reading score ranges from 420 to 520. This suggests that while some students score lower, a significant portion of the admitted students performs above the lower threshold.

Moreover, the percentage of admitted students who submitted their SAT scores has varied, with a noticeable drop to 16% in 2023, indicating a potential shift in admissions strategy or applicant preferences towards test-optional policies. Nationally, many colleges are increasingly moving away from standardized test requirements, reflecting a broader trend towards holistic admissions processes that consider a wider range of student attributes beyond test scores.

The 50% submission rate for the SAT over the years also underscores a consistent reliance on standardized testing in the admissions process. However, as more institutions adopt test-optional policies, Benedict College may need to adapt its strategies to remain competitive in attracting diverse and capable candidates. Overall, the data provides valuable insights into the admissions landscape, highlighting the importance of standardized testing while also hinting at a shift in educational practices.

Student Demographics at Benedict College in 2023

In 2023, Benedict College presents a diverse student body, with a total enrollment that highlights significant gender representation and varying ethnic backgrounds. The undergraduate freshmen comprise 384 students, with a nearly balanced gender ratio of 48.7% male and 51.3% female, indicating a slight female majority. This trend continues among undergraduate upperclassmen, where the number of students reaches 1,256, with women representing 57.5% of the population, suggesting a growing appeal of higher education among female students.

In contrast, undergraduate transfer students, numbering 86, show a more equal distribution with 51.2% male and 48.8% female, while the graduate student cohort is predominantly male, with 65.9% of the 44 graduate students identifying as male. This disparity in gender representation across different educational levels raises questions about the factors influencing enrollment decisions among men and women.

In terms of ethnic diversity, while specific data is not fully available, the representation of various ethnic groups is crucial for fostering an inclusive academic environment. The presence of students from different backgrounds enriches the educational experience and prepares students for a multicultural workforce. As higher education institutions continue to evolve, understanding these demographics will be vital for shaping policies and initiatives that promote diversity and equal opportunity. Overall, the statistics reflect a commitment to inclusivity at Benedict College, with ongoing efforts needed to maintain this balance in the future.

Analysis of Student Age Distribution at Benedict College

The age distribution of students at Benedict College reveals intriguing insights into the demographic makeup of the student body. A significant portion of the students falls within the traditional undergraduate age range, particularly those aged 18-21. This age group comprises 57% of the total male students and 69% of the total female students, indicating that the college primarily attracts younger students.

Interestingly, the number of students under 18 is quite substantial, with 34 males and 40 females. This suggests that the college may also be appealing to high school graduates or even those who are attending college early. However, as students progress into the older age brackets, the numbers decline sharply. For example, only 31 males and 32 females are in the 25-29 age range, showcasing a noticeable drop in enrollment as students age.

Moreover, the presence of graduate students is minimal, particularly among males, with only 12 students aged 22-24 and 9 in the 25-29 range. This could indicate that the college's graduate programs are less popular or that many students choose to pursue their advanced education elsewhere.

Overall, the data points to a youthful and predominantly undergraduate population. This trend may reflect broader patterns seen in colleges across the United States, where institutions often find it challenging to attract older students or those pursuing graduate studies. As higher education continues to evolve, Benedict College might consider strategies to engage a more diverse age range of students, including adult learners and those seeking advanced degrees.

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Benedict College

Benedict College has demonstrated a significant upward trajectory in the enrollment of international students over recent years, reflecting a growing commitment to global diversity and education. In 2009, the international undergraduate population was a mere 1 student, accounting for only 0.03% of the total undergraduate enrollment. However, by 2023, this number soared to 258 international undergraduates, representing approximately 14.37% of the total undergraduate body. This remarkable increase showcases the college’s efforts to attract a more diverse student population.

The graduate program, while initially showing limited data, indicates a positive trend as well. In 2022, there were 13 international graduate students, and by 2023, this number increased to 44, comprising 9.09% of the graduate student population.

This surge in international enrollment aligns with broader trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly recognizing the value of a diverse academic environment. As global mobility increases, more students are seeking educational opportunities abroad, and colleges like Benedict are adapting to meet these needs.

The rising percentages of international students not only enrich the academic experience for all students but also enhance cultural exchange and understanding on campus. As colleges navigate the challenges of a post-pandemic world and seek to rebuild enrollment numbers, Benedict College's focus on international students is a strategic move that can contribute to its long-term growth and global presence.

Here are some notable institutions near Benedict College:

1. University of South Carolina-Columbia - Ranked 124 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is a significant educational hub in South Carolina.

2. Wofford College - A highly regarded liberal arts college, Wofford is ranked 59 and is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.

3. Clemson University - Ranked 86, Clemson is a comprehensive university recognized for its research initiatives and competitive athletics.

4. Duke University - A prestigious research university, Duke is ranked 7 and is known for its rigorous academics, beautiful campus, and strong athletic programs.

5. Emory University - With a rank of 24, Emory is a distinguished research university located in Atlanta, known for its health sciences and liberal arts programs.

These institutions provide a diverse range of educational opportunities and are well-respected in their respective fields.

Analysis of Crime Rates at Benedict College

The crime data from Benedict College over the years reveals significant fluctuations in the campus safety landscape. In 2013, the college reported a high crime rate of 79.88 incidents per 1,000 students, primarily driven by gun-related arrests. This year marked a peak in criminal activity, which saw a gradual decline in subsequent years. Notably, 2014 and 2015 experienced significant drops, with rates declining to 38.61 and 30.28 respectively. This trend of decreasing crime continued until 2019, suggesting improvements in campus security measures or changing student behaviors.

However, the year 2020 saw a slight uptick in crime rates, reaching 37.75, possibly influenced by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which altered daily life and increased stress among students. Remarkably, in 2021 and 2022, the rates plummeted to an all-time low of 2.31 and 2.10, respectively, indicating a successful implementation of safety protocols or changes in campus dynamics.

The slight increase in 2023 to 15.76 could warrant further investigation to understand its causes. Overall, this data reflects a positive trend in reducing crime rates, emphasizing the importance of continuous assessment of campus safety measures. The college community should remain vigilant to sustain these improvements and ensure a safe environment for all students. For further insights into calculating crime rates, refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.