Brevard College, located in Brevard, North Carolina, is a small liberal arts institution known for its commitment to experiential learning and a close-knit community. Founded in 1853, the college emphasizes a unique blend of academic rigor and hands-on experiences, particularly in fields such as environmental studies, music, and the arts. The college's motto, "To Know and To Do," reflects its educational philosophy of combining theoretical knowledge with practical application, preparing students for both personal and professional success.

The campus is set against the backdrop of the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, providing students with a picturesque environment that enhances their educational experience. Brevard College is particularly known for its strong support for outdoor activities, with easy access to hiking, biking, and other recreational opportunities in the surrounding Pisgah National Forest. The college also fosters a vibrant campus culture, characterized by a variety of student organizations and events that promote engagement and community spirit. With a dedicated faculty who prioritize mentoring and individualized attention, Brevard College ensures that its students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for a diverse array of career paths and lifelong learning.

Analysis of Tuition Fees, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention

The data from Brevard College indicates a steady increase in tuition fees over the years, with in-state and out-of-state undergraduate tuition rising from $25,200 in 2014 to $31,250 in 2024. This represents a significant increase of approximately 24% in just a decade, which reflects a broader trend in rising higher education costs across the United States. The increasing financial burden on students may lead to concerns regarding accessibility and affordability of higher education, especially for lower-income families.

Graduation rates also showcase fluctuation, with a notable improvement in the percentage of students graduating on time from 20.67% in 2013 to 32.57% in 2023. This increase in the on-time graduation rate suggests that the institution may have implemented effective retention strategies or academic support services that foster student success. However, the overall graduation rates remain relatively low, indicating that there is still room for improvement in ensuring that a greater proportion of students complete their degrees.

Moreover, student retention rates have seen a commendable upward trend, climbing from 52.11% in 2013 to 68.52% in 2023. This consistent increase indicates that students are feeling more satisfied and supported throughout their educational journey, which is essential for fostering a successful academic environment. Improved retention rates can lead to higher graduation rates, as students who remain enrolled are more likely to complete their degrees.

Overall, while Brevard College has made strides in improving graduation and retention rates, the ongoing increase in tuition fees poses challenges that need to be addressed to maintain accessibility and equity in higher education. The college's commitment to student success will be crucial in navigating these challenges while continuing to support its diverse student population.

Analysis of Graduation Data from Brevard College in 2023

The graduation data from Brevard College in 2023 highlights notable trends in academic disciplines and the representation of international students. The most significant number of bachelor's degrees was awarded in Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Administration, with 27 graduates, which reflects the growing interest in public safety careers. This aligns with national trends where criminal justice programs are increasingly popular, likely due to heightened societal focus on law enforcement and community safety.

Another noteworthy observation is the strong performance of health-related programs, particularly in Health Services, which produced 11 graduates, including one international student. This may indicate a rising demand for healthcare professionals, propelled by the ongoing global health challenges and an aging population. The presence of international students in these programs suggests that Brevard College is attracting a diverse student body, enhancing its educational environment.

Conversely, certain fields such as Business Administration, Education, and various sciences did not produce any graduates at the bachelor's level. This lack of graduates could indicate either a low enrollment in these programs or a potential need for curriculum reevaluation to meet student interest and market demands.

Furthermore, the data indicates a complete absence of master's and doctoral programs in many disciplines, suggesting a potential area for growth in advanced studies at Brevard College. Increasing offerings at these levels could attract more graduate students and diversify the college's academic portfolio.

Overall, the graduation statistics reveal both strengths and opportunities for Brevard College, reflecting broader educational trends and the importance of adapting to student interests and workforce needs.

Analysis of Brevard College Admission Trends

The admission statistics for Brevard College over the years reveal significant trends in both male and female acceptance rates, enrollment numbers, and the overall competitiveness of the institution. Notably, the male acceptance rate has fluctuated considerably, starting at approximately 36.4% in 2009 and peaking around 57.5% in 2010 before declining to 41.1% by 2023. In contrast, female acceptance rates have consistently remained higher, ranging from about 60.2% to 38.4%, indicating a more competitive environment for male applicants. The total enrollment figures have shown an overall increase from 183 students in 2009 to a peak of 311 in 2019, suggesting that the college has been successful in attracting more students. However, the number of denied applicants has also surged, peaking at 1,895 in 2016, which may reflect the growing popularity of the college or a strategic decision to limit enrollment to maintain quality. Furthermore, the number of deferred admissions has varied significantly, with the highest deferral rate occurring in 2010 at 495 students. This could indicate a trend where the college is preferring to hold off on admitting certain applicants, perhaps due to capacity constraints or a desire to assess the applicant pool more thoroughly. Overall, the data suggests that while Brevard College has become increasingly selective, it continues to attract a diverse student body, particularly among female applicants. Moving forward, the college may need to address the disparities in acceptance rates and consider strategies to enhance its appeal to male students, while ensuring that it maintains a balanced and thriving academic community.

Trends in College Admissions Scores at Brevard College

The data from Brevard College over the years reveals interesting trends regarding the standardized test scores of admitted students. From 2007 to 2023, the range of SAT reading and mathematics scores shows fluctuations, with the 25th percentile scores remaining relatively stable, while the 75th percentile scores exhibit some variation. For instance, in 2007, the 25th percentile for SAT reading was at 389, peaking at 485 in 2023, indicating a gradual improvement in the lower range of scores.

The percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has varied over the years, often hovering around the mid-70s to mid-80s percentage range, reflecting a consistent level of interest from prospective students in standardized testing as part of their application process. Notably, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores dropped to 18% in 2023, suggesting a potential shift in the admissions landscape, where test-optional policies may be influencing student decisions. This trend aligns with a broader movement in higher education, where many institutions are re-evaluating the role standardized testing plays in admissions.

The ACT scores also indicate a stable performance among admitted students, with the 25th and 75th percentile scores showing little fluctuation over the years. The overall consistency in scores may suggest that Brevard College is maintaining its academic standards while attracting a diverse applicant pool.

As colleges continue to adapt to changing educational dynamics, the data from Brevard College illustrates the ongoing dialogue surrounding standardized testing and its impact on student admissions. This trend may lead to more holistic approaches in evaluating student potential beyond just test scores.

Analysis of Student Demographics at Brevard College in 2023

In 2023, Brevard College's student demographics reveal a diverse mix of undergraduate and graduate students. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 175, with a male-to-female ratio of approximately 60.6% and 39.4%, indicating a slightly higher male enrollment in this category. This trend continues among undergraduate juniors, who number 497 with a male ratio of 61.4%.

Interestingly, undergraduate transfer students, although fewer in number at 59, show a significant male dominance, with 76.3% identifying as male. This could suggest that male students are increasingly seeking opportunities to transfer to Brevard College, potentially influenced by academic programs or campus culture. The graduate student cohort, consisting of 24 individuals, has a slightly lower male representation at 58.3%.

Examining the racial composition of these student groups, white students form the largest demographic among freshmen and juniors, reflecting broader trends in U.S. higher education. However, the presence of other ethnicities, such as Asian, Latino, and African American students, is essential for fostering an inclusive educational environment. The data indicates a growing recognition of diversity in student bodies across colleges, aligning with national conversations about equity in education.

Overall, the statistics from Brevard College underscore the importance of diversity and gender representation in higher education, reflecting larger societal trends while also inviting further examination into the experiences and support systems for various student demographics.

Age Composition of Brevard College Students in 2023

The age composition data of Brevard College students in 2023 presents an intriguing snapshot of the demographic landscape within the institution. A significant majority of students fall into the 18-19 age category, with 185 male undergraduates and 137 female undergraduates, highlighting the college's appeal to traditional-age college students. This trend is consistent with broader national statistics indicating that younger students are more likely to enroll in community colleges and four-year institutions immediately after high school.

Interestingly, the 20-21 age group also demonstrates a strong representation, with 175 male undergraduates and 104 female undergraduates. This suggests that the college supports students who may take a gap year or who are transitioning from secondary education. However, the numbers sharply decline in older age brackets, particularly for those aged 25 and above, where only 13 male and 2 female undergraduates are enrolled. This points to a challenge for institutions like Brevard College in attracting and retaining non-traditional students, which is a growing demographic in higher education.

Moreover, the absence of graduate students in the younger age categories indicates that most graduate programs at Brevard College may not cater to freshly graduated undergraduates, thereby potentially limiting the appeal to older students who are seeking further education. As colleges and universities strive to diversify their student body, Brevard College might benefit from developing targeted programs or outreach to older age groups, which can enrich the academic environment and contribute to a more diverse campus culture. Overall, the data illustrates that while Brevard College is thriving with a robust population of younger students, there is ample opportunity for growth in attracting older and graduate students.

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Brevard College

The data on international student enrollment at Brevard College reveals notable fluctuations over the years, particularly among undergraduate students. From a modest 1.82% in 2004, the percentage of international undergraduates has witnessed a general upward trend, peaking at 7.52% in 2015. However, a sharp decline is observed from 2019 onwards, with figures falling to 0.85% in 2019 and remaining low at 0.93% in 2020, likely influenced by the global pandemic's impact on mobility and international education.

In 2022, the college saw a resurgence, with 2.73% of undergraduates being international students, culminating in a significant increase to 5.85% in 2023. This recovery may indicate a renewed interest in studying abroad post-pandemic. The total number of international undergraduates rose from 6 in 2019 to 43 in 2023, suggesting that Brevard College is becoming more appealing to international students.

When considering graduate enrollment, the data shows that in 2022, the graduate student population included 10% international students, and while the numbers appear small, the increase to 24% in 2023 suggests a growing attractiveness of the graduate programs to international scholars.

Overall, the data outlines a resilient trend with fluctuations that reflect broader global challenges and shifts in educational dynamics. As institutions worldwide adapt to the changing landscape of higher education, Brevard College's recovery and growth in international enrollment underscores its potential as a destination for students across the globe.

Here are some notable schools near Brevard College:

1. Furman University - Ranked 46 in the 2024 US News list, Furman University is a distinguished liberal arts college known for its strong academic programs and beautiful campus.

2. Clemson University - With a ranking of 86, Clemson University is a comprehensive university that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, recognized for its research initiatives and vibrant campus life.

3. Davidson College - Ranked 16, Davidson College is celebrated for its rigorous academics and commitment to liberal arts education, fostering a close-knit community among its students.

4. University of Georgia - With a ranking of 47, the University of Georgia is one of the oldest public universities in the United States, offering diverse programs and a rich tradition of research and public service.

5. Emory University - Emory University is a prestigious institution ranked 24th, known for its strong emphasis on research, healthcare programs, and a vibrant campus culture.

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

Analysis of Crime Data at Brevard College

The crime statistics at Brevard College from 2013 to 2023 reveal a significant decline in the overall crime rate, evidenced by the average number of incidents per 1,000 students. In 2013, the crime rate was notably high at 56.56 incidents per 1,000 students, but it has dramatically reduced over the years, reaching as low as 8.21 incidents per 1,000 students in 2022. This downward trend is encouraging, indicating improved safety measures and a more secure campus environment.

A closer look at the data shows a notable decrease in arrests related to drug offenses and alcohol-related incidents, which have historically been prevalent on college campuses. The data highlights that in recent years, incidents of gun-related arrests have been minimal, with only one recorded in 2022, suggesting effective policies and community awareness initiatives targeting gun violence.

However, the increase in the crime rate in 2023 to 26.35 per 1,000 students raises concerns and necessitates further examination. It is crucial for the college administration to analyze the types of incidents that contributed to this spike to address any underlying issues promptly.

Overall, while the decrease in crime rates is commendable, the college must remain vigilant and proactive in maintaining safety and security for its students. Continuous engagement with students and staff to foster a culture of safety and awareness will be essential in sustaining this positive trend. For more on how crime rates are calculated, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.