Carthage College, located on the picturesque shores of Lake Michigan in Kenosha, Wisconsin, is a liberal arts college known for its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. Founded in 1847, Carthage emphasizes a holistic educational experience that fosters critical thinking, creativity, and ethical leadership. The college's motto, "Sicut Lilium Inter Spinas" (Like a Lily Among Thorns), reflects its mission to cultivate a nurturing environment for students to thrive academically and personally. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1, Carthage boasts a dedicated and diverse faculty who are not only passionate about teaching but also engaged in research and community service.

The campus is vibrant with a variety of student organizations, athletic programs, and cultural events that enrich student life. Carthage offers over 100 academic programs, including strong offerings in the sciences, humanities, and business. The college also places a strong emphasis on experiential learning, providing students opportunities for internships, research projects, and study abroad programs. Additionally, Carthage's commitment to athletics is evident in its competitive sports teams, known as the Red Men and Lady Reds, which foster school spirit and camaraderie among students. With a focus on preparing students for successful careers, Carthage College maintains strong connections with alumni and local businesses, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to enter the workforce.

Analysis of Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Retention

The data from Carthage College reveals significant trends in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention over recent years. Notably, tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students have shown a consistent upward trend from 2014 to 2020, peaking at $45,100. However, there was a marked decrease in 2021, where the tuition dropped to $31,500, before slightly rebounding to $34,500 in 2023. This fluctuation could reflect the institution's response to economic pressures or shifts in enrollment trends, possibly influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly impacted enrollment and financial conditions for many colleges.

In terms of graduation rates, the college has experienced a gradual increase in the percentage of students graduating on time since 2013. The rate improved from approximately 47.8% to 55.3% by 2023. This upward trajectory suggests that Carthage College has made strides in improving its educational outcomes, which could be a result of enhanced academic support services or curricular improvements. However, the retention rate, which peaked at about 79.5% in 2021, has shown a slight decline in subsequent years, indicating potential challenges in keeping students engaged and enrolled.

Furthermore, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained stable at around 12 to 13 students per faculty member, which is generally favorable for personalized education. This ratio, combined with improved graduation rates, may contribute positively to the college's reputation and attractiveness to prospective students.

Overall, while tuition costs present a challenge, the college's efforts to improve graduation rates and maintain a favorable student-to-faculty ratio are commendable and may help enhance the overall student experience and institutional reputation.

Analysis of Graduate Degree Trends at Carthage College

The data from Carthage College reveals significant trends in graduate degrees awarded, particularly within the fields of Registered Nursing, Marketing, and Biology. Notably, Registered Nursing leads with 55 graduates, underscoring the growing demand for healthcare professionals amidst an ongoing global health crisis. This is particularly relevant considering the increasing emphasis on nursing roles during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has heightened awareness of healthcare shortages across the nation.

In contrast, Marketing and Biology also show respectable numbers, with 36 and 30 graduates respectively. These figures reflect the importance of business acumen in a rapidly digitalizing economy and the enduring interest in life sciences, which are critical for addressing contemporary challenges such as environmental issues and public health.

Another noteworthy observation is the complete absence of graduates in certain fields such as Art Teacher Education and Digital Arts. This may indicate a declining interest in these disciplines, possibly influenced by economic factors or shifts in job market demands. The lack of international graduates across all categories further highlights a potential area for growth in attracting a diverse student body, which could enrich the college's academic environment and global perspective.

Overall, the data suggests that Carthage College is aligning its educational offerings with market demands, particularly in healthcare and business, while also facing challenges in less popular fields. This insight could guide future program development and recruitment strategies to ensure a balanced and robust academic portfolio.

Trends in Admission Rates at Carthage College

The admission data for Carthage College over the years reveals a notable trend in both male and female acceptance rates, as well as the overall enrollment figures. From 2009 to 2023, the male acceptance rate has fluctuated, with a significant increase observed in 2023, reaching approximately 95.4%. This contrasts sharply with the lower rates experienced in the years prior, especially around 2011 and 2012, where rates hovered around 68-69%. Similarly, female acceptance rates also displayed variability, peaking in 2022 at about 80.5%, but subsequently dropping to 71.7% in 2023. This divergence in acceptance rates may indicate a strategic shift by the college to balance gender enrollment or to respond to changing applicant demographics. Enrollment numbers have generally remained stable, with the highest recorded enrollment being 763 students in 2022. However, there is a clear trend of increasing denial numbers, peaking in 2019 at 2,609, which suggests that while the acceptance rates may rise, the pool of applicants is becoming increasingly competitive. Overall, the data illustrates Carthage College's evolving admission landscape, reflecting broader trends in higher education where institutions are adapting to shifts in applicant behavior and demographic trends. As the college continues to navigate these changes, the implications for future enrollment and campus diversity will be crucial to monitor.

Trends in Admission Scores at Carthage College

The data from Carthage College over the years reveals interesting trends in the admission scores and the percentage of applicants submitting standardized test scores. Notably, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has fluctuated significantly, peaking at 44% in 2021, while the number of submitted scores has also varied considerably. In 2019, for instance, 33% of applicants submitted their SAT scores, reflecting a growing trend towards submission in the following years.

In terms of the scores themselves, the range for SAT reading and math has shown a gradual increase over the years. The 25th percentile scores have consistently hovered around the 500 mark for the last several years, indicating that a competitive applicant should aim for at least this benchmark. The upper quartile scores have also remained relatively stable, suggesting that while the college is becoming more selective, the overall applicant pool is becoming increasingly qualified.

Interestingly, these trends coincide with a broader national conversation about the relevance of standardized testing in college admissions. Many institutions are re-evaluating their testing requirements, especially in light of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. As colleges adapt to changing educational landscapes and student needs, Carthage College appears to be navigating these changes by maintaining rigorous standards while also responding to fluctuations in applicant behavior regarding test submissions.

Overall, the data from 2007 to 2023 illustrates a shift towards a more competitive admissions process, with implications for both prospective students and the institution's strategic planning moving forward.

Demographic Insights of Carthage College Students in 2023

Carthage College's student body composition in 2023 reveals significant insights into its diversity and gender distribution among various student categories. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 732, with a gender distribution of approximately 45.8% male and 54.2% female, indicating a slightly higher female representation among new students. This trend continues among undergraduate sophomores, where 1,742 students are enrolled, with males constituting 43.6% and females 56.4%.

The data also highlights the inclusion of transfer students and graduate students, albeit in smaller numbers. The 67 transfer students demonstrate a relatively balanced gender ratio, with 44.8% male and 55.2% female, and the 108 graduate students reflect a similar trend with 44.4% males and 55.6% females.

In terms of racial and ethnic diversity, while detailed breakdowns for all categories are not available, the information shared indicates that white students remain the largest demographic group, particularly among freshmen and sophomores. The representation of various ethnic groups, including Asian, Latino, and African American students, contributes to the college's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment.

Overall, Carthage College's gender ratios and ethnic diversity reflect broader trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly prioritizing diversity and inclusion. The college's demographic landscape is essential for creating a learning environment that prepares students for a multicultural world, aligning with contemporary societal values and expectations.

Analysis of Age Demographics at Carthage College

The age composition data of students at Carthage College reveals some intriguing insights into the demographic landscape of the institution. Notably, the majority of students fall within the 18-21 age range, with a significant representation of undergraduate males and females. This aligns with the traditional college demographic, where most students begin their undergraduate studies directly after high school.

In the 18-19 age group, there are 535 male undergraduates and 692 female undergraduates, showcasing a healthy female majority in this demographic. This trend continues in the 20-21 age group, where both genders maintain a similar pattern, indicating an increasing female representation in higher education, a trend observed nationally.

However, as we move to older age groups, particularly from 22 to 24 years, there is a notable decline in the number of students, particularly among undergraduates. The data suggests that students may be graduating or transitioning to graduate studies, as evidenced by the presence of graduate students in this age category.

Interestingly, there are very few students in the 25-29 age range and older, which may reflect a shift in the educational landscape, where younger students are more inclined to pursue higher education immediately after high school, while older adults may be entering the workforce or pursuing alternative educational paths.

Overall, the data paints a picture of a predominantly young student body, with a strong female presence, which mirrors broader trends in higher education today. As institutions like Carthage College continue to evolve, understanding these demographics is crucial for tailoring programs and support systems to meet the needs of their diverse student populations.

Analysis of International Student Trends at Carthage College

The data regarding international students at Carthage College reveals significant trends over the years, particularly in the undergraduate and graduate populations. The undergraduate total has fluctuated slightly, peaking at 3,031 in 2010 and then declining to 2,559 by 2023. Notably, the number of international undergraduates has seen a notable increase from just 18 students in 2004, reaching a peak of 33 students in 2020. This growth resulted in an increase in the percentage of international students among undergraduates, reaching 1.25% by 2020, which is a positive sign of the college's expanding global outreach.

In contrast, the graduate population has shown a more pronounced rise in the representation of international students. The percentage of international graduate students surged to 20.37% in 2023, indicating that Carthage College has become a more attractive option for graduate-level international students. This trend is consistent with broader patterns observed in higher education, where graduate programs often attract a more diverse cohort due to the specific skills and advanced knowledge sought in today’s global job market.

Overall, while the numbers of international students at Carthage College may seem modest compared to larger institutions, the increasing percentages suggest a growing recognition of the importance of diversity in education. The college's efforts to attract international students can enhance the campus experience, fostering a rich cultural exchange that benefits all students. As global circumstances continue to evolve, it will be crucial for institutions like Carthage to adapt their strategies to further increase international enrollment and support these students in their academic journeys.

Here are some notable schools surrounding Carthage College:

1. Northwestern University - Ranked 9th in the 2024 US News rankings, Northwestern is a prestigious research university located in Evanston, Illinois. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields.

2. University of Chicago - With a rank of 12th, the University of Chicago is renowned for its rigorous academics and distinguished faculty. It is located in Chicago and is known for its contributions to research and education.

3. University of Wisconsin-Madison - This comprehensive university ranks 35th in the nation. It is located in Madison, Wisconsin, and is recognized for its strong research programs and vibrant campus life.

4. Marquette University - Ranked 86th, Marquette is a private Jesuit university in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It offers a comprehensive education with a strong emphasis on community service and ethics.

5. Loyola University Chicago - With a rank of 142, Loyola is another private Jesuit institution located in Chicago. It is known for its commitment to social justice and community engagement.

6. DePaul University - Ranked 151st, DePaul is the largest Catholic university in the U.S., located in Chicago. It offers a diverse range of programs and is known for its focus on experiential learning.

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

Analysis of Campus Crime Trends at Carthage College

The crime statistics at Carthage College over the last decade reveal a significant reduction in reported offenses. In 2013, the crime rate was at an alarming 52.69 incidents per 1000 students, but by 2023, this figure had dropped to just 8.62 incidents per 1000 students. This decline of approximately 84% in the crime rate reflects positive changes in campus safety and student behavior over the years.

A closer examination of the specific types of crime shows a notable decrease in serious offenses, particularly violent crimes. For instance, the number of arrests related to drug offenses and alcohol-related incidents has also seen a downward trend. This could indicate the effectiveness of various preventative measures implemented by the college, including educational programs, better on-campus security, and community outreach efforts aimed at fostering a safer environment.

Moreover, the reduction in crime could also be influenced by broader societal trends and changes in law enforcement practices, especially in the context of growing awareness and initiatives focusing on campus safety. The ongoing commitment to reducing crime is essential, as even a single incident can have profound effects on the campus community.

Overall, the statistics suggest that Carthage College is progressing towards a safer campus, but continuous efforts must be made to maintain and further enhance this positive trend. The emphasis on safety not only benefits current students but also attracts prospective students and their families who prioritize secure educational environments. For more information on crime rate calculations, please refer to the following link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.