Eastern Kentucky University (EKU), located in Richmond, Kentucky, is a public university renowned for its commitment to student success and community engagement. Established in 1906, EKU has evolved into a comprehensive institution offering a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including education, business, health sciences, and the arts. The university prides itself on its strong emphasis on experiential learning, providing students with opportunities for internships, research, and service-learning that prepare them for the workforce. With a diverse student body and a vibrant campus culture, EKU fosters an inclusive environment where students from all backgrounds can thrive.

The university's dedication to athletics is also noteworthy, as EKU is a member of the Ohio Valley Conference and has a rich tradition in sports, particularly in football, basketball, and track and field. EKU's athletic programs not only promote physical fitness but also instill values of teamwork and leadership among students. Additionally, the university boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, research labs, and recreational centers, all designed to enhance the educational experience. With a strong network of alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields, EKU continues to build its reputation as a leading institution focused on developing the next generation of leaders and innovators.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Eastern Kentucky University

Eastern Kentucky University has shown significant trends in several key metrics over the years, reflecting the broader shifts in higher education dynamics. One of the most notable aspects is the increasing tuition fees. Over the past decade, in-state undergraduate tuition has risen from approximately $7,536 in 2014 to $10,130 in 2024, marking a substantial increase of around 34%. Similarly, out-of-state undergraduate tuition has escalated from $16,608 to $20,820, representing a rise of about 25%. This consistent uptick in costs poses challenges for students and families, particularly amid growing concerns about student debt.

The graduation rates have also exhibited promising growth. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates has progressed from about 13.6% in 2013 to 32.8% in 2023, which is a remarkable increase of over 240%. This positive trend suggests that the university may have enhanced its support systems for students, thus improving their likelihood of completing their degrees on time. Additionally, the retention rate has seen an upward trajectory, increasing from approximately 67.7% to 76.9% during the same period. This improvement indicates that students are finding value in their educational experiences, which could be attributed to effective engagement strategies and academic support.

Lastly, the gender ratios among the student body have seen slight shifts, with female undergraduates making up a larger proportion over time, reaching nearly 59.3% in 2023. This gradual change reflects broader societal trends towards increased female participation in higher education, which is critical in fostering diverse and inclusive academic environments.

In summary, while tuition costs continue to climb, Eastern Kentucky University is making strides in improving student outcomes, evidenced by rising graduation and retention rates, alongside evolving demographics in its student population. Addressing the financial burden of education remains paramount as the institution balances the need for affordability with the pursuit of excellence in academic achievement.

Analysis of Graduation Trends at Eastern Kentucky University

The graduation data from Eastern Kentucky University for 2023 reveals insightful trends across various academic disciplines, particularly in the fields of health care and engineering. The Registered Nursing program stands out with a significant number of master's degree graduates, totaling 107, indicating a strong demand for advanced nursing professionals. This trend aligns with the ongoing national emphasis on healthcare, especially in light of the pandemic, which has heightened the need for skilled nursing staff.

Additionally, the General Studies program demonstrates a robust output at the bachelor's level with 163 graduates. This suggests that many students are opting for a versatile educational path that can lead to various career opportunities, reflecting a shift towards adaptable skill sets in an ever-changing job market.

Conversely, the data indicates underrepresentation in certain fields. For instance, both the Industrial Safety Technology and Homeland Security programs show no bachelor's degree graduates, which may highlight a gap in workforce readiness in these crucial areas. The absence of graduates in these disciplines could be a concern, given the increasing complexities surrounding industrial safety and national security.

Moreover, international student participation is notably low across most programs, particularly in engineering and education, where there are no recorded graduates. This raises questions regarding the university's ability to attract a diverse student body in critical fields, which could enhance global perspectives and innovation.

Overall, the graduation data from Eastern Kentucky University reflects significant achievements in health and general studies, while also pointing to areas needing attention for future growth and diversity within the student body.

Analysis of Eastern Kentucky University's Admission Trends

Eastern Kentucky University has seen significant fluctuations in its admission rates and overall enrollment numbers over the years. Notably, the data indicates a trend towards increased selectivity in recent years. For instance, the acceptance rate for males was approximately 64.9% and for females about 63.9% in 2023, reflecting a substantial shift from rates exceeding 90% just a few years prior. This change suggests the university may be attempting to enhance its academic standing and attract a more competitive applicant pool. Furthermore, the total enrollment numbers also reveal a dynamic landscape. In 2023, the university enrolled 2,737 students while denying 5,647 applicants, which indicates a growing interest in the institution. However, the elevated number of denied applications could be a double-edged sword; while it may suggest an enhanced reputation, it also raises concerns regarding accessibility for prospective students. Interestingly, the recent rankings show Eastern Kentucky University positioned at 331st in 2023 and dropping to 352nd in 2024, which may influence future admission strategies. As the university navigates these challenges, it will be crucial to balance maintaining academic integrity and expanding educational opportunities for a diverse student body. Overall, these trends highlight the evolving nature of higher education admissions and the need for institutions to adapt strategically to changing applicant behaviors and market demands.

Trends in Admission Scores at Eastern Kentucky University

The data from Eastern Kentucky University over the years reveals significant trends in standardized test submissions and scores from prospective students. From 2007 to 2023, the percentage of students submitting ACT scores has remained notably high, consistently above 95%. This indicates a strong preference among applicants for the ACT over the SAT, which is reflected in the decreasing number of SAT submissions, dropping to just 3% in 2023.

Examining the ACT scores, there is a notable consistency in submission numbers, with thousands of applicants presenting their ACT scores each year. This trend emphasizes the stability of the ACT as a reliable measure for college admissions in the region. However, the SAT scores show increased variability, particularly as the percentage of students submitting these scores declines.

In terms of academic performance, the score ranges for both SAT and ACT show a gradual shift over the years. For instance, the 25th percentile and 75th percentile scores for the SAT have fluctuated, while the ACT scores seem to have a more stable range, suggesting a more consistent performance among ACT test-takers.

Overall, this data highlights Eastern Kentucky University's evolving admissions landscape, where the ACT remains a dominant factor, while SAT submissions decrease. This shift may reflect broader national trends in standardized testing preferences and could indicate changing perceptions about the value of these assessments in evaluating student readiness for higher education.

Student Demographics at Eastern Kentucky University 2023

The student body composition at Eastern Kentucky University in 2023 reveals some intriguing patterns regarding diversity and gender distribution. The total enrollment showcases a predominance of undergraduate freshmen, numbering 2,737 students, with females making up a significant 60.7% of this group, compared to 39.3% males. This trend continues among undergraduate upperclassmen, where females constitute 58.9% of the 7,558 students, indicating a consistent female majority across different academic levels.

Interestingly, the transfer students also reflect a similar gender ratio, with females at 57.4% of the 920 enrolled individuals. However, the graduate student demographic shows a more pronounced gender disparity, with only 29.9% of the 2,252 students being male, leading to a notable 70.1% female majority. This shift could suggest that more women are pursuing advanced degrees at Eastern Kentucky University, aligning with broader trends observed in higher education where women increasingly outnumber men in graduate programs.

Moreover, while the data provides a snapshot of gender distribution, it also hints at the complexities of racial and ethnic diversity among students. Although specific figures for racial breakdowns are not fully reported, the university's commitment to inclusivity can be inferred from the presence of various ethnic groups. This aligns with national trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly focusing on creating diverse and equitable learning environments.

Overall, Eastern Kentucky University's 2023 student demographics highlight significant female representation across all levels of study, raising questions and opportunities for further exploration into the factors that contribute to these trends in higher education.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Eastern Kentucky University

The age composition data from Eastern Kentucky University reveals a diverse student body, with a significant concentration of younger students. The largest age group falls within the 18-19 range, comprising approximately 40% of the total female students and about 48% of the total male students. This high percentage suggests that the university attracts a considerable number of traditional students who are entering college directly after high school.

As we progress through the age categories, there is a noticeable decline in the number of students. The 20-21 age group sees a slight drop, but the numbers remain robust, indicating continued enrollment of young adults. However, the figures begin to decline more sharply in the 22-24 age group, where many students may either graduate or transition to the workforce.

Interestingly, the data also highlights a growing presence of non-traditional students. For instance, the 25-29 age group still accounts for about 12% of the total male and female students, suggesting a shift towards lifelong learning and professional development. The presence of students aged 30 and above, while smaller, indicates that older adults are increasingly seeking higher education to enhance their careers or pursue new interests.

The data illustrates the evolving landscape of higher education, where universities like Eastern Kentucky are catering to a broad spectrum of age groups, reflecting societal trends in education and career pathways. This trend is particularly relevant in today's job market, where continuous learning is becoming essential for career advancement and adaptability. Overall, Eastern Kentucky University demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and diversity in its student population, fostering an environment conducive to learning for all ages.

Analysis of International Student Enrollment Trends at Eastern Kentucky University

The data reveals significant fluctuations in the enrollment of international students at Eastern Kentucky University over the years. Notably, the percentage of international undergraduate students increased dramatically from 2004 to 2013, peaking at 2.09% in 2013. This increase may have been influenced by global events and changes in immigration policies that made studying in the U.S. more appealing to students from various countries.

However, a concerning trend emerges post-2013, where the proportion of international students in both undergraduate and graduate programs has shown a decline. By 2023, the percentage of international undergraduates dropped to 0.74%, while graduate students saw a slight increase to 2.44%. This inconsistency could reflect broader challenges faced by international students, including visa regulations, economic factors, and the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on global mobility.

The data also indicates that while the total number of undergraduate students has seen some fluctuations, the absolute number of international students has not kept pace with the overall student body, resulting in a declining percentage. This trend could have implications for the university's diversity and cultural richness, which are often enhanced by the presence of international students.

As universities worldwide increasingly compete for international talent, Eastern Kentucky University may need to consider strategies to attract and retain international students, ensuring a balanced and enriching educational environment.

Here are some notable schools surrounding Eastern Kentucky University:

1. Berea College - Ranked 40th in the 2025 US News rankings, Berea College is a liberal arts college known for its commitment to providing a high-quality education to students from low-income backgrounds.

2. University of Kentucky - With a rank of 152, the University of Kentucky is a comprehensive university that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. It is recognized for its research initiatives and vibrant campus life.

3. Centre College - Ranked 59th, Centre College is a highly regarded liberal arts college that emphasizes experiential learning and a close-knit community atmosphere.

4. University of Louisville - With a rank of 179, the University of Louisville is a comprehensive university that offers a diverse array of programs and is known for its strong emphasis on research.

5. Xavier University - Ranked 209th, Xavier University is a comprehensive institution that offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong focus on liberal arts education.

6. Miami University-Oxford - With a rank of 136, Miami University is known for its beautiful campus and strong academic programs, particularly in business and education.

7. Vanderbilt University - An elite institution ranked 18th, Vanderbilt University offers a rigorous education with a strong emphasis on research, making it one of the top universities in the nation.

These institutions provide a range of educational opportunities and contribute to the rich academic environment in the region surrounding Eastern Kentucky University.

Analysis of Crime Rates at Eastern Kentucky University

The crime data from Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) reveals significant fluctuations in campus safety over a decade. Starting in 2013 with a crime rate of 9.51 per 1000 students, there was a noticeable spike in 2015 to 13.39, indicating a potential increase in incidents or possibly better reporting practices. The average crime rate then varied, peaking again in 2016 before a gradual decline.

A particularly striking observation is the dramatic drop in reported crime rates in 2021, where the rate plummeted to just 4.99 per 1000 students. This may reflect the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to reduced campus activity and a shift toward online learning. The trend of decreasing crime rates continued into 2022 and 2023, suggesting that EKU may be experiencing a safer campus environment or improved safety measures.

It is essential to note the types of crimes recorded, such as gun-related arrests, drug offenses, and alcohol-related incidents. The data indicates minimal incidents of more severe offenses like murder or sexual assault, which is reassuring for student safety. However, any crime reported within educational institutions needs to be taken seriously, as it impacts the overall well-being and peace of mind of students and faculty.

In conclusion, while the data presents a generally positive trend towards lower crime rates in recent years, continuous monitoring and proactive safety measures are vital to ensure a secure environment for all individuals on campus. For a more detailed understanding of crime rates, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Methods.