Hardin-Simmons University (HSU), located in Abilene, Texas, is a private Christian university with a rich history and a commitment to providing a holistic educational experience. Established in 1891, HSU has a strong emphasis on academic excellence, spiritual development, and service to the community. The university's mission is reflected in its motto, "Go and Do Likewise," which encourages students to take initiative in serving others and making a positive impact in the world. With a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including the popular degrees in business, education, and health sciences, HSU caters to a variety of academic interests and career aspirations.

The campus culture at Hardin-Simmons is vibrant and inclusive, offering a sense of community among students, faculty, and staff. The university embraces its Christian heritage, providing numerous opportunities for students to engage in spiritual growth through chapel services, faith-based organizations, and community service initiatives. HSU boasts excellent faculty who are dedicated to mentoring students and fostering academic achievement. The university also offers a wide array of extracurricular activities, including athletics, which enhances student life and allows for a well-rounded college experience. HSU's graduate employability is bolstered by its strong emphasis on a practical education, preparing students for successful careers following graduation. Overall, Hardin-Simmons University offers a nurturing environment that promotes personal, spiritual, and academic growth, while also preparing students to thrive in their future endeavors.

Analysis of Tuition Costs, Graduation Rates, and Student Demographics

Over the years, Hardin-Simmons University has witnessed significant changes in tuition costs and graduation rates. From 2014 to 2024, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students has increased from $23,460 to $31,686, marking an increase of approximately 35%. This trend reflects a broader phenomenon in higher education, where rising tuition costs often lead to concerns about accessibility and the burden of student debt. The fact that graduate tuition has seen a smaller increase indicates a distinction in how educational institutions prioritize undergraduate funding versus graduate programs, which could impact enrollment decisions.

In terms of graduation rates, there has been a notable increase in the on-time graduation rate from 28.1% in 2014 to around 43.1% in 2023. This is an encouraging trend, as higher graduation rates are often indicative of improved student support services and academic offerings. However, the 150% graduation rate also shows a slight decrease from 55.4% in 2023 to 51.6% in 2024, suggesting potential challenges for students who take longer to complete their degrees.

Moreover, examining the gender ratios among both undergraduate and graduate students reveals evolving demographics. The percentage of male undergraduates has varied slightly, showing resilience in the presence of female students, who have consistently comprised a larger share of the student body. This shift aligns with national trends in higher education, where the enrollment of female students is on the rise, sometimes outpacing male enrollment.

Lastly, while the retention rates have fluctuated, they remain relatively stable, hovering around 63-67% over the years. Maintaining a higher retention rate is crucial as it indicates that students are satisfied with their educational experience and are more likely to graduate. Combined, these insights highlight the multifaceted dynamics at play within higher education institutions and their continuous evolution to meet the needs of their students.

Analysis of Graduation Data from Hardin-Simmons University

The graduation statistics from Hardin-Simmons University indicate some notable trends among its various programs. Among the master's degree graduates, the highest enrollment is seen in Physician Assistant with 30 graduates, and Marriage and Family Therapy follows closely with 19 graduates. This aligns with the growing demand for healthcare professionals, particularly in the wake of recent global health challenges, highlighting a trend towards pursuing degrees in medical and health-related fields.

In the realm of bachelor's degrees, Exercise Science and Kinesiology leads with 28 graduates, reflecting an increasing interest in health and physical well-being. Additionally, Business Administration has a strong presence with multiple degrees awarded across various specializations, showcasing its popularity among students seeking versatile career options.

Interestingly, there is a notable absence of international students graduating with bachelor's degrees in many fields, with significant numbers appearing only in the master's and doctorate programs. This suggests that international students may prefer advanced education or that recruitment efforts for undergraduate programs need strengthening.

The data also reflect a focus on education, with various specialized teaching programs yielding nearly 30 graduates combined in different categories. The consistent production of educators underscores a long-standing commitment to preparing a knowledgeable workforce for personal and community development.

Overall, these graduation trends not only highlight the current educational priorities within Hardin-Simmons University but also resonate with broader societal needs for skilled professionals in health, education, and business sectors as we adapt to an evolving job market and societal expectations.

Analysis of Enrollment Trends and Admission Rates at Hardin-Simmons University

The data from Hardin-Simmons University reveals a notable decline in its ranking over recent years, with the latest figure for 2025 showing a position of 392nd. This trend in ranking correlates with fluctuating admission rates and enrollments that deserve some attention. In the past decade, there has been a significant increase in admission rates, peaking at nearly 94% for both male and female applicants in 2022, indicating a more inclusive admission policy. However, the recent years have shown slightly decreased admission rates, with 2023 noting around 83.9% for male applicants and 91.4% for female applicants, reflecting a more selective approach. Enrollment numbers are also telling; in 2023, the university enrolled just 350 students after having recorded higher enrollments in previous years. The reduction could suggest a couple of underlying issues, such as increased competition from other institutions, potential changes in academic programs, or shifts in student preferences. Despite a promising admission rate that implies a welcoming environment for prospective students, the recent downward trend in ranking and enrollment will require the institution to reevaluate its strategies. Maintaining a sustainable and vibrant student body is essential for the institution's reputation, particularly given the importance of rankings in higher education. This scenario underscores the necessity for universities to adapt continuously to the evolving educational landscape and student needs.

Trends in Admission Test Scores at Hardin-Simmons University

The data on SAT and ACT scores submitted by applicants to Hardin-Simmons University from 2007 to 2024 showcases a significant trend in both the number of students submitting scores and the corresponding achievement levels. Notably, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has declined over this period, from 62% in 2007 to a mere 29% projected for 2024. This downward trend may reflect broader changes in college admission practices, including the rise of test-optional policies that allow students to apply without standardized test scores.

When examining the SAT scores, the 25th to 75th percentile range displays some fluctuation. The starting score for the 25th percentile generally maintained a range around the mid-400s, and the ending score for the 75th percentile has consistently stayed grouped in the 570 to 610 range in recent years. This stability indicates that while fewer students are applying with test scores, those who do tend to present a more capable cohort, particularly in 2023 and 2024, where the upper end of the score range exceeds 600.

In addition, the overall trend toward lower submission rates of standardized tests aligns with a growing movement in higher education emphasizing holistic admissions processes. Institutions are increasingly considering factors beyond numerical scores, such as personal statements, interviews, and extracurricular activities.

Ultimately, these trends suggest that Hardin-Simmons University is adapting to changing educational landscapes. As standardized test submission diminishes, the university may explore alternative evaluation methods to ensure that they continue to attract and enroll a diverse group of students committed to academic excellence.

Student Demographics at Hardin-Simmons University for 2024

The data for the student demographics at Hardin-Simmons University in 2024 reveals insightful aspects about the composition and diversity of the student body. Among undergraduate freshmen, there are 356 students, with a notable majority being male (55.1%). Contrarily, sophomores, who number 853, show a reverse trend with a higher female representation at 53.6%. This indicates a potential shift in gender preferences or academic engagement, reflecting broader societal changes regarding education among different genders.

Additionally, there are 66 undergraduate transfer students and 372 graduate students. Interestingly, the transfer students display a more balanced gender ratio, with males making up 51.5%. However, graduate students present a stark contrast, with a significantly higher percentage of females at 66.4%. This trend could point to the increasing presence of women in advanced studies, reflecting national patterns observed in graduate education over the past decade.

The underlying ethnic diversity also emerges from the data on the subcategories of students. Although the detailed percentages for each ethnic group are not provided, the overall representation of white, Asian, Latino, Pacific Islander, and African American populations conveys the university's commitment to inclusivity. Notably, the presence of international students adds an essential dimension, fostering a multicultural environment essential for today’s globalized world.

In conclusion, Hardin-Simmons University maintains a diverse and evolving student composition that reflects broader educational trends in gender representation and ethnic diversity in higher education. This data suggests a promising and inclusive future for the institution, aligning with contemporary values of equity and representation.

Analysis of Student Age Distribution at Hardin-Simmons University

The age distribution of students at Hardin-Simmons University in 2024 reveals interesting patterns that reflect broader trends in higher education. Among the student body, the most populous age group is comprised of those aged 18-19, which accounts for a significant portion of both male and female students. This trend highlights the university's strong appeal to traditional-age students, who usually enter college shortly after high school graduation.

As we look at older age groups, there's a noticeable decline in numbers. The cohort aged 22-24, which includes many individuals pursuing undergraduate and graduate studies, shows a shift with a relatively balanced representation of genders. This suggests a growing acceptance and participation of slightly older students in both undergraduate and postgraduate education, likely influenced by factors such as delayed college entry due to work or personal commitments.

Interestingly, the 25-29 age range still reflects a healthy mix of students returning to academia, although the numbers drop significantly compared to younger age groups. This indicates that while the majority of students start their higher education at a younger age, there remains a steadfast group of non-traditional students, which has become increasingly prominent in recent years.

It's also worthy to note that the student population aged 30 and above is minimal, showcasing that those pursuing advanced degrees tend to be relatively younger. The overall gender distribution illustrates that while enrollment numbers have equalized among genders in younger groups, disparities become less pronounced in older demographics where the proportion of male and female participants is relatively close.

Understanding these age dynamics can help the university tailor its programs and support services to better meet the differing needs of these diverse student segments. The trends seen here are consistent with national data, where colleges are increasingly accommodating a broader spectrum of age groups, reflecting changes in societal norms surrounding education.

Analysis of International Student Trends at Hardin-Simmons University

The data on international students at Hardin-Simmons University reveals an evolving landscape of academic diversity over the years. From 2005 to 2024, there has been a noticeable fluctuation in both undergraduate and graduate international student populations. In the undergraduate division, the proportion of international students steadily increased from approximately 0.33% in 2005 to a peak of 3.27% in 2020, indicating a growing appeal of the university to global scholars. However, after 2020, the trend witnessed a decline, with numbers dropping to 2.88% in 2024.

For the graduate programs, the percentage of international students showed a more modest increase over the years, from around 0.33% in 2005, peaking at approximately 3.78% in 2019. The subsequent decline in international graduate enrollment post-2020 is concerning. The drop to just 1.08% in 2024 raises questions about the university's international outreach efforts, especially in a post-pandemic context where many institutions are striving to re-attract global talent.

This trend could be reflective of broader global issues affecting student mobility, including visa regulations, geopolitical tensions, and health concerns arising from the pandemic. Additionally, the university may need to reassess its strategies to ensure a more attractive environment for international students to bolster cultural diversity and educational enrichment on campus. As institutions increasingly recognize the importance of inclusivity, proactive measures must be taken to reverse the current decline and foster an environment welcoming to international scholars.

Here are some notable universities nearby Hardin-Simmons University:

1. Abilene Christian University - Ranked 296, this university is known for its strong Christian values and comprehensive educational programs.

2. Texas Christian University - With a rank of 105, TCU offers a rich blend of academic and extracurricular opportunities, providing a well-rounded college experience.

3. Texas Tech University - Ranked 214, Texas Tech is recognized for its research initiatives and diverse academic programs.

4. Baylor University - This prestigious institution ranks 91 and is well-regarded for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus life.

5. Southern Methodist University - Also ranked 91, SMU is known for its strong business, law, and engineering programs, alongside an active campus community.

6. University of North Texas - With a ranking of 220, UNT offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields.

7. The University of Texas at Austin - Ranked 30, this flagship university is renowned for its research, diverse academic offerings, and vibrant student life.

8. Trinity University - This top-ranked liberal arts university (ranked 40) is known for its intimate campus setting and personalized education.

These institutions reflect a diverse range of options for prospective students in the region, each with unique strengths and offerings.

Crime Trends at Hardin-Simmons University

The crime data from Hardin-Simmons University reflects notable fluctuations in both the total incidents and the crime rates per 1,000 students over the years. The average crime rate peaked in 2018 at 16.79, significantly higher than in other years. This spike could be indicative of an increase in specific types of offenses during that period. However, the subsequent years display a marked decrease, particularly in 2022, where the crime rate dropped to just 2.68 per 1,000 students, the lowest recorded in the dataset.

Moreover, the types of crimes reported show trends that can be observed in many college campuses across the United States. For instance, incidents of drug-related arrests and alcohol-related offenses often take center stage in campus crime reports. The escalating rates in 2018, coinciding with a wider national conversation about campus safety and crime prevention, could suggest increased awareness and reporting practices.

Interestingly, 2023 again saw an uptick in the crime rate to 4.42, which might imply persistent challenges in maintaining a safe campus environment. The continuous monitoring and reporting of such data are essential for developing effective safety policies. Colleges and universities should also engage in proactive measures, such as education and awareness programs, to foster a safer campus community. The evolving crime statistics at Hardin-Simmons remind us of the ever-present need to address safety issues in educational institutions and the importance of vigilance among the student body.

For more information on how crime rates are calculated, please refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation.