Lehigh University
2025 USNews Best Colleges Ranking: 46(↑1) (Click for schools/majors ranking)
School Characteristics: Private, non-Profit (4-Years)
Calendar systerm: Semester
Religious Affiliation: Not applicable
School Chief: Joseph J. Helble (President)
Website: www.lehigh.edu/; Phone: 6107583000
Location: 27 Memorial Drive West, Bethlehem, PA, 18015

Lehigh University Important Facts
Analysis of Key Educational Data for Lehigh University
Lehigh University, a private institution, presents an intriguing picture when examining its educational metrics over recent years. Notably, the tuition costs have been on a consistent upward trajectory. From 2014 to 2024, the in-state undergraduate tuition has surged from $43,520 to $62,180, translating to an increase of approximately 43%. Such a sharp rise in tuition may underscore broader national trends regarding the escalating costs of higher education, which can create barriers for prospective students.
In parallel, the enrollment figures present a mixed narrative. While the number of undergraduate students has gradually increased from 4,931 in 2014 to 5,811 in 2024, the graduate student enrollment has shown declines, significantly dropping from 2,165 in 2014 to 1,770 in 2023. This declining trend in graduate enrollment can be concerning, potentially indicating a diminishing interest in advanced degrees or a need for the university to reassess its graduate programs and their alignment with industry demands.
Retention rates also offer a vital insight into student satisfaction and engagement. Although the retention rate remained relatively high, fluctuating between 90.54% and 96.08% from 2014 to 2024, it dipped notably in 2021 to 90.54%. Such declines in retention can prompt concerns about student support services and overall campus environment, necessitating intervention to enhance student experience.
Additionally, the graduation rates present an encouraging trend. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students, having improved from 78.17% in 2014 to 77.87% in 2024, reflects the institution's commitment to student success despite rising tuition and fluctuating enrollment figures.
In conclusion, Lehigh University's educational data reveal both challenges and successes. While tuition increases and fluctuating graduate enrollment pose issues, high retention and strong graduation rates highlight positive outcomes in student experiences. Addressing these complexities will be essential for maintaining Lehigh's prestigious academic standing in a competitive landscape.
Lehigh University Degrees and Majors
Analysis of Graduate Numbers in Various Fields at Lehigh University 2023
In the 2023 academic year at Lehigh University, the distribution of graduates across different disciplines presents notable trends, particularly in the fields of Business and Technology. Business Administration and Management, despite having no bachelor's candidates, boasts a significant presence at the master's level with 49 graduates, of which 4 are international students. This indicates a robust interest and demand for advanced education in business sectors, reflecting broader trends where employers increasingly seek candidates with specialized knowledge and skills in international business dynamics.
Information Technology stands out with 37 bachelor's graduates, including 7 international students. This aligns with the growing global emphasis on digital transformation and the escalating need for IT professionals, particularly given the context of the post-pandemic world where digital solutions are pivotal for business continuity and growth.
Interestingly, fields such as Computer Engineering and Theatre Arts show no graduates for both undergraduate and graduate levels, raising questions about student engagement, curriculum relevance, and potential market saturation.
The absence of graduates in traditional humanities and social science disciplines, such as English Language and Literature and Sociology, highlights potential shifts in student interests toward more practical, career-oriented fields, possibly influenced by rising tuition costs and job market realities. Overall, the data reflects significant student choices that are heavily skewed towards business and technology, likely reinforcing Lehigh University’s positioning in these fields and indicating potential areas for program development or recruitment strategies for the future.
Lehigh University Ranking and Admission
Commentary on Lehigh University's Admission and Ranking Data
Lehigh University has experienced a notable fluctuation in its U.S. News ranking over the years, peaking at 35th in 2010 and dropping to 51st by 2023 before making a slight recovery to 46th in 2025. This instability can often be attributed to various factors, including changes in admission policies, the number of applications received, and overall competition among higher education institutions. Examining admission rates, there has been a significant decline in acceptance rates for male applicants, dropping from about 32% in 2010 to around 27.6% in 2024, while female acceptance rates have seen a more gradual decrease from approximately 33.6% to 30.9% during the same period. This indicates a growing selectivity in Lehigh's admissions process. The overall number of students enrolled has increased from around 1,193 in 2010 to approximately 1,531 in 2024, reflecting a broader trend of universities balancing enrollment growth with selectivity. The data showcases a mix of successes and challenges. The increase in enrollment alongside declining acceptance rates suggests that Lehigh University continues to attract a diverse and qualified applicant pool. However, the dip in rankings could reflect the increasing competitiveness of higher education and the need for continuous improvement in academic offerings, campus facilities, and student support services. Such insights highlight the evolving landscape of university admissions and rankings, marking the importance of strategic planning to ensure the institution remains appealing to prospective students in future years.
Lehigh University Admission Score Requires
*Numbers at left represent SAT/ACT submitting percentage, numbers on blue blocks represent 25%-75% admission scores
**Drag green block to check data for different years, click blue block to check scores trends
Trends in SAT Scores and Submission Rates at Lehigh University
Analyzing the SAT score trends and submission rates for Lehigh University from 2007 to 2024 reveals significant shifts in both academic requirements and student engagement. Over the years, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has notably decreased, dropping from 96% in 2007 to just 33% by 2024. This decline may reflect a broader trend in higher education as institutions move towards test-optional policies, which have gained popularity post-2020, especially amid the challenges posed by the pandemic.
Simultaneously, the range of SAT reading and math scores for admitted students has shown fluctuations. While the lower quartile scores for reading and math have generally maintained a steady range, the upper quartile scores have increased, suggesting that, although fewer students are submitting scores, those who do are often achieving higher marks. For example, the 25th percentile score for the SAT reading section rose from 580 in 2007 to 670 by 2024, indicating a possible tightening in academic standards for candidates who present their scores.
This combination of decreasing submission rates and increasing benchmark scores might signal an evolving admissions landscape at Lehigh University, where the emphasis could be shifting towards a more comprehensive evaluation of student qualifications beyond standardized tests. As universities increasingly adopt holistic admissions processes, it will be interesting to observe how these trends impact the overall diversity and academic profile of the incoming student body.
Lehigh University Students Diversity
Demographic Insights of Lehigh University Students (2024)
The student population at Lehigh University in 2024 showcases a diverse and balanced demographic landscape. Notably, the number of undergraduate freshmen stands out with 1,531 students, revealing a commendable gender balance with a slight majority of females comprising 50.2% and males at 49.8%. This indicates Lehigh's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for newcomers, essential for their academic and social integration.
Undergraduate upperclassmen, totaling 4,225, present a slightly different gender ratio, with 53.6% males and 46.4% females. This shift may reflect broader trends in the college landscape where male students, particularly in certain disciplines, might be more prevalent. Additionally, there are 47 undergraduate transfer students, who exhibit a significant female majority at 61.7%. This highlights the unique circumstances faced by transfer students, often seeking more tailored academic experiences or environments that better meet their needs.
The graduate student body, comprising 1,779 individuals, maintains a relatively even gender distribution with 51.4% males and 48.6% females, suggesting that graduate programs at Lehigh attract a balanced mix of candidates, reflective of continuing efforts to appeal to a varied range of talent.
Furthermore, understanding the ethnic composition within these groups is critical, especially given the increasing emphasis on diversity in higher education. Unfortunately, detailed statistics regarding ethnicity were not disclosed, limiting a full understanding of racial diversity on campus. However, these gender ratios underscore the ongoing efforts to create a balanced educational experience and attract a diverse student body that can contribute various perspectives to the university community.
Lehigh University Students Age Distribution
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Lehigh University
The student age composition at Lehigh University in 2024 reveals a predominantly young demographic, which is typical for higher education institutions. The data shows that the majority of the undergraduate students fall within the 18-21 age range, accounting for approximately 53.5% of all students based on gender distribution, with almost equal representation among male and female students in this group.
Interestingly, there is a slight decrease in enrollment in older age brackets, indicating a potential challenge for outreach programs targeting non-traditional students. For instance, those aged 22-24 represent only about 12.4% of the total student body, while the 25-29 age group makes up a mere 1.9%, highlighting a significant drop-off in interest from older students who might be pursuing advanced degrees or continuing education.
Graduate students exhibit a more mature age profile, especially those between 25-34 years old, who represent a substantial portion (approximately 47.8%) of the overall graduate male population, showcasing a distinct contrast to the undergraduate statistics.
This demographic distribution aligns with national trends in higher education, where younger students traditionally dominate undergraduate enrollments, while mature students are more likely to pursue further education. With the growing emphasis on lifelong learning, universities like Lehigh may benefit from developing programs that attract and support older learners, ensuring inclusivity and a diversity of perspectives within their academic community. These age dynamics also raise questions about the support services necessary for students at different life stages and the importance of fostering an environment conducive to all ages.
Lehigh University International Students Trends
International Student Trends at Lehigh University
The data on international students at Lehigh University reveals intriguing trends over the years. Notably, the percentage of international undergraduate students has shown a steady increase from approximately 3.04% in 2005 to 9.37% in 2020. This growth can be attributed to Lehigh's commitment to enhancing its global presence and the increasing globalization of higher education. However, the figures experienced a decline post-2020, with the percentage of international undergraduates dropping to 7.59% in 2024. This decline may reflect broader challenges faced by institutions during the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected international mobility and enrollment.
In contrast, the proportion of international graduate students has remained notably high over the years, reaching a peak of approximately 36.92% in 2018. Even with fluctuations in subsequent years, graduate enrollment remains significant, demonstrating that Lehigh University is a preferred choice for many international scholars seeking advanced degrees.
The contrasting trends between undergraduate and graduate international student proportions may indicate varied factors influencing these groups, such as targeted recruitment strategies, the availability of specific programs, and differences in the experiences of undergraduate versus graduate students navigating study abroad decisions.
Overall, the international student community at Lehigh University remains an essential aspect of its academic environment, contributing to cultural diversity and global perspectives within the classroom. Moving forward, maintaining healthy international enrollment will be vital for the university's growth and for fostering a dynamic learning atmosphere.
Lehigh University Campus and Safety
Nearby Top Colleges
Here are some notable universities surrounding Lehigh University:
Princeton University - Ranked 1st in the 2025 US News rankings, Princeton is a prestigious Ivy League university known for its rigorous academics and stunning campus.
University of Pennsylvania - With a rank of 10, UPenn is another Ivy League institution located in Philadelphia, recognized for its strong emphasis on interdisciplinary education and research.
Swarthmore College - A highly regarded liberal arts college, Swarthmore holds the 3rd position in the rankings, known for its close-knit community and academic excellence.
Bryn Mawr College - This women's college ranks 29th and is renowned for its strong academics and commitment to women's education.
Lafayette College - Ranked 31st, Lafayette offers a liberal arts education with a focus on engineering and the sciences.
Villanova University - With a rank of 58, Villanova is known for its strong business programs and vibrant campus life.
Haverford College - This college ranks 24th and is famous for its Quaker values and honor code, fostering a strong sense of community among students.
Drexel University - A prominent research university, Drexel ranks 86th and is known for its cooperative education program that integrates professional experience with academic learning.
These schools provide a diverse array of educational opportunities, contributing to a vibrant academic community in the Lehigh University area.
Campus Safety
Analysis of Crime Data at Lehigh University
The crime data from Lehigh University, spanning from 2013 to 2023, reveals significant fluctuations in crime rates over the years. Notably, the average crime rate per 1000 students peaked in 2015 at approximately 43.57 incidents, before steadily declining to a remarkable low of 11.04 incidents in 2022, and slightly increasing to 11.41 in 2023. This downward trend is especially encouraging, as it reflects a commitment to enhancing campus safety.
A closer examination of the types of recorded offenses is indicative of broader social trends. Violent crimes such as assault and robbery have become markedly infrequent, while drug-related arrests saw a peak before a steep decline, suggesting proactive measures by campus authorities. The absence of notable incidents of violent crime in recent years indicates a safer campus environment, potentially stemming from improved education and response programs aimed at addressing issues like substance abuse.
The decline in crime rates at Lehigh University also mirrors national trends in campus safety as universities across the United States focus on initiatives that promote secure and nurturing educational environments. External factors, such as increased security measures and changes in student behavior during the pandemic, may also contribute to these figures. Furthermore, the general focus on mental health and the well-being of students could help cultivate a campus culture that discourages criminal behavior.
Overall, the data illustrates a successful effort in reducing crime, offering a sense of security to current and prospective students and their families. Continuous vigilance and innovative safety measures will be essential in maintaining this positive trajectory as the university navigates future challenges. For further information on crime rate calculation methods, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Reference
- Lehigh University Official Website
- USNews Best Colleges Ranking
- USNews Bset Global Universities Ranking
- THE World University Ranking
- QS World University Ranking
- ARWU World University Ranking
- US Department of Education College Scorecard
- National Center for Education Statistics
- Forward Pathway US College Ranking Database
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Lehigh University Important Facts Trends
Lehigh University degrees/majors
Lehigh University major details
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2023 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering. | $72,440 | |||
Chemical Engineering. | $82,435 | |||
Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. | $82,435 | |||
Civil Engineering, General. | $73,545 | |||
Structural Engineering. | $73,545 | |||
Computer Engineering, General. | $82,209 | |||
Electrical and Electronics Engineering. | $79,119 | |||
Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering. | - | |||
Materials Engineering. | $74,971 | |||
Mechanical Engineering. | $75,479-$98,551 | |||
Polymer/Plastics Engineering. | - | |||
Industrial Engineering. | $81,142 | |||
Engineering, Other. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Business/Commerce, General. | - | |||
Business Administration and Management, General. | $69,289-$117,962 | |||
Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management. | $69,289-$117,962 | |||
Project Management. | $69,289-$117,962 | |||
Accounting. | $77,026 | |||
Business/Managerial Economics. | $81,796 | |||
Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations, Other. | - | |||
Finance, General. | $76,720 | |||
Management Science. | - | |||
Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other. | - | |||
Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $55,236 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Information Technology. | $83,356 | |||
Computer Science. | $88,587 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | $71,991 | |||
Educational/Instructional Technology. | - | |||
International and Comparative Education. | - | |||
Special Education and Teaching, General. | $60,267 | |||
Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services. | $44,468 | |||
Elementary Education and Teaching. | $57,438 | |||
Secondary Education and Teaching. | $57,438 | |||
Education, Other. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $45,695 | |||
Biochemistry. | - | |||
Molecular Biology. | - | |||
Neuroscience. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Anthropology, General. | - | |||
Econometrics and Quantitative Economics. | - | |||
International Relations and Affairs. | $36,147 | |||
Political Science and Government, General. | $53,632 | |||
Sociology, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Psychology, General. | $40,942 | |||
Developmental and Child Psychology. | - | |||
Research and Experimental Psychology, Other. | - | |||
Applied Behavior Analysis. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | $74,734 | |||
International/Globalization Studies. | - | |||
Cognitive Science, General. | - | |||
Data Science, General. | - | |||
Business Analytics. | - | |||
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Astrophysics. | - | |||
Chemistry, General. | - | |||
Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences, Other. | - | |||
Physics, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Mathematics, General. | - | |||
Applied Mathematics, General. | - | |||
Financial Mathematics. | - | |||
Statistics, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Design and Visual Communications, General. | - | |||
Art/Art Studies, General. | - | |||
Art History, Criticism and Conservation. | - | |||
Music, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Pre-Dentistry Studies. | - | |||
Public Health Education and Promotion. | - | |||
Community Health and Preventive Medicine. | - | |||
Public Health, Other. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
English Language and Literature, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Engineering/Industrial Management. | $68,547 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Environmental Studies. | - | |||
Environmental/Natural Resources Management and Policy, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Journalism. | $45,256 | |||
Technical and Scientific Communication. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Architecture. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
History, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Japanese Language and Literature. | - | |||
German Language and Literature. | - | |||
Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
African Studies. | - | |||
Women's Studies. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Public Policy Analysis, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Philosophy. | - |
Lehigh University Schools/Majors Ranking
Under Ranking (2025)
World University Ranking
*Rankings have been updated to 2025USNews schools/majors ranking, rankings are for reference only
*numbers in bracket represent rankings change compare to last version
Lehigh University Varsity Athletes
NCAA Division I-FCS | MEN | WOMEN |
---|---|---|
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 141 | 149 |
Football | 93 | - |
Lacrosse | 49 | 30 |
Soccer | 32 | 30 |
Swimming and Diving (combined) | 25 | 27 |
Baseball | 43 | - |
Wrestling | 43 | - |
Basketball | 17 | 14 |
Rowing | - | 29 |
Field Hockey | - | 25 |
Tennis | 12 | 8 |
Golf | 10 | 9 |
Softball | - | 17 |
Volleyball | - | 15 |
NCAA Division I-FCS | MEN | WOMEN |
---|---|---|
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 153 | 167 |
Football | 93 | - |
Lacrosse | 53 | 29 |
Soccer | 35 | 29 |
Swimming and Diving (combined) | 25 | 25 |
Wrestling | 41 | - |
Baseball | 38 | - |
Rowing | - | 35 |
Basketball | 16 | 14 |
Field Hockey | - | 24 |
Tennis | 11 | 13 |
Golf | 10 | 9 |
Softball | - | 19 |
Volleyball | - | 19 |
NCAA Division I-FCS | MEN | WOMEN |
---|---|---|
All Track Combined | 128 | 147 |
Football | 93 | - |
Lacrosse | 50 | 29 |
Soccer | 31 | 29 |
Swimming and Diving | 24 | 27 |
Wrestling | 44 | - |
Rowing | - | 38 |
Baseball | 36 | - |
Basketball | 14 | 15 |
Field Hockey | - | 26 |
Tennis | 11 | 11 |
Softball | - | 17 |
Golf | 9 | 7 |
Volleyball | - | 16 |
Lehigh University, located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, is known for its distinctive blend of academic rigor and vibrant campus life. Founded in 1865, the university emphasizes a strong engineering program, but it is also celebrated for its diverse offerings in business, the arts, and the sciences. The university is particularly recognized for its interdisciplinary education, promoting collaboration across various fields. With a strong commitment to research and innovation, Lehigh encourages students to engage in hands-on projects, preparing them for the dynamic challenges of the modern workforce.
In terms of campus culture, Lehigh boasts a tight-knit community where students participate in a wide variety of extracurricular activities. The university's motto, "Homo Minimus," translates to "the Human Minimum," symbolizing the belief in fostering holistic development among students. With over 150 student organizations, including a strong emphasis on Greek life and service-oriented clubs, students have ample opportunities to develop leadership skills and lifelong friendships. Moreover, Lehigh University offers state-of-the-art facilities, from modern laboratories to the newly renovated library, ensuring that students have the resources they need for academic success. This vibrant blend of rigorous academic programs, strong community ties, and comprehensive facilities makes Lehigh University a prestigious institution that effectively prepares its graduates for successful careers.