McPherson College, located in McPherson, Kansas, is a renowned liberal arts institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. Established in 1887, the college is affiliated with the Church of the Brethren and emphasizes the development of the whole person, integrating faith and learning in a supportive environment. The college's motto, "To Know, To Love, To Serve," reflects its mission to equip students for meaningful lives of service and leadership.

The campus boasts a beautiful and welcoming atmosphere, featuring modern facilities that enhance the educational experience. McPherson College is particularly recognized for its strong emphasis on experiential learning, with programs that encourage students to engage in internships, community service, and research opportunities. The faculty-to-student ratio is impressive, allowing for personalized attention and mentorship from dedicated professors who are leaders in their fields. Moreover, the college has a vibrant campus life, offering a variety of student organizations, athletic programs, and cultural events that foster personal growth and community spirit. With a focus on holistic education, McPherson College prepares its graduates not just for successful careers, but for lives of purpose and impact.

Analysis of Key Data Trends at McPherson College

Over the years, McPherson College has experienced significant changes in several key metrics that are critical for evaluating the institution's performance and attractiveness to potential students. One of the most notable trends is the continuous increase in tuition fees. The in-state undergraduate tuition has risen from approximately $22,891 in 2014 to $35,162 in 2024, representing an increase of about 53.5%. This rise in tuition may reflect broader trends in higher education, where institutions are grappling with funding challenges, increased operational costs, and the demand for enhanced facilities and services.

Another important metric is the student retention rate, which has shown fluctuations over the years. Starting from around 56.4% in 2013, retention peaked at 70.1% in 2017 but then saw a decline, stabilizing around 62.9% in 2023. This decline may suggest that while the college attracts students, keeping them engaged and satisfied throughout their educational journey remains a challenge, a common issue many colleges face.

Moreover, the graduation rates, particularly the timely graduation rate for undergraduates, reveal another layer of concern. The percentage of students graduating on time hovered around 31.3% in 2023, showing little improvement compared to previous years. This low rate may raise questions about the academic support and resources available to students, potentially affecting the college's reputation and future enrollment.

Lastly, the gender ratio among undergraduates has remained skewed towards males, with the male-to-female ratio standing at approximately 67.7% to 32.3% in 2023. This disparity highlights the need for targeted outreach and recruitment strategies to attract a more balanced student demographic.

In conclusion, while McPherson College has made strides in increasing enrollment and improving facilities, the rising tuition costs, retention challenges, and low graduation rates are critical areas that require attention to ensure long-term success and student satisfaction.

Analysis of Graduation Data at McPherson College

The graduation data from McPherson College for 2023 reveals several noteworthy trends across various disciplines. Business Administration stands out as the most popular program, with 38 graduates, including 6 international students. This aligns with the current job market's demand for skilled professionals in business management, highlighting the increasing global nature of commerce.

In the engineering field, Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies had 32 graduates, which reflects a strong interest in STEM careers. The presence of 1 international graduate indicates the college's appeal to a diverse student body, emphasizing the importance of engineering education in a technologically driven world.

Health Services also showed a modest number of graduates at 11, with one international student. The ongoing global health challenges have sparked a greater interest in health-related fields, suggesting that future enrollment in such programs may increase as students seek careers that contribute to societal well-being.

Education remains a critical area, with several programs like Curriculum and Instruction and Elementary Education yielding a total of 6 graduates, although no bachelor's degrees were awarded in education. This may indicate a shifting focus towards master's programs, as the demand for qualified educators continues to grow.

The arts and humanities, while lower in graduate numbers, still play a significant role in the college's offerings. Programs such as Communication and Fine Arts show that creative fields maintain interest among students, albeit at a smaller scale compared to business and engineering.

Overall, the data reflects a diverse academic environment at McPherson College, with significant interest in business, engineering, and health-related fields, while still valuing the importance of arts and education in shaping well-rounded graduates.

Analysis of Admission Trends at McPherson College

The admission data from McPherson College reveals a significant fluctuation in acceptance rates and enrollment figures over the years. Notably, from 2009 to 2015, the acceptance rates for male and female applicants were relatively high, with male acceptance peaking at 99.04% in 2015, while female acceptance reached 99.59% in the same year. This indicates a period of open admissions, which likely contributed to an increase in enrollment numbers. However, from 2016 onwards, the situation changed dramatically. The acceptance rates dropped sharply, culminating in only a 46.64% acceptance rate for males and 40.48% for females in 2017, accompanied by a staggering number of rejections. Such a trend could reflect the college's response to increased application volumes or a strategic shift toward a more selective admissions process. The surge in the number of applicants and subsequent rejections in the later years, particularly in 2020 and 2021, can also be attributed to the broader context of higher education during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many students opted for local or smaller institutions, leading to an influx of applications for McPherson College. Despite this, the college struggled to maintain a balance, resulting in a notable number of applicants being deferred or denied. As the college navigates these shifting dynamics, it will be crucial to assess how these trends affect the institution's reputation, diversity, and overall academic environment moving forward. The fluctuations present both challenges and opportunities for McPherson College in establishing a sustainable and appealing admissions strategy.

Analysis of McPherson College Admission Test Scores Over the Years

The data regarding the admission test scores at McPherson College from 2007 to 2023 reveals a notable trend in the academic performance of applicants, as well as shifts in the volume of test submissions. Overall, the number of students submitting SAT and ACT scores has fluctuated, with a significant increase seen in recent years—particularly in 2020, where 62 students submitted their SAT scores, representing 28% of the admitted students.

Examining the SAT reading and mathematics scores, we observe a gradual improvement in the scores over the years. For instance, the lower quartile score in SAT reading improved from 420 in 2007 to 458 in 2023, while the upper quartile score saw an increase from 570 to 570, signifying a consistent performance at the higher end of the scoring scale. Similarly, the ACT composite scores reflect a steady range, which indicates that McPherson College is attracting applicants with increasingly competitive academic profiles.

However, the percentage of admitted students submitting their SAT scores has seen fluctuations, with a high of 28% in 2020 and 2021, contrasting with lower percentages in earlier years. This may suggest a growing trend towards test-optional admissions policies or a shift in applicant preferences regarding standardized testing.

In summary, McPherson College has witnessed a positive trajectory in applicant scores and a diverse range of submission rates over the years. This trend may enhance the institution's reputation and competitiveness in the higher education landscape, particularly as standardized testing continues to evolve in relevance and policy.

Student Demographics at McPherson College in 2023

The student body at McPherson College in 2023 reflects a diverse mix of undergraduate and graduate populations, with a notable emphasis on new undergraduate students. The total number of new undergraduate students stands at 250, with a commendable male representation of 70.8%, while females account for 29.2%. This ratio indicates a strong male presence in the incoming class, which is consistent with trends observed in many colleges across the United States, where male enrollment often outnumbers female enrollment in STEM fields.

Looking at the continuing undergraduate students, there are 509 individuals, with 67.6% being male and 32.4% female. The relatively high male enrollment in both new and continuing undergraduate categories may suggest a need for colleges to implement strategies aimed at attracting more female students, particularly in fields where they are traditionally underrepresented.

The transfer student demographic consists of 53 individuals, with a male representation of 58.5% and females at 41.5%. This group shows a slightly more balanced gender ratio compared to new undergraduates, indicating a potential shift in enrollment trends as students transition into their academic journeys.

Graduate students, although fewer in number at 7, present a stark contrast with only 28.6% male representation and 71.4% female representation. This highlights a growing interest among women in pursuing advanced degrees, echoing national trends where female enrollment in graduate programs has been on the rise.

Overall, the gender distribution in McPherson College's student body illustrates both the challenges and progress in achieving gender balance across different academic levels. As institutions strive for inclusivity, continuous efforts will be essential to ensure that all students feel represented and supported in their educational pursuits.

Age Demographics at McPherson College: A Snapshot of Student Composition

The age demographic data from McPherson College for 2023 reveals intriguing insights into the student body, particularly in terms of undergraduate and graduate distributions. The majority of students fall within the traditional college age range of 18-21 years, with undergraduates aged 18-19 accounting for a significant portion—259 male and 123 female students. This indicates a vibrant and youthful campus environment, reflective of many colleges across the United States that attract fresh high school graduates.

Interestingly, there is a noticeable decline in the number of students as the age increases. For instance, only 80 males and 27 females are found in the 22-24 age group, and the numbers drop even further for those aged 25-29. This trend aligns with national statistics showing that many students complete their undergraduate studies in their early twenties, with fewer continuing on to graduate studies or returning to education later in life.

The presence of graduate students aged 30-34 is minimal, with just one male and two females. This could suggest that McPherson College may not be a primary destination for older students seeking advanced degrees. Additionally, the data indicates a lack of graduate female students in the younger age brackets, which might warrant further investigation into recruitment strategies or support systems for potential graduate candidates.

Overall, McPherson College showcases a predominantly young demographic, which may influence campus culture, engagement activities, and academic offerings. Understanding these age dynamics can help the college tailor its programs and resources to better meet the needs of its students, ensuring a supportive and enriching educational experience.

Trends in International Student Enrollment at McPherson College

The data on international student enrollment at McPherson College reveals significant fluctuations over the years. From 2004 to 2010, the number of international undergraduate students remained relatively low, with percentages hovering around or below 2%. However, a noticeable increase began in 2011 when the number of international students rose to 11, representing 1.56% of the total undergraduate population.

The upward trend continued, particularly evident in 2022 when international students comprised 7.11% of the undergraduate body, marking a peak in the data set. This shift indicates a growing interest in the college among international students, potentially driven by a combination of factors such as enhanced academic programs, international recruitment efforts, and a more welcoming campus environment.

Interestingly, the data for graduate students is sparse, with only a few years represented, but the available figures suggest fluctuations that could reflect broader trends in graduate education. For instance, in 2015, 40 graduate students were noted, but the lack of subsequent data makes it challenging to draw definitive conclusions about the graduate international student population.

Overall, McPherson College appears to be experiencing a positive trend in attracting international students at the undergraduate level, which is crucial for fostering a diverse educational environment. As the global landscape of higher education continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how McPherson College adapts its strategies to further enhance its appeal to international students in future years.

Here are some notable universities near McPherson College:

1. Kansas State University - Ranked 170 in the 2024 US News, Kansas State University is a comprehensive institution offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

2. University of Kansas - With a rank of 151, the University of Kansas is known for its research initiatives and diverse academic offerings.

3. Oklahoma State University-Main Campus - Ranked 185, this university provides a vibrant campus life and a variety of degree programs.

4. University of Nebraska-Lincoln - At rank 159, it is recognized for its strong academic programs and research opportunities.

5. University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus - This institution is ranked 124 and is known for its commitment to student success and innovative research.

6. Creighton University - With a ranking of 124, Creighton is a private university that emphasizes a strong liberal arts education.

7. University of Arkansas - Ranked 178, this university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs with a focus on research and community engagement.

8. Iowa State University - This institution, ranked 115, is known for its engineering and agricultural programs.

9. Grinnell College - A highly regarded liberal arts college, Grinnell is ranked 11 and is known for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus community.

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

Crime Trends at McPherson College: A Decade in Review

The crime statistics at McPherson College over the past decade reveal significant fluctuations in criminal activities on campus. Notably, the average crime rate per 1,000 students saw a peak in 2013 at 22.98 incidents, which is markedly higher than subsequent years. This initial spike could be attributed to various factors, including heightened awareness or reporting practices during that period.

From 2014 to 2019, there was a notable decline in crime rates, reaching a low of 1.22 per 1,000 students in 2019. This decline suggests effective crime prevention strategies or a more secure campus environment during these years. However, the statistics indicate a resurgence in crime, with a marked increase in 2023, where the rate jumped to 14.36 per 1,000 students. This increase raises concerns and could indicate emerging issues that need to be addressed by campus authorities.

The specific categories of crime, such as drug arrests and alcohol-related offenses, are not detailed in the provided data, but these categories are often significant contributors to overall crime rates in college settings. As universities continue to grapple with crime, maintaining transparency and ensuring student safety should be a priority.

The analysis of these trends provides vital insights into campus safety, prompting necessary discussions among faculty, students, and law enforcement to ensure McPherson College remains a safe learning environment. For those interested in understanding how these crime rates are calculated, further information can be found here: Crime Rate Calculation.