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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Faulkner University

Montgomery, Alabama · www.faulkner.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

73.1%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$23,920

$32,270 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

1,758

Student-faculty ratio 14:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

21.5%

4-year; 6-year rate 32.5%

Peer median 44.6%

“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Faulkner University, located in Montgomery, Alabama, is a private Christian university known for its commitment to integrating faith and learning. Established in 1942, the university takes its name from the renowned author William Faulkner, and it offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including business, education, law, and liberal arts. The university’s motto, "The Truth Will Set You Free," reflects its dedication to fostering an environment where students can explore their faith while pursuing academic excellence.

The campus of Faulkner University is characterized by its beautiful, serene environment, providing an ideal setting for both study and personal growth. With modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, libraries, and recreational areas, students have access to resources that enhance their educational experience. The university also boasts a vibrant student life, with numerous organizations, clubs, and activities that encourage student engagement and community involvement. Moreover, Faulkner's emphasis on athletics, particularly its competitive sports teams, fosters school spirit and camaraderie among students, making it a well-rounded institution for personal and academic development.

Analysis of Tuition, Student Enrollment, and Graduation Rates at Faulkner University

Faulkner University has seen a consistent increase in tuition fees over the years, with the cost for in-state undergraduate students rising from $18,230 in 2014 to $23,920 in 2023. This represents a cumulative increase of approximately 31%, which is significant considering the financial burden this places on students and their families. The rising tuition costs, particularly for graduate students, which jumped to $16,225 in 2023, reflect a broader trend in higher education where institutions are struggling with funding and operational costs.

Alongside the increase in tuition, student enrollment has shown a declining trend. The number of undergraduate students decreased from 2,763 in 2013 to 1,792 in 2023, indicating a drop of about 35%. This decline raises concerns about the university's attractiveness to prospective students, which could be linked to the rising tuition costs or perhaps the changing demographics and preferences in higher education.

Furthermore, graduation rates, particularly the on-time graduation rate for undergraduates, have fluctuated. In 2023, the on-time graduation rate was reported at 15.9%, a slight improvement from previous years but still indicative of challenges faced by students in completing their degrees within the standard timeframe. The 150% graduation rate also reveals that while some students do eventually complete their degrees, the extended time frames might indicate struggles with retention and academic support.

The retention rate, however, showed a positive trend, increasing from around 57% in 2013 to 63.2% in 2023. This suggests that once students enroll, there is a reasonable level of support that encourages them to continue their studies despite external challenges. Overall, while Faulkner University demonstrates some resilience in student retention, the rising tuition coupled with declining enrollment and inconsistent graduation rates presents a formidable challenge for the institution's future viability and reputation.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Midsize city
Nearest major city
Birmingham, about 90 mi
Nearest international airport
Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM), about 90 mi
Montgomery, Alabama
Also known as
Faulkner
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Churches of Christ
President
Mitch Henry (President)
Phone
3342725820
City
Montgomery, Alabama
Address
5345 Atlanta Hwy, Montgomery, AL 36109-3390

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
79.6%
Women
72.0%

In 2020: men 86.0%, women 71.4%.

Data insights

Trends in Admissions and Enrollment at Faulkner University

Faulkner University has demonstrated an interesting trajectory in its admissions data over the years. The acceptance rates for both male and female applicants have shown significant fluctuations. For instance, in 2009, the acceptance rate for male applicants was approximately 26.45%, while the female rate was about 23.67%. This disparity highlights a common issue in higher education where male applicants may have had a slightly higher chance of acceptance.
As the years progressed, the acceptance rates fluctuated, with notable peaks in 2020 and 2021, where male acceptance rates soared to around 86.01% and 80.75%, respectively. This surge could be indicative of a larger trend in higher education during the pandemic when many students were reevaluating their options and institutions were adjusting their admission strategies to attract more students.
Enrollment numbers also reflect an upward trend in recent years, with significant increases in 2020 and 2021, aligning with the rise in acceptance rates. For instance, enrollments reached 276 in 2020 and 288 in 2021, suggesting that despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Faulkner University managed to attract more students.
Moreover, the number of denied applicants remained relatively high, peaking at 1,336 denials in 2017, which indicates a competitive admission process. This could suggest that while the university is accessible, it also maintains certain standards that must be met by applicants. Overall, these trends signify Faulkner University's evolving admissions landscape amid changing educational dynamics.

School and Program Rankings

U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking

Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 2% submitted SAT, 14% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

ACT composite18–21
ACT composite
18–21
253036

Data insights

Trends in Admission Scores at Faulkner University

The data from Faulkner University reveals notable trends in standardized test scores and the number of applicants submitting these scores over the years. From 2007 to 2023, there has been a visible decline in the percentage of students submitting SAT scores, dropping to just 6% in 2023. This trend reflects a broader national movement where many colleges are adopting test-optional policies, allowing students to apply without standardized test scores.

On the score front, the SAT Reading and Math sections have shown fluctuations, with the 25th percentile scores generally ranging from the low 400s to mid-500s. Notably, the scores have not exhibited a clear upward trajectory, suggesting that while the applicant pool may be diversifying, the academic preparedness of admitted students remains relatively stable or perhaps declining, particularly evident in the low submission rates in recent years.

The ACT scores reflect similar patterns, with comprehensive and subject-specific scores revealing that a significant portion of students falls within the lower to mid-range of performance. This could indicate a shift in the demographic of students seeking admission, potentially prioritizing access over standardized achievement.

In summary, as Faulkner University adapts to changing educational landscapes, the declining reliance on standardized test scores could signify a shift towards a more holistic approach in admissions. This could foster a more diverse student body but may also lead to concerns regarding academic readiness among incoming students. As the university continues to evolve, it will be crucial to monitor the implications of these trends on overall student success and institutional goals.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 7 in 10

1,073 applicants in 2025, 73.1% admitted

784 admitted 289 not admitted Yield 34.3%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate110 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's4137 international (1.7%)
Master's34919 international (5.4%)
Doctoral1431 international (0.7%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business/Commerce, General
99
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies
90
Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General
44
Business Administration and Management, General
41
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
23
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management
18
Counseling Psychology
13
Legal Studies
8
Fire Science/Fire-fighting
7
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General
7

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's136 (0% international)
  • Law · Doctoral76 (1% international)
  • Management Science · Master's68 (28% international)
  • Physician Assistant · Master's44 (0% international)
  • Physical Therapy/Therapist · Doctoral35 (0% international)
  • Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration · Master's34 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from Faulkner University

The graduation statistics from Faulkner University in 2023 reveal interesting insights into the distribution of degrees across various disciplines. Notably, the field of Business Administration and Management stands out, with a significant number of graduates obtaining a master's degree, totaling 122. This indicates a strong demand for advanced education in business, aligning with current trends where professionals are increasingly seeking higher qualifications to enhance their career prospects.

Additionally, the data showcases the prominence of Criminal Justice programs, with bachelor's degrees awarded to 88 students. This reflects the growing interest in law enforcement and safety studies, likely influenced by increasing societal focus on public safety and justice system reform. Conversely, there were fewer graduates in the fields of health and medical sciences, suggesting either a limitation in program capacity or a potential area for growth in future academic offerings.

The data also highlights the lack of international students graduating from bachelor programs in most disciplines, which may point to challenges in attracting non-domestic students or a more significant trend of international students pursuing advanced degrees instead. For instance, only one international student graduated with a bachelor's in Criminal Justice.

Overall, the graduation data suggests a strong inclination towards business and criminal justice sectors, while also indicating potential areas for development in health sciences and international student recruitment strategies. As the job market continues to evolve, it will be essential for academic institutions to adapt their programs to meet both local and global demands.

All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard

*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 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

Businesshas 398 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Business/Commerce, General.$54,870
Business Administration and Management, General.$48,357-$63,303
Risk Management.$48,357-$63,303
Accounting.-
Finance, General.-
Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General.$45,332
Management Information Systems, General.-
Management Science.$55,048
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Health professionshas 167 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General.-
Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist.$55,517
Physician Assistant.-
Clinical Pastoral Counseling/Patient Counseling.$44,641
Mental Health Counseling/Counselor.$44,641
Occupational Therapy/Therapist.-
Physical Therapy/Therapist.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.-
Homeland security has 131 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.$64,041-$73,289
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.$64,041-$73,289
Fire Science/Fire-fighting.-
Legal professionshas 85 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Legal Studies.-
Law.-
Psychology has 42 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.-
Clinical Psychology.$33,915
Counseling Psychology.$33,915
Industrial and Organizational Psychology.$33,915
Health/Medical Psychology.$33,915
Forensic Psychology.$33,915
Applied Psychology.$33,915
Performance and Sport Psychology.$33,915
Parks, recreation, leisure has 22 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.-
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.-
Liberal arts has 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.$35,679
Humanities/Humanistic Studies.$35,679
Educationhas 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Curriculum and Instruction.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.$51,664
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.-
Computer and information sciencehas 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Computer Science.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General.-
Theology has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Bible/Biblical Studies.-
Pastoral Studies/Counseling.-
Youth Ministry.-
Biologyhas 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
English has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
English Language and Literature, General.-
History has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
History, General.-
Agricultural has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Pre-Veterinary Studies.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Mathematics, General.-
Social sciencehas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Social Sciences, General.-

Students

3,086 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 45:55 · Freshman retention 64.5%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,758)

White
828 · 47.1%
Black
626 · 35.6%
Hispanic
92 · 5.2%
International
76 · 4.3%
Unknown
60 · 3.4%
Two or more races
40 · 2.3%
Asian
25 · 1.4%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
9.7%
18–19
13.3%
20–21
16.5%
22–24
14.3%
25 and over
46.1%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.5%
22–24
25.8%
25–29
27.4%
30–34
10.8%
35 and over
35.5%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Faulkner University in 2023

The student composition at Faulkner University in 2023 reveals a diverse and dynamic community. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 225, with a male-to-female ratio of approximately 57.8% to 42.2%. This indicates a significant male presence among new students, which is noteworthy as it contrasts with the overall gender distribution in higher education, where females often outnumber males.

Among the undergraduate continuing students, the population is considerably larger at 1,088, with a more balanced gender ratio of 41.6% male and 58.4% female. This shift towards a greater female representation may reflect broader trends in higher education, where women have increasingly been pursuing and completing degrees at higher rates than men.

The undergraduate transfer students number 274, showing a similar pattern with 42% male and 58% female students. This consistency across various student categories suggests that Faulkner University is attracting a diverse group of learners, including those seeking new opportunities through transfer.

Graduate students account for 1,025 individuals, with a female majority of 65%. This high percentage reflects the growing trend of women pursuing advanced degrees, which is crucial for addressing gender disparities in certain professional fields.

The data also highlights the racial diversity among students, particularly with the inclusion of white, Asian, Latino, Pacific Islander, African American, and international students. While specific numbers are not available, the representation of various ethnicities is vital for fostering an inclusive academic environment.

Overall, Faulkner University demonstrates a commitment to diversity across gender and ethnicity, aligning with national trends in higher education. The data suggests that the institution is not only attracting a significant number of students but also cultivating a balanced and varied academic community.

Age Demographics at Faulkner University in 2023

The age distribution of students at Faulkner University in 2023 presents an interesting overview of the diverse population enrolled. Notably, students under 18 years of age constitute a significant portion of the undergraduate population, with a total of 191 students, comprising 89 males and 102 females. This suggests that the university attracts younger students, possibly due to its commitment to fostering a supportive educational environment.

As we analyze the age groups from 18 to 24, it becomes evident that the university has a strong representation of traditional college-aged students. The 22-24 age group stands out with a total of 543 students, including 240 males and 303 females, indicating a healthy gender balance among the undergraduates. This aligns with national trends observed in higher education, where the demographic of students in their early twenties dominates.

Interestingly, the university also caters to older students, particularly in the 25-29 and 30-34 age brackets, which collectively account for 420 students. The presence of these students may reflect the growing trend of non-traditional students seeking higher education later in life, often balancing studies with work and family commitments.

Overall, Faulkner University's age demographics indicate a vibrant and varied student body, which is essential for creating a dynamic learning environment. This diversity not only enriches the educational experience but also prepares students for a workforce that increasingly values adaptability and a broad range of perspectives.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Undergraduates4.3%

76 in 2025 · 1.9% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.9%2017: 2.2%2018: 2.2%2019: 2.1%2020: 1.9%2021: 1.8%2022: 2.8%2023: 3.2%2024: 3.6%2025: 4.3%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students4.9%

65 in 2025 · 1.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.0%2017: 0.8%2018: 0.9%2019: 0.5%2020: 0.4%2021: 0.1%2022: 0.3%2023: 1.4%2024: 3.2%2025: 4.9%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Faulkner University

The data on international student enrollment at Faulkner University reveals a fluctuating trend over the years. Starting in 2004, the percentage of international undergraduate students was quite low at 0.31%. However, there has been a noticeable increase in the representation of international students, peaking at 3.24% in 2023. This upward trend suggests a growing appeal of Faulkner University to students from abroad, possibly due to enhanced recruitment efforts or improvements in academic offerings.

Examining the graduate student data is more challenging due to sparse information. Nonetheless, in the years where data is available, the proportion of international students in graduate programs has varied significantly, with a high of 1.37% in 2023. The fluctuating numbers may indicate changing trends in global student mobility or shifts in the academic landscape that affect graduate enrollment.

The increase in international student enrollment can be attributed to various factors, including the rise of globalization in education, where students seek diverse cultural experiences and quality education abroad. Additionally, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic may have temporarily influenced enrollment numbers, but recent data suggests a rebound as universities adapt to new norms.

Overall, Faulkner University’s international student population reflects broader trends in higher education, emphasizing the importance of fostering an inclusive and diverse academic environment. As competition among universities increases, maintaining and enhancing international student recruitment strategies will be critical for Faulkner University’s growth and global presence.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$32,270

Undergraduate tuition
$23,920
Room and board
$8,350
Graduate tuition
$16,050
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 24% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 17%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$71.3M

Tuition and fees
$40.8M57.3%
Gifts and private grants
$19.0M26.7%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.5M4.9%
Investment return
$3.5M4.9%
Government grants and contracts
$3.1M4.4%
Other
$1.3M1.9%

Expenses$56.8M

Instruction
$24.6M43.4%
Institutional support
$11.3M19.9%
Student services
$10.6M18.7%
Auxiliary enterprises
$5.2M9.1%
Academic support
$4.3M7.7%
Public service
$734K1.3%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

All faculty
$63,252peers $68,006
Professor
$79,193peers $78,041
Associate professor
$76,062peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$60,445peers $63,827
Instructor
$40,000peers $55,171
Lecturer
$21,868peers $59,832

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Mid-South Conference · Southern States Athletic Conference

Mid-South Conference: football

Southern States Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division I MENWOMEN
Football118-
Soccer4826
Baseball60-
Basketball1526
Softball-18
Volleyball-17
Cross Country85
Golf84
2024
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Football127-
Soccer5943
Basketball1634
Baseball38-
Softball-24
Golf114
Volleyball-15
Cross Country59
2023
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Football141-
Soccer4345
Basketball1729
Baseball30-
Softball-20
Volleyball-16
Golf96
Cross Country56

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities surrounding Faulkner University:

  1. Auburn University - Ranked 93rd in the 2024 US News rankings, Auburn University is a comprehensive university known for its strong engineering, business, and agriculture programs.

  2. Samford University - With a rank of 185, Samford University is a private university that offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing a strong liberal arts education.

  3. University of Alabama at Birmingham - This university ranks 142nd and is recognized for its research programs and strong health sciences education.

  4. The University of Alabama - Ranked 170th, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of programs and is known for its vibrant campus life.

  5. Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus - A top-ranked public research university at 33rd place, Georgia Tech is well-regarded for its engineering and technology programs.

  6. Emory University - With a prestigious ranking of 24, Emory is a highly respected private university known for its research initiatives and strong health programs.

  7. University of Georgia - Ranked 47th, UGA is one of the oldest public universities in the U.S. and is known for its strong programs in business, education, and law.

These institutions provide a variety of academic options and opportunities for students in the region.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Drug referrals
44
Liquor referrals
31
Burglary
6
Robbery
5
Weapons referrals
5
Drug arrests
3

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Data at Faulkner University

The crime data from Faulkner University over the past decade reveals fluctuating trends in campus safety. Notably, the year 2022 saw a peak in the crime rate, with a staggering 10.09 incidents per 1,000 students, indicating a marked increase in reported incidents compared to previous years. This spike could be attributed to various factors, including heightened awareness of campus safety issues, changes in reporting practices, or even broader societal trends affecting student behavior.

Interestingly, the data indicates a significant drop in arrests related to alcohol and drug offenses in 2017, which aligns with national trends towards more lenient approaches regarding substance use on college campuses. However, the subsequent years show a resurgence in incidents, particularly in violent crimes such as domestic violence and assault, which raise concerns about student safety and the effectiveness of preventative measures.

Moreover, the increase in robbery and stalking incidents suggests that the university may need to enhance its safety protocols and support systems for students. With rising crime rates, it becomes imperative for institutions like Faulkner University to not only focus on punitive measures but also invest in educational programs aimed at fostering a safer campus environment.

Overall, while the fluctuation in crime rates can be disconcerting, it also presents an opportunity for Faulkner University to evaluate and improve its safety measures, ensuring a secure environment for all students. For a comprehensive understanding of crime rates, you can refer to the calculation method here: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Faulkner University include Bobby Bright (Former U.S. representative and Montgomery mayor), Shane Reynolds (Former MLB starting pitcher for the Houston Astros) and DuWayne Bridges (Former Republican member of the Alabama House).

References and Data Sources

Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.