Tuskegee University
Acceptance rate
48.7%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$25,386
$35,366 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
2,659
Student-faculty ratio 14:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
32.9%
4-year; 6-year rate 67.0%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Tuskegee University, located in Tuskegee, Alabama, is a historically black university founded in 1881 by Booker T. Washington. The university is renowned for its rich history, academic excellence, and commitment to community service. Tuskegee's mission emphasizes the importance of education, leadership, and service, reflecting its motto, "Education for the Purpose of Service." This ethos has guided the institution in promoting social justice and empowering students to make meaningful contributions to society.
The university boasts a diverse range of programs, particularly excelling in the fields of agricultural sciences, engineering, and health professions. It has garnered recognition for its outstanding research initiatives, notably in veterinary medicine and environmental sciences. The campus is home to modern facilities, including state-of-the-art laboratories, libraries, and recreational areas, which support a vibrant student life. Tuskegee University places a strong emphasis on athletics, encouraging students to participate in various sports, fostering teamwork and school spirit. With a proud tradition of producing notable alumni, including civil rights leaders and successful professionals, Tuskegee University continues to leave a significant impact on both its graduates and the broader community.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Tuskegee University
Tuskegee University, a private institution, has shown notable trends in several key areas over the years. One significant aspect is the tuition fees, which have steadily increased from $18,900 in 2014 to $23,440 for in-state undergraduates in 2024. This represents a rise of approximately 24% over the decade, indicating a growing financial burden for students and families. The increase in tuition can often lead to higher student debt, which is a pressing concern nationally.
Another critical metric is the graduation rates. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates has fluctuated, reaching a peak of 34.2% in 2021 but dropping to 27.9% in 2023. This decline raises questions about student support systems and the effectiveness of academic programs, as higher graduation rates are typically correlated with institutional success and student satisfaction.
Retention rates have shown a more positive trend, climbing from approximately 72.8% in 2013 to about 76% in 2022, before slightly declining to 75.6% in 2023. This upward trajectory suggests that the university is successfully maintaining student enrollment and engagement, which is essential for long-term success.
Lastly, the gender ratio among undergraduate students has indicated a relatively stable female majority, with women's representation fluctuating between 56.6% and 63.8% over the years. This gender balance might reflect broader trends in higher education, where female enrollment often surpasses that of males.
Overall, while Tuskegee University has made strides in student retention, the increasing tuition and fluctuating graduation rates call for strategic enhancements to ensure that students are not only enrolled but also successfully completing their degrees without excessive financial strain.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Birmingham, about 100 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM), about 100 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Mark A. Brown (President and CEO)
- Phone
- 334727801136088
- Address
- Kresge Center, 3rd Floor, Tuskegee, AL 36088-1920
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 49.2%, women 52.9%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admissions Trends at Tuskegee University
The admissions data from Tuskegee University reveals significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment numbers over the years. Notably, the data indicates a peak in acceptance rates for male and female applicants in 2009, both hovering around 59%. However, this rate saw a sharp decline in the subsequent years, particularly in 2014, where the male acceptance rate plummeted to approximately 34% and the female rate to about 36%. This dramatic drop suggests a shift in the university's admissions strategy, possibly in response to increased competition from other institutions or a strategic decision to attract a higher caliber of applicants.
Despite the declining acceptance rates, enrollment figures remained relatively stable until 2020, when they began to drop significantly, indicating that the university may have been struggling to maintain its student population amidst rising rejection rates. The number of denied applications surged, particularly in 2023, when over 8,400 applicants were denied, reflecting a more selective admissions process.
Interestingly, the deferment figures also show volatility, with a notable spike in 2021, where over 6,300 candidates were deferred. This could be indicative of the university's attempt to manage the uncertainty brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing students more time to decide on their college paths.
Overall, the data portray a complex landscape for Tuskegee University's admissions process, characterized by increasing selectivity and fluctuating enrollment numbers. As the university navigates these challenges, it will be crucial to balance the desire for a diverse and talented student body with the need to maintain enrollment levels.
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
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Health Specialty2 programs—
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 · 1% submitted SAT, 25% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Tuskegee University's Admission Test Scores and Trends
The data from Tuskegee University reveals a notable trend in the admission test scores over the years, particularly in SAT and ACT scores. The number of students submitting SAT scores has been fluctuating, with a peak submission rate of 55% in 2007, gradually declining to just 8% by 2023. This dramatic drop in submissions may indicate a shift in applicant preferences or a decrease in the number of students meeting the submission criteria.
Examining the scores, the 25th percentile for SAT reading has seen a gradual increase from 390 in 2007 to 495 in 2023, signaling a positive trend in the minimum performance level among admitted students. Similarly, the upper quartile score has also shown improvement, moving from 510 to 620 in the same timeframe. This suggests that while fewer students are submitting scores, those who do are achieving higher outcomes, indicating a potential increase in the overall quality of applicants.
Conversely, the ACT scores have shown a less clear trajectory, with both the composite and individual section scores fluctuating over the years. The percentage of students submitting ACT scores has also varied, making it difficult to establish a consistent trend.
Overall, while the declining submission rates may raise concerns about accessibility and equity, the upward movement in scores among those who do submit suggests that Tuskegee University is attracting a more academically prepared cohort. This duality reflects broader trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly focused on both the quality of incoming students and the inclusivity of their admissions processes.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 5 in 10
11,632 applicants in 2025, 48.7% admitted
5,663 admitted 5,969 not admitted Yield 13.9%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Veterinary Medicine · Doctoral65 (0% international)
- Occupational Therapy/Therapist · Master's16 (0% international)
- Animal Sciences, General · Master's11 (0% international)
- Environmental/Natural Resource Economics · Master's6 (0% international)
- Environmental Science · Master's5 (0% international)
- Information Technology Project Management · Master's4 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Tuskegee University
The graduation data from Tuskegee University for 2023 reveals significant trends in various fields of study. Notably, the health and medical fields stand out, with a substantial number of graduates. For instance, Veterinary Medicine produced 57 doctorate graduates, showcasing the university's strength in veterinary sciences. This aligns with the growing demand for veterinary professionals, driven by increasing pet ownership and a heightened focus on animal health.
In contrast, certain disciplines such as Computer Science and Engineering show a minimal number of graduates, indicating possible challenges in attracting students to these programs. The tech industry is booming, and this discrepancy raises questions about curriculum relevance and industry partnerships that could enhance enrollment and graduation rates.
Moreover, the data indicates a complete lack of international students graduating in several programs, particularly in the bachelor's category. This could reflect broader trends in international student mobility, potentially influenced by visa policies and global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which have disrupted education systems worldwide.
Furthermore, the presence of degrees in education and public health highlights an ongoing commitment to producing graduates who can address societal needs, particularly in light of the recent public health crises. The low graduation rates in fields like Sociology and Humanities suggest a need for universities to reevaluate their offerings and support structures to better serve student interests and job market demands.
Overall, Tuskegee University's graduation data presents a microcosm of larger educational trends, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in academic programs to meet evolving societal and economic needs.
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
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agribusiness/Agricultural Business Operations. | - | |||
| Animal Sciences, General. | $27,259 | |||
| Veterinary Medicine. | $109,067 | |||
| Veterinary Sciences/Veterinary Clinical Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health and Wellness, General. | $32,911 | |||
| Public Health, General. | - | |||
| Occupational Therapy/Therapist. | $61,815 | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $70,415 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $46,578 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical/Space Engineering, General. | $56,907 | |||
| Chemical Engineering. | $83,683 | |||
| Electrical and Electronics Engineering. | $85,831 | |||
| Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering, Other. | $85,831 | |||
| Materials Engineering. | - | |||
| Mechanical Engineering. | $83,470 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $29,995 | |||
| Biomedical Sciences, General. | $29,995 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $28,637 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - | |||
| Environmental/Natural Resource Economics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Architectural Design. | - | |||
| Architectural Sciences and Technology, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Computer Science. | - | |||
| Information Technology Project Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | |||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Policy Analysis, Other. | - | |||
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Building/Construction Finishing, Management, and Inspection, Other. | $74,054 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | |||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Music Performance, General. | - |
Students
3,121 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 38:62 · Freshman retention 80.7%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,747
- First-year undergraduates 786
- Graduate students 462
- Transfers and others 126
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,659)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Composition at Tuskegee University in 2023
In 2023, Tuskegee University showcased a diverse student body with a total of 2,570 students across various classifications. The undergraduate freshmen comprised 533 students, with a significant female representation of 60.4%, indicating a welcoming environment for women in higher education. However, the male representation stands at 39.6%, suggesting there is still room for improvement in attracting male students at the undergraduate level.
The undergraduate juniors formed the largest group with 1,498 students. Again, the female demographic led with 63.2%, while males accounted for 36.8%. This trend emphasizes the ongoing gender disparity in higher education, particularly among undergraduate programs, which has been a focal point in discussions surrounding educational equity in the U.S.
Interestingly, the undergraduate transfer students, though fewer in number at 69, exhibited a higher male representation of 55.1%, which may reflect different dynamics in student recruitment or retention strategies for transfer students. Meanwhile, the graduate student body comprised 470 individuals, with a strikingly high female representation of 76.4%. This significant gender imbalance in graduate studies raises questions about the factors encouraging women to pursue advanced degrees compared to their male counterparts.
While the racial and ethnic breakdown of students reveals the university's commitment to diversity, it also highlights the need for ongoing efforts to ensure representation across various groups. Overall, Tuskegee University continues to play a critical role in shaping an inclusive educational landscape, yet the evident gender disparities across different classifications warrant further examination and proactive measures.
Demographic Insights on Student Age Composition at Tuskegee University
The age composition of students at Tuskegee University reveals interesting trends that reflect broader societal patterns in higher education. The largest group of students is aged 18-19, comprising 38.8% of the total female population and 58.6% of the total male population. This suggests that Tuskegee University is attracting a significant number of recent high school graduates, a trend common among many universities in the United States.
Among students aged 20-21, there is a noticeable balance, with a total of 507 students, where 50.5% are female and 49.5% male. The presence of graduate students in their early twenties indicates that many are likely pursuing advanced degrees immediately after completing their undergraduate studies.
The data show a sharp decline in enrollment for students aged 22-24 and above, with only 17.1% of total students falling in this category. This drop might indicate that many students are completing their studies more quickly or choosing to enter the workforce earlier.
Interestingly, the enrollment of non-traditional students aged 25 and above remains relatively low, with the highest participation observed in the 25-29 age group, comprising 18.7% of total students. This reflects a growing trend in higher education where older adults return to school for career advancement or personal development, although their numbers remain modest.
Overall, Tuskegee University appears to maintain a youthful demographic, aligning with national trends that show a predominance of younger students in higher education institutions. As the landscape of education continues to evolve, the university may benefit from exploring ways to engage and support a more diverse age range in its student population.
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.
0 in 2025 · 0.4% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.8% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Tuskegee University
The data reflecting international student enrollment at Tuskegee University over the years reveals significant fluctuations, particularly in undergraduate and graduate programs. Notably, the percentage of international students in undergraduate programs has been relatively low, peaking at 1.50% in 2013, while the graduate program showcased a more robust presence of international students, reaching as high as 35.33% in 2004.
Throughout the years, the number of international undergraduates has generally remained below 40, indicating a limited attraction for international students at the undergraduate level. In contrast, graduate programs have consistently drawn more international students, which may be attributed to Tuskegee's strong reputation in specific fields of study, research opportunities, and the supportive environment for graduate studies.
The decline in both undergraduate and graduate international student numbers in the later years, particularly noted in 2014 and 2015, could reflect broader trends affecting U.S. higher education, such as changes in immigration policies or increased competition from universities in other countries. Moreover, the significant drop in international graduate students in 2016 to just 0.78% suggests a need for the university to reassess its recruitment strategies to better appeal to this demographic.
Given the global emphasis on diversity in educational settings, Tuskegee University stands at a crossroads. By enhancing its outreach and support for international students, the university has the potential to significantly enrich its campus culture and academic environment, fostering a more globally aware student body that aligns with modern educational values.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$35,366
- Undergraduate tuition
- $25,386
- Room and board
- $9,980
- Graduate tuition
- $26,228
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 27% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 10%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$197M
Expenses$144M
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.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference
Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 143 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 34 | 20 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 29 | 18 |
| Baseball | 42 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 17 |
| Softball | - | 26 |
| Tennis | 13 | 12 |
| Cross Country | 13 | 12 |
| Volleyball | - | 22 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 135 | - |
| Baseball | 39 | - |
| Basketball | 17 | 15 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 16 | 16 |
| Tennis | 17 | 10 |
| Volleyball | - | 23 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Cross Country | 10 | 10 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 121 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 26 | 28 |
| Cross Country | 26 | 23 |
| Basketball | 19 | 16 |
| Tennis | 19 | 14 |
| Baseball | 32 | - |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Auburn UniversityAuburn · 17.3 mi
U.S. News #100
-
Samford UniversityBirmingham · 95.1 mi
U.S. News #191
-
University of Alabama at BirminghamBirmingham · 97.5 mi
U.S. News #137
-
Spelman CollegeAtlanta · 117.8 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
Georgia State UniversityAtlanta · 119.1 mi
U.S. News #191
-
The University of AlabamaTuscaloosa · 119.6 mi
U.S. News #156
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main CampusAtlanta · 119.9 mi
U.S. News #29
-
Mercer UniversityMacon · 122.9 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Emory UniversityAtlanta · 123.4 mi
U.S. News #23
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Tuskegee University:
-
Auburn University - Ranked 93rd in the 2024 US News rankings, Auburn University is a comprehensive public university known for its strong engineering and business programs.
-
University of Alabama at Birmingham - With a ranking of 142, UAB is recognized for its research initiatives and health-related programs, making it a significant institution in the healthcare field.
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus - Ranked 33rd, Georgia Tech is a prestigious institution specializing in engineering and technology, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Emory University - Emory is ranked 24th and is known for its rigorous academics, strong liberal arts programs, and reputable medical school.
-
Florida State University - FSU, ranking 53rd, is noted for its vibrant campus life and strong programs in the arts, sciences, and business.
These universities offer a diverse range of programs and opportunities for students in the region surrounding Tuskegee University.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at Tuskegee University
The crime statistics at Tuskegee University reveal a significant decline in the average number of crimes per 1,000 students from 2013 to 2023, which is a positive trend for the campus community. In 2013, the crime rate was 22.84, while it dropped to 5.45 by 2023, indicating a decrease of over 76%. This downward trajectory highlights the potential effectiveness of safety initiatives and community engagement efforts within the university.
Looking closely at specific types of offenses, there has been a notable reduction in serious incidents such as armed arrests and drug-related offenses. For instance, the number of armed arrests reported in recent years has been minimal, which suggests that the campus is becoming safer and that students are increasingly aware of their surroundings.
However, it is essential to consider that crime is still a reality for many campuses across the nation; thus, Tuskegee University must continue to prioritize safety measures, support for victims, and educational programs aimed at crime prevention. The decline in crime rates should not lead to complacency, as maintaining a secure environment is crucial for the wellbeing of students and staff alike.
Overall, the data presents a hopeful picture for Tuskegee University, showcasing improvements in campus safety. Continued vigilance and proactive measures will be essential in sustaining this positive trend. For those interested in the methodology behind crime rate calculations, further information can be found here.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of Tuskegee University include Lionel Richie (Singer, songwriter and record producer), Ralph Ellison (Author of Invisible Man) and Alice Coachman (High jumper, first black woman Olympic gold medalist).
-
Lionel Richie 1949–
Singer, songwriter and record producer
-
Ralph Ellison 1914–1994
Author of Invisible Man
-
Alice Coachman 1923–2014
High jumper, first black woman Olympic gold medalist
-
Keenen Ivory Wayans 1958–
Actor, comedian and filmmaker
-
Teddy Wilson 1912–1986
Jazz pianist and swing bandleader
-
Claude McKay 1889–1948
Writer and poet of the Harlem Renaissance
-
Al Green 1947–
U.S. Representative from Texas
-
Ray Nagin 1956–
60th Mayor of New Orleans
-
Amelia Boynton Robinson 1911–2015
Civil rights leader, key figure in the Selma marches
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.