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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Central Baptist College

Conway, Arkansas · www.cbc.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

63.5%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$21,330

$29,830 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

547

Student-faculty ratio 9:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

17.9%

4-year; 6-year rate 19.2%

Peer median 45.1%

“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Central Baptist College (CBC) is a private Christian institution located in Conway, Arkansas. Established in 1952, the college emphasizes a holistic education that integrates faith with academic excellence. One of the distinguishing features of CBC is its commitment to providing a Christ-centered education that fosters spiritual growth alongside intellectual development. The college motto, "A Higher Education for a Higher Purpose," reflects its mission to prepare students not just for careers, but for meaningful lives grounded in Christian values.

The campus environment at CBC is vibrant and welcoming, encouraging students to engage in various extracurricular activities and community service. The college offers a range of academic programs, including degrees in Business, Education, and Ministries, all designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for their chosen fields. The faculty at CBC are dedicated and experienced, many of whom bring practical experience from their professions into the classroom, enhancing the learning experience. Additionally, the college promotes a strong sense of community, where students can build lasting friendships and engage in spiritual growth through campus ministries and events. Overall, Central Baptist College stands out as a nurturing institution that prioritizes both academic and personal development in a supportive Christian environment.

Analysis of Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Enrollment Trends at Central Baptist College

The data from Central Baptist College reveals significant trends in tuition and student enrollment that merit discussion. Over the years, tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has seen a steady increase. For instance, from 2014 to 2024, the tuition rose from $13,350 to $19,680, marking a notable 47% increase. This rising cost may deter potential students, especially in a climate where student debt is a growing concern across the nation.

In parallel, the enrollment numbers have shown a concerning decline. The undergraduate student population decreased from 832 in 2014 to just 564 in 2023, representing a decline of approximately 32%. This drop raises questions about the college's appeal to prospective students, especially given the rising tuition costs.

Moreover, graduation rates have fluctuated significantly, with the on-time graduation rate reaching 32.3% in 2023 after a low of just 1.9% in 2021. This volatility indicates potential issues in student support and retention, which are critical for fostering a successful academic environment.

Retention rates also reflect some instability, with figures fluctuating over the years. The retention rate was at its highest in 2015, with about 71%, but has faced ups and downs since. The current rate of approximately 63% in 2023 suggests that while some students are persisting, a significant number are still leaving the institution before completing their degrees.

These trends illuminate the challenges Central Baptist College faces in balancing tuition increases with student retention and success, which are essential for maintaining its reputation and viability as a higher education institution.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Small city
Nearest major city
Little Rock, about 25 mi
Nearest international airport
Frederick W. Smith International Airport (MEM), about 140 mi
Conway, Arkansas
Also known as
CBC
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Baptist
President
Jeremy Langley (President)
Phone
5013296872
City
Conway, Arkansas
Address
1501 College Avenue, Conway, AR 72034

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
61.4%
Women
66.4%

In 2020: men 39.5%, women 40.5%.

Data insights

Trends in Admission Rates and Enrollment at Central Baptist College

The admission statistics for Central Baptist College over the years reveal significant fluctuations in both male and female acceptance rates, reflecting broader trends in higher education admissions. In 2009, the male acceptance rate was approximately 82.7%, while the female acceptance rate stood at about 82.1%. These figures indicate a relatively inclusive approach during the early years of the dataset. However, a notable decline is observed in subsequent years, particularly in 2013 where the male acceptance rate plummeted to around 47.5% and the female rate to approximately 41.8%.
Such a drastic drop raises concerns about the institution's capacity and possibly its strategic shifts towards managing enrollment numbers amid increasing competition among colleges and universities. The fluctuating enrollment numbers, peaking at 159 in 2012 and dropping to just 103 in 2023, suggest challenges in attracting and retaining students. The number of applicants denied admission also reflects this trend, with a peak of 318 denials in 2020, coinciding with the global pandemic that disrupted education systems.
Moreover, the deferral rates indicate that many students were either uncertain about their college experience or faced external pressures, particularly during the pandemic years. This trend highlights the necessity for institutions to adapt their recruitment strategies to better align with the evolving needs and concerns of prospective students. Overall, Central Baptist College's data illustrates the complexities of higher education admissions in today's environment, characterized by shifting demographics and external challenges.

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 11% submitted SAT, 69% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT scores required for admission

SAT total883–1121Peer median 1220
ACT composite17–23
SAT Reading
473–553
600700800
SAT Math
410–568
600700800
ACT composite
17–23
253036

Data insights

Analysis of Central Baptist College Admission Data

The admission data for Central Baptist College over the years presents a fascinating glimpse into the changing dynamics of standardized test submissions and scores. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting ACT scores has fluctuated significantly, reaching a peak of 97% in 2010. This suggests a growing reliance on ACT scores among prospective students during that period. In contrast, the submissions of SAT scores have remained relatively low, with the highest submission rate being just 18% in 2019.

The score ranges for the SAT Reading and Math sections, as well as the ACT composite scores, show a gradual increase in the benchmarks over the years. For example, the 25th percentile for SAT Reading scores has shifted from undefined values in the early years to a range of 418 to 450 by 2023, indicating a trend towards higher academic standards among admitted students. Similarly, the 75th percentile scores have also shown an upward trajectory, reflecting an increasingly competitive admission environment.

This continuous improvement in scores could be attributed to various factors, including enhanced preparatory resources for students, shifts in educational policies, and the increasing importance placed on standardized testing in college admissions. Additionally, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has led to significant changes in the college admission landscape, with many institutions adopting test-optional policies. However, Central Baptist College appears to maintain its focus on these standardized assessments, as evidenced by the consistent data over the years.

Overall, the data highlights the evolving nature of college admissions and the importance of understanding trends in standardized testing as a reflection of both student preparedness and institutional expectations.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 6 in 10

260 applicants in 2025, 63.5% admitted

165 admitted 95 not admitted Yield 66.1%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate100 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's9911 international (11.1%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
19
Exercise Science and Kinesiology
18
Psychology, Other
12
Bible/Biblical Studies
9
Psychology, General
7
Accounting
5
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
5
Elementary Education and Teaching
4
Communication and Media Studies, Other
3
General Studies
3

U.S. studentsInternational

Data insights

Analysis of Graduate Data from Central Baptist College

The 2023 graduation data from Central Baptist College reveals several noteworthy trends across different fields of study. Notably, the highest number of bachelor's degrees awarded is in Biblical Studies, with 14 graduates, indicating a strong focus on religious education at the institution. This aligns with the college's mission, emphasizing spiritual growth and theological training, which is critical in an era where faith-based education is increasingly sought after.

In the realm of psychology, the data shows a significant interest, with a total of 18 graduates across two psychology-related programs. This reflects a growing recognition of mental health and wellness, particularly in educational settings. As society continues to grapple with mental health issues, programs that equip students with psychological insights are becoming more valuable.

Furthermore, it is interesting to note the absence of international students in most programs, particularly in fields such as Business and Health Services, which traditionally attract a diverse student body. The single international graduate in Exercise Science might suggest a need for more aggressive recruitment strategies in these areas, especially as globalization fosters a more interconnected educational landscape.

The data also highlights a gap in associate degree programs, as many fields report no graduates. This could indicate a lack of interest in shorter degree paths or insufficient offerings in these programs. Overall, this analysis underscores the importance of aligning academic programs with both student interests and market needs, particularly in an evolving educational environment where flexibility and diversity are key.

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 29 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Business Administration and Management, General.-
Accounting.-
International Business/Trade/Commerce.-
Management Information Systems, General.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 20 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.$29,319
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.$29,319
Psychology has 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Psychology, General.-
Psychology, Other.-
Liberal arts has 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
General Studies.-
Theology has 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Bible/Biblical Studies.-
Educationhas 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching.-
English/Language Arts Teacher Education.-
Music Teacher Education.-
Biologyhas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Communication has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Communication and Media Studies, Other.-
Health professionshas 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General.-
English has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
English Language and Literature, General.-
Visual and Performing artshas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Music, General.-
Military techonologies has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Military Technologies and Applied Sciences, Other.-

Students

547 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 55:45 · Freshman retention 62.7%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (547)

White
329 · 60.1%
Black
63 · 11.5%
Hispanic
54 · 9.9%
International
43 · 7.9%
Unknown
27 · 4.9%
Two or more races
26 · 4.8%
Asian
3 · 0.5%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
10.4%
18–19
33.5%
20–21
27.6%
22–24
14.8%
25 and over
13.7%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Central Baptist College in 2023

The demographic data for students at Central Baptist College reveals a diverse and evolving educational environment. In 2023, the number of new undergraduate students stands at 103, with a notable gender distribution where males represent approximately 62.1%, while females account for 37.9%. This indicates a slightly male-dominated cohort, which is commonly observed in many STEM and business-related fields.

For undergraduate continuing students, there are 328 individuals, with males and females nearly balancing out at 53.4% and 46.6%, respectively. This shift towards gender parity is a positive sign, reflecting broader trends in higher education where female enrollment has been steadily increasing over the years.

The transfer student demographic consists of 58 students, where a significantly higher percentage of males (69.0%) are represented compared to females (31.0%). This could suggest that male students are more likely to transfer, which may be worth investigating further.

Additionally, there are 75 graduate students, where females lead with 56.0% against 44.0% for males. This trend highlights the growing participation of women in graduate studies, which aligns with national statistics showing an increase in female graduate enrollment across various disciplines.

Overall, the data presents a snapshot of an institution that is embracing diversity in its student body, though it also reveals areas that may require targeted recruitment efforts to balance gender representation, particularly among transfer students. The college's commitment to inclusivity could further enhance its academic environment, fostering a rich tapestry of perspectives that benefit all students.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Central Baptist College

The age composition data from Central Baptist College reveals interesting insights into the demographics of the student body in 2023. A significant portion of the undergraduate male students are concentrated in the 18-19 age group, accounting for approximately 50% of the total male students. This trend is mirrored in the female undergraduate population, with a notable 39% of female students also falling within the same age bracket.

The data indicates a decreasing trend in the number of students as age increases, with only 18 male students aged 25-29 and just 1 male student in the 50-64 age group. This suggests that younger students are more inclined to pursue higher education, possibly influenced by societal trends that favor early college enrollment.

Interestingly, the data shows no graduate male students in any age category, which may reflect institutional policies or the specific demographic interests of the college. The absence of graduate students could also suggest a potential area for growth in attracting older or non-traditional students seeking advanced degrees.

Moreover, the representation of students aged 30 and above remains minimal, with only 9 male and 9 female students aged 30-34, and a slight increase in the 35-39 age group. This underlines the college's current appeal primarily to younger individuals, which may limit diversity in perspectives and experiences within the student body.

Overall, Central Baptist College appears to cater predominantly to a younger demographic, which aligns with national trends in higher education enrollment. Fostering an environment that encourages students of all ages could enhance the college's educational offerings and community diversity.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Undergraduates7.9%

43 in 2025 · 3.5% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 3.5%2017: 2.4%2018: 2.8%2019: 2.6%2020: 2.4%2021: 2.6%2022: 2.7%2023: 4.8%2024: 6.7%2025: 7.9%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Central Baptist College

The data on international student enrollment at Central Baptist College reveals some interesting trends over the years. Starting from a modest representation of 1.17% in 2004, there has been a gradual increase in the proportion of international students among undergraduates, peaking at 4.79% in 2023. This trajectory indicates a growing appeal of the college to students from other countries, which may reflect broader educational marketing efforts or the establishment of supportive programs for international students.

In particular, the increase from 1.17% in 2004 to 4.79% in 2023 suggests that Central Baptist College is becoming increasingly attractive to global students. The notable growth in absolute numbers, from just 5 international students in 2004 to 27 in 2023, demonstrates the college's commitment to fostering a diverse student body.

Conversely, it is important to note that the data for graduate students is not available, which limits a comprehensive understanding of the overall international student landscape at the institution. Nevertheless, the upward trend in undergraduate international enrollment may hint at potential future growth in graduate programs, contingent on the institution's ability to attract and support international students across all academic levels.

Overall, Central Baptist College's efforts to enhance its international presence align with national trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly recognizing the value of diversity and the contributions of international students to campus life. As the global educational landscape continues to evolve, the college may want to continue building upon this momentum to further enhance its international student recruitment strategies.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$29,830

Undergraduate tuition
$21,330
Room and board
$8,500
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Tuition rose 48% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 13%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$11.2M

Tuition and fees
$4.7M41.8%
Gifts and private grants
$2.6M23.5%
Government grants and contracts
$1.5M13.8%
Auxiliary enterprises
$1.5M13.7%
Investment return
$533K4.7%
Other
$286K2.5%

Expenses$10.6M

Auxiliary enterprises
$3.4M31.9%
Institutional support
$3.4M31.8%
Instruction
$2.0M19.3%
Academic support
$920K8.7%
Student services
$875K8.3%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

All faculty
$49,711peers $65,931
Professor
$54,475peers $77,501
Associate professor
$53,910peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$44,008peers $61,725

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · American Midwest Conference

American Midwest Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division I MENWOMEN
Soccer3616
Baseball34-
Softball-27
Basketball1511
Volleyball-15
Cross Country66
Golf74
Track and Field (Outdoor)64
Wrestling8-
Track and Field (Indoor)6-
2024
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Soccer3117
Baseball32-
Softball-32
Basketball1812
Golf85
Volleyball-13
Wrestling11-
Track and Field (Indoor)33
Cross Country22
2023
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Soccer3218
Baseball32-
Softball-29
Basketball1612
Wrestling16-
Golf94
Volleyball-12
Cross Country35
Track and Field (Indoor)33

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools near Central Baptist College:

  1. University of Arkansas - Ranked 178 in the 2024 US News rankings, it is a comprehensive university known for its diverse programs and vibrant campus life.

  2. Rhodes College - This liberal arts college is ranked 56 and is recognized for its strong academic reputation and commitment to undergraduate education.

  3. University of Memphis - With a ranking of 269, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of programs and is known for its contributions to research and community service.

  4. Missouri University of Science and Technology - Ranked 185, this institution specializes in engineering, technology, and applied sciences.

  5. Washington University in St Louis - A prestigious university ranked 24, known for its rigorous academics and innovative research programs.

  6. Southern Methodist University - With a rank of 89, this university offers a strong emphasis on liberal arts and is known for its beautiful campus and active student community.

These institutions provide a wealth of educational opportunities and resources for students in the region.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Motor vehicle theft
2
Drug arrests
2
Liquor arrests
1
Domestic violence
1

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Data at Central Baptist College

The crime data from Central Baptist College over the years presents an intriguing overview of campus safety and student behavior. Starting from 2013, the total number of reported crimes has fluctuated, with a noticeable peak in 2014, where the rate per 1,000 students soared to 6.05. This spike demands attention, as it reflects a possible surge in criminal activity that year, prompting questions about campus security measures and student environment.

In the subsequent years, the crime rate generally showed a downward trend, with significant drops recorded in 2016 and 2019. However, the figures began to rise again from 2020 onwards, culminating in a crime rate of 5.32 per 1,000 students in 2023. The persistence of incidents such as drug and alcohol-related arrests indicates ongoing challenges that the college must address to ensure a safe learning atmosphere.

Additionally, the data reveals that while violent crimes like assault and robbery are relatively low, there were instances of domestic violence and stalking, underscoring the need for comprehensive support systems for students. Colleges nationwide are increasingly focusing on mental health resources and educational campaigns to combat these issues, which remain prevalent in many educational institutions.

Overall, while Central Baptist College has experienced fluctuations in crime rates, the trends highlight the necessity for continuous vigilance and proactive measures in fostering a secure campus environment. For those interested in understanding crime rates in detail, further calculations can be found at this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

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.