John Brown University
Acceptance rate
76.1%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$31,756
$42,118 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,948
Student-faculty ratio 15:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
64.1%
4-year; 6-year rate 71.2%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
John Brown University (JBU) is a private Christian university located in Siloam Springs, Arkansas. Established in 1919, JBU is named after its founder, John Brown, who envisioned a place where students could receive a quality education grounded in Christian values. The university's mission emphasizes the integration of faith and learning, fostering a holistic educational experience that prepares students for both professional success and spiritual growth.
JBU boasts a strong emphasis on academic excellence and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including business, engineering, education, and the arts. The university is particularly known for its commitment to a liberal arts education, which encourages critical thinking, creativity, and effective communication. The faculty at JBU are dedicated to providing a supportive learning environment, with a low student-to-faculty ratio that allows for personalized attention and mentorship.
The campus is characterized by its beautiful natural surroundings and state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, research labs, and recreational areas. Students at JBU enjoy a vibrant campus life, with numerous extracurricular activities, student organizations, and opportunities for community service. The university also places a strong emphasis on athletics, with competitive sports teams that participate in the NAIA. Overall, John Brown University is known for its nurturing environment, strong community values, and commitment to developing socially responsible leaders.
Analysis of Key Metrics at John Brown University
John Brown University, a private institution, has experienced notable trends in tuition costs, student enrollment, and graduation rates over the years. The tuition fees have shown a consistent upward trajectory, with undergraduate tuition increasing from $22,734 in 2014 to $30,832 in 2024, marking an increase of approximately 35.6% over a decade. This sharp rise in tuition can pose significant financial burdens on students and their families, reflecting a broader trend observed in higher education across the United States.
In terms of enrollment, the total number of undergraduate students has fluctuated, peaking at 2,231 in 2015 before declining to 1,801 by 2023. This decline, alongside rising tuition, raises concerns about accessibility and affordability, which may deter prospective students from enrolling. The drop in student numbers could also impact the university's overall financial health and faculty-student ratios.
Graduation rates present a mixed picture. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates improved from around 52.4% in 2013 to approximately 62.0% in 2022, indicating a positive trend in student success and retention. However, this rate dipped slightly to 55.9% in 2023, suggesting potential challenges that may need to be addressed. The retention rate among undergraduate students has also varied, demonstrating a commitment to maintaining student engagement, with a slight increase to 84.5% in 2023.
Overall, while John Brown University has made strides in graduation rates, the rising tuition and fluctuating enrollment numbers highlight ongoing challenges that could affect its future sustainability and reputation. Balancing affordability with quality education will be crucial for attracting and retaining students in an increasingly competitive higher education landscape.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Fayetteville, about 25 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Tulsa International Airport (TUL), about 70 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr Charles W. Pollard (President)
- Phone
- 4795249500
- City
- Siloam Springs, Arkansas
- Address
- 2000 W University St, Siloam Springs, AR 72761
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 80.2%, women 73.6%.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Rates and Enrollment at John Brown University
The admission data from John Brown University over the years reveals significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment figures, reflecting broader trends in higher education. Between 2009 and 2023, the acceptance rates for male applicants generally hovered around 55% to 82%, while female applicants saw acceptance rates ranging from 51% to 74%. The peak acceptance rates were observed in 2017, with 82% for males and 74% for females, indicating a potentially more inclusive approach during that period.
However, a concerning trend emerged post-2020, where acceptance rates sharply declined, particularly in 2021 and 2022, hitting lows of 65.6% for males and 51.3% for females. This drop in acceptance rates may reflect the increased competition among applicants and possibly a shift in the university's admission strategy to focus on more selective criteria. The substantial number of denials in 2021 and 2022, with over 700 applicants turned away in both years, raises questions about accessibility and diversity within the student body.
Enrollment numbers have also fluctuated, with a notable peak in 2012, where 360 students were enrolled. The years following show a gradual decline in enrollment numbers, highlighting potential challenges the university may face in attracting new students. With the recent figures showing low acceptance rates and high denial numbers, it becomes crucial for John Brown University to reassess its admissions strategy to maintain a balanced and diverse student population in the forthcoming years. This situation is not unique to John Brown University, as many institutions are currently navigating the complexities of admissions in an evolving higher education landscape.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 11% submitted SAT, 50% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Data at John Brown University
The admissions data from John Brown University over the years reveals notable trends in standardized test scores and the number of applicants submitting these scores. From 2007 to 2023, the university has seen fluctuations in both the number of students submitting SAT and ACT scores and their performance on these assessments.
The percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has generally decreased, with the highest percentage being 42% in 2008 and dropping to just 17% in 2023. This decline may reflect a broader trend in higher education where universities are becoming increasingly test-optional, allowing students to apply without submitting standardized test scores.
In terms of scores, a shifting performance trend is evident in the SAT reading and math sections, with scores for the 25th percentile starting at 520 in 2007, peaking at 580 in 2019, and reaching 570 in 2023. The upper quartile scores also show an upward trajectory, suggesting that while fewer students are submitting scores, those who do tend to perform at higher levels. This shift could indicate that the university is attracting a more academically prepared applicant pool or that the emphasis on holistic admissions is allowing for a more diverse set of criteria for evaluating candidates.
Overall, these trends underscore the evolving landscape of college admissions in the United States, where standardized tests are becoming less central to the evaluation process, yet high-achieving students continue to emerge as competitive applicants. This may have long-term implications for how universities structure their admissions strategies and assess student potential.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
1,647 applicants in 2025, 76.1% admitted
1,254 admitted 393 not admitted Yield 30.9%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Mental Health Counseling/Counselor · Master's53 (2% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's24 (0% international)
- Education, General · Master's8 (0% international)
- Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services · Master's7 (0% international)
- Teacher Education, Multiple Levels · Master's7 (0% international)
- Organizational Leadership · Master's6 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from John Brown University
The graduation data from John Brown University reveals significant insights into the trends of academic achievements across various fields. Notably, the Mental Health Counseling program stands out, with 63 graduates at the master's level, which underscores the growing emphasis on mental health awareness and services in recent years. This aligns with national trends where mental health has taken center stage, particularly post-pandemic, highlighting the increasing need for trained professionals in this area.
In contrast, the Business Administration program shows no graduates at the bachelor level, which may indicate a shift in student interest or the potential restructuring of the program. This is particularly interesting given the current economic climate, where business acumen is often crucial for navigating challenges.
The data also reflects limited graduation numbers in several educational programs, such as Secondary Education and Early Childhood Education, suggesting a potential shortage of educators in these critical areas. This shortage could exacerbate the ongoing challenges within the education system, particularly in light of recent discussions around teacher retention and recruitment.
Furthermore, the absence of international students graduating in many categories may point to the effects of global travel restrictions and changing immigration policies, which have impacted international student enrollment.
Overall, the data from John Brown University illustrates a complex landscape of educational outcomes, emphasizing the evolving priorities within graduate programs and the need for strategic responses to emerging trends in the labor market.
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 | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $55,653 | |||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $59,871-$83,504 | |||
| Organizational Leadership. | $59,871-$83,504 | |||
| Accounting. | - | |||
| Business/Managerial Economics. | - | |||
| Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies. | - | |||
| Finance, General. | - | |||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - | |||
| Construction Management, General. | $76,406 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mental Health Counseling/Counselor. | $47,196 | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $72,179 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | $27,112 | |||
| Illustration. | $27,112 | |||
| Cinematography and Film/Video Production. | $20,981 | |||
| Photography. | $20,981 | |||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | |||
| Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services. | - | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | |||
| Teacher Education, Multiple Levels. | - | |||
| Mathematics Teacher Education. | - | |||
| Social Studies Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical and Electronics Engineering. | - | |||
| Mechanical Engineering. | - | |||
| Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $34,339 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - | |||
| Outdoor Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Family and Community Services. | $27,630 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| International/Globalization Studies. | - | |||
| Business Analytics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | - | |||
| Cybersecurity Defense Strategy/Policy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theology/Theological Studies. | - | |||
| Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
Students
2,350 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 45:55 · Freshman retention 81.5%
- Continuing undergraduates 998
- First-year undergraduates 381
- Graduate students 402
- Transfers and others 569
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,948)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at John Brown University in 2023
The demographic data from John Brown University for the year 2023 reveals intriguing insights into the composition of its student body. A total of 306 undergraduate freshmen make up a significant portion, with 41.5% being male and 58.5% female. This indicates a healthy gender balance, although females are slightly more represented among the new entrants.
The undergraduate juniors number 965, again showing a higher female representation at 59.2%, compared to 40.8% for males. This trend continues with the undergraduate transfer students, where 39.8% are male and 60.2% are female, further emphasizing the increasing presence of women in higher education at this institution.
Graduate students, totaling 525, present a more pronounced gender disparity with only 27.2% males and 72.8% females. This remarkable imbalance could reflect broader societal trends where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees.
The data also highlights the racial and ethnic diversity within the student population, although specific figures for various subcategories are not completely available. The white demographic remains the majority across all categories, which is a common trend in many universities across the United States.
In conclusion, John Brown University's student demographic data for 2023 showcases a growing trend of female representation, particularly in graduate programs. This shift reflects broader educational trends and societal changes, underscoring the importance of fostering diversity and inclusion in higher education institutions.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at John Brown University
The age distribution of students at John Brown University reveals some interesting insights into the demographic makeup of the student body. A significant proportion of students are under the age of 24, with nearly 80% of the total enrollment being either undergraduate or graduate students in the 18-24 age range. This aligns with trends seen across many universities, where young adults typically make up the bulk of the student population.
The data shows that the largest group of undergraduates is in the 18-19 age category, which accounts for approximately 30% of the total female student body and about 25% of the total male student body. This reflects the traditional pathway of students entering college immediately after high school. Interestingly, the cohort aged 22-24 contains a mix of both undergraduates and graduates, suggesting that many students may be pursuing advanced degrees shortly after finishing their undergraduate studies.
As we look at older age groups, there is a noticeable decline in the number of students. For instance, only 18% of male graduate students are aged 30-34, while the participation of students over 50 is minimal, indicating that adult learners might not be the primary demographic at this institution. This trend could be indicative of broader societal patterns, where younger individuals are more likely to seek higher education immediately after secondary schooling.
Overall, the age composition at John Brown University highlights a youthful and predominantly undergraduate student body. This demographic trend is consistent with national averages, reflecting a growing emphasis on higher education among younger populations in recent years.
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.
149 in 2025 · 4.5% in 2016
3 in 2025 · 1.5% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at John Brown University
The data on international students at John Brown University indicates a fluctuating trend in both undergraduate and graduate enrollments over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international students in the undergraduate population saw a gradual decline, starting at 7.71% in 2004 and dropping to 6.05% in 2023. This decline is particularly concerning, as it suggests that the university may be losing its attractiveness to international students, which could be due to various factors including changes in global education trends or competitive offerings from other institutions.
In contrast, the graduate student enrollment data shows an even more alarming trend. The proportion of international students in the graduate programs has significantly decreased from 4.40% in 2004 to a mere 0.76% in 2023. This sharp decline is indicative of a broader issue that many U.S. universities face, as the global landscape for higher education becomes increasingly competitive. Factors such as immigration policies, financial burdens, and the availability of online education options may be influencing these trends.
The overall drop in international student enrollment at John Brown University highlights a critical challenge that could impact the institution's diversity, global perspective, and financial health. As the world becomes more interconnected, universities must adapt their strategies to attract a diverse student body. It is essential for institutions to engage with international communities effectively, ensuring they remain appealing destinations for students worldwide.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$42,118
- Undergraduate tuition
- $31,756
- Room and board
- $10,362
- Graduate tuition
- $14,880
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 30% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 20%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$73.3M
Expenses$53.1M
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 NAIA · Sooner Athletic Conference
Sooner Athletic Conference: basketball, cross country
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 61 | 76 |
| Soccer | 42 | 24 |
| Volleyball | - | 29 |
| Basketball | 14 | 11 |
| Tennis | 13 | 10 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 66 | 65 |
| Soccer | 45 | 27 |
| Volleyball | - | 39 |
| Basketball | 15 | 14 |
| Tennis | 11 | 10 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 57 | 101 |
| Soccer | 35 | 25 |
| Volleyball | - | 34 |
| Basketball | 14 | 15 |
| Tennis | 11 | 9 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of ArkansasFayetteville · 22.9 mi
U.S. News #191
-
University of TulsaTulsa · 77.3 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Oklahoma State University-Main CampusStillwater · 140.1 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Hendrix CollegeConway · 140.6 mi
Liberal Arts #100
-
Harding UniversitySearcy · 171.8 mi
U.S. News #276
-
University of Oklahoma-Norman CampusNorman · 175.4 mi
U.S. News #116
-
Wichita State UniversityWichita · 184.2 mi
U.S. News #288
-
University of KansasLawrence · 195.0 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Missouri University of Science and TechnologyRolla · 196.1 mi
U.S. News #191
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near John Brown University:
-
University of Arkansas - Ranked 178 in the 2024 US News, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus - With a rank of 124, this university is known for its strong research programs and vibrant campus life.
-
University of Kansas - Ranked 151, it is a prominent institution that offers diverse academic programs and is recognized for its research initiatives.
-
University of Missouri-Columbia - This university is ranked 124 and is renowned for its strong emphasis on research, providing a broad spectrum of programs.
-
Southern Methodist University - With a rank of 89, SMU is known for its academic excellence and rich traditions.
-
Washington University in St Louis - Ranked 24, it is one of the leading research universities in the nation, offering a rigorous curriculum and a vibrant campus environment.
These institutions not only offer excellent educational opportunities but also contribute to the rich academic landscape of the region.
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 John Brown University
The crime statistics at John Brown University over the past decade present a fluctuating yet concerning picture of campus safety. The average crime rate per 1,000 students peaked in 2023 at 5.76, indicating a significant rise in reported incidents compared to previous years. This increase can be alarming, especially when observed alongside the gradual decline in crime rates from 2015 to 2017, where the rate fell to as low as 0.52 in 2017.
A closer look at specific types of offenses reveals a notable presence of arrests related to drug and alcohol offenses. Despite some years showing low rates, the resurgence in 2023 raises questions about campus culture and the effectiveness of preventive measures. The data indicates a need for universities to continuously adapt their safety protocols and support systems, particularly in response to rising crime levels.
Moreover, the rise in domestic violence and sexual assault cases on campuses nationwide has been highlighted in recent news, emphasizing the importance of educational institutions fostering safe environments. The increase in reported incidents at John Brown University could potentially reflect broader societal issues, urging administrators to engage in community discussions and implement targeted strategies to combat these issues.
In summary, while the crime rates at John Brown University have seen fluctuations, the recent spike in 2023 necessitates a proactive approach to ensure the safety and well-being of all students. Comprehensive strategies that address both prevention and support are critical in creating a secure campus environment. For more insights on calculating crime rates, please refer to this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of John Brown University include Jimmy Driftwood (Folk singer-songwriter, wrote The Battle of New Orleans), Anson Rainey (Tel Aviv University scholar of ancient Near East) and John Osteen (Pastor who founded Lakewood Church in Houston).
-
Jimmy Driftwood 1907–1998
Folk singer-songwriter, wrote The Battle of New Orleans
-
Anson Rainey 1930–2011
Tel Aviv University scholar of ancient Near East
-
John Osteen 1921–1999
Pastor who founded Lakewood Church in Houston
-
Kofi Josephs 1991–
British basketball player
-
Janet Huckabee 1955–
Former first lady of Arkansas
-
Rodney Anderson 1931–
Member of the Wyoming House of Representatives
-
Jim Winn 1959–
Former MLB pitcher who played six seasons
-
Carolyn Pollan 1937–2021
Former Arkansas House of Representatives member
-
Rebecca Petty 1970–
Arkansas politician and victims' rights advocate
More alumni (1, by field)
Sports
-
Ryan Williams 1996–
Former American soccer attacking midfielder
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
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.