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Private nonprofit, 4-year

University of the Ozarks

Clarksville, Arkansas · ozarks.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

59.5%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$25,950

$35,553 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

778

Student-faculty ratio 14:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

34.0%

4-year; 6-year rate 41.0%

Peer median 45.1%

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

About

The University of the Ozarks, located in Clarksville, Arkansas, is a private liberal arts institution known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education and a commitment to fostering a close-knit community. Founded in 1834, it is one of the oldest institutions of higher education in Arkansas. The university offers a diverse range of academic programs, with a particular focus on liberal arts and sciences, business, and education. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, the University of the Ozarks promotes personalized learning experiences, allowing students to engage closely with their professors and receive tailored academic support.

Campus life at the University of the Ozarks is vibrant and enriched by a variety of extracurricular activities. The university encourages students to participate in athletics, arts, and community service. The school’s motto, "Enter to Learn, Go Forth to Serve," reflects its dedication to developing not only knowledgeable graduates but also socially responsible citizens. The campus is equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, a well-stocked library, and recreational spaces that support both academic and athletic pursuits. Moreover, the university's picturesque location in the Ozark Mountains provides a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities, fostering a strong sense of community and camaraderie among students. As a result, graduates from the University of the Ozarks are well-prepared for their future careers, often finding success in various fields, thanks to the university's comprehensive education and supportive environment.

Analysis of Key Metrics at University of the Ozarks

The University of the Ozarks, a private institution, has shown various trends in its data over the years, particularly in tuition fees, student retention rates, and graduation rates.

Firstly, the tuition fees for undergraduate students have steadily increased from $24,350 in 2014 to $25,950 in 2023, reflecting a broader trend in higher education where costs continue to rise. This increase in tuition, alongside the rising room and board costs, which have gone from $6,775 to $9,490 in the same period, poses a significant financial burden on students and their families. As tuition climbs, institutions often face pressure to demonstrate value through academic outcomes and student support.

In terms of student retention, the data reveals fluctuations over the years, with a notable high of 75.4% in 2016, followed by a dip to 59.8% in 2018, and a gradual recovery to approximately 68.5% in 2023. Retention rates are critical as they indicate the institution's ability to support students throughout their academic journey. A consistent decline in retention could signal underlying issues, such as student satisfaction or academic support, that need addressing.

Graduation rates, particularly the on-time graduation rate, have also been inconsistent. The figures show a high of 38.1% in 2020 but a decline to 32.7% in 2023. This trend is concerning as graduation rates are a key indicator of institutional effectiveness. The drop in graduation rates could correlate with the changes in student retention and may suggest challenges in meeting student needs or in the overall academic environment.

Overall, while the University of the Ozarks has experienced growth in tuition and shifts in retention and graduation rates, it is essential for the administration to focus on enhancing student experiences to improve these crucial metrics. Addressing financial, academic, and support systems will be vital for sustaining enrollment and maintaining institutional reputation.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Remote town
Nearest major city
Fayetteville, about 60 mi
Nearest international airport
Tulsa International Airport (TUL), about 140 mi
Clarksville, Arkansas
Also known as
Ozarks
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Presbyterian Church (USA)
President
Richard L. "Rich" Dunsworth (President)
Phone
8002648636
City
Clarksville, Arkansas
Address
415 N College Ave, Clarksville, AR 72830

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

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

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
55.3%
Women
62.3%

In 2020: men 50.9%, women 49.8%.

Data insights

Trends in Admission Rates and Enrollment at the University of the Ozarks

The admission data from the University of the Ozarks over the years reveals notable trends in both male and female acceptance rates, as well as enrollment figures. Starting from 2009, the acceptance rates for male applicants began at approximately 60% and showed fluctuations, peaking at nearly 96% in 2016 before declining again to around 57% by 2023. The female acceptance rates similarly began at about 68% and followed a comparable trajectory, reaching a high of around 97% in the same year.
Enrollment numbers initially fluctuated but exhibited a general increase, peaking at 273 in 2019 before experiencing a drop in subsequent years. The significant number of denied applications, particularly in 2019 and 2020, highlights an increasingly competitive admission landscape. The data also indicates a growing trend in deferrals, with over 1,000 students deferring their admission in 2023, suggesting that many prospective students may be reconsidering their immediate enrollment due to external factors, possibly influenced by the global COVID-19 pandemic.
These trends reflect broader patterns observed in higher education, where institutions are grappling with fluctuating enrollment and changing applicant behaviors. As universities adapt to these shifts, it remains critical to monitor how these trends evolve in the coming years, especially in response to changing societal and economic conditions. The University of the Ozarks' data serves as a microcosm of the challenges and opportunities facing higher education institutions today.

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 26% submitted SAT, 74% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total1020–1160Peer median 1220
ACT composite20–25
SAT Reading
530–590
600700800
SAT Math
490–570
600700800
ACT composite
20–25
253036

Data insights

Trends in Admissions Data at the University of the Ozarks

The admissions data from the University of the Ozarks over the years reveals some noteworthy trends regarding standardized test scores and submission rates. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has varied significantly, peaking at 87% in 2012 and dropping to as low as 10% in 2009. This fluctuation suggests that the university's admissions policies or the broader educational landscape may have influenced applicants' test-taking behaviors.

In terms of academic performance, the scores for both SAT and ACT have shown variability. The 25th percentile and 75th percentile scores for the SAT reading and math sections saw improvements over the years, particularly in 2021, where the 75th percentile for reading reached 610. This upward trend in scores indicates that the university may be attracting higher-achieving students, which is a positive sign for the institution's academic reputation.

Moreover, the ACT scores display a similar pattern, with the 25th percentile scores rising in 2021, suggesting that the overall quality of applicants is improving. However, the decline in the percentage of students submitting scores in recent years may reflect a growing trend in higher education where institutions are moving towards test-optional policies.

Overall, while the data shows an encouraging trend in scores, the fluctuating submission rates could indicate changes in both applicant perceptions of standardized tests and the university's admissions strategies. As institutions continue to adapt to these trends, it will be interesting to monitor how they impact student demographics and academic performance in the future.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 6 in 10

2,230 applicants in 2025, 59.5% admitted

1,327 admitted 903 not admitted Yield 15.7%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's18055 international (30.6%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
26
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
23
Public Health Education and Promotion
23
Psychology, General
22
Mass Communication/Media Studies
12
Elementary Education and Teaching
11
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching
9
Marketing/Marketing Management, General
7
General Studies
7
Finance, General
6

U.S. studentsInternational

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at University of the Ozarks

The graduation data for the University of the Ozarks reveals several notable trends across various disciplines. Business Administration stands out as the leading program, producing a total of 45 bachelor degree graduates, with approximately 44.44% being international students. This indicates a strong appeal of the business program to international students, which may reflect global interest in business education and the university's reputation in this field.

Public Health Education follows with 19 bachelor degree graduates, showcasing a growing focus on health-related education, likely influenced by the global emphasis on public health issues in recent years. This trend aligns with the increasing demand for professionals in the health sector, especially in the wake of global health crises.

Interestingly, programs in the arts and humanities, such as Drama, Music, and Fine Arts, each produced a modest two graduates. This could suggest a limited student interest in these programs compared to more vocationally oriented degrees, possibly influenced by job market perceptions regarding career prospects in the arts.

Additionally, the absence of graduates in higher degree programs, such as master's and doctorate levels across many disciplines, suggests a potential gap in advanced study opportunities or interest at the university. This could be an area for growth, as offering more graduate programs may attract a diverse student body and enhance academic reputation.

Overall, the data indicates a strong enrollment in business-related fields, a steady interest in public health, and a need for broader offerings in graduate education to meet the aspirations of students seeking advanced degrees.

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 44 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Business Administration and Management, General.-
Accounting.-
Finance, General.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Health professionshas 23 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Public Health Education and Promotion.$25,096
Biologyhas 23 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Psychology has 22 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Psychology, General.$32,850
Educationhas 20 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.-
Communication has 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Mass Communication/Media Studies.-
Liberal arts has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
General Studies.-
Visual and Performing artshas 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Fine/Studio Arts, General.-
Social sciencehas 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.-
Physical scienceshas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Chemistry, General.-
Natural resources has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Environmental Studies.-
English has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
English Language and Literature, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Mathematics, General.-
History has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
History, General.-
Philosophy has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Philosophy.-
Foreign languages has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Spanish Language and Literature.-

Students

778 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 44:56 · Freshman retention 68.6%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (778)

White
338 · 43.4%
International
218 · 28.0%
Hispanic
105 · 13.5%
Black
48 · 6.2%
Two or more races
41 · 5.3%
Unknown
9 · 1.2%
Asian
7 · 0.9%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
2.7%
18–19
42.0%
20–21
39.2%
22–24
13.9%
25 and over
2.2%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at University of the Ozarks (2023)

The student composition at the University of the Ozarks for the year 2023 presents an interesting demographic landscape. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 229 students, with a gender distribution of approximately 46.7% male and 53.3% female. This slight female majority reflects a broader trend seen in many colleges across the United States, where female enrollment often surpasses that of males.

For undergraduate continuing students, the numbers increase significantly to 483, maintaining a balanced gender ratio of 47.2% male and 52.8% female. This consistency in gender distribution suggests that the university fosters an inclusive environment that appeals to a diverse student body. However, the undergraduate transfer students, numbered at 55, show a notable shift with 60% male and only 40% female, indicating a potential area of focus for future recruitment strategies aimed at balancing gender representation.

Additionally, the presence of 17 non-degree seeking students, primarily female at 64.7%, highlights the university's engagement with community members and those seeking education without pursuing a traditional degree path. This could be indicative of a growing trend where individuals seek lifelong learning opportunities.

Overall, the demographic data reflects a commitment to diversity and inclusion at the University of the Ozarks, although the university may want to consider initiatives to attract more male students in the transfer category and bolster recruitment efforts for women in the undergraduate transfer student population. As educational institutions continue to evolve in response to societal shifts, understanding these dynamics will be crucial for maintaining a balanced and equitable student body.

Analysis of Student Age Distribution at University of the Ozarks 2023

The age distribution data from University of the Ozarks presents a clear picture of the student demographic for 2023. Notably, the majority of students fall within the 18-19 and 20-21 age groups, comprising approximately 43% and 33% of the total female and male student population, respectively. This trend reflects a typical pattern in higher education institutions, where recent high school graduates are the primary demographic.

Interestingly, the number of students aged 22-24 shows a significant drop, particularly among female undergraduates, with only 39 females in this age bracket compared to 82 males. This discrepancy suggests that younger female students are opting for higher education in greater numbers or that older students may be pursuing different paths or delaying their education, a phenomenon that has been observed nationally.

As we move into older age brackets, the numbers dwindle drastically. The 25-29 age group has just 6 male and 4 female students, indicating that mature students are a minority at the university. This is consistent with national trends where younger students dominate college enrollments.

Moreover, the data reveals a complete absence of graduate males, which raises questions about the university's appeal or resources for male graduate students. This could warrant further investigation to understand the underlying causes.

Overall, the student age composition at the University of the Ozarks indicates a youthful demographic, reflective of broader trends in higher education, while also highlighting potential areas for growth, particularly among older students and male graduate populations.

International Students

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

Undergraduates28.0%

218 in 2025 · 11.7% in 2016

0% 17.5% 35% 2016: 11.7%2017: 14.0%2018: 19.3%2019: 21.1%2020: 25.8%2021: 28.0%2022: 29.1%2023: 27.7%2024: 27.9%2025: 28.0%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at the University of the Ozarks

The data on international student enrollment at the University of the Ozarks reveals significant trends over the years, particularly in the undergraduate segment. From 2004 to 2023, the proportion of international students among undergraduates has shown a noteworthy increase. Initially, in 2004, international students constituted approximately 15.5% of the undergraduate population. However, this figure has risen sharply to nearly 27.7% by 2023.

This increase can be attributed to various factors, including the university's growing reputation as an inclusive institution and its strategic initiatives to attract a diverse student body. The spike in enrollment from 2020 onwards, where international student representation peaked at 27.99% in 2021, highlights the university's successful outreach and support mechanisms for international students, even amidst the global challenges posed by the pandemic.

Interestingly, while the data provides a clear picture of undergraduate enrollment, there is a noticeable lack of information regarding graduate student statistics during the same period. The absence of data for graduate students might suggest either a stable or declining trend, but without concrete figures, it is challenging to make a definitive assessment.

Overall, the increasing percentage of international students at the undergraduate level reflects broader trends in higher education, where institutions strive to foster multicultural environments. This not only enriches the educational experience for all students but also prepares them for a globalized workforce. The University of the Ozarks seems to be on a positive trajectory in this regard, positioning itself as a welcoming destination for international scholars.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$35,553

Undergraduate tuition
$25,950
Room and board
$9,603
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 6% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 35%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$40.9M

Gifts and private grants
$11.7M28.6%
Investment return
$10.7M26.1%
Tuition and fees
$8.5M20.8%
Auxiliary enterprises
$4.1M10.0%
Government grants and contracts
$1.6M3.9%
Other
$4.3M10.6%

Expenses$37.3M

Institutional support
$12.5M33.4%
Instruction
$11.5M30.8%
Auxiliary enterprises
$5.5M14.8%
Student services
$5.1M13.8%
Academic support
$2.7M7.2%

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
$56,080peers $65,931
Professor
$63,804peers $77,501
Associate professor
$58,044peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$56,281peers $61,725
Instructor
$40,837peers $53,914

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Other · Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference

Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer2924
Baseball41-
Basketball2215
Wrestling37-
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)1618
Softball-25
Tennis149
Other Sports175
Swimming and Diving (combined)-15
Swimming11-
2024
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer3226
Wrestling3810
Baseball43-
Basketball2517
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)2311
Softball-24
Tennis128
Other Sports154
Swimming and Diving (combined)-16
Swimming6-
2023
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer3430
Wrestling4116
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)2627
Basketball2819
Baseball43-
Swimming and Diving (combined)814
Tennis1111
Softball-21
Other Sports--

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools near the University of the Ozarks:

  1. University of Arkansas (Rank: 178) - A comprehensive university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  2. University of Tulsa (Rank: 195) - Known for its strong liberal arts curriculum and a variety of professional programs.

  3. Missouri University of Science and Technology (Rank: 185) - Specializes in engineering, technology, and applied sciences, offering robust research opportunities.

  4. Rhodes College (Rank: 56) - A highly regarded liberal arts college known for its rigorous academics and beautiful campus.

  5. University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus (Rank: 124) - Offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs with a strong emphasis on research.

  6. Washington University in St Louis (Rank: 24) - A prestigious institution recognized for its research, healthcare, and business programs.

These institutions provide a variety of academic programs and opportunities 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

Liquor referrals
37
Drug referrals
27
Fondling
6
Weapons referrals
3
Rape
2
Stalking
2

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

Data insights

Analysis of Campus Crime Rates at the University of the Ozarks

The crime statistics from the University of the Ozarks over the past decade reveal a fluctuating trend in campus safety. The data indicates a peak in crime rates in 2013 and 2020, with notable spikes in certain years, while also showing a significant decrease in recent years. For instance, the crime rate was at 21.88 incidents per 1000 students in 2013, but has seen a dramatic decline to 5.10 incidents per 1000 students by 2023.

A closer look at specific crimes shows a concerning issue with gun-related arrests, which, although not quantified in recent years, reflects broader national concerns regarding gun violence on college campuses. The reduction in arrests related to drugs and alcohol in the last few years suggests a potential shift in student behavior or improved campus policies aimed at mitigating substance abuse.

The decline in overall crime rates, particularly in 2022 and 2023, may reflect effective safety measures implemented by the university. However, the data also underscores the importance of ongoing vigilance and community engagement in ensuring campus safety.

This trend mirrors national conversations around campus safety, particularly in light of recent incidents reported in the news. It is crucial for educational institutions to continually assess and adapt their safety measures to foster an environment where students feel secure. In conclusion, the University of the Ozarks has made commendable progress in reducing campus crime, yet the focus must remain on maintaining and improving safety protocols to address any emerging challenges.

For further insights on crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of University of the Ozarks include Zilphia Horton (Musician, civil rights activist and folklorist), William Frank Norrell (Arkansas lawyer and U.S. representative) and Richard Horner Thompson (United States Army general).

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.