Skip to content
U.S. News #184 Private nonprofit, 4-year

Williams Baptist University

Walnut Ridge, Arkansas · williamsbaptistuniversity.com

中文

U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027

#184

Acceptance rate

83.4%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$21,070

$30,410 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

495

Student-faculty ratio 14:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

32.1%

4-year; 6-year rate 45.0%

Peer median 45.1%

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

About

Williams Baptist University (WBU) is a distinguished Christian liberal arts institution located in Walnut Ridge, Arkansas. Founded in 1941, the university is known for its strong emphasis on integrating faith and learning, promoting a holistic approach to education. WBU’s motto, “To Seek, To Know, To Serve,” underscores its commitment to academic excellence and community service, reflecting the values of the Baptist tradition. The campus is characterized by a vibrant Christian community, fostering an environment where students are encouraged to grow spiritually, intellectually, and socially.

The university offers a range of undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including business, education, and the arts, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education. WBU places a strong emphasis on faculty-student interaction, with a low student-to-faculty ratio that allows for personalized attention and mentorship. The campus is equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas, providing students with ample resources to enhance their learning experience. In addition to academics, WBU has a robust athletics program, with various sports teams that encourage student participation and promote physical fitness. The university’s emphasis on community service and outreach prepares graduates to be thoughtful leaders and engaged citizens in a global society, contributing to their high employment rates post-graduation.

Analysis of Key Trends at Williams Baptist University

The data from Williams Baptist University reveals significant trends, particularly in tuition costs, student enrollment, and graduation rates. Over the years, tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has steadily increased. In 2014, the tuition was $13,750, and by 2024, it is projected to reach $20,330. This represents a notable rise of approximately 47.3% over a decade, which could impact students' decisions to enroll, especially in an era where student debt is a growing concern.

Another critical observation is the fluctuation in student enrollment numbers. The undergraduate student population peaked at 604 in 2022 but decreased to 562 by 2023. This decline may be influenced by the rising tuition costs and possibly a decrease in the perceived value of the education provided. Such trends often necessitate institutions to reevaluate their recruitment strategies and the overall student experience to enhance appeal.

Graduation rates have also shown variability, with the on-time graduation rate hovering around 29.3% in 2023, which is a slight decline from previous years. This stagnation in graduation rates, juxtaposed with increasing tuition, raises concerns about the university's ability to support students adequately throughout their academic journey. A lower graduation rate can lead to decreased satisfaction and retention, further impacting enrollment figures.

Lastly, the male-to-female ratio in the undergraduate population has exhibited some fluctuation, with female students consistently outnumbering male students over the years. As of 2023, females accounted for approximately 53.0% of the undergraduate population, reflecting broader trends in higher education where female enrollment often surpasses that of males.

In summary, Williams Baptist University faces challenges in managing rising tuition costs, fluctuating enrollment numbers, and graduation rates that warrant attention. Addressing these issues will be crucial for maintaining its relevance and ensuring the success of its students.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Rural, distant
Nearest major city
Memphis, about 90 mi
Nearest international airport
Frederick W. Smith International Airport (MEM), about 90 mi
Walnut Ridge, Arkansas
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Southern Baptist
President
Dr. Stan Norman (President)
Phone
8708866741
City
Walnut Ridge, Arkansas
Address
60 W Fulbright Avenue, Walnut Ridge, AR 72476

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

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

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
80.3%
Women
85.1%

In 2020: men 56.3%, women 60.7%.

U.S. News Liberal Arts Colleges · last 10 years
#184Ranked #184 every year from 2027 to 2027

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Williams Baptist University

The admission data from Williams Baptist University over the years reflects a dynamic landscape in college enrollment and acceptance rates for both male and female applicants. Notably, the male acceptance rate has shown fluctuations, peaking at approximately 66% in 2010 and declining to about 55% in 2019. This downward trend in acceptance rates for males may indicate increased selectivity or a rise in applications, which aligns with national trends where many universities are becoming more competitive.
Conversely, the female acceptance rate has generally remained higher than that of males, with a notable peak of around 74% in 2015. This gender disparity in acceptance rates raises questions about the university's admission strategies, potentially aiming to balance enrollment or promote inclusivity among genders.
The enrollment numbers also reveal varying trends, with a peak of 220 students in 2021, despite the overall increase in rejection numbers. The university faced a significant challenge during the COVID-19 pandemic, as reflected in the high number of denied applications in 2020, which might have been a consequence of more applicants seeking higher education during uncertain times.
Moreover, the number of deferred admissions has steadily increased, indicating that a portion of accepted students are choosing to postpone their enrollment, possibly due to the economic impacts of the pandemic or personal circumstances.
Overall, while Williams Baptist University continues to attract a significant number of applicants, the changing acceptance rates and enrollment figures suggest a need for ongoing evaluation of admission policies and strategies to ensure a balanced and diverse student body.

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 1% submitted SAT, 95% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

ACT composite16–21
ACT composite
16–21
253036

Data insights

Trends in Admission Test Submissions at Williams Baptist University

Over the years, Williams Baptist University has witnessed notable trends in the submission of standardized test scores, specifically the SAT and ACT. The percentage of students submitting ACT scores has remained impressively high, peaking at 100% in multiple years, indicating a strong preference among applicants for this assessment. This consistent trend could reflect the institution's emphasis on ACT performance as a significant criterion for admissions.

In contrast, SAT submission rates have fluctuated, with a stark decline in the number of submissions, particularly in the most recent years. For instance, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores dropped to merely 5% in 2023. This decline could be attributed to a growing trend of colleges moving towards test-optional policies, allowing students to apply without standardized test scores. As more institutions adopt this approach, students may feel less compelled to submit SAT scores, thereby affecting the overall submission statistics.

Moreover, the score ranges for both SAT and ACT show a wide variability, with the SAT reading and math scores not being reported consistently, making it challenging to assess trends in academic preparedness among admitted students. However, the reported ACT scores indicate a range that suggests a diverse applicant pool, with a significant portion of students performing within competitive percentiles.

This evolving landscape of standardized testing reflects broader changes in higher education admissions, where universities are increasingly considering holistic review processes. As Williams Baptist University continues to adapt to these changes, it will be crucial to monitor how these trends influence future enrollment strategies and student demographics.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 8 in 10

609 applicants in 2025, 83.4% admitted

508 admitted 101 not admitted Yield 28.9%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate30 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's11513 international (11.3%)
Master's50 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
22
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General
14
Finance, General
11
Business Administration and Management, General
11
Counseling Psychology
11
Psychology, General
8
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
8
Bible/Biblical Studies
7
Elementary Education and Teaching
6
Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching
4

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other · Master's5 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Williams Baptist University

The graduation data from Williams Baptist University reveals interesting trends in the distribution of degrees awarded across various disciplines for the year 2023. Notably, the most significant number of bachelor's degrees was conferred in Liberal Arts and Sciences, with 19 graduates, indicating a strong interest in interdisciplinary studies. Psychology follows closely with 15 graduates, reflecting the growing recognition of mental health and behavioral sciences in contemporary society.

A noteworthy observation is the presence of international students, particularly in the field of Psychology, where one international student graduated with a bachelor's degree. This points to the university's appeal to a diverse student body, which is essential for fostering a global perspective in education. Moreover, the data shows a complete absence of master's and doctoral degrees awarded in most disciplines, suggesting that the university may primarily focus on undergraduate education or that graduate programs are either underdeveloped or not widely pursued.

In terms of education-related fields, the data indicates a robust output, with a total of 19 graduates across various education programs, albeit mostly at the undergraduate level. This aligns with the ongoing demand for qualified educators in the United States, particularly in light of recent educational reforms and the emphasis on quality teaching.

The absence of graduates in certain categories, particularly master's and doctoral levels, could reflect broader trends in higher education, where completion rates for advanced degrees can be significantly lower due to various factors, including financial constraints and the time commitment required.

Overall, this data portrays Williams Baptist University as an institution primarily dedicated to undergraduate education, with an increasing international presence that could enhance the learning environment and contribute to a more diverse academic community.

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

Liberal arts has 25 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.$31,309
Businesshas 25 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.-
Finance, General.-
Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other.-
Psychology has 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Psychology, General.-
Counseling Psychology.-
Educationhas 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching.-
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other.-
English/Language Arts Teacher Education.-
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.-
History Teacher Education.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General.-
Biologyhas 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Theology has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Bible/Biblical Studies.-
History has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
History, General.-
English has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-
Social sciencehas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Political Science and Government, Other.-

Students

517 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 50:50 · Freshman retention 70.1%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (495)

White
371 · 74.9%
Black
47 · 9.5%
International
42 · 8.5%
Hispanic
17 · 3.4%
Two or more races
9 · 1.8%
Asian
3 · 0.6%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Williams Baptist University in 2023

The student body at Williams Baptist University in 2023 reflects a diverse demographic landscape, particularly among undergraduate students. Freshmen represent a significant portion of the student population with 144 individuals, where the gender ratio shows a higher enrollment of female students at 59%. This trend indicates an increasing appeal of higher education for women, aligning with national statistics that demonstrate a growing number of female college students.

Among upperclassmen, the total number rises to 368, with a more balanced gender distribution of approximately 48% male and 52% female students. This slight shift towards female representation may suggest a cultural change in the academic environment, fostering inclusivity and support for all genders.

The transfer student demographic, consisting of 44 individuals, demonstrates a higher male representation at 59%. This could reflect the unique needs and motivations of transfer students, who often seek specific academic programs or lifestyle changes that resonate with their personal goals.

Graduate students, although fewer in number at 22, show a significant female majority at 64%, underscoring the trend of women pursuing advanced degrees. This trend is increasingly common across various fields of study, as women continue to break barriers in traditionally male-dominated disciplines.

The overall diversity among these groups, particularly in terms of ethnicity, is noteworthy, with a large proportion of white students dominating the demographics. However, the presence of other ethnic groups, including Asian, Latinx, and African American students, highlights the university's gradual movement towards a more inclusive educational environment.

In summary, Williams Baptist University showcases a dynamic and evolving student demographic in 2023, with noticeable trends in gender representation and a commitment to fostering diversity within its academic community. These trends are pivotal for shaping the future educational landscape and ensuring equitable opportunities for all students.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Williams Baptist University in 2023

The age distribution of students at Williams Baptist University in 2023 reveals a youthful demographic, predominantly composed of traditional college-age students. The largest group, aged 18-19, includes 97 male undergraduates and 146 female undergraduates, indicating a strong presence of younger students. This trend continues with the 20-21 age bracket, which shows a similar distribution with 115 male undergraduates and 119 female undergraduates.

As we move into the 22-24 age range, there is a notable decline in male undergraduates, dropping to 65, while the female undergraduates remain significantly lower at 32. This indicates a possible trend where younger students are more likely to pursue their undergraduate degrees immediately after high school, while older students may be opting for part-time study or entering the workforce before continuing their education.

The presence of graduate students in the 22-24 age group is minimal, with only a few males and females enrolled. Interestingly, the age groups of 25-29 and above show a slight increase in graduate students, suggesting that older adults are returning to education for advanced degrees, a trend seen across many universities as lifelong learning becomes increasingly valued in today’s economy.

The overall gender distribution shows a higher number of female students compared to male students across all age groups, reflecting broader trends in higher education where women have been enrolling in greater numbers than men. This data signifies the changing landscape of higher education and the importance of catering to diverse age groups and gender identities within academic institutions.

International Students

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

Undergraduates8.5%

42 in 2025 · 2.6% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 2.6%2017: 4.1%2018: 4.9%2019: 7.1%2020: 7.0%2021: 4.9%2022: 7.5%2023: 7.7%2024: 6.3%2025: 8.5%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025
Graduate students0.0%

0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2018

0% 5% 10% 2018: 0.0%2019: 0.0%2020: 0.0%2021: 0.0%2022: 4.0%2023: 0.0%2024: 0.0%2025: 0.0%
2018Peer median 1.0%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Williams Baptist University

The data on international student enrollment at Williams Baptist University reveals a significant trend over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of undergraduate international students has shown a remarkable increase. Starting with just two international students in 2004, the numbers rose to 45 by 2022, maintaining a robust count of 43 in 2023. This growth is reflected in the percentage of international students, which climbed from a mere 0.31% in 2004 to an impressive 7.65% in 2023.

This upward trend can be attributed to several factors, including the increasing globalization of higher education, the university's efforts to attract a more diverse student body, and possibly changes in immigration policies that have made studying in the U.S. more accessible for international students.

Furthermore, the data indicates a peak in international student enrollment during 2019 with 34 students, which corresponds to 7.10% of the undergraduate population. The subsequent years demonstrated resilience, as the university continued to attract international students despite challenges posed by the global pandemic.

However, the data for graduate students remains incomplete, making it difficult to assess the overall trend in this demographic. The solitary figure for 2022 indicates a small proportion of graduate international students, suggesting that there may be more opportunities for growth in this area.

In conclusion, Williams Baptist University has successfully cultivated a growing international presence among its undergraduate students, reflecting broader trends in higher education while also highlighting areas that could be further developed, particularly at the graduate level.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$30,410

Undergraduate tuition
$21,070
Room and board
$9,340
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 28% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 29%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$11.5M

Auxiliary enterprises
$3.0M25.7%
Tuition and fees
$2.8M24.3%
Gifts and private grants
$2.3M20.0%
Investment return
$811K7.0%
Other
$2.6M23.0%

Expenses$13.0M

Institutional support
$3.7M28.6%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.7M28.1%
Student services
$2.7M21.0%
Instruction
$2.2M16.7%
Academic support
$627K4.8%
Other
$102K0.8%

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
$50,131peers $65,931
Professor
$58,731peers $77,501
Associate professor
$55,335peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$49,209peers $61,725
Instructor
$40,082peers $53,914

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · American Midwest Conference

American Midwest Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division I MENWOMEN
Soccer4220
Basketball3228
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)2330
Baseball51-
Softball-22
Golf114
Volleyball-14
Wrestling9-
2024
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Basketball4032
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)3829
Baseball56-
Soccer3415
Softball-33
Wrestling19-
Volleyball-12
Golf74
Swimming73
Other Sports--
2023
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)4038
Basketball3029
Soccer4018
Baseball46-
Softball-32
Golf148
Volleyball-17
Wrestling16-
Swimming44
Other Sports--

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools surrounding Williams Baptist University:

  1. Rhodes College - Ranked 56 in the 2024 US News rankings, Rhodes College is a liberal arts college known for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life.

  2. University of Memphis - With a ranking of 269, the University of Memphis offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its research contributions.

  3. Missouri University of Science and Technology - Ranked 185, this university specializes in engineering, technology, and applied sciences, providing students with practical skills and knowledge.

  4. University of Mississippi - Also known as Ole Miss, this university is ranked 163 and is recognized for its strong programs in law, business, and the humanities.

  5. Vanderbilt University - A prestigious institution ranked 18, Vanderbilt is known for its strong emphasis on research and a wide array of academic disciplines.

  6. University of Arkansas - Ranked 178, the University of Arkansas offers a comprehensive range of programs and is known for its contributions to research and education in the region.

These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and contribute significantly to the academic landscape surrounding Williams Baptist University.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

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

Incidents, 2023–2025

Drug referrals
6
Liquor referrals
6
Burglary
2

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Trends at Williams Baptist University

The crime statistics for Williams Baptist University over the past decade reveal a troubling trend, particularly in the years 2017 and 2019, where the average crime rates per 1,000 students spiked significantly, reaching 29.42 and 30.24, respectively. These figures represent a concerning rise in on-campus safety issues, especially when compared to the 2013 rate of just 2.12. The types of offenses contributing to this surge include weapons-related arrests and drug-related incidents, which indicate a potentially serious underlying issue.

Interestingly, the years following the peak in 2019 saw a decline in crime rates, with 2020 showing a decrease to 2.55 and 2021 dropping even further to 1.62. This reduction could be attributed to various factors, including increased safety measures, community awareness programs, or a temporary shift in student behavior during the pandemic. The fluctuations in crime rates highlight the dynamic nature of campus safety and the need for continuous monitoring and proactive measures.

Moreover, the absence of violent crimes such as murder and rape in the reported years provides a silver lining, suggesting that while property and drug crimes have increased, more severe offenses have remained relatively low. However, the rise in domestic violence and stalking incidents remains a critical concern, necessitating comprehensive support systems for affected individuals.

In conclusion, while Williams Baptist University has seen a notable decline in crime rates in recent years, the spikes in certain offenses call for ongoing vigilance and community engagement to ensure a safe environment for all students. For more information on crime rate calculations, please refer to the following 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.