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U.S. News #184 Public, 4-year

Fort Lewis College

Durango, Colorado · fortlewis.edu

中文

U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027

#184

Acceptance rate

77.3%

2025

Peer median 80.5%

Out-of-state tuition

$21,526

In-state $9,958

Peer median $17,955

Undergraduates

3,392

Student-faculty ratio 14:1

Peer median 14 : 1

Graduation rate

26.9%

4-year; 6-year rate 38.8%

Peer median 26.9%

“Peers” are all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Fort Lewis College, located in Durango, Colorado, is a public liberal arts college renowned for its stunning mountain scenery and commitment to experiential learning. Established in 1911, the college offers a unique educational environment with an emphasis on outdoor activities and community engagement. The picturesque campus, nestled in the San Juan Mountains, provides students with ample opportunities for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor pursuits, which significantly enrich the student experience. The college's motto, "Educating for a Changing World," reflects its dedication to providing a well-rounded education that prepares students for the challenges of the modern world.

The college is known for its diverse range of undergraduate programs, with a strong focus on environmental studies, engineering, and business. Fort Lewis College prides itself on its small class sizes and personalized attention from faculty members, allowing for a more intimate learning atmosphere. The college also boasts a vibrant campus culture, with numerous clubs, organizations, and events that foster a strong sense of community. Additionally, with its commitment to sustainability and outdoor recreation, Fort Lewis College stands out as a leader in promoting environmental stewardship among its students. With a focus on both academic excellence and personal growth, Fort Lewis College continues to prepare its graduates for successful careers and fulfilling lives.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Fort Lewis College

Fort Lewis College has shown significant changes across several key metrics from 2014 to 2024, reflecting both challenges and progress in higher education. One of the most striking trends is the increase in tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. In-state tuition has risen from $6,923 in 2014 to $9,670 in 2024, representing an increase of approximately 40%. Similarly, out-of-state tuition climbed from $17,763 to $20,798, a rise of about 17%. This upward trend in costs raises concerns about affordability and access for prospective students and their families.

Another important metric is the graduation rate, which has seen a positive trajectory. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates increased from approximately 19.5% in 2013 to nearly 29.4% in 2023. This improvement suggests that more students are completing their degrees within the standard timeframe, which is crucial for their future employability and financial stability.

Retention rates also reflect a mixed performance. After peaking at about 68.1% in 2021, retention dipped to approximately 59.5% in 2023. This decline indicates that while some students are succeeding, a notable number are not continuing their education, which could be linked to the rising tuition costs and other socioeconomic factors.

Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 14 to 21 students per faculty member over the last decade. This stability is vital as it can impact the quality of education and the level of student support available.

In summary, while Fort Lewis College has made strides in graduation rates, the increasing tuition and declining retention rates highlight critical areas that need attention to ensure the institution remains accessible and supportive for its student population.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Distant town
Nearest major city
Albuquerque, about 160 mi
Nearest international airport
Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), about 170 mi
Durango, Colorado
Also known as
FLC
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Steve Schwartz (President)
Phone
9702477010
City
Durango, Colorado
Address
1000 Rim Drive, Durango, CO 81301-3999

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 80.5% · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
77.0%
Women
77.6%

In 2020: men 90.8%, women 91.7%.

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

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Fort Lewis College

The admission data from Fort Lewis College provides an interesting insight into the evolving landscape of higher education admissions over the years. Notably, the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants have shown significant fluctuations, indicating changing dynamics in the applicant pool and institutional policies. For instance, the male acceptance rate peaked at approximately 92.3% in 2022, while the female acceptance rate reached about 93.1%, showcasing a trend toward higher inclusivity.
The number of enrolled students also varies, with a notable increase in 2022 to 960 students, the highest in the observed period. This surge could be attributed to various factors, including enhanced outreach efforts and the institution's increasing reputation, as reflected in its ranking. The college's rankings have remained relatively stable, which is relevant as prospective students often consider these rankings when making their college choices.
Moreover, the rejection numbers provide insight into the competitiveness of the admissions process. For instance, in 2013, the college faced its lowest rejection rate, with only 349 denials, suggesting a possible strategic shift towards a more open admissions approach during that time. Conversely, the data from 2023 indicates a rising number of denials, which may reflect a growing applicant pool coupled with limited enrollment capacity.
Overall, Fort Lewis College's admission trends illustrate the complexities of higher education admissions, where institutions must balance accessibility with quality and institutional goals. As the college continues to adapt to shifting educational landscapes and demographic changes, these trends will be crucial for future strategic planning and outreach initiatives.

School and Program Rankings

U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking

Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition

Business School#439▲17
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—

Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 9% submitted SAT, 11% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total1010–1210Peer median 1100
ACT composite18–26
SAT Reading
505–605
600700800
SAT Math
505–605
600700800
ACT composite
18–26
253036

Data insights

Trends in Admissions and Standardized Test Scores at Fort Lewis College

The data from Fort Lewis College reveals notable trends in standardized test score submissions and the corresponding performance metrics over the years. From 2007 to 2023, the percentage of admitted students submitting SAT scores has shown a general decline, from 28% in 2007 down to just 19% in 2023. This trend may reflect a broader shift in college admissions practices, where many institutions are moving towards test-optional policies and placing greater emphasis on holistic review processes.

In terms of scores, the range of SAT Reading and Math scores submitted by the top 25% of admitted students has fluctuated, with the high end of the range peaking at 640 in 2023. This suggests that while the overall number of applicants submitting SAT scores has decreased, those who do submit are performing competitively. The gradual increase in the lower end of the SAT score range over the years indicates that the college is maintaining a commitment to academic excellence, even as the landscape of admissions evolves.

Interestingly, the ACT composite scores have also shown variability, mirroring the changes seen in SAT submissions. The data indicates that the college is attracting a diverse range of applicants, with varying levels of academic preparedness.

Overall, Fort Lewis College appears to be navigating the changing tides of college admissions with a balanced approach, adapting to both the needs of prospective students and the expectations of academic rigor. As many colleges are reevaluating the role of standardized testing, Fort Lewis College's data suggests a proactive adaptation to these trends, ensuring that it remains an attractive option for future students.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 8 in 10

4,986 applicants in 2025, 77.3% admitted

3,854 admitted 1,132 not admitted Yield 19.5%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's5232 international (0.4%)
Master's320 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business/Commerce, General
58
Exercise Science and Kinesiology
41
Psychology, General
38
Environmental Studies
34
Fine/Studio Arts, General
24
Sociology, General
23
English Language and Literature, General
21
Criminology
20
Computer/Information Technology Services Administration and Management, Other
18
Chemistry, General
17

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Education, General · Master's17 (0% international)
  • Educational Administration and Supervision, Other · Master's8 (0% international)
  • Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's7 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Fort Lewis College

The graduation data from Fort Lewis College for 2023 reveals some insightful trends across various disciplines. Notably, the Business/Commerce program stands out with the highest number of graduates, totaling 73. This aligns with national trends indicating a sustained interest in business-related degrees, likely due to the diverse career opportunities they offer in a rapidly changing economy. Similarly, Psychology also has a significant number of graduates, with 54 individuals completing their studies, reflecting the increasing importance of mental health awareness and the demand for professionals in this field.

Interestingly, the fields of Education show a unique pattern. While there are no graduates from the undergraduate level this year, there are several master’s graduates in education, suggesting a shift in focus towards advanced qualifications. This is particularly relevant in the current climate where educational standards and requirements are evolving, necessitating further specialization among educators.

Another noteworthy observation is the lack of international students graduating from various programs, particularly in business and psychology. This could indicate potential barriers to entry for international students or a shift in enrollment patterns, which may need addressing to enhance the college's diversity.

Furthermore, the presence of graduates in less conventional fields, such as Outdoor Education and Environmental Studies, indicates a growing recognition of the importance of sustainability and experiential learning. This aligns with global trends towards environmental awareness and outdoor recreation, suggesting that these programs may continue to grow in popularity in the coming years.

In conclusion, the data illustrates a dynamic landscape of higher education at Fort Lewis College, reflecting broader societal trends and the shifting demands of the job market. The emphasis on advanced degrees in education and the robust performance of business and psychology programs highlight the college's adaptability and responsiveness to these trends.

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 85 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business/Commerce, General.$46,841
Accounting.$55,547
Business/Managerial Economics.-
Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.$44,581
Social sciencehas 72 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Anthropology, General.$32,586
Criminology.-
Economics, General.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.$36,809
Parks, recreation, leisure has 65 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.$36,032
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.$36,032
Outdoor Education.$30,117
Educationhas 50 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Education, General.-
Educational Administration and Supervision, Other.-
Special Education and Teaching, General.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.$40,012
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.$40,012
Education, Other.-
Natural resources has 49 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Environmental Studies.$35,638
Environmental Science.$35,638
Psychology has 38 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$33,831
Visual and Performing artshas 33 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Musical Theatre.-
Fine/Studio Arts, General.$39,045
Music, General.-
Biologyhas 31 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$33,499
Cell/Cellular and Molecular Biology.-
Environmental Biology.-
Health professionshas 27 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General.-
Public Health, General.$39,265
Physical scienceshas 27 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.-
Geology/Earth Science, General.-
Physics, General.-
English has 21 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.$34,740
Engineeringhas 20 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Engineering, General.$66,506
Computer Engineering, General.-
Computer and information sciencehas 18 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Computer/Information Technology Services Administration and Management, Other.-
History has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
History, General.-
Cultural has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
American Indian/Native American Studies.-
Women's Studies.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-
Philosophy has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Philosophy.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Intercultural/Multicultural and Diversity Studies.-
Foreign languages has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Foreign Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, Other.-

Students

3,544 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 47:53 · Freshman retention 66.1%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,392)

White
1,564 · 46.1%
Hispanic
500 · 14.7%
Two or more races
369 · 10.9%
Black
53 · 1.6%
International
33 · 1.0%
Unknown
32 · 0.9%
Asian
15 · 0.4%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Fort Lewis College in 2023

The student composition at Fort Lewis College for the year 2023 presents a diverse landscape, particularly in terms of gender and ethnicity. Among undergraduate freshmen, there are 849 students, with 45.1% identifying as male and 54.9% as female, indicating a healthy gender balance, albeit with a slight female majority. This trend continues among undergraduate seniors, where the distribution is similarly close with 45.5% male and 54.5% female representation, highlighting a consistent pattern across the undergraduate program.

In stark contrast, the graduate student body is predominantly female, with only 20.7% male representation, suggesting a growing trend of women pursuing advanced degrees at this institution. This aligns with national trends showing an increase in female graduate students, reflecting broader societal changes regarding education and gender roles.

When examining the ethnic backgrounds of these students, the majority are white, though specific percentages for other ethnic groups are not provided. It's noteworthy that the institution's demographic composition reflects ongoing conversations about diversity and inclusion in higher education. The presence of international students, though not quantified in the available data, is also an important factor contributing to the college's multicultural environment.

Overall, the data indicates a progressive shift towards gender parity in undergraduate programs and a notable female predominance in graduate studies, while also underlining the importance of fostering diversity among all student populations. As higher education institutions navigate these dynamics, they must remain committed to creating inclusive spaces that support students from various backgrounds.

Age Distribution Among Students at Fort Lewis College

The age distribution data of students at Fort Lewis College reveals interesting insights into the demographics of the student body. A significant majority of undergraduates fall within the 18-19 age group, with a total of 1,297 students, representing approximately 62% of the undergraduate population. This trend highlights the traditional college demographic, where younger students, typically fresh out of high school, make up a large portion of the student body.

As students progress in age, the numbers gradually decline, with the 20-21 age group totaling 945 students, and the 22-24 age group comprising 535 students. The decline continues as students age, with only 110 students aged 25-29 and fewer still in the older age brackets. Such a pattern is consistent with national trends showing a decreasing number of students pursuing higher education as they age, often due to career commitments or family responsibilities.

Interestingly, the data also shows that the gender distribution remains relatively balanced among younger students, but the proportion of female students starts to rise in the older age categories, particularly among graduate females. This could reflect an increasing trend of women returning to education later in life or pursuing advanced degrees.

Overall, the age composition at Fort Lewis College is indicative of broader societal patterns in education, showcasing a youthful demographic while also hinting at the potential for greater diversity in age as educational pathways evolve. As colleges adapt to changing student needs, understanding these dynamics will be crucial for fostering an inclusive environment for all age groups.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Undergraduates1.0%

33 in 2025 · 1.8% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.8%2017: 1.4%2018: 1.4%2019: 0.8%2020: 1.0%2021: 0.7%2022: 0.8%2023: 0.7%2024: 1.0%2025: 1.0%
2016Peer median 1.4%2025
Graduate students0.0%

0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 0.0%2018: 3.1%2019: 0.0%2020: 0.0%2021: 0.0%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.0%2024: 1.0%2025: 0.0%
2016Peer median 1.0%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Enrollment Trends at Fort Lewis College

The data regarding international student enrollment at Fort Lewis College reveals a concerning trend over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of international undergraduate students has shown a significant decline, decreasing from 64 to just 24 students. This represents a drop of over 62%, reflecting a downward trajectory in the percentage of international students within the undergraduate population, which fell from 1.53% to 0.73%.

This decline may be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the global pandemic has impacted international travel and education, leading many students to reconsider their study abroad plans. Additionally, political and economic conditions in the United States and around the world may have contributed to decreased interest in American institutions among international applicants.

The data for graduate students is also telling, although some figures are missing. The available data indicates that graduate enrollment saw a peak with 118 students in 2022, but the overall trend remains uncertain due to gaps in the data for earlier years. The fluctuation in the number of graduate international students may suggest a more volatile market for graduate programs, where specific fields could attract varying levels of interest.

In conclusion, the trends at Fort Lewis College underscore the need for institutions to actively promote their programs to international students. With increasing competition from universities around the world, strategic initiatives to enhance the appeal of studying in the U.S. could help reverse this downward trend in international enrollment.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$35,206

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$21,526
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$9,958
Room and board
$13,680
Graduate tuition
$11,466
Out-of-state tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $29,573 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Tuition rose 21% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 28%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$113M

Government grants and contracts
$39.6M34.9%
Auxiliary enterprises
$18.9M16.7%
Sales and services of educational activities
$15.0M13.2%
Tuition and fees
$14.6M12.9%
Gifts and private grants
$6.7M5.9%
Investment return
$2.7M2.4%
Other
$15.7M13.9%

Expenses$104M

Instruction
$31.3M30.2%
Auxiliary enterprises
$27.1M26.2%
Student services
$13.8M13.3%
Academic support
$11.0M10.6%
Public service
$8.2M7.9%
Institutional support
$7.6M7.3%
Scholarships
$2.3M2.2%
Research
$1.8M1.7%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

All faculty
$57,365peers $72,709
Professor
$87,679peers $91,112
Associate professor
$79,369peers $77,091
Assistant professor
$63,237peers $65,783
Instructor
$5,603peers $53,527
Lecturer
$52,745peers $60,650

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference

Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference: football, basketball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division II with footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)11682
Football122-
Soccer2836
Basketball1620
Lacrosse-26
Softball-23
Golf128
Volleyball-15
2024
NCAA Division II with footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)7987
Football129-
Soccer2832
Lacrosse-32
Basketball1614
Golf138
Softball-19
Volleyball-18
2023
NCAA Division II with footballMENWOMEN
Football108-
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)5350
Soccer2230
Basketball1615
Lacrosse-25
Softball-24
Golf108
Volleyball-15

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some noteworthy schools surrounding Fort Lewis College:

  1. United States Air Force Academy - Ranked 7th in the 2024 US News rankings, this prestigious academy is known for its rigorous academic programs and military training.

  2. Colorado College - With a rank of 33, Colorado College is a liberal arts college that emphasizes a unique Block Plan, allowing students to immerse themselves in one subject at a time.

  3. University of Colorado Boulder - Ranked 105th, this large public research university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its vibrant campus life.

  4. University of Denver - This university is ranked 124th and offers a strong emphasis on research and professional development, with a beautiful campus situated in the heart of Denver.

  5. Colorado School of Mines - With a focus on engineering and applied sciences, this school ranks 76th and is known for its strong programs in energy and environmental sustainability.

These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and contribute to the rich academic environment surrounding Fort Lewis College.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.9 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
360
Drug referrals
101
Liquor arrests
23
Dating violence
19
Rape
13
Domestic violence
11

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Fort Lewis College

The crime rate data from Fort Lewis College over the years presents an intriguing trend that reflects both a decrease in overall incidents and fluctuations in specific categories of crime. From 2013 to 2023, the average number of crimes per 1,000 students has notably decreased, dropping from 49.81 to 19.06. This decline suggests that the campus environment may be becoming safer for students, which is a positive sign for both current and prospective students.

Particularly noteworthy is the significant drop in incidents related to domestic violence, which points to effective interventions and strategies being put in place to address such issues. In 2021, the rate fell to a mere 11.65, indicating a successful effort in reducing these troubling occurrences. However, the data also show some fluctuations in other categories like drug-related arrests and alcohol-related offenses, which may require continuous monitoring and proactive measures.

The spike in 2015, where the crime rate reached 59.88, raises concerns and suggests that specific years may have faced unique challenges. It would be beneficial for the college administration to analyze these peaks further to understand underlying factors and prevent future spikes.

Overall, the downward trend in crime rates is encouraging, but it serves as a reminder that vigilance and ongoing efforts are necessary to maintain a safe campus atmosphere. The data underscores the importance of continuous assessment of campus safety strategies to ensure they remain effective in the face of changing circumstances.

For more information on crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Fort Lewis College include Linden Ashby (Actor in Melrose Place and Teen Wolf), Nicco Montaño (First UFC Women's Flyweight Champion) and Scott Tipton (Former U.S. representative for Colorado).

More alumni (6, by field)

Politics and law

  • Rachel Roberts 1973–

    Member of the Kentucky House of Representatives

  • Sal Pace 1976–

    Former Colorado House minority leader

Science and academia

  • Marcy Barge 1950–

    Mathematics professor at Montana State University

    Bachelor of Arts · Class of 1972

    Also attended: University of Colorado Boulder

Arts and media

  • Cordelia Candelaria 1943–

    Educator and writer

    Also attended: University of Notre Dame

  • Elizabeth Morley Cowles 1925–2009

    Newspaper publisher, editor and women's rights activist

Sports

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.