Luther Rice College & Seminary
Acceptance rate
91.7%
2025
Peer median 81.8%
Tuition per year
$11,320
$30,312 with room and board
Peer median $11,500
Undergraduates
176
Student-faculty ratio 9:1
Peer median 12 : 1
“Peers” are all 235 private faith-related institutions in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Luther Rice College & Seminary, located in Lithonia, Georgia, is a distinguished institution dedicated to the education and training of Christian leaders. Founded in 1962, the college and seminary is named after the notable Baptist preacher and theologian, Luther Rice. The institution is committed to providing a biblically-based education that emphasizes the importance of spiritual growth alongside academic excellence. The school's mission statement reflects its dedication to preparing students for effective ministry and leadership in various contexts, focusing on the importance of character development and ethical leadership.
In terms of facilities, Luther Rice College & Seminary offers a range of resources to support its students' educational journeys. The campus is equipped with modern classrooms, a library with a comprehensive collection of theological resources, and spaces for fellowship and community engagement. The faculty at Luther Rice is composed of experienced educators and practitioners who bring a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience to the classroom. This combination of academic rigor and practical application fosters a rich learning environment for students pursuing degrees in theology, ministry, and related fields. Additionally, the college promotes a vibrant campus culture that encourages service, fellowship, and personal growth, making it an ideal place for students to thrive both academically and spiritually.
Analysis of Key Data Trends at Luther Rice College & Seminary
Luther Rice College & Seminary, being a private institution, has exhibited significant trends in tuition, student enrollment, and graduation rates over the years. One of the most notable changes is the increase in tuition costs for both undergraduate and graduate programs. The tuition for in-state undergraduate students has risen from $5,832 in 2014 to $10,568 in 2024, representing an 81% increase. This continuous rise in tuition may raise concerns about accessibility and affordability for prospective students, especially in light of the increasing student debt crisis prevalent in higher education.
Alongside rising tuition, student enrollment has shown a concerning downward trend. The number of undergraduate students dropped significantly from 511 in 2014 to just 212 in 2023. This decline in enrollment could be indicative of various factors such as increased competition among institutions, shifts in student preferences, or the financial burden of rising tuition. Such a decrease in student population may also impact the institution's financial stability and academic environment.
Another critical area of concern is the graduation rates. Although there have been fluctuations, the recent data suggests that the timely graduation rate for undergraduates has been alarmingly low, with only 25% of students graduating on time in 2022 and no students graduating on time in 2023. This could point to deeper issues within the academic support systems, student engagement, or curriculum relevance, potentially leading to lower student satisfaction and retention rates.
Additionally, the student-to-faculty ratio has worsened, with the ratio decreasing from 31 in 2013 to just 10 in 2023. A lower ratio could suggest increased individual attention for students but may also reflect a shrinking faculty size due to budget constraints linked to declining enrollment.
In summary, while Luther Rice College & Seminary has maintained its private status, the rising tuition coupled with declining enrollment, graduation rates, and student-to-faculty ratios raise significant questions about its future viability and the overall student experience. Addressing these challenges will be crucial for the institution to enhance its appeal and improve educational outcomes for its students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Atlanta, about 20 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), about 20 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Baptist
- President
- Dr. Steven Steinhilber (President)
- Phone
- 7704841204
- Address
- 3038 Evans Mill Road, Lithonia, GA 30038-9869
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 81.8% · all 235 private faith-related institutions in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 50.0%, women 50.0%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Rates and Enrollment Trends at Luther Rice College & Seminary
The admission data for Luther Rice College & Seminary reveals significant fluctuations in both acceptance rates and enrollment figures over the years. Notably, the male acceptance rate has varied, reaching a high of 100% in 2016, but later dropping to 35.7% in 2021. This inconsistency may indicate changes in the applicant pool or the institution's admission policies, which could impact the college's ability to attract a diverse range of students.
For female applicants, the acceptance rates have also shown variability, with rates ranging from 25% to 75% across different years. The year 2022 saw a decrease in female acceptance, which may reflect a more competitive admission environment or possibly a decline in female applicants.
Enrollment numbers peaked in 2023 with 19 new students, a significant increase compared to previous years, where the numbers ranged from as low as 5 to as high as 16. This uptick could suggest a growing interest in the programs offered by the seminary, possibly influenced by broader trends in theological education or shifts in societal attitudes towards religious studies.
Moreover, the number of denied applications fluctuated significantly, indicating that while the institution may have a relatively small student body, the selectivity may be increasing, especially in recent years. The number of deferred admissions also highlights a cautious approach to enrollment, allowing the college to manage its incoming class size effectively.
Overall, these trends underscore the dynamic nature of admissions at Luther Rice College & Seminary, reflecting both institutional strategies and external influences affecting the landscape of higher education.
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Test Data for Luther Rice College & Seminary
The admission test data for Luther Rice College & Seminary from 2007 to 2023 reveals a concerning trend: there is a consistent lack of reported scores for both the SAT and ACT assessments during this entire timeframe. The absence of any data on the number of students submitting these test scores, as well as the corresponding performance metrics, raises questions about the institution's admission processes and academic standards.
Typically, standardized test scores such as the SAT and ACT serve as critical indicators of a student's readiness for higher education. They help institutions gauge a candidate's academic capabilities, ensuring that admitted students can succeed in their programs. However, the lack of data over 17 years suggests either a significant shift in admission policy, potentially moving towards a test-optional model, or a failure to gather and report this information effectively.
In recent years, many colleges and universities have adopted test-optional policies, especially in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and increasing discussions about equity in college admissions. While these policies aim to broaden access to higher education, they also necessitate a robust alternative evaluation method to ensure that admitted students are capable of meeting academic challenges.
Without concrete data on standardized test scores, it's challenging to understand the academic profile of the incoming class at Luther Rice College & Seminary. For prospective students, parents, and educational stakeholders, this lack of transparency may lead to uncertainty about the institution's academic rigor and commitment to student success. It is crucial for the college to address these gaps in reporting to strengthen its admissions credibility and uphold educational standards.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
12 applicants in 2025, 91.7% admitted
11 admitted 1 not admitted Yield 72.7%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Divinity/Ministry · Master's25 (0% international)
- Pastoral Studies/Counseling · Master's17 (0% international)
- Bible/Biblical Studies · Master's9 (0% international)
- Organizational Leadership · Master's9 (0% international)
- Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other · Doctoral7 (0% international)
- Organizational Leadership · Doctoral4 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Luther Rice College & Seminary
The graduation statistics for Luther Rice College & Seminary in 2023 reveal significant trends within their theological programs. Notably, no students graduated with a bachelor's degree across various theological disciplines, including Divinity/Ministry, Pastoral Studies/Counseling, and Biblical Studies. This absence of bachelor's graduates indicates either a lack of enrollment in these programs or possibly a shift in focus among prospective students towards higher degrees.
Conversely, master's degree programs demonstrated a healthier output, with a total of 77 graduates. This suggests a growing interest in advanced theological studies, reflecting a trend seen in many educational institutions where students opt for master's programs as a means to deepen their expertise and enhance career prospects. The absence of international students graduating from both bachelor's and master's programs may highlight barriers to entry or a lack of targeted recruitment for these programs.
Furthermore, the data reveals a modest output of 10 doctoral graduates in the category of Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other. This is a vital indicator of the institution's capacity to foster high-level research and scholarship in theology, contributing to the academic community.
Overall, the data suggests a strong inclination towards master's and doctoral studies within the seminary, while the complete lack of bachelor's degree completions raises questions about the foundational programs' appeal and accessibility. It would be beneficial for the institution to investigate these trends further to enhance its offerings and attract a more diverse student body.
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 | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bible/Biblical Studies. | $49,896 | |||
| Theology/Theological Studies. | $64,324 | |||
| Divinity/Ministry. | $64,324 | |||
| Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other. | $64,324 | |||
| Pastoral Studies/Counseling. | $64,044 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Organizational Leadership. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
Students
508 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 69:31 · Freshman retention 50.0%
- Continuing undergraduates 132
- First-year undergraduates 1
- Graduate students 332
- Transfers and others 43
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (176)
Data insights
Demographic Insights of Luther Rice College & Seminary in 2023
The student demographics at Luther Rice College & Seminary for the year 2023 reveal a significant gender disparity among different student categories. Notably, undergraduate freshmen exhibit a strikingly high percentage of male students, comprising 94.1% of the cohort. This trend continues, albeit with a reduction in the male percentage among undergraduate juniors at 69.7% and undergraduate transfer students at 53.3%. Graduate students show a more balanced gender ratio, with males accounting for 73.2%.
The ethnic breakdown within these categories also highlights a predominance of white students, particularly among undergraduates. For freshmen, 11 out of 17 students identify as white, reflecting a strong representation. Similar trends are observed in the junior and transfer student categories, indicating a consistent demographic pattern. The graduate student population, while still predominantly white, also includes a notable diversity of backgrounds.
These statistics underscore ongoing discussions about gender and racial representation in higher education. The stark difference in gender ratios, especially among undergraduate students, raises questions about the factors influencing these trends. Additionally, the predominance of white students suggests a need for institutions like Luther Rice to assess their recruitment strategies to foster a more diverse student body.
As higher education institutions strive for inclusivity and diversity, understanding these demographic trends is crucial. The data from Luther Rice College & Seminary serves as a snapshot that can guide future initiatives aimed at promoting equity and representation among its student population.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Luther Rice College & Seminary
The age distribution of students at Luther Rice College & Seminary presents an interesting demographic profile. Notably, the largest group of students, aged 40-49, comprises a significant portion of the total enrollment, with 118 male students and 54 female students. This trend aligns with the growing trend of adult learners pursuing higher education, reflecting a shift towards lifelong learning and career advancement.
Among younger students, the 18-19 age group shows minimal representation, with only two male students, indicating a potential gap in attracting traditional-aged college students. Conversely, the 25-29 and 30-34 age groups represent a substantial number of both male and female students, suggesting that many individuals in this age range are seeking to further their education, possibly due to changing career aspirations or the impact of the job market.
The gender distribution is particularly noteworthy in the older age categories, where there are more male students than female students, except in the 50-64 age group, which shows a healthier balance of 125 males to 70 females. Such a trend may reflect societal expectations or barriers that women face in pursuing further education later in life.
Overall, the data highlights the diverse age range and evolving demographics of students at Luther Rice College & Seminary. As educational institutions adapt to these trends, there may be opportunities for targeted outreach to engage younger students and support a more balanced gender representation across all age groups.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 235 private faith-related institutions in the U.S.
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.4% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Luther Rice College & Seminary
The data regarding international student enrollment at Luther Rice College & Seminary reveals a concerning trend over the years. Beginning with a modest representation of international undergraduates in 2004, where they constituted 0.51% of the total undergraduate population, this percentage has fluctuated but exhibited a general decline in recent years. By 2022, international undergraduate enrollment had dropped significantly, reflecting a mere 0.49% of the total graduate population.
While the graduate program initially showed a slightly higher percentage of international students, peaking at 2.3% in 2004, it has also faced a downward trajectory. The data indicates that by 2022, only 0.49% of graduate students were international, a stark contrast to earlier years. This decline may be attributed to various factors, including changes in immigration policies, global events, and the competitive landscape of higher education.
Moreover, the global pandemic, which impacted international travel and education, likely played a significant role in this downward trend. Many institutions faced challenges in attracting and retaining international students during this period, a situation that Luther Rice College & Seminary appears to have mirrored.
In a broader context, the decline in international student enrollment can have implications for the institution, including decreased cultural diversity and potential financial ramifications. As universities increasingly rely on international students for tuition revenue, it will be essential for institutions like Luther Rice College & Seminary to develop strategies to attract and support this demographic in order to foster a more inclusive and globally engaged academic community.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$30,312
- Undergraduate tuition
- $11,320
- Room and board
- $18,992
- Graduate tuition
- $7,626
Peer median tuition + room and board $18,400 · all 235 private faith-related institutions in the U.S.
Tuition rose 79% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 119%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$4.0M
Expenses$4.0M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 235 private faith-related institutions in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Agnes Scott CollegeDecatur · 11.1 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
Emory UniversityAtlanta · 13.3 mi
U.S. News #23
-
Georgia State UniversityAtlanta · 15.6 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main CampusAtlanta · 16.4 mi
U.S. News #29
-
Spelman CollegeAtlanta · 16.9 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
University of GeorgiaAthens · 46.6 mi
U.S. News #52
-
Mercer UniversityMacon · 66.0 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Clemson UniversityClemson · 100.1 mi
U.S. News #80
-
Auburn UniversityAuburn · 109.5 mi
U.S. News #100
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding Luther Rice College & Seminary:
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Emory University - Ranked 24th in the U.S. News 2024 rankings, Emory University is a prestigious research university located in Atlanta, Georgia. It is known for its strong programs in law, business, and medicine.
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Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus - This highly regarded institution ranks 33rd in the U.S. News 2024 rankings. Known as Georgia Tech, it specializes in engineering and technology, offering a rigorous academic environment.
-
University of Georgia - Ranking 47th in the U.S. News 2024 rankings, the University of Georgia is one of the oldest public universities in the U.S. It is renowned for its research programs and vibrant campus life.
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Clemson University - With a rank of 86th in the U.S. News 2024 rankings, Clemson University offers a strong emphasis on engineering, business, and agriculture, alongside a lively sports culture.
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Spelman College - Ranked 39th among liberal arts colleges, Spelman is a historically black women's college known for its commitment to academic excellence and social justice.
These institutions not only offer excellent academic programs but also contribute to the vibrant educational landscape in Georgia.
Peer median 0.0 · all 235 private faith-related institutions in the U.S.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Data at Luther Rice College & Seminary
The crime data for Luther Rice College & Seminary from 2013 to 2023 indicates a consistent pattern of zero recorded incidents across all categories. This absence of reported incidents, including serious offenses such as assault, drug-related arrests, and domestic violence, reflects an environment of safety and security within the campus community.
The lack of reported crimes can be interpreted in various ways. It may suggest that the college effectively implements security measures and fosters a culture that discourages criminal behavior. Additionally, it could indicate that students feel safe and secure, which is essential for a conducive learning environment.
However, it's important to consider that the reporting of crimes can also be influenced by factors such as the size of the student body and the effectiveness of campus resources for addressing potential issues before they escalate. Zero incidents do not necessarily equate to a perfect environment; it could also imply underreporting or a lack of awareness about the mechanisms available for reporting crimes.
In recent years, many institutions have faced scrutiny over their handling of campus safety and crime reporting, particularly concerning sexual assault and harassment. Thus, while Luther Rice College's data appears favorable, it may also warrant further examination to ensure that students are aware of their rights and the resources available to them. Continuous efforts to promote safety and transparency are vital in maintaining a secure educational atmosphere.
For more information on how crime rates are calculated, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Methodology.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Luther Rice College & Seminary include Jody Hice (Former U.S. Representative from Georgia and radio host), Charles Stanley (Southern Baptist pastor and television evangelist) and John Ankerberg (Televangelist, author and Baptist minister).
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Jody Hice 1960–
Former U.S. Representative from Georgia and radio host
-
Charles Stanley 1932–2023
Southern Baptist pastor and television evangelist
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John Ankerberg 1945–
Televangelist, author and Baptist minister
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Nestor Chamorro Pesantes 1936–2003
South American Christian evangelist
-
Spiros Zodhiates 1922–2009
Bible scholar who developed AMG International
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.