Covenant College
U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027
#142
Acceptance rate
86.5%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$42,040
$54,794 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
1,087
Student-faculty ratio 13:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
66.0%
4-year; 6-year rate 73.2%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Covenant College, located in Lookout Mountain, Georgia, is a private Christian liberal arts college that emphasizes a strong academic foundation rooted in Reformed theology. Established in 1955, the college's mission is to educate students to embrace a comprehensive worldview that integrates faith and learning. The campus offers a stunning view of the surrounding mountains and is designed to foster a close-knit community among its students and faculty. Covenant College promotes a vibrant campus culture where students engage in various extracurricular activities, including arts, music, and athletics, contributing to a well-rounded collegiate experience.
One of the standout features of Covenant College is its commitment to academic excellence, supported by a dedicated faculty who prioritize mentorship and personal interaction with students. The college offers a range of undergraduate programs in humanities, sciences, and social sciences, with an emphasis on critical thinking and ethical leadership. In addition to rigorous academic programs, Covenant College encourages students to participate in service projects and internships, enhancing their employability upon graduation. The college's graduates are known for their strong work ethic and ability to think critically, making them valuable assets in various fields, including education, business, and ministry. With its rich traditions, supportive community, and focus on holistic education, Covenant College prepares students not just for careers but for meaningful lives informed by their Christian faith.
Trends in Tuition, Enrollment, and Graduation Rates
Covenant College, a private institution, has experienced notable trends in tuition costs and student enrollment over the last decade. The annual tuition for undergraduate students has consistently risen, from $29,100 in 2014 to $38,860 in 2023, marking an increase of approximately 33%. This growth in tuition is paralleled by a significant rise in graduate tuition, which jumped sharply from $16,280 in 2022 to $21,561 in 2023. Such rising costs may contribute to the declining enrollment figures, which have dropped from 1,104 undergraduate students in 2014 to just 847 in 2023, a decrease of approximately 23%.
The graduation rates paint a more positive picture, with the timely graduation rate for undergraduate students showing improvement from about 47% in 2013 to approximately 58% by 2023. This upward trend in graduation rates could indicate a more supportive academic environment and effective retention strategies, despite the declining number of enrolled students. However, it is important to note that retention rates have also experienced a decline, falling from around 87% in 2013 to 76.8% in 2023, suggesting that maintaining student engagement and satisfaction has become increasingly challenging.
The male-to-female enrollment ratio in undergraduate programs has remained relatively stable, with female students consistently making up a larger percentage of the student body. As of 2023, approximately 53% of undergraduate students are female, reflecting ongoing gender dynamics in higher education.
Overall, while Covenant College faces challenges related to rising costs and declining enrollment, it has managed to improve its graduation rates, indicating a commitment to student success amidst these difficulties.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Chattanooga, about 10 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), about 110 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- The Presbyterian Church in America
- President
- Brad Voyles (President)
- Phone
- 7068201560
- City
- Lookout Mountain, Georgia
- Address
- 14049 Scenic Highway, Lookout Mountain, GA 30750-4164
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 97.7%, women 98.7%.
Data insights
Trends in Admissions and Rankings at Covenant College
The admissions data for Covenant College over the years reveals interesting trends in both acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Starting from 2009, the acceptance rates for male and female applicants showed a gradual change, with male rates fluctuating between approximately 57% to 97%, and female rates ranging from about 58% to 98%. This indicates a notable increase in selectivity over time, particularly evident in the exceptional rates recorded in 2014 and 2015, where the male acceptance rate reached 92.93% and 94.93%, respectively.
However, the years following these peaks witnessed a decline in acceptance rates, culminating in a significant drop in 2022 and 2023. During these years, the male acceptance rate fell to 87.63%, while the female rate was at 85.11%. This decline may reflect broader trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly competitive and selective amid rising applications.
The enrollment numbers have also been telling. The highest enrollment occurred in 2009 with 291 students, while the numbers have generally decreased over the years, dropping to 242 in 2023. This decline in enrollment, contrasted with fluctuating acceptance rates, suggests a potential shift in student interest or demographic changes affecting the college.
Overall, Covenant College's data mirrors national trends in higher education, where institutions face increasing competition, shifting student demographics, and evolving educational demands. As the college continues to adapt to these changes, monitoring these trends will be essential for understanding its future positioning within the academic landscape.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 36% submitted SAT, 47% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Data at Covenant College
Covenant College's admissions data over the years reflects significant trends in standardized testing and acceptance rates. Notably, the number of students submitting SAT scores has decreased markedly from 2007 to 2023, with the percentage of applicants submitting scores dropping from 79% to just 38%. This could indicate a growing trend towards test-optional policies or a shift in applicant preferences, as more students may choose to forego standardized tests in favor of a holistic evaluation process.
Despite the declining number of submissions, the scores themselves reveal a nuanced picture. The SAT reading and math scores have shown fluctuations, with the 25th percentile scores gradually improving over the years, reaching 590 in reading and 710 in math by 2023. Conversely, the 75th percentile scores have also seen variations, suggesting that while the overall applicant pool may be shrinking, the academic quality of those who do apply remains competitive.
The ACT scores exhibit similar trends, exhibiting a stable performance among the middle 50% of accepted students. The scores reflect a consistent level of academic readiness, which aligns with the college's commitment to maintaining high educational standards. The data highlights the importance of standardized testing in the admissions process, even as the landscape evolves.
As colleges nationwide reconsider their admissions criteria in light of evolving educational philosophies and societal changes, Covenant College's data serves as a case study in these broader trends. The continuous adaptation to applicant needs and the commitment to academic excellence suggests that the college will remain a competitive choice for prospective students.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
823 applicants in 2025, 86.5% admitted
712 admitted 111 not admitted Yield 39.6%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Secondary Education and Teaching · Master's11 (0% international)
- Curriculum and Instruction · Master's1 (0% international)
- Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching · Master's1 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Numbers at Covenant College in 2023
The data from Covenant College reveals interesting trends regarding the graduation rates across various disciplines. Notably, the Business/Commerce program leads with 17 bachelor's degrees awarded, indicating a strong interest in this field, possibly reflecting the ongoing demand for business professionals in today's economy. Similarly, Psychology and Art Studies follow closely, each with 17 and 16 bachelor's degrees awarded, suggesting a robust interest in these areas, likely influenced by social trends that value mental health awareness and creative expression.
In stark contrast, the education sector displays a unique pattern. While there were no bachelor's graduates in Elementary Education and Teaching, there were nine master's degrees conferred in Secondary Education. This might indicate a shift towards advanced qualifications in teaching, perhaps driven by evolving educational standards and requirements.
Moreover, the data shows a significant presence of international students, particularly in the bachelor's programs, with Business and Psychology having two and one international graduates, respectively. This suggests that Covenant College is becoming a favorable destination for international students pursuing these popular fields.
Interestingly, other disciplines such as Political Science, International Studies, and the Physical Sciences show limited graduate numbers, highlighting potential areas for growth and development within the college's curriculum offerings.
Overall, the graduation statistics not only reflect student interests but also signal areas where institutions might align their programs with market demands, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for the future workforce.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $53,862 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | ||
| Curriculum and Instruction. | - | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | ||
| Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching. | - | ||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economics, General. | $25,887 | ||
| Development Economics and International Development. | $25,887 | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $25,966 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | ||
| Writing, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | ||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | $35,124 | ||
| International/Globalization Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bible/Biblical Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physical Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
1,100 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 48:52 · Freshman retention 88.2%
- Continuing undergraduates 634
- First-year undergraduates 282
- Graduate students 13
- Transfers and others 171
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,087)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Covenant College in 2023
The student body at Covenant College in 2023 presents an interesting mix of demographics, showcasing both diversity and gender representation among various classifications of students. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 239, with a slightly higher female population (52.3%) compared to males (47.7%). This trend continues among undergraduate juniors, where women represent 53.6% of the total 545 students.
However, among transfer students, the dynamics shift notably, with a higher male representation at 62.5%. This could suggest that more male students are seeking to transfer into the institution, possibly indicating different motivations or circumstances influencing their educational paths.
When we look at the graduate students, the gender disparity becomes even more pronounced, with only 28.2% being male and a substantial 71.8% female. These figures may reflect broader trends in higher education, where women are increasingly pursuing graduate studies at higher rates than men.
In terms of race and ethnicity, while the detailed breakdown of the undergraduate juniors and graduate students is not provided, the freshman demographic reveals that white students make up the majority. This raises important questions about the college's commitment to diversity and inclusion, especially in light of ongoing discussions in higher education about the importance of a diverse student population.
Overall, the data from Covenant College highlights a growing female presence across various student categories and points to the need for continued focus on diversity and inclusion in recruitment efforts moving forward.
Age Composition of Students at Covenant College in 2023
The age composition of students at Covenant College reveals interesting insights into the demographics of the student body for 2023. The largest group of students falls within the 18-19 age range, comprising 177 male undergraduates and 207 female undergraduates, indicating a strong influx of first-year students. This age group alone accounts for approximately 32.8% of the total male and female student body, which suggests that Covenant College attracts a significant number of traditional-age students.
As we look at the 20-21 age group, there are 159 male undergraduates and 178 female undergraduates. This demographic continues to reflect the trend of a predominantly younger student population, with these two age groups combined representing nearly 61.5% of the total student enrollment.
Interestingly, the representation of older students diminishes significantly in the 22-24 age category, where there are only 42 male undergraduates and 35 female undergraduates. The numbers further decline in the 25-29 and older categories, highlighting a typical pattern seen in many colleges where younger students outnumber their older peers.
The presence of graduate students also adds depth to the college's demographic, though their numbers are relatively small compared to undergraduates. The slight increase in graduate male and female students in the 30-34 and 35-39 age groups indicates a growing interest among mature students in pursuing advanced degrees.
Overall, Covenant College appears to be a vibrant community primarily populated by younger students, which may influence campus culture, academic programs, and extracurricular activities. This age distribution aligns with broader trends observed in higher education, where institutions are increasingly focusing on attracting and retaining traditional-aged students.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
40 in 2025 · 2.8% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 3.4% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Covenant College
The data on international student enrollment at Covenant College reveals some interesting trends over nearly two decades. From 2004 to 2023, the number of international undergraduates has seen a steady increase, starting at just 4 students in 2004 and reaching 22 by 2023. This growth is reflected in the proportion of international undergraduate students, which rose from a mere 0.34% to approximately 2.60%, showcasing a gradual but consistent effort by the institution to diversify its student body.
In the graduate program, the data indicates a more pronounced increase in the proportion of international students, particularly notable in 2020, where the percentage peaked at nearly 14% with 6 international graduate students out of 43 total. This suggests that Covenant College has become increasingly attractive to graduate students from abroad, perhaps due to specific programs or a welcoming campus environment.
However, it is essential to consider the broader context of international education, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted global travel and education. The fluctuations in enrollment figures may reflect not only the college's initiatives but also global trends in student mobility. As international campuses begin to recover, institutions like Covenant College will need to continue focusing on enhancing their appeal to prospective international students through strategic outreach and support services.
Overall, the increasing numbers signify a positive trend towards a more globalized education experience at Covenant College, which may enrich the learning environment for all students.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$54,794
- Undergraduate tuition
- $42,040
- Room and board
- $12,754
- Graduate tuition
- $15,700
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 34% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 39%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$43.5M
Expenses$36.4M
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.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 52 | - |
| Soccer | 26 | 25 |
| Basketball | 20 | 13 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 14 | 14 |
| Cross Country | 13 | 9 |
| Tennis | 12 | 6 |
| Softball | - | 17 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Golf | 12 | - |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 51 | - |
| Soccer | 25 | 23 |
| Basketball | 18 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 11 | 12 |
| Tennis | 13 | 9 |
| Cross Country | 10 | 10 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Golf | 12 | - |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 30 | 23 |
| Baseball | 44 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 16 |
| Tennis | 14 | 9 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 10 | 7 |
| Cross Country | 9 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Golf | 11 | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
The University of the SouthSewanee · 35.0 mi
Liberal Arts #49
-
University of Alabama--HuntsvilleHuntsville · 73.7 mi
U.S. News #262
-
Tennessee Technological UniversityCookeville · 83.9 mi
U.S. News #299
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main CampusAtlanta · 99.6 mi
U.S. News #29
-
Spelman CollegeAtlanta · 100.6 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
Emory UniversityAtlanta · 100.9 mi
U.S. News #23
-
Georgia State UniversityAtlanta · 101.0 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Agnes Scott CollegeDecatur · 103.0 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
The University of Tennessee-KnoxvilleKnoxville · 106.3 mi
U.S. News #109
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Covenant College:
-
The University of the South - Known for its beautiful campus and strong liberal arts curriculum, it ranks 51st in the 2024 US News rankings.
-
Spelman College - A historically Black women's college, Spelman is highly regarded for its academic programs and ranks 39th in the 2024 US News rankings.
-
Emory University - A prestigious private research university located in Atlanta, Emory ranks 24th in the 2024 US News rankings, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Vanderbilt University - This private research university in Nashville is known for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus life, ranking 18th in the 2024 US News rankings.
-
Furman University - A private liberal arts college in Greenville, Furman ranks 46th in the 2024 US News rankings and is known for its beautiful campus and commitment to undergraduate education.
These institutions provide a diverse array of educational opportunities and contribute to the rich academic landscape surrounding Covenant College.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Data at Covenant College
The crime statistics at Covenant College present a fluctuating trend over the years, with an overall decline from 2013 to 2017, followed by an increase in certain years, particularly in 2019 and 2023. The average crime rate per 1,000 students reflects these changes, with a peak of 14.45 in 2023, indicating a notable rise in incidents compared to previous years.
In 2013, the college recorded a higher crime rate of 10.22 per 1,000 students, which gradually decreased to a low of 3.4 in 2017. This decline could suggest effective measures in crime prevention and a generally safer campus environment during those years. However, the sharp increase in 2019 raises concerns, as the rate jumped back to 10.33. The subsequent years, particularly 2021 and 2022, saw fluctuating rates, with 2022 showing a moderate figure of 7.88.
The variety of offenses reported, including drug-related arrests and assaults, highlights the complexity of maintaining campus safety. The resurgence of crime in 2023 could be attributed to various factors, including changes in campus policies, increased reporting, or wider societal issues affecting student behavior.
As campuses navigate these challenges, it's crucial for institutions to focus on comprehensive safety strategies, including education, community engagement, and collaboration with local law enforcement. Overall, while the data reflects some positive trends in certain years, the recent uptick necessitates ongoing vigilance and proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of the student population.
For further understanding of crime rates calculation, you can refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Covenant College include Mark David Chapman (Murderer of John Lennon), Kathryn Kimball Mizelle (Judge of the U.S. District Court, Middle District of Florida) and Paul Moser (Philosopher, professor emeritus at Loyola University Chicago).
-
Mark David Chapman 1955–
Murderer of John Lennon
-
Kathryn Kimball Mizelle 1987–
Judge of the U.S. District Court, Middle District of Florida
-
Paul Moser 1957–
Philosopher, professor emeritus at Loyola University Chicago
-
Rifqa Bary 1992–
Author who fled home over Christian conversion in 2009
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.