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U.S. News #382 Private nonprofit, 4-year

Life University

Marietta, Georgia · www.life.edu

中文

U.S. News National 2027

#382

Acceptance rate

93.0%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$15,036

$29,886 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

899

Student-faculty ratio 15:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

21.4%

4-year; 6-year rate 31.3%

Peer median 44.6%

“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Life University, located in Marietta, Georgia, is renowned for its commitment to holistic health and wellness education, particularly in the field of chiropractic. Established in 1974, the university emphasizes a philosophy of living well and thriving through natural health practices. The campus is vibrant and community-oriented, fostering a nurturing environment that encourages students to engage with their peers and the local community. The university’s motto, "To Live Well," encapsulates its ethos of promoting health, balance, and a sustainable lifestyle.

Life University boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced chiropractic clinics that provide students with practical, hands-on experience. The university is dedicated to a comprehensive curriculum that blends rigorous academic training with clinical practice, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for successful careers in the healthcare field. The faculty is composed of experienced professionals, many of whom have extensive backgrounds in chiropractic care and holistic health, providing students with valuable insights and mentorship. Additionally, Life University offers a variety of student life opportunities, including sports and wellness programs, which contribute to a well-rounded college experience. With a strong emphasis on community involvement and personal growth, Life University continues to produce graduates who are not only skilled practitioners but also advocates for a healthier society.

Analysis of Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Retention at Life University

Life University, a private institution, has shown a consistent upward trend in tuition fees over the past decade. From 2014 to 2024, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students increased from $10,621 to $15,036, marking an increase of approximately 42.0%. This significant rise in tuition costs may raise concerns about affordability and accessibility for prospective students, particularly in light of the growing student debt crisis in the United States. The room and board expenses have also fluctuated, reaching as high as $18,000 in 2023, further increasing the financial burden on students.

Simultaneously, the graduation rates for undergraduate students have remained relatively low. For instance, the on-time graduation rate was 13.5% in 2023, with a slightly improved 28.1% for those graduating within 150% of the expected time. These figures suggest challenges in student retention and completion, which could be linked to the escalating costs of attendance that may deter students from persisting in their studies.

Retention rates, however, showed some fluctuation over the years, peaking at 73.9% in 2017 but dropping to around 69.8% in 2023. This decline indicates that while Life University manages to retain a considerable number of its students, there are still significant challenges that need to be addressed to improve student satisfaction and success. The retention rate is a crucial metric, as higher retention often correlates with better academic outcomes and graduation rates.

In conclusion, while Life University has experienced rising tuition costs, it faces ongoing challenges regarding student graduation and retention rates. Balancing financial sustainability with student success will be vital for the institution as it seeks to enhance its educational offerings and support systems for its diverse student body.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Small city
Nearest major city
Atlanta, about 15 mi
Nearest international airport
Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), about 20 mi
Marietta, Georgia
Also known as
LifeU
Academic calendar
Quarter
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Brian McAulay (President)
Phone
8005433202
City
Marietta, Georgia
Address
1269 Barclay Circle, Marietta, GA 30060

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
91.7%
Women
94.9%

In 2020: men 98.0%, women 93.9%.

U.S. News National Universities · last 10 years
#382Ranked #382 every year from 2027 to 2027

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Life University

The admission data from Life University over the years reveals significant fluctuations and trends in acceptance rates, enrollment, and overall selectivity. Notably, the acceptance rate for males showed a remarkable increase, peaking at approximately 98% in 2021 and 2023. This suggests a growing willingness of the institution to accept male applicants, potentially reflecting strategic efforts to diversify the student body or to respond to a higher number of male applicants.
On the other hand, female acceptance rates have also been consistently high, with a notable peak of nearly 99.5% in 2023. This trend illustrates an impressive commitment to female enrollment, aligning with broader educational initiatives aimed at empowering women in higher education.
The enrollment figures also show a general increase, with the highest enrollment reaching 243 students in 2013, followed by subsequent years maintaining a relatively high intake. However, a noteworthy aspect is the proportion of denied applicants, which has steadily decreased over the years. For instance, only 10 applicants were denied admission in 2023, indicating a more inclusive approach by the university.
Moreover, the number of deferred admissions has shown variability, peaking at 391 in 2014. This could imply that the institution is accommodating more students who may not be ready to start their academic journey immediately, thus providing flexibility in their admission processes.
Overall, Life University's admission data reflects a progressive trend towards inclusivity and accessibility, which could serve as a model for other institutions aiming to improve their enrollment strategies in an increasingly competitive educational landscape.

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 19% submitted SAT, 8% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total920–1130Peer median 1158
ACT composite17–20
SAT Reading
480–590
600700800
SAT Math
440–540
600700800
ACT composite
17–20
253036

Data insights

Analysis of Life University's Admission Data

The admission data from Life University spanning 2007 to 2023 presents intriguing insights into the changes in standardized test scores and submission rates over the years. Notably, the number of students submitting SAT scores has varied significantly; for instance, there was a peak of 100 submissions in 2019, while the most recent year, 2023, saw only 68 submissions, which is about a 32% decline compared to 2019. This raises questions about potential shifts in applicant demographics or changes in the university's marketing strategies.

Additionally, the SAT reading and math scores show an overall trend of improvement over the years, with the 25th percentile starting score for reading rising from 403 in 2007 to 450 in 2022, and the 75th percentile scores also reflecting this upward trajectory. This suggests that the university has attracted higher-caliber students over the years, perhaps due to enhanced recruitment efforts or a growing reputation.

The percentage of admitted students submitting scores has fluctuated as well, with a high of 100% in 2011 and 2012, indicating that during those years, all admitted students submitted SAT scores. In contrast, by 2022, only 33% of admitted students submitted SAT scores, suggesting a shift toward a more holistic admissions process or a growing acceptance of test-optional policies, which are becoming increasingly common across many universities.

In conclusion, while Life University has seen improvements in the overall quality of admitted students based on standardized test scores, the reduction in the percentage of applicants submitting these scores may indicate a shift in admissions philosophy, aligning with broader trends in higher education towards more inclusive and holistic admissions processes.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 9 in 10

574 applicants in 2025, 93.0% admitted

534 admitted 40 not admitted Yield 42.1%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate40 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's24449 international (20.1%)
Master's9011 international (12.2%)
Doctoral41718 international (4.3%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
General Studies
55
Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology
51
Business Administration and Management, General
46
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
39
Psychology, General
22
Information Technology
9
Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications, Other
9
Human Nutrition
3
Dietetics/Dietitian
3
Anatomy
2

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Chiropractic · Doctoral417 (4% international)
  • Psychology, General · Master's59 (3% international)
  • Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General · Master's25 (28% international)
  • Human Nutrition · Master's6 (33% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Trends at Life University in 2023

The graduation data from Life University for 2023 reveals some noteworthy trends across various fields of study, particularly in healthcare and biological sciences. A significant observation is the dominance of doctoral graduates in chiropractic studies, with 423 individuals completing their degrees. This suggests a strong emphasis on advanced education in this field, reflecting the growing demand for chiropractic services and the importance of specialized training in healthcare.

In the biological sciences, the data indicates that traditional undergraduate programs yield a notable number of graduates, with 41 bachelor's degrees awarded, alongside 5 to international students. This demonstrates the university's attractiveness to both domestic and international students in a field that is foundational to many health-related professions. Moreover, the absence of master's degree graduates in this discipline could suggest a potential gap in advanced educational offerings or a shift in career pathways for graduates.

The healthcare sector, particularly in clinical nutrition, also shows promise with 18 master's degrees awarded, along with a handful of international graduates. This aligns with the broader trend of increasing awareness around nutrition and its impact on health, which has been a focal point in many health discussions recently.

Furthermore, the data reveals that business administration continues to attract students, with 32 graduates, including 10 international students, showcasing the global appeal of this field. The presence of international students across various programs indicates Life University’s growing reputation as a diverse educational institution.

Overall, the graduation statistics from Life University illustrate a healthy balance between domestic and international student success in key fields, particularly in healthcare and business. As the demand for skilled professionals in these sectors continues to rise, Life University appears well-positioned to contribute significantly to workforce development.

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

Health professionshas 425 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Health and Wellness, General.-
Chiropractic.$53,601
Dietetics/Dietitian.-
Biologyhas 94 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$42,866
Anatomy.-
Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology.-
Ecology, Evolution, Systematics and Population Biology, Other.-
Psychology has 81 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.$36,448-$54,358
Liberal arts has 55 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
General Studies.$33,415
Businesshas 46 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Business Administration and Management, General.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 25 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General.$62,974
Computer and information sciencehas 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Information Technology.-
Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications, Other.-
Human science has 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Human Nutrition.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Biopsychology.-

Students

2,714 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 49:51 · Freshman retention 62.8%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (899)

White
249 · 27.7%
Black
248 · 27.6%
Hispanic
163 · 18.1%
International
154 · 17.1%
Unknown
34 · 3.8%
Asian
19 · 2.1%
Two or more races
5 · 0.6%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
1.1%
18–19
32.1%
20–21
29.3%
22–24
20.4%
25 and over
16.9%

Graduate students

Under 22
2.9%
22–24
37.6%
25–29
41.4%
30–34
10.3%
35 and over
7.9%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Life University in 2023

The student demographic data from Life University for the year 2023 reveals interesting trends regarding gender distribution and ethnic diversity among its various student classifications. The university has a total of 168 first-year undergraduate students, with a significant majority being male at a rate of 61.9%. This indicates a potential trend where more males are pursuing undergraduate studies, particularly as first-year students.

In contrast, the overall undergraduate continuing students show a more balanced gender ratio, with females slightly outnumbering males at 51.7% and 48.3% respectively. This shift in gender dynamics could suggest that as students progress in their academic journey, the gender balance tends to equalize, reflecting broader societal trends in higher education where female enrollment has been steadily increasing.

Furthermore, the graduate student body, which consists of 1,838 individuals, also exhibits a slight female majority at 52%. This reflects a growing trend in graduate education, where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees, potentially leading to a more diverse workforce in the future.

Regarding ethnic diversity, while specific breakdowns for some categories are not fully available, the data provided for first-year students shows that 42 are White, indicating that there is still a significant representation of this demographic. However, to foster a more inclusive academic environment, it is crucial for the university to continue promoting diversity across all classifications of students.

Overall, Life University showcases a promising balance in gender representation among its student body, while also acknowledging the need for continued efforts towards enhancing ethnic diversity and inclusivity in higher education.

Analysis of Student Age Distribution at Life University

The age distribution data from Life University reveals intriguing insights into the demographics of its student body for 2023. A significant proportion of students fall within the younger age brackets, particularly those aged 18-21, which account for approximately 36% of the total male students and about 33% of the total female students. This trend aligns with the typical age range for undergraduate studies, suggesting that the university attracts a youthful demographic primarily focused on bachelor's degrees.

Interestingly, the age group of 22-24 shows a substantial number of graduate students, with more than 75% of male graduate students and around 77% of female graduate students belonging to this category. This could indicate that many students are pursuing further education immediately after completing their undergraduate studies, reflecting a trend towards advanced degrees in today's job market.

Furthermore, the data indicates a notable balance in gender distribution among undergraduate students, with the number of male and female students being relatively comparable in the younger age categories. However, as age increases, particularly in the graduate categories, there is a significant increase in male students, especially in the 25-29 age range, where male graduate students outnumber their female counterparts.

Overall, Life University seems to foster an environment that attracts young adults eager to pursue higher education, with a noticeable shift towards male dominance in graduate programs. This demographic insight could be vital for the university's future planning and resource allocation, as they continue to adapt to the evolving educational landscape.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Undergraduates17.1%

154 in 2025 · 2.4% in 2016

0% 10% 20% 2016: 2.4%2017: 5.4%2018: 7.4%2019: 7.8%2020: 6.8%2021: 10.4%2022: 13.1%2023: 16.7%2024: 16.4%2025: 17.1%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students4.2%

77 in 2025 · 3.6% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 3.6%2017: 4.5%2018: 4.8%2019: 4.8%2020: 2.8%2021: 3.3%2022: 3.4%2023: 3.9%2024: 4.2%2025: 4.2%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Life University

The data from Life University highlights some significant trends in international student enrollment over the years. In the early years, particularly around 2004 to 2008, the percentage of international students in both undergraduate and graduate programs was relatively higher, with undergraduate international enrollment peaking at 16.59% in 2004. However, this number saw a drastic decline in subsequent years, particularly in 2008, when the percentage dropped to a mere 2.05%. This decline raises questions about the factors that may have influenced international student interest during this period.

From 2012 onwards, there appears to be a gradual resurgence in international student enrollment, especially among undergraduates, with the percentage climbing back to 16.72% by 2023. This resurgence could be attributed to various factors, including improvements in global marketing strategies, the university's reputation, or changes in visa regulations that made it easier for international students to study in the U.S.

On the graduate side, while the number of international students initially rose, the overall percentage remained low, fluctuating around 3-4% in recent years. This suggests that while the university has seen an increase in overall graduate enrollment, it has not been able to attract a proportionally equivalent number of international students.

Overall, the data indicates a mixed picture for international student enrollment at Life University, highlighting the need for strategic initiatives to enhance the appeal of graduate programs to international students, while also celebrating the recovery in undergraduate enrollment.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$29,886

Undergraduate tuition
$15,036
Room and board
$14,850
Graduate tuition
$10,806
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 38% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 19%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$85.1M

Tuition and fees
$69.4M81.5%
Auxiliary enterprises
$10.1M11.9%
Investment return
$2.7M3.1%
Gifts and private grants
$1.8M2.1%
Government grants and contracts
$817K1.0%
Hospitals
$438K0.5%

Expenses$86.8M

Institutional support
$21.0M24.2%
Instruction
$19.6M22.6%
Student services
$13.8M15.9%
Auxiliary enterprises
$9.8M11.2%
Hospitals
$7.0M8.1%
Academic support
$3.7M4.3%
Research
$1.1M1.3%
Public service
$1.1M1.3%
Other
$9.6M11.1%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

All faculty
$68,334peers $68,006
Professor
$85,045peers $78,041
Associate professor
$71,288peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$68,872peers $63,827
Instructor
$63,004peers $55,171

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Southern States Athletic Conference

Southern States Athletic Conference: basketball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division I MENWOMEN
Wrestling13746
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)10866
Other Sports4673
Soccer5545
Lacrosse2727
Volleyball3024
Basketball1920
Swimming1417
2024
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)13489
Wrestling15940
Other Sports6568
Soccer4239
Volleyball3624
Basketball2225
Lacrosse2123
Swimming1412
2023
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Wrestling17245
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)11282
Other Sports8448
Soccer3845
Volleyball2920
Basketball2117
Lacrosse-19
Swimming98

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near Life University:

  1. Emory University - Ranked 24th in the 2024 US News rankings, Emory is a prestigious research university located in Atlanta, Georgia. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts and sciences.

  2. Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus - With a ranking of 33, Georgia Tech is renowned for its engineering and technology programs. It is a leading public research university located in Atlanta that offers a variety of disciplines.

  3. University of Georgia - Ranked 47th, the University of Georgia in Athens is one of the oldest public universities in the United States. It offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its vibrant campus life.

  4. Mercer University - Holding the 170th rank, Mercer University is a private university located in Macon and Atlanta, Georgia. It offers various programs and is known for its commitment to service and community engagement.

  5. Clemson University - Ranked 86th, Clemson University is a public research university located in South Carolina. It is well-known for its engineering, business, and agriculture programs.

  6. Spelman College - This historically Black liberal arts college for women is ranked 39th. Located in Atlanta, Spelman is recognized for its strong academic programs and commitment to empowering women of African descent.

These institutions provide a rich academic landscape around Life University, catering to a variety of fields and educational pursuits.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Drug arrests
9
Domestic violence
8
Burglary
7
Drug referrals
7
Liquor referrals
5
Fondling
4

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Life University

The crime data from Life University reveals notable fluctuations in the average crime rate per 1,000 students over the years. Starting in 2013 with a relatively low rate of 1.89, there was a significant spike in 2014, reaching 6.74. This upward trend continued, peaking in 2016 at 8.04, before experiencing a gradual decline in subsequent years. The data indicate a sharp drop in 2021, with a rate of just 1.16, the lowest recorded in the dataset.

Such variations in crime rates can be attributed to various factors, including changes in campus security measures, the socio-economic environment, and the overall student population dynamics. The rise in arrests related to drug offenses and alcohol abuse during certain years suggests a possible correlation with larger societal issues, which have been recognized across many universities nationwide.

Moreover, the trends observed in the data may also reflect the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in 2020 and 2021, when many students were studying remotely, leading to fewer opportunities for crimes to occur on campus. The increase in crime rates in 2019, however, indicates that before the pandemic, there were significant challenges within the campus community that needed addressing.

Overall, while the data show fluctuations, the sharp decline in recent years could indicate an improvement in campus safety and student behavior. Continuous monitoring and the implementation of effective preventative measures will be crucial in maintaining this positive trend. For further insight into calculating crime rates, you can refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Life University include Alex Sedrick (Rugby sevens player, 2024 Olympic bronze medalist), Troy Caesar (British Virgin Islands footballer) and AJ MacGinty (American rugby union player).

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.