Morehouse College
U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027
#83
Up 13 from 2026
Acceptance rate
44.0%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$32,893
$47,671 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
2,847
Student-faculty ratio 14:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
39.7%
4-year; 6-year rate 59.0%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Morehouse College, located in Atlanta, Georgia, is a prestigious historically black college (HBCU) known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts education and leadership development. Founded in 1867, Morehouse is the only all-male HBCU in the United States and has a rich tradition of fostering academic excellence and social responsibility among its students. The college's mission is encapsulated in its motto, "Et Facta Est Lux," which translates to "And There Was Light," reflecting its commitment to enlightenment through education. Morehouse offers a wide range of undergraduate programs, with particular strengths in the humanities, social sciences, and business, empowering students to become leaders in their respective fields.
The college's vibrant campus culture is characterized by a strong sense of community and a commitment to service. Morehouse students are encouraged to engage with social issues and contribute positively to society, which is evident in the college's extensive community service programs. The college has produced numerous distinguished alumni, including civil rights leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr. and prominent figures in various sectors, including business, politics, and the arts. Additionally, Morehouse boasts modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and athletic complexes that support a well-rounded student experience. The college is also known for its dynamic athletics program, where students can participate in various sports, fostering teamwork and school spirit. Overall, Morehouse College not only emphasizes academic achievement but also nurtures the character and leadership potential of its students, preparing them to make meaningful contributions to the world.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Morehouse College
Morehouse College, a private institution, has shown notable trends in several areas over recent years, particularly in tuition costs, student retention, and graduation rates.
Firstly, the tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has risen significantly from $25,468 in 2014 to $31,725 in 2024. This represents a staggering increase of approximately 24.5% over the decade. Such rising costs can be a barrier for prospective students and may contribute to the overall student debt crisis prevalent in higher education today.
In terms of student retention, the college exhibited a relatively stable retention rate, peaking at around 86% in 2021 and 2022, before dropping to 79.8% in 2023. This fluctuation is concerning as high retention rates typically correlate with student satisfaction and the perceived value of the education provided. It would be beneficial for the college to investigate the reasons behind this decline to ensure it remains an appealing option for current and prospective students.
Graduation rates have experienced fluctuations as well. The on-time graduation rate rose from roughly 36% in 2013 to 42% in 2021, but saw a decline to 32.5% in 2022 before rebounding to 40.4% in 2023. Consistent graduation rates are crucial for the institution's reputation and for students seeking to enter the workforce promptly. The college's administration might consider implementing additional support systems to help students navigate their academic journeys more effectively.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has varied, reaching a low of 10:1 in 2023 after being stable at 12:1 for several years. A lower ratio can enhance the educational experience, offering more personalized attention to students, thereby potentially improving both retention and graduation rates.
In summary, while Morehouse College has made strides in certain areas, the institution faces challenges that require strategic attention to maintain its competitive edge and support its students effectively.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- In Atlanta
- Nearest international airport
- Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), about 8 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- F. DuBois Bowman, Ph.D. (President)
- Phone
- 4706390999
- Address
- 830 Westview Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30314
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
Best #83, lowest #100, latest #83 over the last ten years.
Data insights
Analyzing Morehouse College Admission Trends
The admission data for Morehouse College over the years reveals a significant fluctuation in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Starting in 2009, the acceptance rate for male applicants was approximately 72%, which gradually decreased to around 61% by 2012, then fluctuated again to about 58% in 2019. Notably, the acceptance rate peaked at an impressive 99.8% in 2020, likely influenced by the pandemic's impact on standardized testing and college admissions processes.
Enrollment figures have also varied, with a peak of 715 in 2009, followed by a steady decline until reaching 488 in 2014. However, there was a resurgence, with enrollments rising again to 674 in 2023. The number of denied applicants has shown an upward trend, suggesting a more competitive admissions environment in recent years. For instance, the number of applicants denied in 2023 was notably high at 2,088, indicating that while enrollment may have increased, the pool of applicants was also significantly larger.
Additionally, the introduction of a female acceptance rate in recent data highlights the evolving admissions strategy at Morehouse, reflecting broader trends in higher education that encourage gender diversity. The dramatic drop in female acceptance rates, reaching just over 3% in 2023, raises questions about the balance of inclusivity in a historically male institution.
Overall, these patterns underscore not only the dynamic nature of college admissions but also the external factors influencing these trends. As Morehouse College continues to navigate these challenges, monitoring these metrics will be crucial for prospective students and stakeholders alike.
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
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 · 0% submitted SAT, 11% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Standardized Test Scores at Morehouse College
The data from Morehouse College reveals notable trends in standardized test scores and the percentage of applicants submitting these scores over the years. From 2007 to 2023, the number of SAT test takers has fluctuated, with a peak of 622 in 2007, gradually declining to just 1 in 2023. This sharp decrease suggests a growing trend of applicants opting not to submit standardized test scores, which aligns with a national movement among colleges to adopt test-optional admissions policies.
In terms of academic performance, the 25th percentile scores for reading and math have shown a slight decline over the years, with the reading scores starting at 480 in 2007 and eventually stabilizing around 500 from 2020 onward. The 75th percentile scores have demonstrated a more stable trend, hovering between 580 and 600, indicating that while the number of test takers has decreased, the academic caliber of those who do submit scores remains consistent.
Moreover, the proportion of applicants submitting SAT scores has seen a significant drop, particularly from 2017 onwards, where it fell below 60%. This trend reflects a broader shift in higher education, where institutions are increasingly recognizing that standardized test scores may not fully encapsulate a student's potential. The emphasis on holistic admissions processes is becoming more prevalent, which could potentially lead to a more diverse student body that emphasizes varied strengths beyond test scores.
Overall, Morehouse College's data illustrates significant changes in standardized test participation and performance, mirroring broader trends in higher education towards inclusivity and varied assessment methods.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 4 in 10
5,733 applicants in 2025, 44.0% admitted
2,520 admitted 3,213 not admitted Yield 27.1%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Morehouse College
The graduation data from Morehouse College for 2023 reveals significant insights into the academic trends and demographic representation of its students. Notably, the Business Administration and Management program leads with 128 graduates, highlighting the popularity and perceived value of business education among students. This aligns with national trends where business degrees often command higher starting salaries and job placements.
In contrast, programs within the performing arts, such as Film Studies and Drama, show a modest number of graduates—33 and 10 respectively. This suggests a niche interest, potentially indicating that while these fields are vital for cultural expression, they may not attract the same level of enrollment compared to more traditional programs.
Interestingly, there are no international students graduating from any of the programs, which may reflect broader trends in U.S. higher education, where international enrollment has fluctuated due to various global factors, including pandemic-related travel restrictions and changing immigration policies.
Moreover, several disciplines, including Education, Psychology, and Sociology, show lower graduation numbers, with none achieving over 25 graduates. This could point to a need for increased recruitment efforts or program development in these areas to attract more students.
Overall, the data suggests that Morehouse College continues to thrive in popular fields while facing challenges in diversifying its academic offerings and attracting international students. As higher education adapts to a changing landscape, understanding these trends will be crucial for future strategic planning.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $61,128 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | $27,969 | |
| Communication and Media Studies, Other. | $27,969 | |
| Journalism. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Economics, General. | $79,986 | |
| Political Science and Government, General. | $40,962 | |
| Sociology, General. | - | |
| Urban Studies/Affairs. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $30,079 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $37,247 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | $30,590 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | $93,274 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | |
| Art History, Criticism and Conservation. | - | |
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - | |
| Religion/Religious Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Software Engineering. | - | |
| Engineering Physics/Applied Physics. | - | |
| Engineering Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $45,016 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | |
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| International/Globalization Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Chinese Studies. | - | |
| African-American/Black Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
Students
2,847 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 100:0 · Freshman retention 86.9%
- Continuing undergraduates 2,083
- First-year undergraduates 683
- Transfers and others 81
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,847)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Morehouse College in 2023
Morehouse College, known for its commitment to providing a quality education for African American men, has showcased its student composition for the year 2023. The data reveals an overwhelming majority of male students across all categories, with undergraduate freshmen and transfer students being entirely male, reflecting a 100% male representation. This trend continues with undergraduate juniors, where the male proportion is nearly 100% as well, leaving little room for female representation in these cohorts.
The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 674, and with such a high male ratio, the college's gender diversity appears significantly skewed. The same pattern is observed among juniors and transfer students, where female representation is virtually non-existent. This raises important questions regarding the inclusivity and accessibility of the institution to women, especially in a period where many colleges are striving for a more balanced gender representation.
Moreover, the data on ethnicity indicates a significant lack of diversity, particularly concerning white students, which remains minimal at Morehouse. This reinforces Morehouse's identity as a historically Black college, focusing primarily on educating Black males. However, the absence of comprehensive demographic information for other categories limits the ability to analyze the diverse ethnic backgrounds within the student population.
In conclusion, while Morehouse College maintains its historical mission, the pronounced gender imbalance and limited ethnic diversity highlight ongoing challenges in achieving a more inclusive educational environment. As societal expectations evolve, it will be crucial for Morehouse to consider strategies that promote diversity and inclusion across all student demographics.
Age Composition of Morehouse College Students in 2023
The age composition data from Morehouse College in 2023 reveals a strikingly young demographic among its student body, predominantly comprising undergraduate males under the age of 24. Specifically, a significant portion of the male undergraduate population is concentrated in the 18-19 age bracket, with 1,021 students, which accounts for approximately 44.3% of the total male students. Following this, the 20-21 age group has 950 students, indicating a continuation of youthfulness in the institution's enrollment trends.
Interestingly, there are no female undergraduates reported in these age categories, which raises questions about gender representation at the college. The absence of female students in the undergraduate segment suggests that Morehouse College, as a historically black college for men, maintains its commitment to its founding mission, but at the same time, it poses a challenge for gender inclusivity in higher education.
Beyond the young demographic, the data also highlights a small presence of non-traditional students, particularly in the 35-39 age range, where there is one graduate female student. While this figure is minor, it reflects the growing trend of adult learners seeking education later in life, which is becoming increasingly common across many universities, as seen in broader educational statistics.
Overall, the age distribution at Morehouse College suggests a vibrant, youthful atmosphere, yet it also underscores the need for ongoing discussions about gender diversity and inclusivity within higher education institutions.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
10 in 2025 · 2.5% in 2016
Data insights
Declining International Student Enrollment at Morehouse College
The data from Morehouse College reveals a concerning trend in the enrollment of international students over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of international undergraduate students has significantly decreased, dipping from 101 in 2004 to just 12 in 2023. This represents a staggering decline in the proportion of international students, from 3.53% to a mere 0.47% of the total undergraduate population.
Such a decline raises questions about the factors influencing international student interest in Morehouse College. Economic conditions, changes in immigration policies, and the global pandemic are likely to have played a significant role in this trend. The COVID-19 pandemic, in particular, has drastically altered the landscape for international education, leading to travel restrictions and increased uncertainty about studying abroad.
Moreover, the decrease in international representation can impact the cultural diversity and global perspective that enriches the academic environment. Morehouse College, known for its commitment to developing leaders in the African American community, might face challenges in attracting a diverse student body if this trend continues.
As institutions adapt to the evolving landscape of higher education, it is crucial for Morehouse College to implement strategies to attract and retain international students. This could include enhancing support services, improving outreach efforts, and fostering partnerships with institutions abroad. The future of international student enrollment at Morehouse may hinge on the college's ability to respond to these challenges effectively.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$47,671
- Undergraduate tuition
- $32,893
- Room and board
- $14,778
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 23% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 11%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$175M
Expenses$134M
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 · Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference
Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Spelman CollegeAtlanta · 0.2 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
Georgia State UniversityAtlanta · 1.7 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main CampusAtlanta · 2.2 mi
U.S. News #29
-
Emory UniversityAtlanta · 6.0 mi
U.S. News #23
-
Agnes Scott CollegeDecatur · 7.0 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
University of GeorgiaAthens · 61.5 mi
U.S. News #52
-
Mercer UniversityMacon · 77.3 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Auburn UniversityAuburn · 100.6 mi
U.S. News #100
-
Clemson UniversityClemson · 110.9 mi
U.S. News #80
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding Morehouse College:
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Spelman College: Ranked 39th in the 2024 US News rankings, Spelman College is a prestigious historically black liberal arts college for women. It is well-known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence and leadership development.
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Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus: This highly regarded institution ranks 33rd overall. Georgia Tech is renowned for its engineering and technology programs and offers a rigorous education combined with innovative research opportunities.
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Emory University: Emory University holds the 24th position in the rankings and is recognized for its comprehensive liberal arts education and research initiatives, particularly in the fields of medicine and law.
-
University of Georgia: With a ranking of 47, the University of Georgia is a large public research university known for its vibrant campus life and strong academic programs across various disciplines.
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Mercer University: Ranked 170th, Mercer University offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is noted for its commitment to community service and professional education.
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Clemson University: This university ranks 86th and is known for its strong engineering, business, and agricultural programs, as well as its spirited campus culture.
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The University of Alabama at Birmingham: Ranked 142nd, UAB is recognized for its health-related programs and research, contributing significantly to medical and health sciences.
These institutions represent a mix of liberal arts colleges and research universities, each offering unique strengths and opportunities for students.
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
Trends in Campus Crime at Morehouse College
The campus crime statistics for Morehouse College reveal a notable downward trend in crime rates over the past decade. In 2013, the average crime rate per 1,000 students was 35.38, which peaked in 2014 at 49.77. However, since then, there has been a consistent decline, reaching as low as 6.11 in 2022. This significant reduction in crime suggests effective measures taken by the college to enhance campus safety and security.
Analyzing specific crime categories, it is encouraging to see a decrease in offenses such as assault, drug-related arrests, and firearm incidents. For instance, while there were instances of firearm-related arrests in previous years, the numbers have significantly decreased by 2022. This aligns with broader national trends where many educational institutions are actively implementing safety programs and awareness campaigns to combat violence and substance abuse, contributing to a more secure environment for students.
Moreover, the most recent data from 2023 shows a slight uptick in crime rates, which should be monitored closely. The college administration may need to reassess its security policies and community engagement strategies to ensure the safety of students and staff remains a priority. The commitment to fostering a safe learning environment is crucial, particularly as Morehouse College continues to shape future leaders.
For further details on how crime rates are calculated, you can refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
All 60Notable alumni of Morehouse College include Martin Luther King Jr. (Baptist minister and civil rights leader), Samuel L. Jackson (Actor and film producer) and Spike Lee (Filmmaker and actor).
-
Martin Luther King Jr. 1929–1968
Baptist minister and civil rights leader
-
Samuel L. Jackson 1948–
Actor and film producer
-
Spike Lee 1957–
Filmmaker and actor
-
Edwin Moses 1955–
Hurdler, 400m hurdles Olympic champion in 1976 and 1984
-
Herman Cain 1945–2020
Businessman and Tea Party movement activist
-
John David Washington 1984–
Actor and former football player, son of Denzel Washington
-
Raphael Warnock 1969–
US senator from Georgia and Baptist pastor
-
Brian Tyree Henry 1982–
Actor with Academy Award nomination
-
Rockmond Dunbar 1973–
Actor known for Prison Break and Soul Food
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.