Oglethorpe University
U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027
#146
Acceptance rate
88.4%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$47,590
$63,370 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
1,396
Student-faculty ratio 13:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
46.8%
4-year; 6-year rate 56.5%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Oglethorpe University, located in Atlanta, Georgia, is a private liberal arts institution that has a rich history and a commitment to academic excellence. Founded in 1835, the university is named after James Oglethorpe, the founder of the Georgia colony, and embodies his vision of education and civic engagement. One of the distinguishing features of Oglethorpe is its strong emphasis on a liberal arts education, which encourages students to think critically, communicate effectively, and engage with diverse perspectives. The university's motto, "Lux et Veritas," which translates to "Light and Truth," reflects its dedication to fostering knowledge and enlightenment among its students.
The campus is known for its beautiful, park-like setting, which provides a conducive environment for learning and personal growth. Oglethorpe’s facilities are modern and well-equipped, featuring advanced classrooms, laboratories, and a dedicated library that supports both research and study. The university also boasts a vibrant campus culture, with numerous student organizations, athletics programs, and community service opportunities that allow students to develop leadership skills and build lifelong friendships. Oglethorpe's commitment to experiential learning and its strong alumni network contribute to high graduation rates and successful career placements for its graduates, making it a notable institution for those looking to pursue a well-rounded education in a supportive environment.
Trends in Tuition, Enrollment, and Graduation Rates
Oglethorpe University, a private institution, has exhibited significant changes in tuition fees over the years. From 2014 to 2024, the tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has increased steadily, rising from $31,280 to $45,806. This represents a staggering increase of approximately 46.5% in just a decade, reflecting broader national trends in rising college costs. The additional cost of room and board has also seen a notable rise, further escalating the financial burden on students and their families.
Enrollment figures indicate a positive growth trajectory for undergraduate students, with numbers rising from 1,053 in 2013 to 1,491 in 2023. This 41.5% increase suggests a growing interest in Oglethorpe University, despite the rising costs. However, the graduate student numbers remain alarmingly low, with no significant enrollment recorded in recent years. This raises concerns about the university's graduate program appeal and its ability to attract a diverse student body.
Graduation rates present a mixed picture. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates fluctuated between approximately 35% and 55% over the years, with a slight uptick to 39.6% in 2023. Meanwhile, the 150% graduation rate, which provides a broader perspective on student success, peaked at around 62% in 2016 but has since seen a decline. This inconsistency in graduation performance highlights potential areas for improvement in student support and retention strategies.
The retention rate has remained relatively stable, hovering around 76% to 80% over the years. However, the slight drop in 2023 to 76.2% may suggest underlying issues that could affect future enrollment and graduation rates. Overall, while Oglethorpe University is experiencing growth in undergraduate enrollment, the rising tuition costs and fluctuating graduation rates warrant attention to ensure sustainable development and student satisfaction.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Atlanta, about 9 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), about 15 mi
- Also known as
- Oglethorpe
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Kathryn McClymond (President)
- Phone
- 4042611441
- Address
- 4484 Peachtree Road, NE, Atlanta, GA 30319-2797
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 68.1%, women 67.2%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Oglethorpe University
The admission statistics for Oglethorpe University over the years reveal significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment numbers. For instance, in 2009, the acceptance rates for males and females were approximately 42% and 43%, respectively, which indicates a relatively competitive admission process. However, as we progress to 2011, there is a notable spike in acceptance rates, reaching around 89% for males and nearly 84% for females. This dramatic increase suggests a shift in the university's admission policy or a decrease in applicant quality, which may have influenced the overall ranking of the institution during that period.
As we approach the recent years, we observe more stability in the acceptance rates, with values hovering around 68% to 79% for both genders in 2021 and 2022. This trend indicates a more consistent and potentially strategic approach in selecting students, possibly aiming for a diverse and balanced student body. Furthermore, the number of applicants who were denied admission remains substantial, peaking at 2,860 in 2010, suggesting that demand for enrollment at Oglethorpe University has been high, despite variations in acceptance rates.
The number of students who deferred admission also presents an interesting aspect of the data, reflecting students' changing priorities and circumstances, especially in light of recent global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, while Oglethorpe University has experienced fluctuations in its admission statistics, the trends indicate an evolving approach to student enrollment that aligns with broader changes in higher education.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 20% submitted SAT, 7% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Scores and Submission Rates at Oglethorpe University
The data surrounding admission scores and submission rates at Oglethorpe University reveals a notable trend over the years. While the number of students submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, the percentage of applicants providing these scores has generally declined, particularly in recent years. For instance, in 2023, only 19% of admitted students submitted SAT scores, down from 86% in earlier years like 2007 and 2008.
In terms of score performance, the range of SAT reading and mathematics scores has shown some variability, with the 25th percentile scores remaining relatively stable, though the 75th percentile scores have seen slight increases. This suggests that while the overall pool of applicants may be more diverse in terms of submitted scores, the top-performing students have maintained or improved their standing.
The drop in submission rates could indicate a broader trend in college admissions, where students might be opting for test-optional policies. This is in line with a national movement among universities to adopt more holistic admissions processes, focusing on a wider range of student qualifications beyond standardized test scores.
Moreover, as the university adapts to these changing trends, it will be essential to monitor how these shifts impact overall enrollment and the diversity of the student body. The landscape of higher education is evolving, and Oglethorpe University is navigating these changes with a focus on inclusivity and academic excellence.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
2,216 applicants in 2025, 88.4% admitted
1,960 admitted 256 not admitted Yield 17.9%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's21 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Trends at Oglethorpe University in 2023
The data from Oglethorpe University for 2023 reveals significant trends in graduate numbers across various disciplines, particularly in the undergraduate level. Business Administration stands out with 42 graduates, making it the most popular program, followed closely by Biology with 37 graduates. This aligns with the broader trend observed in higher education, where business-oriented degrees often attract a large number of students due to favorable job prospects.
Interestingly, the presence of international students in these disciplines appears minimal, with only one international student graduating from both the Biology and Accounting programs. This suggests that Oglethorpe University may have room for growth in attracting international talent, especially in programs that are traditionally popular among foreign students.
The data also highlights a concerning trend in the master's and doctorate levels, as no graduates were reported in these categories across most programs. This could indicate a lack of advanced degree offerings or a low enrollment in graduate studies, which is critical for institutions aiming to enhance their academic prestige and research output.
Furthermore, programs such as Astrophysics and Mathematics have not produced any graduates, raising questions about student interest and the effectiveness of recruitment strategies in these fields. Overall, while Oglethorpe University shows strong performance in undergraduate programs, it may benefit from reevaluating its graduate offerings and recruitment practices to diversify its student body and enhance its academic reputation.
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 Administration and Management, General. | $50,975 | ||
| Accounting. | - | ||
| Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $34,707 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economics, General. | - | ||
| International Relations and Affairs. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Research and Experimental Psychology, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | ||
| Film/Cinema/Media Studies. | - | ||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | ||
| Art History, Criticism and Conservation. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | - | ||
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | - | ||
| Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | ||
| Rhetoric and Composition. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biopsychology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Astrophysics. | - | ||
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
1,425 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 37:63 · Freshman retention 73.3%
- Continuing undergraduates 962
- First-year undergraduates 345
- Graduate students 29
- Transfers and others 89
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,396)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Demographic Insights of Oglethorpe University in 2023
In 2023, Oglethorpe University presents a diverse student body with notable gender distributions and ethnic backgrounds. Among undergraduate freshmen, the total enrollment stands at 425 students, with a substantial 61.6% being female, indicating a strong female presence in the incoming class. This trend continues among returning undergraduate students, where females make up 63.6% of the 962 total students. The notable gender disparity highlights a growing trend in higher education where female enrollment increasingly surpasses that of males.
Interestingly, the transfer students exhibit a different demographic pattern, with a majority of 56.4% being male, suggesting that men may be more inclined to transition between institutions. The overall gender ratios across various student classifications reflect broader national trends in higher education, where female students have outnumbered males for several years now.
The ethnic composition shows a significant representation of white students among both freshmen and returning students, while the overall diversity reflects a mix of Asian, Latino, Pacific Islander, African American, and international students. However, detailed figures regarding these subgroups remain limited for the returning and transfer students, indicating potential areas for further exploration in future reports.
The growing enrollment of diverse students at Oglethorpe University aligns with national initiatives to promote inclusion and representation within academic institutions. Overall, these statistics underscore the importance of fostering an inclusive educational environment that reflects the varied backgrounds of the student population.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Oglethorpe University in 2023
The age distribution of students at Oglethorpe University reveals significant insights into the demographic landscape of the institution. The majority of the student body falls within the 18-21 age range, with 252 male undergraduates and 434 female undergraduates aged 18-19, and 197 male undergraduates and 352 female undergraduates aged 20-21. This indicates a strong presence of traditional college-age students, which aligns with national trends in higher education where most undergraduates are typically between 18 and 24 years old.
Interestingly, the number of graduate students is non-existent in the data provided, suggesting that the university may have a limited focus on graduate programs or that the graduate student population is not a significant part of the university's demographic. This lack of graduate representation could impact the diversity of academic perspectives on campus.
As students age increases, the numbers decline sharply, reflecting a trend seen in many universities where older students return to education less frequently. For instance, only a small number of students are in the 25-29 age group, with just 11 males and 20 females. This pattern continues, with even fewer students represented in the older age brackets, highlighting a potential area for universities to consider in terms of outreach and support for non-traditional students.
Overall, Oglethorpe University showcases a predominantly young student body, characteristic of many institutions. This demographic might influence campus culture, extracurricular activities, and even career services, as they cater primarily to the needs and interests of younger students. As higher education continues to evolve, it will be essential for universities to adapt and embrace a broader age range in their student populations.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
43 in 2025 · 6.5% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2024
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Oglethorpe University
The data on international student enrollment at Oglethorpe University reveals significant trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, there has been a noticeable fluctuation in the number and proportion of international undergraduate students. In the early years, such as 2004, the percentage of international undergraduates was relatively low at 5.20%. However, as the years progressed, there was a peak in 2017 with 9.04%, indicating a growing interest and acceptance of international students.
The graduate student data presents a stark contrast, with the percentage of international students remaining consistently low in the earlier years, and in some instances, showing a decline. For example, in 2014, the percentage was only 11.11%, but there are gaps in data for subsequent years, which makes it difficult to draw a comprehensive conclusion about the trends in graduate enrollment.
The overall increase in the total number of undergraduate students from 943 in 2004 to 1491 in 2023 suggests that Oglethorpe University is expanding its student body. However, the recent drop in the percentage of international undergraduates to 6.64% in 2023 raises concerns. This could be attributed to various factors, including global circumstances such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which has significantly impacted international travel and education.
In conclusion, while there have been periods of growth in international student enrollment, the fluctuations indicate that Oglethorpe University may need to reassess its strategies to attract and retain international students in an increasingly competitive educational landscape.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$63,370
- Undergraduate tuition
- $47,590
- Room and board
- $15,780
- Graduate tuition
- $13,950
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 41% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 30%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$39.8M
Expenses$39.5M
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 Athletic Association
Southern Athletic Association: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 56 | 30 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 39 | 31 |
| Baseball | 49 | - |
| Lacrosse | 19 | 20 |
| Basketball | 24 | 14 |
| Golf | 12 | 12 |
| Tennis | 15 | 7 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 58 | 23 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 29 | 23 |
| Baseball | 41 | - |
| Lacrosse | 19 | 21 |
| Basketball | 18 | 19 |
| Tennis | 13 | 8 |
| Golf | 12 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 84 | 49 |
| Soccer | 28 | 21 |
| Baseball | 46 | - |
| Lacrosse | 21 | 20 |
| Basketball | 20 | 17 |
| Golf | 12 | 11 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Tennis | 9 | 8 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Emory UniversityAtlanta · 5.9 mi
U.S. News #23
-
Agnes Scott CollegeDecatur · 7.7 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main CampusAtlanta · 7.9 mi
U.S. News #29
-
Georgia State UniversityAtlanta · 9.0 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Spelman CollegeAtlanta · 10.0 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
University of GeorgiaAthens · 55.3 mi
U.S. News #52
-
Mercer UniversityMacon · 82.4 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Clemson UniversityClemson · 102.0 mi
U.S. News #80
-
Auburn UniversityAuburn · 110.6 mi
U.S. News #100
Data insights
Here are some notable institutions surrounding Oglethorpe University:
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Emory University - Ranked 24th in the US News 2024 rankings, Emory University is a prestigious research university located in Atlanta, Georgia. It is known for its strong programs in medicine, law, business, and the liberal arts.
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus - With a ranking of 32, Georgia Tech is renowned for its engineering and technology programs. Located in Atlanta, it offers a rigorous curriculum and is a hub for innovation and research.
-
University of Georgia - Ranked 48th, the University of Georgia in Athens is one of the oldest public universities in the United States. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is noted for its vibrant campus life.
-
Spelman College - Ranked 39th, Spelman College is a historically black women's college located in Atlanta. It is known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts education and leadership development.
-
Clemson University - With a ranking of 85, Clemson University is a public research university in South Carolina. It is recognized for its engineering, business, and agriculture programs, as well as its spirited campus culture.
These schools provide a rich educational landscape around Oglethorpe University, each with its unique strengths and offerings.
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 Oglethorpe University
The crime data at Oglethorpe University over the years reveals significant fluctuations in the rates of various offenses per 1,000 students. In 2014, the average crime rate soared to 40.91 incidents per 1,000 students, which is a dramatic increase compared to the previous year. This peak in criminal activity may raise concerns about campus safety and the effectiveness of the university's security measures.
Interestingly, the data shows a progressive decline in the crime rate from 2014 until 2018, with the lowest rate recorded in 2018 at 12.32 incidents per 1,000 students. This may indicate successful interventions or changes in campus policy that fostered a safer environment. However, the subsequent years saw a resurgence in crime rates, with 2022 and 2023 registering rates of 13.83 and 16.50, respectively.
The specific breakdown of offenses such as domestic violence, drug-related arrests, and alcohol-related incidents would provide more insight into the nature of the crimes occurring on campus. For instance, the presence of gun-related offenses and substance abuse arrests can be particularly alarming as they often correlate with a broader societal issue.
It is crucial for the university administration to continuously monitor these trends, engage with students about safety concerns, and implement robust crime prevention strategies. The increase in crime rates in the last few years could be linked to broader social issues affecting universities across the nation, emphasizing a need for enhanced support and resources for students. For further understanding of crime rates and their calculations, refer to this link.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Oglethorpe University include Sidney Lanier (Poet and musician), Vincent Sherman (Hollywood film director) and Luke Appling (White Sox shortstop, Baseball Hall of Famer).
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Sidney Lanier 1842–1881
Poet and musician
-
Vincent Sherman 1906–2006
Hollywood film director
-
Luke Appling 1907–1991
White Sox shortstop, Baseball Hall of Famer
-
Joseph Mackey Brown 1851–1932
59th Governor of Georgia
-
Peter Zack Geer 1928–1997
Georgia lawyer and Democratic politician
-
Diana Fleischman 1981–
Evolutionary psychologist and podcaster
-
Dar'shun Kendrick 1982–
Georgia state representative and attorney
-
Charles L. Weltner 1927–1992
Georgia jurist and congressman
-
Ruwa Romman 1993–
Georgia state representative
More alumni (5, by field)
Politics and law
-
Hugh P. Thompson 1943–
Former Chief Justice of the Georgia Supreme Court
Science and academia
-
Emily S. Gurley
Epidemiologist and professor at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School
Arts and media
-
John G. Blowers Jr. 1911–2006
Swing-era jazz drummer
Sports
-
Al Wingo 1898–1964
Professional baseball player
Other fields
-
Benjamin M. Palmer 1818–1902
Presbyterian minister and theologian
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
Recent News at Oglethorpe University
Summarized daily from the school's official news. Click "Source" for the original story.
-
Oglethorpe University scaled its Paul Hackett Summer Bridge Program, welcoming 47 incoming students in August to expand academic preparation and support student success.
Source: oglethorpe.edu
No updates on this topic in this month.
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.