Piedmont College
Acceptance rate
93.3%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$31,700
$44,800 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,159
Student-faculty ratio 12:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
41.4%
4-year; 6-year rate 48.4%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Piedmont University, located in Demorest, Georgia, is a distinguished institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and personal growth. Established in 1897, it offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs that cater to diverse interests and career aspirations. The university prides itself on its small class sizes, which foster meaningful interactions between students and faculty, ensuring personalized attention and support throughout the educational journey. The campus is characterized by a vibrant atmosphere that encourages student involvement in various extracurricular activities, promoting a well-rounded college experience.
One of the standout features of Piedmont University is its strong emphasis on community and service. The university's motto, "The Mind to Think, The Heart to Lead," reflects its dedication to developing not only knowledgeable graduates but also compassionate leaders. The campus culture is enriched by a variety of student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs that enhance student life. Piedmont's location in the picturesque North Georgia mountains provides students with ample opportunities for outdoor activities, fostering a balanced lifestyle between academic pursuits and recreational enjoyment. Additionally, the university's commitment to preparing students for successful careers is evident in its robust career services and strong alumni network, which opens doors for graduates in various fields.
Trends in Tuition, Enrollment, and Graduation Rates
Piedmont University has experienced a notable increase in tuition fees over the years, which has significant implications for students and their families. For instance, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students rose from approximately $20,730 in 2014 to $30,680 in 2024, marking an increase of nearly 48%. This trend is reflective of a broader pattern observed across many private institutions, where rising costs are becoming a considerable barrier for prospective students. The financial burden of tuition can affect enrollment figures, as families may seek more affordable options or question the return on investment in higher education.
In terms of student enrollment, there has been a slight decline in both undergraduate and graduate student numbers over the last decade. The undergraduate population decreased from 1,294 in 2013 to 1,245 in 2023, while graduate enrollment dropped from 1,170 to 598 during the same period. This decline could be indicative of various factors, including increased competition from other institutions, concerns over debt due to rising tuition, or shifting demographics in the student population.
Graduation rates have also fluctuated, with the on-time graduation rate hovering around 38% in recent years. This figure is relatively low compared to national averages, which often exceed 60% for similar institutions. The combination of high tuition and low graduation rates may lead to higher student debt and poor outcomes for students, which could further discourage enrollment.
Overall, Piedmont University faces challenges that are common among private institutions, such as the need to balance rising operational costs with maintaining enrollment and ensuring student success. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the university's long-term sustainability and reputation in a competitive educational landscape.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Greenville, about 70 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), about 80 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- United Church of Christ
- President
- Marshall M. Criser, III (President)
- Phone
- 7067783000
- Address
- 1021 Central Ave, Demorest, GA 30535-0010
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 57.1%, women 52.0%.
Data insights
Analysis of Piedmont University's Admission Trends
Piedmont University has exhibited notable trends in its admission data over the years, reflecting shifts in both competitiveness and applicant demographics. The male acceptance rate has fluctuated significantly, starting at approximately 62.9% in 2009 and peaking at around 70.3% in 2021, before stabilizing at 61.2% in 2023. Meanwhile, the female acceptance rate has also varied, beginning at 61.5% in 2009 and experiencing a high of 68.6% in 2022.
The enrollment numbers reveal an overall increase in student admissions, with a peak of 301 new students in 2023, suggesting a growing interest in Piedmont University. However, the number of denies has also risen, particularly notable in 2020 when it reached an alarming 879 denials, potentially indicating an influx of applications during the pandemic as students sought alternatives to traditional college experiences.
Moreover, the number of deferred applications has generally increased, reflecting a trend where students are opting to delay their entry into college. This may be attributed to broader societal factors, such as the impact of COVID-19 on education and employment, prompting students to reconsider their immediate academic paths.
Overall, Piedmont University’s admission trends reflect a dynamic environment influenced by external factors, including societal changes and the evolving landscape of higher education. As the institution continues to adapt, it will be interesting to see how these trends develop in the coming years, particularly in response to ongoing changes in the education sector.
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
Graduate Rankings · 2026 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 · 25% submitted SAT, 10% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Piedmont University's Admission Data Trends
The admission data from Piedmont University over the years reveals notable trends in standardized testing scores and submission rates, particularly concerning the SAT and ACT assessments. One significant observation is the gradual increase in the range of SAT scores from 450-530 in 2007 to 510-620 by 2022, indicating a rising academic standard among admitted students. This shift suggests that the university is attracting a more academically prepared cohort, which is essential for maintaining the institution's reputation.
Moreover, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has fluctuated dramatically. In 2007, 86% of applicants submitted their SAT scores, but this figure has fallen to a mere 27% in 2023. This decline signifies a broader trend in higher education where institutions are increasingly adopting test-optional policies, reflecting a shift in admissions strategies that prioritize holistic assessments over standardized testing alone.
The ACT data follows a similar trend, with the composite scores demonstrating a general upward trajectory. This trend highlights the competitive nature of college admissions, as students are striving for higher scores to enhance their chances of acceptance. Despite the decreasing submission rates for SAT scores, the consistent ACT score ranges suggest that students are still focused on achieving strong academic credentials.
In summary, Piedmont University's data illustrates the evolving landscape of college admissions, where academic readiness is on the rise, yet reliance on standardized testing is waning. This may be a response to changing societal values regarding education and the belief that a well-rounded applicant can possess strengths beyond test scores. As these trends continue to unfold, it will be interesting to see how the university adapts its admissions processes to balance these factors effectively.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
1,770 applicants in 2025, 93.3% admitted
1,651 admitted 119 not admitted Yield 14.6%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Curriculum and Instruction · Master's158 (0% international)
- Elementary Education and Teaching · Master's40 (0% international)
- Art Teacher Education · Master's21 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's13 (0% international)
- Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's12 (0% international)
- Communication Sciences and Disorders, General · Master's12 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Piedmont University
The graduation data from Piedmont University for 2023 reveals some interesting trends across various fields of study. Notably, the Registered Nursing program stands out with a significant graduation count of 72 bachelor's degrees awarded, reflecting the ongoing demand for healthcare professionals in today's job market. This aligns with national trends where nursing remains a critical area due to the aging population and increased healthcare needs, especially highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In contrast, the Elementary Education and Teaching program awarded 51 master's degrees, indicating a strong emphasis on advanced qualifications in the education sector. This trend reflects a broader movement towards enhancing educational standards and improving teaching efficacy, driven by the need for qualified educators in an evolving educational landscape.
On the other hand, several disciplines, including Business Administration and Management, Biology, and Criminal Justice, showed minimal or no graduation numbers in bachelor or master's degrees. This suggests potential areas for growth or re-evaluation within these programs, as there may be an opportunity to attract more students by adapting curricula or enhancing program visibility.
Furthermore, the absence of international students graduating from these programs is noteworthy, as it highlights a potential gap in attracting diverse student populations, which is increasingly important in a globalized educational environment. With many universities actively seeking to bolster their international student demographics, Piedmont University may benefit from strategic initiatives to enhance its appeal to international candidates.
Overall, the data underscores the dynamic nature of educational demands, prompting institutions to respond effectively to the changing landscape of student needs and career opportunities.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | |||
| Curriculum and Instruction. | $72,046-$88,303 | |||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | $56,783 | |||
| Special Education and Teaching, Other. | $56,783 | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $43,738-$57,144 | |||
| Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching. | $43,738-$57,144 | |||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $43,738-$57,144 | |||
| Art Teacher Education. | $42,108-$74,018 | |||
| English/Language Arts Teacher Education. | $42,108-$74,018 | |||
| Mathematics Teacher Education. | $42,108-$74,018 | |||
| Music Teacher Education. | $42,108-$74,018 | |||
| Science Teacher Education/General Science Teacher Education. | $42,108-$74,018 | |||
| Drama and Dance Teacher Education. | $42,108-$74,018 | |||
| History Teacher Education. | $42,108-$74,018 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health and Wellness, General. | - | |||
| Communication Sciences and Disorders, General. | - | |||
| Athletic Training/Trainer. | - | |||
| Mental Health Counseling/Counselor. | - | |||
| Art Therapy/Therapist. | - | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $83,766 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | - | |||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $59,870-$64,858 | |||
| Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other. | $59,870-$64,858 | |||
| Accounting. | - | |||
| Finance, General. | - | |||
| Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other. | - | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - | |||
| Digital Marketing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | - | |||
| Forensic Science and Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |||
| Cinematography and Film/Video Production. | - | |||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | |||
| Music Performance, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | - | |||
| Sports Communication. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $37,377 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Neuroscience. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - | |||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - | |||
| Mathematics, Other. | - | |||
| Applied Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering, General. | - | |||
| Engineering Physics/Applied Physics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Creative Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy and Religious Studies, General. | - |
Students
1,857 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 34:66 · Freshman retention 69.8%
- Continuing undergraduates 779
- First-year undergraduates 238
- Graduate students 698
- Transfers and others 142
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,159)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Piedmont University for 2023
The student demographic data from Piedmont University for the year 2023 reveals significant insights into the composition of the student body across various categories. Notably, the undergraduate freshmen make up a substantial portion with 301 students, of which 34.9% are male and 65.1% are female. This gender distribution indicates a higher female representation among new entrants, a trend that has been observed in many universities across the United States in recent years.
Undergraduate juniors represent the largest group with 768 students, displaying a similar pattern with a 29.9% male and 70.1% female ratio. This consistent trend of female dominance extends to transfer students and graduate students as well, reflecting a broader movement in higher education where female enrollment often surpasses that of males.
The data also provides a glimpse into the diversity of the student body. Among freshmen, 190 students identify as White, which represents the majority demographic within this group. However, the university also showcases a range of ethnicities, although specific numbers for other demographics are not provided in the year 2023 data.
The overall declining male enrollment in higher education raises concerns about gender equity in academic settings. Institutions are increasingly recognizing the need to address this disparity, particularly as it becomes evident that male students are falling behind their female counterparts in both enrollment and retention rates.
In conclusion, Piedmont University's student demographics for 2023 highlight a predominance of female students across various categories, alongside a diverse ethnic representation. As trends in higher education continue to evolve, it will be essential for the university to implement strategies aimed at promoting inclusivity and supporting all students in achieving academic success.
Analysis of Student Age Distribution at Piedmont University
The age composition of students at Piedmont University reveals interesting trends regarding enrollment across different age groups. The largest demographic, comprising students aged 18-19, consists of 126 male undergraduates and 258 female undergraduates, indicating a strong female presence in this age range. This trend continues into the 20-21 age group, where there are 134 male undergraduates compared to 232 female undergraduates, suggesting that female enrollment is consistently higher among younger students.
As students progress into their early twenties, the numbers begin to shift slightly, particularly in the 22-24 age group, where there are still more female undergraduates (160) than male undergraduates (85). However, the introduction of graduate students shows a different dynamic, with 14 male graduate students and 28 female graduate students in this age category.
Interestingly, the data highlights a noticeable participation of older students, particularly in the 25-29 and 30-34 age groups. Here, the number of female graduate students surpasses their male counterparts significantly, suggesting that adult learners are increasingly seeking advanced degrees. This trend aligns with national statistics indicating that the number of non-traditional students, particularly women, is on the rise in higher education.
Overall, Piedmont University’s age distribution reflects broader societal trends in education, where younger women are pursuing undergraduate studies in greater numbers, while older students, particularly women, are increasingly enrolling in graduate programs, illustrating a shift toward lifelong learning in higher education.
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.
11 in 2025 · 0.9% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.7% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Piedmont University
The data on international student enrollment at Piedmont University reveals significant fluctuations over the years, reflecting broader trends in higher education. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international students in undergraduate programs has seen a notable increase, particularly evident in the latest figures where international students make up approximately 1.20% of the undergraduate population. This marks a positive shift compared to earlier years, where percentages were often below 1%.
However, the situation in graduate programs appears less stable. The graduate student proportions of international students have fluctuated dramatically, with years like 2011 and 2012 showing rates as high as 1.18%. In contrast, data for more recent years indicates a sharp decline, with 2023 reporting no significant presence of international students in graduate studies.
These trends could be influenced by various factors, including changing immigration policies, global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and shifts in international student preferences regarding study destinations. As universities worldwide compete for international talent, the ability of Piedmont University to attract and retain international students will be crucial for its academic diversity and global engagement.
In summary, while the undergraduate enrollment of international students at Piedmont University shows a promising upward trend, the graduate programs require strategic attention to enhance their appeal to this demographic. The university's efforts to create an inclusive and welcoming environment will be vital in addressing these challenges in the coming years.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$44,800
- Undergraduate tuition
- $31,700
- Room and board
- $13,100
- Graduate tuition
- $12,320
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 44% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 45%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$43.4M
Expenses$43.2M
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.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 50 | 33 |
| Soccer | 32 | 36 |
| Lacrosse | 39 | 18 |
| Baseball | 47 | - |
| Swimming | 23 | 15 |
| Tennis | 14 | 22 |
| Basketball | 19 | 16 |
| Other Sports | - | 34 |
| Softball | - | 26 |
| Golf | 15 | 5 |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 61 | 57 |
| Soccer | 32 | 33 |
| Lacrosse | 33 | 24 |
| Baseball | 50 | - |
| Swimming | 29 | 21 |
| Basketball | 19 | 18 |
| Tennis | 14 | 22 |
| Softball | - | 26 |
| Golf | 13 | 5 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Other Sports | - | - |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 37 | 44 |
| Soccer | 33 | 42 |
| Lacrosse | 37 | 26 |
| Baseball | 57 | - |
| Basketball | 22 | 21 |
| Swimming | 18 | 20 |
| Other Sports | - | 33 |
| Tennis | 14 | 16 |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| Volleyball | - | 25 |
| Golf | 12 | 7 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Clemson UniversityClemson · 41.0 mi
U.S. News #80
-
University of GeorgiaAthens · 43.2 mi
U.S. News #52
-
Furman UniversityGreenville · 67.3 mi
Liberal Arts #57
-
Emory UniversityAtlanta · 69.8 mi
U.S. News #23
-
Agnes Scott CollegeDecatur · 69.9 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main CampusAtlanta · 73.4 mi
U.S. News #29
-
Georgia State UniversityAtlanta · 74.1 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Spelman CollegeAtlanta · 75.4 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
Wofford CollegeSpartanburg · 95.3 mi
Liberal Arts #68
Data insights
Here are some notable universities surrounding Piedmont University:
-
Clemson University - Ranked 86th in the 2024 US News rankings, Clemson is a comprehensive university known for its strong engineering and agricultural programs.
-
University of Georgia - This comprehensive university holds the 47th rank in the nation and is recognized for its research initiatives and vibrant campus life.
-
Emory University - A prestigious institution ranked 24th, Emory is renowned for its health sciences, law, and business programs.
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus - With a ranking of 33, Georgia Tech is widely recognized for its engineering and technology programs.
-
Davidson College - Ranked 16th, Davidson is a liberal arts college known for its rigorous academics and commitment to a strong sense of community.
-
Furman University - This liberal arts college is ranked 46th and is recognized for its beautiful campus and strong emphasis on undergraduate education.
These institutions offer a range of educational opportunities and are well-regarded in their respective fields.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities 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 Piedmont University
The crime data collected from Piedmont University over the years presents an interesting trend in campus safety. From 2013 to 2023, there has been a noticeable decline in the overall crime rates reported per 1000 students. In 2013, the crime rate was as high as 11.36 incidents per 1000 students, which has decreased significantly to 5.53 by 2023. This reduction reflects positively on the university's efforts to enhance campus security and promote a safer environment for its students.
A closer look into specific offenses reveals a similar downward trajectory in reported incidents. For example, arrests related to drug violations and alcohol-related offenses have shown a marked decrease, indicating perhaps a shift in student behavior or more effective preventive measures in place. The absence of significant incidents such as armed arrests or serious violent crimes is particularly encouraging, underscoring a positive safety record.
However, despite the general trend towards lower crime rates, it is vital for the university to maintain vigilance and continue implementing effective crime prevention strategies. The consistent presence of minor offenses, like theft and vandalism, suggests that while the environment is improving, there is still work to be done in educating students about personal safety and community responsibility.
In conclusion, the data paints a promising picture of campus safety at Piedmont University, yet highlights the need for ongoing awareness and proactive measures to ensure that trends of decreasing crime rates continue into the future. For more information on how to calculate crime rates, you can refer to this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Piedmont College include Soong May-ling (Wife of Chiang Kai-shek, youngest of the Soong sisters), Johnny Mize (Major League Baseball first baseman) and Lillian Smith (Writer and social critic, author of Strange Fruit).
-
Soong May-ling 1898–2003
Wife of Chiang Kai-shek, youngest of the Soong sisters
-
Johnny Mize 1913–1993
Major League Baseball first baseman
-
Lillian Smith 1897–1966
Writer and social critic, author of Strange Fruit
-
Diana Palmer 1946–
Romance novelist
-
Jane Anderson 1888–1972
Journalist who broadcast Nazi propaganda in World War II
-
Marvin Hudson 1964–
Former Major League Baseball umpire
-
Phillip M. Landrum 1907–1990
Democratic US representative from Georgia
-
Rick Austin 1966–
Former Georgia state representative
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.