Shorter University
Acceptance rate
96.5%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$24,630
$34,550 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,203
Student-faculty ratio 14:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
29.7%
4-year; 6-year rate 31.5%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Shorter University, located in Rome, Georgia, is a private Christian university that offers a unique blend of academic excellence and a strong commitment to the spiritual development of its students. Founded in 1873, the university has a rich history and a vibrant campus culture that emphasizes the importance of character, integrity, and service. The university’s mission is deeply rooted in Christian values, which encourages students to pursue knowledge and truth while fostering a sense of community and leadership. The campus is known for its welcoming environment, where students engage in meaningful discussions, participate in various campus activities, and build lasting relationships.
Shorter University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a particular strength in fields such as business, education, and health sciences. The university is dedicated to providing a personalized education experience, with small class sizes that allow for close interaction between students and faculty. This close-knit academic environment helps students to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential for success in their future careers. Additionally, Shorter University emphasizes the importance of extracurricular activities, offering various sports programs, arts, and community service opportunities that enrich student life. With a focus on holistic development, Shorter University prepares its graduates not only for professional success but also for meaningful contributions to society.
Analysis of Key Educational Metrics at Shorter University
Shorter University, a private institution, has shown notable trends in several key metrics over the past decade. One of the most striking factors is the increase in tuition costs. From 2014 to 2024, the in-state undergraduate tuition has risen significantly from $19,670 to $24,044, marking an increase of over 22%. This trend reflects a broader national concern regarding the rising costs of higher education, which often places financial burdens on students and families.
Another critical metric is the graduation rate. The on-time graduation rate has fluctuated, with a low of approximately 27% in 2019 and a recent increase to about 33% in 2023. This indicates an improvement in student retention and success, but the rates remain below ideal benchmarks, suggesting ongoing challenges in ensuring students complete their degrees within a typical timeframe.
Retention rates have also shown a positive trajectory, climbing from about 54% in 2013 to around 71% in 2023. This improvement is encouraging as it reflects the university's efforts to keep students engaged and enrolled through their academic journey, which is vital for the institution's reputation and financial health.
Finally, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained stable, averaging around 14:1 over the years. This consistency suggests that Shorter University maintains a relatively favorable environment for personalized education, which can enhance the learning experience for students.
Overall, while Shorter University faces challenges with rising tuition and fluctuating graduation rates, improvements in retention and consistent faculty support indicate a commitment to fostering a supportive educational environment.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Small city
- Nearest major city
- Chattanooga, about 60 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), about 60 mi
- Also known as
- Shorter
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Baptist
- President
- Donald V. Dowless (President)
- Phone
- 7062912121
- Address
- 315 Shorter Ave, Rome, GA 30165
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 62.0%, women 58.8%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Shorter University
The admission statistics from Shorter University over the years reveal significant trends in both acceptance rates and enrollment numbers. Notably, the acceptance rates for male and female applicants have shown a general decline in competitiveness, especially in the recent years. For instance, the acceptance rate for males dropped from approximately 74.5% in 2022 to a striking 97.4% in 2023, indicating a shift towards a more inclusive and accessible admission process.
The enrollment figures also reflect this trend, with a consistent number of new students joining each year, despite the fluctuating acceptance rates. The data shows that Shorter University has managed to maintain a stable enrollment, with over 300 students enrolling annually, even during years of higher denial rates. This suggests that the university may be increasing its efforts to attract a diverse student body while accommodating a growing number of applications.
Interestingly, the number of applicants denied admission has varied significantly, peaking at 803 in 2018. This could point to a larger applicant pool during that time or a strategic decision by the university to limit enrollment. Despite these fluctuations, the university's commitment to maintaining a healthy ratio of admits to denies reflects a balanced approach to managing its student body.
Overall, Shorter University's evolving admission statistics highlight a trend towards increased accessibility while maintaining steady enrollment numbers. This could encourage prospective students in future application cycles, as the data suggests a welcoming environment for a diverse range of applicants.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 6% submitted SAT, 7% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Test Scores at Shorter University
Over the years, Shorter University has demonstrated a noticeable trend in the performance of students on standardized testing, particularly the SAT and ACT. The data reveals a decline in the proportion of applicants submitting SAT scores, dropping from 88% in 2007 to just 15% in 2023. This significant decrease suggests a shift in admissions strategies or possibly a broader trend in higher education, where standardized tests are becoming less central to the application process.
In terms of scores, the range of SAT reading and math scores among admitted students has shown some fluctuations. For instance, the 25th percentile SAT reading scores have varied from a low of 400 in 2016 to a high of 500 in 2022, while the 75th percentile has risen from 530 in 2016 to 690 in 2023. This indicates an increase in the quality of students being admitted over time, particularly among those in the upper percentile.
The ACT scores also reflect a similar trend, with both the 25th and 75th percentile scores improving gradually. This suggests that Shorter University is increasingly attracting higher-achieving students, which could be a result of enhanced recruitment efforts or a rising reputation of the institution.
These trends align with the growing national discourse on the relevance of standardized testing in higher education. Many institutions are moving towards a more holistic admissions process, which could explain the reduced reliance on these scores. As colleges and universities continue to adapt to changing educational landscapes, it will be interesting to see how Shorter University evolves its admissions criteria in the coming years.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 10 in 10
904 applicants in 2025, 96.5% admitted
872 admitted 32 not admitted Yield 33.5%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other · Master's54 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's40 (0% international)
- Accounting · Master's12 (0% international)
- Educational, Instructional, and Curriculum Supervision · Master's6 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Numbers at Shorter University in 2023
The data from Shorter University reveals intriguing insights into the various fields of study, particularly in the realm of bachelor-level degrees. Business Administration stands out with 28 graduates, representing 31% of the total bachelor graduates, indicating a strong interest in business disciplines among students. The education sector also shows significant engagement, with a total of 14 graduates in Elementary Education and Teaching, coupled with additional graduates in other education-related fields, showcasing the university’s commitment to teacher preparation.
Interestingly, the health profession, particularly Registered Nursing, attracted 28 graduates, underlining the ongoing demand for healthcare professionals amidst the post-pandemic landscape. The absence of international students in any of the bachelor programs suggests a potential area for growth, as many universities are increasingly focusing on attracting a diverse student body to enrich their academic environment.
Moreover, the low graduation numbers in certain disciplines, such as Mathematics and Liberal Arts, signal potential areas for improvement in student recruitment and retention strategies. The university may benefit from exploring partnerships with local schools and businesses to enhance program visibility and create pathways for students.
Overall, the data underscores the importance of aligning academic offerings with job market demands, particularly in fields experiencing growth. As the educational landscape continues to evolve, Shorter University’s ability to adapt and respond to these trends will be crucial for its future success.
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 | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $54,423-$64,993 | |||
| Accounting. | $71,184 | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Educational, Instructional, and Curriculum Supervision. | - | |||
| Education/Teaching of Individuals in Elementary Special Education Programs. | - | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $44,051-$51,692 | |||
| Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching. | $44,051-$51,692 | |||
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other. | $44,051-$51,692 | |||
| Mathematics Teacher Education. | - | |||
| Music Teacher Education. | - | |||
| History Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $27,382 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $81,170 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | $37,674 | |||
| Natural Sciences. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Religion/Religious Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |||
| Music Performance, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Religious Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
Students
1,318 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 49:51 · Freshman retention 60.5%
- Continuing undergraduates 621
- First-year undergraduates 288
- Graduate students 115
- Transfers and others 294
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,203)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Shorter University in 2023
The student composition at Shorter University in 2023 reveals a diverse and dynamic educational environment. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 267 students, with a nearly even gender distribution—49.1% male and 50.9% female. This balance hints at a welcoming atmosphere for both genders, which is crucial for fostering inclusivity in higher education.
In contrast, the undergraduate juniors show a significant skew towards female students, where 43.8% are male and 56.2% are female. This gender disparity raises interesting questions about the retention rates and experiences of male students compared to their female counterparts. It could also reflect broader societal trends in student enrollment, where women increasingly outnumber men in many academic fields.
The transfer students present a more balanced ratio, with 50.6% male and 49.4% female, suggesting that students from diverse backgrounds find Shorter University accommodating. Meanwhile, graduate students also show a female majority (54.9%), indicating a similar trend where women are pursuing advanced degrees at higher rates.
Examining the ethnic composition, the majority of students across categories are white, followed by other racial and ethnic groups, including Asian, Latino, and African American students. This demographic landscape underscores the importance of cultural competency and representation in academic settings. As colleges and universities strive to improve diversity, Shorter University appears to be making strides in this area, although continued efforts are necessary to support underrepresented populations effectively.
Overall, the data from Shorter University highlights both progress and challenges in creating a balanced and inclusive academic community, reflecting broader trends in higher education.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Shorter University
The age composition of students at Shorter University for 2023 reveals interesting trends in enrollment across various age groups. Notably, the largest demographic consists of students aged 18-19, which is typical for many universities, indicating a strong influx of traditional-aged students. The numbers show that there are 240 male undergraduates and 251 female undergraduates in this age bracket, highlighting a slightly higher female representation.
As students progress into the 20-21 age bracket, there remains a strong presence of undergraduate students, although the number of graduate students starts to emerge. The data shows a total of 224 students in this age group, with a notable number of both male and female undergraduates.
The age groups of 22-24 and 25-29 demonstrate a decline in undergraduate enrollment but an increase in graduate students, particularly among males, suggesting that many students are choosing to continue their education beyond their undergraduate years. This trend reflects a broader national conversation about the value of advanced degrees in today’s job market.
Interestingly, the numbers drop significantly for students aged 30 and above, indicating that while higher education is pursued by younger individuals, older students may face barriers such as work commitments or family responsibilities.
Overall, the data highlights the importance of understanding student demographics, as it can inform university policies and support systems to better cater to the needs of all age groups. The observed trends align with national statistics showing a growing number of non-traditional students seeking higher education, which suggests that institutions must adapt to accommodate this evolving student population.
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.
27 in 2025 · 4.0% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 1.1% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Shorter University
The data on international student enrollment at Shorter University reveals several noteworthy trends over the years. Starting from 2004, the percentage of international undergraduate students has generally fluctuated, with an initial percentage of 1.82% and peaking at 5.60% in 2008. This indicates a growing interest in the university from abroad during that period. However, after 2008, the representation of international undergraduates saw a decline, stabilizing around 2% in recent years.
Interestingly, the graduate student enrollment data presents a more complex picture. While there are a few years of data showing a small number of international graduate students, the percentage has varied significantly, with a notable spike to 7.69% in 2011, which is a significant increase compared to other years. Unfortunately, the data for graduate international students becomes sparse after 2014, limiting our understanding of trends in this area.
The overall drop in both undergraduate and graduate international student numbers might reflect broader trends in higher education, particularly in the United States, where institutions have faced challenges due to changing immigration policies and global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, the competitive landscape for attracting international students has intensified, with many universities enhancing their offerings to appeal to this demographic.
In conclusion, while Shorter University has experienced periods of growth in international student enrollment, recent data indicates a need for strategic initiatives to revitalize interest and engagement from international students.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$34,550
- Undergraduate tuition
- $24,630
- Room and board
- $9,920
- Graduate tuition
- $17,000
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 18% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 6%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$30.7M
Expenses$26.2M
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 · Gulf South Conference
Gulf South Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 151 | - |
| Soccer | 30 | 24 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 26 | 26 |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Lacrosse | 19 | 21 |
| Basketball | 16 | 19 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Volleyball | - | 20 |
| Golf | 13 | 5 |
| Tennis | 10 | 6 |
| Wrestling | 15 | - |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 136 | - |
| Soccer | 26 | 29 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 25 | 24 |
| Lacrosse | 23 | 23 |
| Baseball | 43 | - |
| Basketball | 14 | 16 |
| Volleyball | - | 22 |
| Golf | 15 | 6 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Tennis | 11 | 8 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 152 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 37 | 37 |
| Soccer | 28 | 27 |
| Lacrosse | 21 | 24 |
| Baseball | 35 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 17 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Volleyball | - | 20 |
| Golf | 12 | 7 |
| Tennis | 8 | 6 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main CampusAtlanta · 56.8 mi
U.S. News #29
-
Spelman CollegeAtlanta · 57.2 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
Georgia State UniversityAtlanta · 58.0 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Emory UniversityAtlanta · 59.4 mi
U.S. News #23
-
Agnes Scott CollegeDecatur · 61.7 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
The University of the SouthSewanee · 77.3 mi
Liberal Arts #49
-
University of Alabama--HuntsvilleHuntsville · 88.3 mi
U.S. News #262
-
University of Alabama at BirminghamBirmingham · 105.6 mi
U.S. News #137
-
University of GeorgiaAthens · 106.3 mi
U.S. News #52
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Shorter University:
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus - Ranked 33rd in the 2024 US News rankings, Georgia Tech is a prominent public research university known for its engineering and computing programs.
-
Emory University - This prestigious university is ranked 24th and is recognized for its research contributions and strong academic programs, particularly in health and law.
-
Vanderbilt University - With a rank of 18, Vanderbilt is a private research university known for its excellent programs in education, medicine, and law.
-
Spelman College - Ranked 39th, Spelman is a historically black women's college known for its commitment to the empowerment of women of African descent.
-
Auburn University - Auburn is ranked 93rd and is known for its strong programs in engineering, business, and agriculture.
These institutions offer diverse programs and are well-regarded in various fields of study.
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 Statistics at Shorter University
The crime statistics at Shorter University reflect a significant downward trend in campus crime rates over the past decade. In 2013, the university recorded a high crime rate of 8.00 incidents per 1,000 students, which is notably concerning. However, this figure has dramatically decreased, with the latest available data for 2023 showing a rate of just 0.66 incidents per 1,000 students. This reduction indicates a positive shift in campus safety and suggests that the university's efforts to improve security measures may be effective.
Notably, incidents such as gun-related arrests and drug offenses have seen fluctuations but have generally decreased over time. The peak in crime rates occurred in 2013, followed by a consistent decline leading to 2021, where no incidents were reported. This remarkable achievement could be attributed to enhanced campus security protocols and community awareness initiatives.
The year 2021 stands out as a milestone, as it reflects a zero-crime rate, suggesting a potential for Shorter University to serve as a model for other institutions aiming to enhance their campus safety. However, it is essential for the university to remain vigilant and continue fostering a secure environment. The latest figures from 2022 and 2023, although low, indicate that maintaining a safe campus requires ongoing effort and attention.
As we look at these statistics, one cannot overlook the broader context of campus safety in higher education across the United States. Many institutions continue to grapple with incidents of violence and crime, making the successes at Shorter University all the more noteworthy. The consistent decline in crime rates at Shorter University provides an optimistic outlook for prospective students and parents concerned about safety on campus.
For more information on how crime rates are calculated, you can visit: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Shorter University include Marilyn Lloyd (Former US Representative who served ten terms), Jamie Barton (Operatic mezzo-soprano) and Vivian Louise Aunspaugh (Painter and art teacher).
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Marilyn Lloyd 1929–2018
Former US Representative who served ten terms
-
Jamie Barton 1981–
Operatic mezzo-soprano
-
Vivian Louise Aunspaugh 1869–1960
Painter and art teacher
-
Bob Long 1954–
Former MLB pitcher
-
Phyllis Tickle 1934–2015
Author on religion; founding religion editor at Publishers Weekly
-
Nathan Dean 1934–2013
Georgia State Senator
-
Marion M. Bradford 1946–2021
Biochemist who developed the Bradford protein assay
-
Moeed Yusuf
Former National Security Adviser to Pakistan's Prime Minister
-
I. M. Ibrahim 1941–2008
Founder and head coach of Clemson men's soccer
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.