Young Harris College
U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027
#184
Acceptance rate
62.6%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$32,305
$43,305 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
1,451
Student-faculty ratio 13:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
41.2%
4-year; 6-year rate 49.2%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Young Harris College, located in the picturesque North Georgia mountains, is a private liberal arts college known for its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. Founded in 1886, the college has a rich history and offers a wide range of undergraduate programs, including majors in areas such as business, education, and the arts. The college emphasizes a personalized education experience, with a low student-to-faculty ratio that allows for close interactions between students and professors. This fosters a vibrant learning environment where students can thrive academically and develop lifelong relationships.
The college's campus is not only beautiful but also equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas. Young Harris College is dedicated to promoting student life and engagement through various clubs, organizations, and athletic programs. The college's motto, "In the Light of Truth," reflects its dedication to nurturing students' intellectual and moral development. With a strong focus on outdoor activities, students can enjoy hiking, biking, and other recreational opportunities in the surrounding mountains, enhancing their overall college experience. Young Harris College is also known for its strong emphasis on preparing graduates for successful careers, with many alumni achieving notable success in various fields.
Analysis of Key Data Trends at Young Harris College
Young Harris College, a private institution, has experienced notable trends in tuition, enrollment, and graduation rates over the years. One significant observation is the consistent increase in undergraduate tuition, which rose from $25,105 in 2014 to $32,305 in 2024, marking a 28.5% increase in just a decade. This surge in tuition costs reflects a broader trend seen across higher education institutions, often driven by rising operational costs and decreased state funding.
In terms of student enrollment, the undergraduate population has fluctuated moderately, with a notable increase from 1,117 students in 2014 to 1,496 in 2023. This growth indicates a positive trend in attracting students, which can be attributed to the college's efforts in enhancing academic programs and campus facilities. However, the number of graduate students has remained minimal, suggesting that the college may benefit from developing more graduate-level offerings to diversify its academic portfolio.
Graduation rates have shown some volatility, with the on-time graduation rate dropping from 52.9% in 2018 to 30.1% in 2021. However, by 2023, this rate rebounded to 37.5%, indicating potential improvements in academic support and student services. This fluctuation in graduation rates can significantly impact the institution's reputation and its ability to attract new students.
Retention rates have generally remained stable, hovering around 60% to 83% over the years, with a notable drop to 60% in 2021. The retention rate is crucial in assessing student satisfaction and institutional effectiveness. The recent retention rate of 67.9% in 2023 suggests that the college has been effective in retaining students, likely due to improved support systems and engagement strategies.
In conclusion, while Young Harris College faces challenges with rising tuition and fluctuating graduation rates, its growth in enrollment and stable retention rates indicate a resilient institution committed to enhancing the student experience. Addressing the graduate program development and maintaining a focus on student support services will be essential for future success.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Rural, remote
- Nearest major city
- Knoxville, about 70 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), about 100 mi
- Also known as
- YHC Young Harris
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- United Methodist
- President
- Dr. John Wells (President)
- Phone
- 8002413754
- City
- Young Harris, Georgia
- Address
- 1 College Street, Young Harris, GA 30582
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 64.5%, women 64.7%.
Data insights
Trends in Admissions and Gender Ratios at Young Harris College
The admissions data from Young Harris College reveals interesting trends over the years, particularly in the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants. Starting from 2009 to 2023, the male acceptance rates fluctuated from approximately 60% to 76%, while female acceptance rates showed a similar pattern, ranging from around 60% to nearly 79%. This indicates a growing opportunity for female applicants, as the gap between male and female acceptance rates has narrowed significantly.
The overall enrollment numbers have varied, with a peak in 2009 at 405 new students and a gradual decline to 279 by 2023. This decline in enrollment could reflect larger trends in higher education, where many institutions face challenges attracting students due to demographic shifts and increased competition from online programs. It is noteworthy that the number of denied applications has also seen significant fluctuations, peaking in 2013 and 2014, which suggests a more competitive admissions process during those years.
Moreover, the high number of deferred admissions, especially in recent years, indicates that many applicants are still interested in attending Young Harris College but may need more time to make their final decisions. This trend could be tied to ongoing uncertainties in the job market and the financial implications of attending college.
In summary, Young Harris College's admissions data illustrates significant shifts in acceptance rates and enrollment trends, reflecting broader changes in the higher education landscape. As the college continues to adapt to these changes, it will be crucial to monitor how these trends influence future admission strategies and student demographics.
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Analysis of Admissions Data at Young Harris College
The admissions data for Young Harris College over the years presents a notable trend in standardized test scores and submission rates. From 2007 to 2023, there has been a significant fluctuation in the number of students submitting SAT scores, with a peak of 371 submissions in 2007, declining to just 104 in 2021, 2022, and 2023. This decline in submissions represents a stark drop from 93% to only 31% of admitted students providing SAT scores in those years, which raises questions about the changing landscape of college admissions and the increasing acceptance of alternative assessments or holistic review processes.
In terms of SAT reading and mathematics scores, the interquartile range has remained fairly consistent, with the 25th percentile scores hovering around the 450-490 range and the 75th percentile scores varying slightly from 550 to 600. This consistency indicates that while fewer students are submitting scores, those that do tend to perform within a similar range, suggesting that the college maintains a certain academic standard despite the decrease in score submission.
Additionally, the data reflects a broader trend seen across many higher education institutions where reliance on standardized tests is being reevaluated. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this shift, prompting many colleges to adopt test-optional policies. As Young Harris College navigates these changes, it will be crucial for them to ensure they maintain a diverse and capable student body while adapting to new admissions strategies. This data serves as an important touchpoint for understanding the evolving criteria for college admissions in the United States.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 6 in 10
1,384 applicants in 2025, 62.6% admitted
867 admitted 517 not admitted Yield 25.4%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Secondary Education and Teaching · Master's4 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Young Harris College
The graduation data from Young Harris College for 2023 reveals several interesting trends across various fields of study. Notably, Business Administration and Management stands out with the highest number of bachelor's degrees awarded, totaling 27. This reflects a growing interest in business-related fields, possibly driven by the increasing demand for skilled professionals in the corporate sector, especially in a post-pandemic economy that emphasizes adaptability and innovation.
Psychology also shows a significant number of graduates, with 21 bachelor's degrees conferred. This aligns with national trends where mental health awareness is at an all-time high, leading to increased enrollment in psychology programs. The importance of mental health professionals has been magnified by recent global challenges, further supporting this trend.
In the realm of education, Secondary Education and Teaching has produced 13 master's degree graduates, indicating a robust commitment to cultivating qualified educators at a higher level. This is essential as the education sector continues to adapt to new teaching methodologies and diverse learning environments.
On the other hand, there is a noticeable scarcity in the number of advanced degrees across various disciplines, particularly in the arts and sciences. For instance, only two master's degrees in Environmental Science and Mathematics were awarded. This may suggest either a lack of enrollment in these programs or potential barriers that deter students from pursuing higher education in these fields.
Moreover, the data reflects a limited number of international students graduating, particularly in programs like Business and Psychology. This highlights the need for educational institutions to enhance their global outreach and attractiveness to international scholars, which is crucial for fostering a diverse academic environment.
Overall, the statistics from Young Harris College serve as a microcosm of broader educational trends and challenges in the United States, emphasizing the need for institutions to adapt and respond to the evolving landscape of higher education.
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. | $44,720 | ||
| Accounting. | - | ||
| Accounting and Finance. | - | ||
| Finance, General. | - | ||
| Business Statistics. | - | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $56,438 | ||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $56,438 | ||
| Music Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sports Studies. | - | ||
| Outdoor Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | - | ||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | ||
| Technical Theatre/Theatre Design and Technology. | - | ||
| Musical Theatre. | - | ||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $26,838 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | ||
| Creative Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Policy Analysis, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
1,457 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 42:58 · Freshman retention 64.6%
- Continuing undergraduates 494
- First-year undergraduates 220
- Graduate students 6
- Transfers and others 737
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,451)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Young Harris College in 2023
In 2023, Young Harris College reflects a diverse student body, with a total enrollment of 1,511 students across various categories. The undergraduate new students comprise 253 individuals, representing 39.9% male and 60.1% female, indicating a healthy gender balance with a notable female majority. Similarly, the undergraduate continuing students are 551 in number, with a slightly higher male representation at 44.6%.
The undergraduate transfer students, though fewer in number at 33, show a significant male majority at 63.6%. Meanwhile, the graduate student population is relatively small at 15, with 60% being male. The overall trend indicates a consistent female predominance across the undergraduate categories, which aligns with national trends in higher education, where female enrollment often surpasses male enrollment.
Additionally, when looking at the breakdown of the student demographics by race, the data suggests that a significant portion of the student body is composed of white students, alongside representation from various ethnic groups. However, there is a notable gap in the availability of data regarding the exact numbers and ratios for these subcategories, particularly for the continuing and transfer students.
Overall, the student demographics at Young Harris College reveal a commitment to inclusivity and diversity, although further efforts may be needed to ensure that all minority groups are adequately represented and supported within the campus community. This analysis highlights the importance of understanding the demographics to foster an inclusive educational environment that caters to the needs of all students.
Analysis of Student Age Distribution at Young Harris College
The age distribution data from Young Harris College reveals significant insights into the demographic composition of its student body for the year 2023. A striking feature is the overwhelming presence of younger students, particularly those under 18 and within the 18-19 age brackets, comprising about 45% and 24% of the total enrollment, respectively. This trend highlights the college's appeal to traditional-aged students, likely reflecting the institution's focus on undergraduate programs.
Moreover, the data shows a notable absence of graduate male students and a minimal representation of graduate female students in the younger age categories, suggesting that Young Harris may primarily attract undergraduates. The small numbers in the 22-24 age range indicate a slight transition towards older students, with a mix of both genders, although the overall numbers remain low.
Interestingly, as age increases beyond 25, the representation diminishes sharply, with very few students in the 25-29 and older categories. This could point to challenges for adult learners or non-traditional students in accessing or persisting in higher education at this institution.
In a broader context, the demographic trends in higher education have been shifting, with more non-traditional students seeking flexible learning opportunities. Young Harris College might benefit from exploring initiatives to attract a more diverse age range, particularly as the demand for lifelong learning continues to grow. Emphasizing support for adult learners could enrich the campus community and enhance academic diversity.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
69 in 2025 · 7.5% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2020
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Young Harris College
The data regarding international student enrollment at Young Harris College reveals a significant fluctuation over the years. From 2004 to 2013, there was a notable increase in the number of international undergraduates, peaking at 86 students in 2013, which corresponded to an impressive 8.35% of the total undergraduate population. This surge could be attributed to growing globalization in education, as more students seek opportunities abroad.
However, the following years show a decline in both the number of international students and their percentage among the undergraduate cohort. For instance, in 2012, the percentage dropped to 0.56%, and by 2023, it had only slightly recovered to 4.68%. This trend suggests potential challenges in maintaining international student interest, possibly due to factors such as visa regulations, competition from other institutions, or changing perceptions about studying in the United States.
The data for graduate students is sparse, but the limited information available indicates that international representation has been low, with only a few students recorded in the later years. This illustrates a broader trend in higher education where some institutions may struggle to attract this demographic, particularly in niche programs.
Overall, the fluctuating numbers of international students at Young Harris College highlight the importance of strategic outreach and support for international students. As the global landscape continues to evolve, institutions must adapt to remain competitive and appealing to prospective international students.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$43,305
- Undergraduate tuition
- $32,305
- Room and board
- $11,000
- Graduate tuition
- $12,000
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 15% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 13%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$44.7M
Expenses$31.5M
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 · Conference Carolinas
Conference Carolinas: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 64 | 44 |
| Soccer | 47 | 32 |
| Lacrosse | 43 | 26 |
| Baseball | 68 | - |
| Basketball | 19 | 18 |
| Softball | - | 30 |
| Tennis | 13 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Golf | 10 | 7 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 48 | 33 |
| Baseball | 62 | - |
| Lacrosse | 31 | 26 |
| Basketball | 20 | 13 |
| Softball | - | 29 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Golf | 10 | 8 |
| Cross Country | 10 | 6 |
| Tennis | 8 | 7 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 45 | 30 |
| Lacrosse | 28 | 24 |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Basketball | 21 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 30 |
| Cross Country | 13 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 21 |
| Tennis | 10 | 10 |
| Golf | 9 | 6 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Clemson UniversityClemson · 60.0 mi
U.S. News #80
-
The University of Tennessee-KnoxvilleKnoxville · 70.5 mi
U.S. News #109
-
University of GeorgiaAthens · 72.7 mi
U.S. News #52
-
Furman UniversityGreenville · 79.6 mi
Liberal Arts #57
-
Emory UniversityAtlanta · 83.6 mi
U.S. News #23
-
Agnes Scott CollegeDecatur · 84.4 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main CampusAtlanta · 86.1 mi
U.S. News #29
-
Georgia State UniversityAtlanta · 87.2 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Spelman CollegeAtlanta · 88.2 mi
Liberal Arts #34
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding Young Harris College:
-
Emory University - Ranked 24 in the 2024 US News rankings, Emory University is a prestigious research university located in Atlanta, Georgia. It is known for its strong programs in health sciences, business, and law.
-
University of Georgia - With a ranking of 47, the University of Georgia is a comprehensive public university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. It is recognized for its research initiatives and vibrant campus life.
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus - Ranked 33, Georgia Tech is a leading public research university specializing in engineering, technology, and sciences. It is located in Atlanta and is known for its rigorous academic programs.
-
Clemson University - This comprehensive university is ranked 86 and is located in Clemson, South Carolina. It is known for its strong emphasis on research and its beautiful campus.
-
Furman University - A highly regarded liberal arts college, Furman University ranks 46 and is recognized for its academic excellence and commitment to undergraduate education.
These institutions offer a wide array of academic programs and opportunities, making them excellent choices for students in the region.
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 Rates at Young Harris College
The crime rate data from Young Harris College reveals significant fluctuations over the years, indicating a dynamic environment regarding campus safety. The average crime rate per 1,000 students peaked in 2017 at 52.83, which is notably high compared to other years. This spike may warrant further investigation into the specific incidents that contributed to this surge, as understanding the context can help in formulating effective safety measures.
In 2021, the crime rate dramatically decreased to 8.33, suggesting that the college implemented successful strategies to enhance safety and reduce incidents. However, the subsequent years show a modest increase, with rates rising to 12.94 in 2022 and 9.13 in 2023. These numbers indicate that while there have been improvements, the college must remain vigilant and responsive to any emerging trends that could threaten student safety.
Key categories such as drug arrests and alcohol-related offenses are critical metrics for assessing campus safety. Maintaining a focus on these areas, along with ensuring a supportive environment, can contribute to further reductions in crime rates. Overall, the trends suggest that while Young Harris College has made strides in improving campus safety, continued efforts are necessary to sustain and further these gains. For further understanding of crime rate calculations, refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Young Harris College include Oliver Hardy (Comic actor, one half of Laurel and Hardy), Amanda Bearse (Actress, comedian and director) and Trisha Yearwood (Country singer who debuted with number-one hit in 1991).
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Oliver Hardy 1892–1957
Comic actor, one half of Laurel and Hardy
-
Amanda Bearse 1958–
Actress, comedian and director
-
Trisha Yearwood 1964–
Country singer who debuted with number-one hit in 1991
-
Zell Miller 1932–2018
Former Georgia governor and U.S. senator
-
Ronnie Milsap 1943–
Country music singer and pianist
-
Buddy Carter 1957–
U.S. representative for Georgia's 1st district
-
Charlie Blackmon 1986–
MLB outfielder for the Colorado Rockies
-
Eurith D. Rivers 1895–1967
68th Governor of Georgia
-
Jack Thomas Brinkley 1930–2019
Former US Representative from Georgia
More alumni (7, by field)
Politics and law
-
Bert Lance 1931–2013
Director of Office of Management and Budget under Carter
-
David Ralston 1954–2022
Former Speaker of the Georgia House of Representatives
-
Cathy Cox 1958–
President of Georgia College & State University
Science and academia
-
Fred S. Clinton 1874–1955
Early Oklahoma physician who built Tulsa's first hospital
Arts and media
-
Betty Hester 1923–1998
Writer and correspondent of Flannery O'Connor
Sports
-
Nick Markakis 1983–
Former MLB right fielder for Orioles and Braves
-
Callix Crabbe 1983–
Former MLB second baseman, Pirates organization coach
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.
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.