Lewis-Clark State College
Acceptance rate
87.7%
2025
Peer median 80.5%
Out-of-state tuition
$22,028
In-state $7,610
Peer median $17,955
Undergraduates
3,793
Student-faculty ratio 16:1
Peer median 14 : 1
Graduation rate
19.7%
4-year; 6-year rate 29.4%
Peer median 26.9%
“Peers” are all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Lewis-Clark State College (LCSC) is a public college located in Lewiston, Idaho, known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence and community engagement. Established in 1893, LCSC serves a diverse student body and offers a variety of undergraduate programs across fields such as business, education, health sciences, and the liberal arts. The college prides itself on small class sizes, which foster personalized attention from faculty and promote a supportive learning environment. The dedication to student success is reflected in the college's commitment to providing resources such as tutoring, mentoring, and career services, ensuring that students are well-prepared for their future careers.
The campus culture at LCSC is vibrant and inclusive, with numerous opportunities for students to engage in extracurricular activities. The college encourages participation in sports, clubs, and community service, which enriches the overall college experience. LCSC is particularly well-known for its strong athletic programs, including baseball and basketball, which not only promote physical fitness but also foster school spirit and camaraderie among students. Additionally, the college's picturesque location near the Snake River and the scenic landscapes of Idaho provides students with ample opportunities for outdoor activities, enhancing their quality of life. With a focus on academic integrity and personal growth, LCSC continues to cultivate a nurturing environment that prepares students for success in their chosen fields.
Analysis of Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention
The data from Lewis-Clark State College reveals significant trends in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention over the years. Notably, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students has increased from $5,784 in 2014 to $6,996 in 2023, reflecting a rising trend in educational expenses. For out-of-state students, tuition rose from $16,096 to $20,252 during the same period. This increase in tuition aligns with a broader national trend where college costs have escalated, often leading to student debt concerns.
In terms of graduation rates, the timely graduation rate for undergraduates peaked at approximately 22% in 2021 but has fluctuated since, dropping to about 15% in 2023. This inconsistency raises questions about the factors influencing student success and completion, particularly in light of rising tuition costs that may burden students financially.
Retention rates provide another critical perspective on student experience at the institution. The retention rate for undergraduates has shown a gradual increase, from approximately 50% in 2013 to around 63% in 2023. This upward trend is encouraging as it suggests that more students are choosing to continue their education at Lewis-Clark State College, potentially due to improved support services or campus engagement.
Combined, these factors demonstrate the college's evolving landscape in response to external pressures such as rising tuition and internal challenges related to student success. As educational institutions continue to navigate these complexities, maintaining affordability while enhancing student outcomes will be crucial to attracting and retaining students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Small city
- Nearest major city
- Spokane, about 90 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Spokane International Airport (GEG), about 90 mi
- Also known as
- LC State
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Cynthia Pemberton (President)
- Phone
- 2087925272
- Address
- 500 8th Ave, Lewiston, ID 83501-2698
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 80.5% · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 99.9%, women 99.7%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Lewis-Clark State College
The admission data for Lewis-Clark State College over the years reveals interesting trends in both acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Starting from 2009, the college showed a relatively high acceptance rate for both male and female applicants, with male acceptance peaking at approximately 99.7% in 2019. This trend indicates a growing openness and accessibility for potential students, especially during the early 2010s when enrollment figures were on the rise.
From the data, we observe a significant decline in the acceptance rates for both genders by 2023, where the acceptance rate for males dropped to 86.2% and for females to 87.2%. This notable decrease reflects a more competitive environment for prospective students, possibly influenced by an influx of applications amidst the college's growing popularity or changing demographic trends.
Moreover, the number of students who were deferred or denied admission also saw fluctuations. For instance, in 2010 and 2011, there were very few denials, suggesting that the college was in a phase of expanding its student body. However, by 2023, the number of denied applicants surged to 521, highlighting a shift towards more stringent admission criteria.
Overall, these trends signal a balance between maintaining quality and promoting inclusivity in admissions. As the college navigates the evolving landscape of higher education, it will be interesting to see how these patterns continue to develop, particularly in the context of national discussions around college accessibility and the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on enrollment strategies.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
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 Standardized Test Scores at Lewis-Clark State College
The data from Lewis-Clark State College reveals a notable trend in standardized test scores and submission rates over the years. From 2007 to 2023, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has shown an overall increase, peaking at 84% in 2021 and 2022. This could indicate an increasing reliance on standardized testing as a metric for college admissions, potentially influenced by trends in educational policy and college preparatory resources.
In terms of scores, the range for SAT reading has shown a gradual increase, with the lower 25% starting at 390 in 2007 and moving to 430 in 2023. The upper 75% scores have also seen an upward trend, starting at 530 and reaching 550. This suggests that while overall competitiveness is increasing, there is also a corresponding rise in the academic preparation of incoming students.
Interestingly, the proportion of students submitting ACT scores fluctuated significantly, with a peak of 75% in 2016. This inconsistency might reflect broader national trends where some colleges are moving towards test-optional policies, especially in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted standardized testing availability.
Overall, the data illustrates Lewis-Clark State College's evolving admissions landscape and highlights the importance of standardized testing in the current educational environment. As colleges continue to adapt to changing demographics and educational practices, the implications on student admissions and success will be critical to monitor in the coming years.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
4,086 applicants in 2025, 87.7% admitted
3,583 admitted 503 not admitted Yield 14.7%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Trends in Graduates from Lewis-Clark State College
The data from Lewis-Clark State College for the year 2023 reveals notable insights into the graduation trends across various fields of study. The most prominent area is Registered Nursing, which produced the highest number of bachelor's degree graduates, totaling 188 students. This reflects a growing demand for healthcare professionals, particularly in nursing, which has been further amplified by the ongoing global health challenges.
In the realm of business, the Business Administration program yielded 59 bachelor's graduates, with a modest international representation of 4 students. This indicates a stable interest in business education, which remains essential for fostering economic growth and entrepreneurship. Meanwhile, Social Work, a critical field addressing societal needs, graduated 40 students, highlighting the importance of this profession in promoting community well-being.
Interestingly, no master's or doctorate degrees were conferred in these disciplines, suggesting that students may be either entering the workforce directly after their undergraduate studies or pursuing further education elsewhere. Moreover, the data shows a limited number of international students graduating, particularly in fields like Registered Nursing and Business Administration, which could impact the diversity of the workforce in these sectors.
Overall, these figures underscore the vital role of certain programs in meeting workforce demands, especially in health and business sectors, while also signaling potential areas for growth, particularly in advanced degree offerings and international student recruitment. The data reflects broader trends seen nationally, where healthcare and business fields continue to attract significant attention amidst changing economic landscapes.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health and Wellness, General. | - | ||
| Medical Office Assistant/Specialist. | - | ||
| Medical/Clinical Assistant. | - | ||
| Diagnostic Medical Sonography/Sonographer and Ultrasound Technician. | $63,344-$70,701 | ||
| Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer. | $63,344-$70,701 | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $85,898-$94,293 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $46,221 | ||
| Organizational Leadership. | $46,221 | ||
| Science/Technology Management. | $46,221 | ||
| Accounting and Business/Management. | $50,248 | ||
| Business/Corporate Communications, General. | - | ||
| Hospitality Administration/Management, General. | - | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $32,367-$41,078 | ||
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other. | $32,367-$41,078 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | $41,943 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | - | ||
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - | ||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | - | ||
| Fire Science/Fire-fighting. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Behavioral Sciences. | - | ||
| Natural Sciences. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $26,962 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - | ||
| Sports Communication. | - | ||
| Publishing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Welding Technology/Welder. | - | ||
| Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) Machinist Technology/CNC Machinist. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architectural Drafting and Architectural CAD/CADD. | - | ||
| Mechanical Drafting and Mechanical Drafting CAD/CADD. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||
| Geology/Earth Science, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | ||
| Creative Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Software Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legal Assistant/Paralegal. | - |
Students
3,801 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 37:63 · Freshman retention 61.1%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,553
- First-year undergraduates 486
- Graduate students 8
- Transfers and others 1,754
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,793)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Lewis-Clark State College in 2023
The student composition at Lewis-Clark State College for 2023 reveals a diverse population, especially among undergraduate students. With a total of 496 first-time freshmen, a significant 56.3% are female, indicating a strong presence of women in the incoming class. This trend continues with the upperclassmen, where females account for an even larger percentage at 65.1% among 1,549 students. Such a gender distribution suggests a growing interest among women in pursuing higher education, aligning with national trends where female enrollment in colleges continues to rise.
The transfer students also show a notable gender gap, with 66.9% being female out of 299 students. However, it is worth highlighting that the graduate student population remains extremely small, with only 2 students, both of whom are male. This might reflect the institution's focus more on undergraduate education rather than advanced degrees.
Looking at the racial and ethnic composition, the majority of students identified as white, with a significant number of Hispanic and Asian students as well, although detailed breakdowns for sophomores and upperclassmen were not available. The demographics reflect the college’s commitment to fostering a diverse student body, which is essential for a well-rounded educational experience.
In the broader context, as colleges and universities across the nation strive to enhance diversity and inclusion, Lewis-Clark State College appears to be on the right track, actively supporting a diverse array of students. This focus not only enriches the educational environment but also prepares students for a globalized workforce.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Lewis-Clark State College
The age composition of students at Lewis-Clark State College in 2023 reveals a pronounced trend towards younger demographics, particularly among undergraduate students. The data shows that the largest segments of the student body are under the age of 18 and between 18-19 years, account for 384 and 296 male undergraduates respectively, while female undergraduates in the same age categories are 726 and 475. This indicates a robust influx of younger students, which aligns with national trends where colleges are seeing an increase in enrollment among high school graduates.
Interestingly, as the age range increases, the number of students declines significantly. For instance, only 91 males and 199 females fall within the 25-29 age bracket, indicating a potential gap in engagement for non-traditional students who may be returning to education after a break. This trend may suggest that institutions like Lewis-Clark State College need to tailor their offerings to better accommodate older students, potentially offering more flexible learning options or part-time programs.
Another notable observation is the absence of graduate male students in age categories below 30. This could reflect a broader trend in higher education where younger demographics tend to pursue undergraduate degrees, and older students are more likely to continue into graduate studies.
Overall, the data underscores the importance of understanding age dynamics in student populations, particularly in shaping academic programs and support services that cater to diverse age groups within the college community.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
53 in 2025 · 2.7% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2022
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Lewis-Clark State College
The data on international student enrollment at Lewis-Clark State College reveals significant trends over the years. From 2004 to 2019, there was a general increase in the total number of undergraduate students, reaching a peak of 4,940 in 2009. However, the number of international students fluctuated, with a notable decline after 2010. For instance, in 2011, the count of international students dropped to 81, resulting in a decrease in their proportion within the overall undergraduate population.
The most striking observation is the sharp decline in international student enrollment from 2019 onwards. The numbers plummeted to just 38 in 2021, reflecting a broader trend seen across many U.S. colleges during the COVID-19 pandemic. This decline underscores the challenges faced by institutions in maintaining international student numbers amid travel restrictions and shifting immigration policies.
In 2022 and 2023, there was a slight recovery, with international students making up only 1.73% and 1.36% of the undergraduate population, respectively. This indicates that while the situation is improving, the recovery is slow and still far from pre-pandemic levels.
Overall, it is essential for Lewis-Clark State College to actively strategize and promote its programs to attract international students, as they contribute significantly to the diversity and cultural richness of the campus. The data highlights the need for targeted efforts to rebuild this demographic, especially as global travel resumes.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$34,520
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $22,028
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $7,610
- Room and board
- $12,492
- Graduate tuition
- $25,296
Peer median tuition + room and board $29,573 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 21% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 90%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$64.0M
Expenses$59.6M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Cascade Collegiate Conference
Cascade Collegiate Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 34 | 20 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 29 | 19 |
| Baseball | 42 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 16 |
| Cross Country | 17 | 12 |
| Tennis | 13 | 14 |
| Volleyball | - | 20 |
| Golf | 11 | 8 |
| Other Sports | - | 13 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 29 | 30 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 31 | 22 |
| Baseball | 44 | - |
| Tennis | 17 | 17 |
| Cross Country | 17 | 17 |
| Basketball | 17 | 14 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Golf | 9 | 6 |
| Other Sports | - | 11 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 37 | 29 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 33 | 30 |
| Baseball | 44 | - |
| Cross Country | 18 | 14 |
| Basketball | 17 | 12 |
| Tennis | 16 | 13 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Golf | 9 | 8 |
| Other Sports | - | 9 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of IdahoMoscow · 21.8 mi
U.S. News #208
-
Washington State UniversityPullman · 22.9 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Whitman CollegeWalla Walla · 66.8 mi
Liberal Arts #78
-
Gonzaga UniversitySpokane · 88.5 mi
U.S. News #90
-
Boise State UniversityBoise · 198.1 mi
U.S. News #299
-
Seattle UniversitySeattle · 262.7 mi
U.S. News #179
-
University of Washington-Seattle CampusSeattle · 263.0 mi
U.S. News #49
-
University of Puget SoundTacoma · 264.3 mi
Liberal Arts #100
-
Seattle Pacific UniversitySeattle · 265.4 mi
U.S. News #262
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Lewis-Clark State College:
-
University of Idaho: Ranked 185 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its strong programs in agricultural sciences, engineering, and natural resources.
-
Washington State University: With a rank of 178, this comprehensive university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including notable research initiatives.
-
Whitman College: A highly regarded liberal arts college, ranked 46, Whitman College is known for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to undergraduate education.
-
Gonzaga University: This comprehensive university ranks 93rd and is well-known for its strong programs in business, engineering, and law, as well as its vibrant campus life.
-
Seattle University: Ranked 163, Seattle University is a comprehensive institution that emphasizes social justice and community engagement, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
University of Washington-Seattle Campus: Holding a rank of 40, this prestigious university is recognized for its strong research programs and diverse array of academic disciplines.
-
Reed College: This liberal arts college ranks 67 and is known for its unique curriculum and emphasis on critical thinking and independent study.
These institutions provide a rich educational landscape surrounding Lewis-Clark State College, each offering unique strengths and opportunities for students.
Peer median 4.9 · all 85 public 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 Lewis-Clark State College
The crime statistics at Lewis-Clark State College from 2013 to 2023 reveal a concerning trend in campus safety. Initially, the crime rate was relatively low, with an average of 1.68 incidents per 1,000 students in 2013. However, over the years, there has been a significant increase, peaking in 2019 with a rate of 8.90 per 1,000 students.
Notably, the categories of gun arrests and drug-related offenses have contributed heavily to the overall crime statistics. The rise in incidents can be attributed to various factors, including but not limited to, increased awareness and reporting of crimes, changes in campus policies, and possibly a rise in student population. The spike in 2019 is particularly alarming and may reflect broader societal issues, including the escalating drug crisis affecting many communities across the United States.
In recent years, there has been a fluctuation in crime rates, with a notable decrease in 2021 and 2022, followed by an increase again in 2023. This inconsistency underscores the need for enhanced safety measures and support systems on campus. Educational institutions must prioritize student safety by implementing effective crime prevention strategies and fostering an inclusive environment where students feel safe to report incidents.
As universities continue to navigate the complexities of campus safety, it is crucial to address the underlying issues contributing to crime rates, ensuring that students can focus on their education without the fear of victimization. For those interested in understanding how these crime rates are calculated, more information can be found at this link.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Lewis-Clark State College include Bryan Fuller (Screenwriter and producer, creator of Hannibal), Aprilynne Pike (Best-selling author of the novel Wings) and Blaine Hardy (Former MLB pitcher for Tigers and Brewers).
-
Bryan Fuller 1969–
Screenwriter and producer, creator of Hannibal
-
Aprilynne Pike 1981–
Best-selling author of the novel Wings
-
Blaine Hardy 1987–
Former MLB pitcher for Tigers and Brewers
-
Alex Mallari 1987–
Filipino-American former PBA basketball player
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.