Coe College
U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027
#119
Up 7 from 2026
Acceptance rate
64.0%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$54,666
$66,456 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
1,195
Student-faculty ratio 11:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
59.6%
4-year; 6-year rate 65.2%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Coe College, located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is a private liberal arts college known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus culture. Founded in 1851, the college has a rich history and a commitment to fostering a well-rounded education that emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and ethical leadership. The college’s motto, "Enter to Learn, Go Forth to Serve," reflects its dedication to preparing students not only for successful careers but also for meaningful contributions to society. Coe College offers a diverse range of undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including the humanities, sciences, and social sciences, encouraging students to explore their interests and develop a broad skill set.
The campus is characterized by its beautiful historic buildings and modern facilities, providing an inspiring environment for learning and personal growth. Coe College prides itself on its close-knit community, where students benefit from small class sizes and personalized attention from faculty members. The college boasts a diverse student body and a commitment to inclusivity, fostering an engaging and supportive atmosphere. Additionally, Coe College is known for its strong emphasis on extracurricular activities, including a variety of sports teams and clubs, which enhance student life and promote teamwork and leadership skills. With a strong alumni network and a focus on career readiness, Coe College graduates are well-prepared for the workforce, often securing positions in leading companies and organizations across various fields.
Analysis of Key Educational Metrics
The data from Coe College reveals significant trends in tuition, student retention, and graduation rates over recent years. Notably, the tuition for in-state and out-of-state undergraduates has increased substantially, rising from $35,730 in 2014 to $52,576 in 2024, representing a nearly 47% increase. This steep rise in tuition may pose challenges for prospective students, potentially limiting access to higher education for some.
In terms of student retention, the data indicates a concerning downward trend. Retention rates decreased from approximately 81.4% in 2013 to about 70.0% in 2023. This decline suggests that students may be facing difficulties in their educational experience or financial burdens that prompt them to leave before completing their degrees. Retention is crucial for institutional reputation and can also impact graduation rates.
Graduation rates show fluctuations but highlight an alarming dip in the immediate graduation rate for 2023, which is just 55.1%, down from 63.7% in 2022. This decline may reflect the challenges students face, particularly in light of increasing tuition costs and possible changes in academic support systems.
Moreover, the student-to-faculty ratio has shown some variability, with a notable increase to 12:1 in 2021, which could imply larger class sizes that may impact the quality of education and individual attention students receive.
In conclusion, these metrics reflect the financial pressures on students and the potential implications for educational outcomes at Coe College. Institutions must address these challenges to enhance student support and improve overall retention and graduation rates, ensuring that education remains accessible and effective.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Midsize city
- Nearest major city
- Des Moines, about 100 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Des Moines International Airport (DSM), about 110 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Presbyterian Church (USA)
- President
- David Hayes (President)
- Phone
- 3193998000
- City
- Cedar Rapids, Iowa
- Address
- 1220 First Ave NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402-5092
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 60.7%, women 64.9%.
Best #119, lowest #126, latest #119 over the last ten years.
Data insights
Analysis of Coe College Admission Trends
Coe College's admission data from 2009 to 2022 reveals some interesting trends in both acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Over the years, the acceptance rates for male and female applicants have fluctuated significantly. For instance, in 2021, the male acceptance rate peaked at 77.1%, while the female acceptance rate reached an impressive 83.2%. These numbers indicate an increasing willingness by the institution to accept a larger pool of candidates, especially during the pandemic, which may have influenced enrollment strategies.
Notably, the total number of enrolled students has also varied, reflecting the institution's responsiveness to changing applicant demographics and external circumstances. The highest enrollment recorded was 400 students in 2018, whereas the lowest was 325 in 2010. This variability aligns with national trends in higher education, where colleges are adapting to shifting applicant pools and economic conditions.
The data also highlights the number of denied applications, which reached a staggering 3,366 in 2017. This number illustrates the competitive nature of admissions at Coe College, particularly in years when the applicant pool surged. The deferred admissions figures further underscore the institution's efforts to manage enrollment in a structured manner, allowing students more time to prepare for their college experience.
Overall, Coe College appears to be navigating the complexities of college admissions effectively, balancing acceptance rates with the need for a diverse and capable student body. As institutions continue to adjust their policies in response to global challenges, observing these trends will be crucial for prospective students and educational stakeholders alike.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 9% submitted SAT, 25% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Scores at Coe College
Over the years, Coe College has experienced notable fluctuations in the standardized test scores of its admitted students. The data demonstrates a consistent pattern where the 25th percentile and 75th percentile scores for reading, math, and composite ACT scores have shown some variability. For instance, the reading scores range from a low of 480 in 2013 to highs above 580 in several years, indicating that the college maintains a relatively competitive academic standard.
Interestingly, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has varied significantly, peaking at 31% in recent years. This trend may reflect a broader shift in higher education admissions, where colleges are increasingly adopting test-optional policies. The increase in the number of students submitting scores could suggest a growing confidence in standardized tests among prospective students, or perhaps a strategic decision to enhance applicant profiles.
Moreover, the scores reflect a steady admission standard where the lower quartile scores remain consistent, indicating that while Coe College is attracting high-achieving students, it also appears to be committed to a diverse student body by maintaining accessibility for a broader range of academic capabilities. This aligns with national trends in higher education, where institutions are recognizing the importance of holistic admissions processes that consider a variety of factors beyond standardized test scores.
In summary, while Coe College has shown variability in its admission scores over the years, the overall trend indicates a balance between maintaining academic standards and promoting inclusivity in the admissions process. As higher education continues to evolve, it will be interesting to observe how these dynamics further influence admissions strategies and student demographics at Coe College.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 6 in 10
8,633 applicants in 2025, 64.0% admitted
5,529 admitted 3,104 not admitted Yield 5.5%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Coe College
The graduation data from Coe College reveals notable trends in various academic disciplines for the year 2023. The most prominent program is Business Administration and Management, producing 42 graduates, with a small fraction of international students. This aligns with the growing demand for business professionals, reflecting broader economic trends where business acumen is increasingly valued across sectors.
In the sciences, Biology stands out with 28 graduates, indicating a robust interest in biological sciences, which is crucial given the ongoing focus on health and environmental issues globally. The data shows that while these programs attract a significant number of domestic students, international representation remains limited, highlighting a potential area for growth in attracting diverse student populations.
The health sector is represented by the Registered Nursing program, with 18 graduates, underscoring the critical need for healthcare professionals. This is particularly relevant in the context of the post-pandemic world, where healthcare systems are under pressure to expand their workforce.
Interestingly, the data also shows that many programs, particularly in the arts and humanities, have a lower graduation count, with fields such as Music Performance and Theatre Arts recording only a handful of graduates. This could reflect shifting student interests towards more vocationally-oriented fields that promise clearer career paths.
Moreover, the absence of master's and doctoral graduates in many disciplines suggests that these programs may not currently attract students seeking advanced degrees, indicating either a lack of offerings or a need for strategic development in graduate programs. Overall, the graduation data highlights both strengths and opportunities for Coe College, particularly in enhancing diversity and broadening program offerings to meet evolving student and market demands.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $51,496 | |
| Accounting. | $57,695 | |
| Organizational Behavior Studies. | - | |
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $40,455 | |
| Biochemistry. | - | |
| Molecular Biology. | - | |
| Neuroscience. | $48,916 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $37,710 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |
| Film/Cinema/Media Studies. | - | |
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | |
| Music, General. | - | |
| Music Performance, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | |
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $76,975 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | |
| Creative Writing. | $27,269 | |
| Rhetoric and Composition. | $27,269 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $47,604 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Economics, General. | - | |
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - | |
| Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | - | |
| International/Globalization Studies. | - | |
| Data Science, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - | |
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Asian Studies/Civilization. | - | |
| African-American/Black Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| French Language and Literature. | - |
Students
1,195 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 51:49 · Freshman retention 72.7%
- Continuing undergraduates 821
- First-year undergraduates 303
- Transfers and others 71
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,195)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Analysis of Student Composition at Coe College in 2023
The student demographics at Coe College for the year 2023 reveal interesting insights into gender distribution and diversity among the student body. The data indicates that the undergraduate new students, comprising 363 individuals, have a slightly higher female representation at 54%, compared to 46% male students. This trend continues among undergraduate continuing students, where 56.9% are female and 43.1% male, reflecting a consistent pattern of higher female enrollment in higher education institutions.
In terms of diversity, while the specific breakdown of the continuing and transfer students is not available, the incoming new students show that a significant portion, 218, identify as White, representing approximately 60% of the new cohort. This highlights the ongoing challenge of racial diversity in higher education, as the college continues to attract a predominantly White student body. However, there is a notable presence of other racial groups, including Asian, Latino, Pacific Islander, African American, and international students, which is crucial for fostering a multicultural environment.
The overall gender balance and racial composition of the student body are important factors that can impact the campus culture and student experiences. As educational institutions strive for inclusivity, it will be essential for Coe College to continue its efforts in promoting diversity and ensuring equal opportunities for all students. This analysis underscores the need for ongoing engagement and initiatives aimed at enhancing the representation of underrepresented groups in higher education, fostering a more equitable academic environment.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Coe College in 2023
The age composition of students at Coe College in 2023 reveals interesting insights about the demographic trends within the institution. The largest group of students falls within the 18-19 age range, consisting of 247 male undergraduates and 335 female undergraduates, which accounts for approximately 40% of the total student population. This finding is consistent with trends observed in many colleges across the United States, where the majority of students are typically fresh out of high school.
The 20-21 age range also shows a substantial number of students, with 238 male undergraduates and 285 female undergraduates, further emphasizing the prevalence of traditional-aged college students. As students age, however, the numbers start to dwindle significantly. For instance, only 56 male undergraduates and 76 female undergraduates are found in the 22-24 age group, indicating a potential drop-off as students transition into the workforce or pursue other opportunities.
Interestingly, the data indicates minimal representation of older students, with just a handful in the 25-29 age range and even fewer in the 30-34 and above categories. This trend may reflect a broader societal observation where higher education tends to attract younger individuals, potentially overlooking the growing number of adult learners seeking to advance their careers.
Overall, these age demographics provide a glimpse into the student body composition at Coe College, highlighting the institution's focus on traditional-age students while also pointing to an area for potential growth in attracting non-traditional students. As education continues to evolve, it will be crucial for colleges to adapt and cater to the diverse needs of all learners.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
65 in 2025 · 4.4% in 2016
Data insights
Decline in International Student Enrollment at Coe College
The data concerning international student enrollment at Coe College over the years presents a concerning trend. The number of undergraduate students has fluctuated slightly, from a peak of 1,422 in 2019 to just 1,264 in 2023. However, the enrollment of international students has seen a noticeable decline. In 2004, there were 66 international undergraduates, accounting for 5.12% of the total student body. By 2023, this number had dropped to 41, representing only 3.24% of the undergraduate population.
This decline may reflect broader challenges faced by many institutions in the United States, including visa restrictions, rising tuition costs, and increased competition from universities in other countries that offer attractive programs. The significant decrease in the percentage of international students could impact the university's cultural diversity and the richness of the academic environment.
Moreover, the absence of data on graduate student enrollment further complicates the picture, as it prevents a complete understanding of the trends in graduate international student populations. The fluctuations observed may also be influenced by external factors such as global events, including the COVID-19 pandemic, which severely disrupted international travel and education.
As the world continues to recover and adapt from such disruptions, it will be imperative for Coe College to strategize on attracting international students, enhancing their appeal, and ensuring that they feel welcome and supported in their academic pursuits.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$66,456
- Undergraduate tuition
- $54,666
- Room and board
- $11,790
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 40% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 39%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$41.2M
Expenses$42.3M
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 · American Rivers Conference
American Rivers Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 121 | - |
| Baseball | 59 | - |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 32 | 26 |
| Soccer | 35 | 22 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 26 | 24 |
| Basketball | 24 | 21 |
| Bowling | 17 | 20 |
| Wrestling | 33 | - |
| Tennis | 15 | 13 |
| Cross Country | 14 | 10 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Other Sports | - | 20 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Golf | 9 | 8 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | - | 13 |
| Swimming | 9 | - |
| Rifle | - | - |
| Archery | - | - |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 122 | - |
| Baseball | 71 | - |
| Soccer | 45 | 24 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 33 | 18 |
| Basketball | 25 | 22 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 27 | 17 |
| Cross Country | 21 | 14 |
| Wrestling | 31 | - |
| Bowling | 16 | 14 |
| Tennis | 14 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 28 |
| Golf | 10 | 10 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | - | 15 |
| Other Sports | - | 7 |
| Swimming | 3 | - |
| Rifle | - | - |
| Archery | - | - |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 95 | - |
| Soccer | 46 | 29 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 24 | 21 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 25 | 19 |
| Baseball | 43 | - |
| Basketball | 22 | 20 |
| Wrestling | 29 | - |
| Bowling | 11 | 17 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Cross Country | 14 | 10 |
| Tennis | 13 | 10 |
| Volleyball | - | 23 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 5 | 17 |
| Golf | 10 | 10 |
| Other Sports | - | 3 |
| Rifle | - | - |
| Archery | - | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of IowaIowa City · 23.4 mi
U.S. News #100
-
Grinnell CollegeGrinnell · 57.2 mi
Liberal Arts #16
-
Augustana CollegeRock Island · 66.2 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
Knox CollegeGalesburg · 98.2 mi
Liberal Arts #85
-
Iowa State UniversityAmes · 102.2 mi
U.S. News #116
-
Drake UniversityDes Moines · 106.1 mi
U.S. News #191
-
University of Wisconsin-MadisonMadison · 137.2 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Bradley UniversityPeoria · 138.5 mi
U.S. News #169
-
Beloit CollegeBeloit · 139.1 mi
Liberal Arts #100
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Coe College:
-
University of Iowa - Ranked 93 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its strong programs in writing and the arts.
-
Grinnell College - A highly regarded liberal arts college, Grinnell ranks 11th in the 2024 US News rankings and is known for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus life.
-
Iowa State University - This comprehensive university ranks 115th in the 2024 US News rankings and is recognized for its research initiatives and diverse programs.
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison - Ranked 35th by US News, this comprehensive university is well-known for its research capabilities and a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Knox College - A liberal arts college ranked 75th, Knox College offers a personalized education with a focus on experiential learning.
-
Wheaton College - With a rank of 56, Wheaton is a liberal arts college that emphasizes a Christian worldview and academic excellence.
These schools provide a variety of academic opportunities and vibrant campus experiences in the vicinity of Coe College.
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 Coe College
The crime rates at Coe College over the years reflect a significant fluctuation, with the average number of incidents per 1,000 students showing a downward trend since 2015. In 2013, the crime rate was 26.92, peaking at 33.57 in 2015 before dropping to as low as 13.43 in 2020. This decline is encouraging and suggests that the college has made strides in improving campus safety and security for its students.
The data indicates that while certain categories of crime, such as drug-related arrests and alcohol-related incidents, have been persistent, there has been a noticeable decrease in the overall crime rate in recent years. For instance, in 2021, the crime rate rose slightly to 16.50, but it still remained significantly lower than in previous years.
Interestingly, serious crimes such as murder, rape, and robbery were not reported during this period, indicating that the campus environment remains relatively safe compared to larger urban areas. Nevertheless, the presence of incidents like domestic violence and stalking highlights ongoing challenges that require continuous attention and awareness.
Coe College's administration should continue to prioritize student safety through educational programs and community engagement, as well as providing resources for those affected by crime. The downward trend in crime rates is promising, but vigilance and proactive measures must persist to ensure a secure environment for all students.
For more information on calculating crime rates, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of Coe College include William L. Shirer (Journalist and historian, wrote Rise and Fall of the Third Reich), Gregory Alan Williams (Actor and author, known for Baywatch) and Edward Alsworth Ross (Sociologist and co-founder of American Journal of Sociology).
-
William L. Shirer 1904–1993
Journalist and historian, wrote Rise and Fall of the Third Reich
-
Gregory Alan Williams 1956–
Actor and author, known for Baywatch
-
Edward Alsworth Ross 1866–1951
Sociologist and co-founder of American Journal of Sociology
-
Bill Fitch 1934–2022
NBA coach who won the 1981 title with the Celtics
-
Fran Allison 1907–1989
Comedian and star of Kukla, Fran and Ollie
-
James William Good 1866–1929
Secretary of War under Herbert Hoover
-
James A. Reed 1861–1944
US senator from Missouri and Kansas City mayor
-
Omar Abd al-Razaq 1958–
Palestinian politician and former finance minister
-
Katja Koroleva 1987–
International soccer referee born in the Soviet Union
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.