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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Friends University

Wichita, Kansas · www.friends.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

55.2%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$34,192

$45,487 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

1,548

Student-faculty ratio 12:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

35.6%

4-year; 6-year rate 45.4%

Peer median 44.6%

“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Friends University, located in Wichita, Kansas, is a private Christian university that emphasizes a strong commitment to liberal arts education and the Quaker principles of integrity, community, and service. Founded in 1898, the university has a rich history and a diverse academic environment that fosters not only intellectual growth but also personal development. The university's mission is encapsulated in its motto, "Be a good friend," which highlights the importance of community and support among students, faculty, and staff. This environment encourages collaboration and respect, making it a nurturing place for students to thrive both academically and socially.

The campus features modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational spaces that cater to a variety of academic and extracurricular interests. Friends University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with notable strengths in education, business, and the arts. The university also boasts a vibrant student life, with numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic programs that promote engagement and a sense of belonging. Notably, the university's commitment to service is evident through its community outreach programs and partnerships, allowing students to gain real-world experience while making a positive impact. Friends University has a strong focus on preparing students for successful careers, evidenced by its dedicated career services and robust alumni network, which support graduates in their professional endeavors.

Analysis of Key Data Points at Friends University

The data from Friends University reveals several noteworthy trends that provide insight into the institution's changes over recent years. One of the most striking observations is the consistent rise in tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students, which has increased from approximately $23,430 in 2014 to $32,748 in 2024. This represents an increase of about 39.8% over the decade, reflecting a broader trend in higher education where tuition costs have significantly outpaced inflation. This rising cost can be a critical factor for prospective students and their families when considering affordability and return on investment for higher education.

Another important aspect is the graduation rate, particularly the on-time graduation rate, which has shown improvement from 15.9% in 2013 to 33.1% in 2023. This increase indicates a positive trend in student success and institutional support for timely degree completion, which is crucial in enhancing the university's reputation and attracting future students.

Additionally, the enrollment numbers for both undergraduate and graduate students have seen fluctuations. Undergraduates dropped from 1,769 in 2013 to 1,278 in 2023, suggesting potential challenges in attracting new students amidst rising tuition costs. The graduate student population also saw a decline, highlighting a decreasing trend in overall enrollment, which can impact funding and resources for the university.

Retention rates have fluctuated but remained relatively stable, with a slight decrease from 74.2% in 2018 to 61.9% in 2023. This decline could be a concern as it reflects students’ long-term engagement and satisfaction with the institution. Understanding the factors influencing retention will be essential for Friends University to improve student experiences and outcomes.

In summary, while Friends University demonstrates progress in graduation rates, it faces challenges related to rising tuition and declining enrollment. Addressing these issues will be vital for sustaining its growth and ensuring the quality of education it provides.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Large city
Nearest major city
In Wichita
Nearest international airport
Tulsa International Airport (TUL), about 130 mi
Wichita, Kansas
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Dr. Amy Bragg Carey (President)
Phone
3162955000
City
Wichita, Kansas
Address
2100 W. University Ave., Wichita, KS 67213

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
58.1%
Women
52.8%

In 2020: men 45.6%, women 46.2%.

Data insights

Trends in Admission Rates at Friends University

The admission data from Friends University reveals significant trends in the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants over the years. Starting from 2009, the acceptance rate for male students was approximately 66.67%, while the female acceptance rate was around 72.81%. This pattern of a higher acceptance rate for female applicants persisted until 2016, where a notable decline in both rates was observed.
The year 2018 marked a critical juncture as the male acceptance rate fell to 46.04%, indicating a potential tightening of admissions criteria, while the female acceptance rate also dropped to 49.19%. The trend continued into 2020, where the male acceptance rate was at 45.56%, with female applicants at a marginally better 46.20%. This consistent decrease raises questions about the competitive nature of the admissions process and the strategies employed by the university to manage applicant flow.
Interestingly, while the overall number of applicants appears to have fluctuated, the number of students denied admission has generally risen, peaking in 2022 with a staggering 773 denials. This reflects a growing pool of applicants and possibly a shift towards more selective admissions policies, in line with national trends in higher education where institutions are increasingly competitive.
In 2023, the acceptance rates showed some recovery, with male applicants at 64.58% and female at 61.33%. This slight rebound could indicate strategic adjustments by the university or changes in the applicant pool dynamics. Notably, the data suggests the necessity for prospective students to remain vigilant and adapt their application strategies in response to the evolving landscape of university admissions.

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 4% submitted SAT, 22% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total960–1090Peer median 1158
ACT composite15–28
SAT Reading
500–530
600700800
SAT Math
460–560
600700800
ACT composite
15–28
253036

Data insights

Analysis of Friends University's Admission Data Trends

The admission data from Friends University over the years reveals interesting trends in standardized test scores and submission rates. Notably, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, with the highest proportion recorded in 2020 at 18%, which suggests a growing awareness or requirement of standardized testing during that period. In contrast, the percentage of ACT submissions has also shown variability, peaking in 2014 at 14%.

Looking at the score ranges, there appears to be a general upward trend in both SAT and ACT scores among admitted students. For instance, the SAT reading and math scores have gradually improved, with the 75th percentile scores rising from 490 in 2007 to 612 in 2023. This upward trajectory in scores could indicate that the university is attracting increasingly competitive students, possibly reflecting broader educational trends or changes in the university's recruitment strategies.

Additionally, the disparity in score ranges highlights the diverse academic backgrounds of applicants. For example, the 25th percentile SAT score in 2021 was 500, while it was only 410 in 2007, pointing to a significant increase in the qualifications of admitted students over time.

These trends are essential for prospective students to consider, as they illustrate the competitive nature of admissions at Friends University. Furthermore, the evolving landscape of standardized testing, particularly with the increasing number of test-optional policies nationwide, could influence future submission rates and the overall admissions process. Overall, Friends University appears to be on a positive trajectory in terms of academic standards, reflecting broader changes in higher education.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 6 in 10

1,025 applicants in 2025, 55.2% admitted

566 admitted 459 not admitted Yield 44.7%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate10 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's24114 international (5.8%)
Master's1889 international (4.8%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
37
Psychology, General
24
Zoology/Animal Biology
18
General Studies
17
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
15
Marketing/Marketing Management, General
12
Elementary Education and Teaching
9
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
9
English Language and Literature, General
8
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies
8

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's58 (14% international)
  • Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling · Master's48 (0% international)
  • Curriculum and Instruction · Master's29 (0% international)
  • Christian Studies · Master's28 (0% international)
  • Organizational Leadership · Master's11 (9% international)
  • Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's7 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Trends at Friends University 2023

The graduation data from Friends University in 2023 reveals intriguing insights into the distribution of graduates across various disciplines, particularly the dominance of master's degrees in health and education fields. Notably, the highest number of master's graduates was recorded in the Marriage and Family Therapy program with 48 graduates, followed closely by the Business Administration program with 63. This indicates a significant interest in fields that are vital to societal well-being and economic stability.

Moreover, the prevalence of international students in these programs reflects the university's global appeal, especially in disciplines such as Business Administration and Health Care Administration, which are critical in today’s interconnected world. With 6 international students graduating in Marriage and Family Therapy, it highlights the importance of cultural competence in therapeutic practices.

Interestingly, certain fields such as Psychology and General Studies also produced respectable numbers of graduates at the bachelor's level, with 20 and 19 graduates respectively. This suggests a solid foundational interest among students in these areas, which could lead to increased enrollment in advanced studies in the future.

On the other hand, some areas, particularly in the arts and sciences, showed lower graduation rates. This could be indicative of the challenges these programs face in attracting students or perhaps a reflection of the job market's demand for graduates in these fields. Overall, the data underscores the importance of aligning academic offerings with labor market needs, particularly in health and business sectors, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for their careers.

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

Businesshas 132 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$61,511-$75,303
Organizational Leadership.$61,511-$75,303
Accounting.-
Finance, General.-
Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General.-
International Business/Trade/Commerce.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Health professionshas 65 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General.-
Health/Health Care Administration/Management.-
Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer.-
Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling.$48,573
Educationhas 54 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Curriculum and Instruction.-
Special Education and Teaching, General.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.$42,027-$57,516
English/Language Arts Teacher Education.$48,785
Music Teacher Education.$48,785
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.$48,785
Biology Teacher Education.$48,785
Biologyhas 30 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Biochemistry.-
Zoology/Animal Biology.$32,496
Conservation Biology.-
Philosophy has 29 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Christian Studies.$38,996
Liberal arts has 27 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.$64,365
General Studies.$64,365
Psychology has 24 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$41,473
Computer and information sciencehas 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Computer Science.-
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.-
Web/Multimedia Management and Webmaster.-
Computer/Information Technology Services Administration and Management, Other.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General.-
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.-
Visual and Performing artshas 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Musical Theatre.-
Art/Art Studies, General.-
Music, General.-
Music Performance, General.-
Homeland security has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.-
English has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-
Engineeringhas 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Mechanical Engineering.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
History and Political Science.-
Social sciencehas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Sociology, General.-
Foreign languages has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Spanish Language and Literature.-
Physical scienceshas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.-
Communication has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Communication, General.-

Students

1,961 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 48:52 · Freshman retention 65.4%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,548)

White
800 · 51.7%
Hispanic
312 · 20.2%
Black
131 · 8.5%
Two or more races
122 · 7.9%
International
56 · 3.6%
Unknown
52 · 3.4%
Asian
49 · 3.2%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
28.5%
18–19
28.0%
20–21
26.2%
22–24
8.8%
25 and over
8.5%

Graduate students

Under 22
1.2%
22–24
25.9%
25–29
19.1%
30–34
12.6%
35 and over
41.2%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Friends University in 2023

The demographic composition of Friends University in 2023 presents a diverse and multifaceted student body. The university has a total of 1,694 students across various categories, including undergraduate freshmen, undergraduate upperclassmen, undergraduate transfer students, and graduate students. Notably, undergraduate freshmen comprise a significant portion, with 265 students, reflecting a promising influx of new talent.

The gender ratios vary widely across the categories. For instance, undergraduate freshmen have a male-to-female ratio of approximately 54.7% to 45.3%, suggesting a healthy gender balance. Conversely, graduate students show a stark contrast, with only 27.8% male representation compared to 72.2% female. This discrepancy may point to broader trends in higher education, where more women are pursuing advanced degrees, potentially influenced by societal shifts and increased support for female education.

In terms of racial and ethnic diversity, the data reveals that white students constitute a significant portion of the student population in various categories. However, the inclusion of other ethnic groups, such as Asian, Latinx, and African American students, indicates an effort towards creating a more inclusive environment. The presence of international students is also notable, reflecting the university's commitment to attracting a global student body.

This demographic landscape is crucial for shaping the university's policies and programs, ensuring that it meets the diverse needs of its students. Moving forward, Friends University may benefit from targeted outreach and support strategies to enhance inclusivity and retention across all demographics, particularly within graduate programs where female representation is so pronounced. The commitment to diversity not only enriches the educational experience but also prepares students for a multicultural world.

Analysis of Age Distribution at Friends University

The age composition of students at Friends University presents a diverse and dynamic learning environment. The data reveals that a significant proportion of the student body is under 24 years old, particularly in the under-18 and 18-19 age brackets, which together account for approximately 31% of the total student population. This youthful demographic is typical of many universities in the United States, where traditional-age students dominate.

Interestingly, the presence of older students, particularly those aged 25 and above, suggests that Friends University may attract non-traditional students as well. The 25-29 age group represents about 7% of the total student body, while the 30-34 age group contributes another 5%. This trend aligns with the increasing number of adults pursuing higher education later in life, driven by career changes and the need for upskilling in today's rapidly evolving job market.

The gender distribution across age groups also merits attention. While younger students show a higher enrollment of females, the trend shifts as the age increases, particularly in the graduate categories. This potentially indicates a growing number of women pursuing advanced degrees, reflecting wider societal changes towards gender equality in education.

Overall, Friends University’s age distribution reflects both traditional and non-traditional student demographics, emphasizing inclusivity and the university's role in supporting diverse educational pathways. As institutions adapt to the needs of a varied student body, such data will be crucial in shaping future policies and programs aimed at enhancing student success across all age groups.

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.

Undergraduates3.6%

56 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 0.2%2018: 0.0%2019: 2.7%2020: 2.2%2021: 0.0%2022: 0.0%2023: 3.2%2024: 3.2%2025: 3.6%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students7.7%

32 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 0.2%2018: 0.0%2019: 3.9%2020: 4.6%2021: 0.0%2022: 0.0%2023: 5.4%2024: 5.1%2025: 7.7%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Friends University

The data on international student enrollment at Friends University reveals notable trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, there has been a fluctuating pattern in both undergraduate and graduate international student populations. Initially, in 2004, the proportion of international students in undergraduate programs was relatively low, at 0.58%. However, by 2023, this figure had increased to 3.21%, indicating a growing interest among international students in pursuing undergraduate studies at the university.

In contrast, the graduate program has seen a more consistent rise in the percentage of international students. The percentage increased from 3.18% in 2004 to 5.38% in 2023. This steady growth is encouraging, reflecting a broader trend in higher education where universities are becoming increasingly attractive to international students seeking advanced degrees.

The significant uptick in international enrollment, particularly in the last few years, can be attributed to various factors, including the university's commitment to diversity and inclusion, as well as its efforts to enhance global partnerships. Additionally, the recent global focus on international education, particularly following the pandemic, has resulted in universities like Friends University adapting their programs to attract more foreign students.

Overall, the increasing representation of international students in both undergraduate and graduate programs at Friends University suggests a positive trajectory for the institution, aligning with global trends in higher education. This growth not only enriches the campus culture but also prepares domestic students for a more interconnected world.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$45,487

Undergraduate tuition
$34,192
Room and board
$11,295
Graduate tuition
$11,988
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 35% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 54%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$34.6M

Tuition and fees
$19.0M54.8%
Investment return
$6.9M20.0%
Auxiliary enterprises
$4.5M12.9%
Gifts and private grants
$2.5M7.3%
Government grants and contracts
$1.1M3.3%
Sales and services of educational activities
$356K1.0%
Other
$195K0.6%

Expenses$29.7M

Instruction
$8.5M28.8%
Student services
$8.5M28.6%
Institutional support
$5.9M19.9%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.0M10.1%
Academic support
$2.0M6.6%
Other
$1.8M6.0%

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.

All faculty
$62,888peers $68,006
Professor
$72,847peers $78,041
Associate professor
$65,823peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$57,561peers $63,827
Instructor
$58,333peers $55,171

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference

Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division I MENWOMEN
Football143-
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)5779
Soccer4334
Basketball3336
Baseball68-
Wrestling3727
Volleyball-47
Softball-35
Weight Lifting2010
Golf1511
Tennis106
Other Sports--
2024
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)10871
Football130-
Soccer3532
Basketball3531
Baseball55-
Wrestling2424
Volleyball-38
Softball-33
Weight Lifting1714
Golf1810
Tennis107
Other Sports--
2023
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)9576
Football127-
Soccer3435
Baseball64-
Basketball3527
Wrestling3116
Softball-39
Volleyball-34
Weight Lifting1315
Golf1311
Tennis79
Other Sports--

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near Friends University:

  1. Oklahoma State University-Main Campus - Ranked 185 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its strong programs in fields such as engineering, business, and agriculture.

  2. Kansas State University - With a rank of 170, Kansas State University is a comprehensive institution offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly recognized for its research contributions.

  3. University of Tulsa - Ranked 195, this private university is renowned for its programs in law, business, and engineering, offering a personalized education experience.

  4. University of Kansas - This comprehensive university is ranked 151 in the 2024 US News rankings and is known for its strong emphasis on research and diverse academic offerings.

  5. University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus - With a rank of 124, this public research university offers a variety of programs and is particularly known for its contributions to the fields of aerospace and meteorology.

  6. Southern Methodist University - Ranked 89, SMU is a private university in Dallas known for its strong business and law programs, along with its vibrant campus life.

These institutions offer a range of academic programs and opportunities, making them significant educational resources in the region.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Drug referrals
40
Liquor referrals
37
Burglary
19
Motor vehicle theft
17
Domestic violence
4
Weapons referrals
3

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Trends in Campus Crime at Friends University

The data from Friends University outlines a concerning trend in campus crime rates over the years. Notably, the average number of crimes per 1,000 students has seen fluctuations, with a significant spike in 2023, reaching an alarming rate of 13.46 incidents. This represents a considerable increase compared to previous years, particularly when juxtaposed with the 3.92 rate in 2013.

Various types of crimes contribute to this overall figure, with arrests for gun-related offenses, drug-related incidents, and alcohol-related arrests being prominent. The consistent presence of such offenses raises questions about campus safety and the effectiveness of existing security measures. In 2019 and 2020, we witnessed some of the highest crime rates recorded, with 7.89 and 7.70 per 1,000 students, respectively. This indicates a period where external factors, such as social unrest or increased substance abuse, may have played a role in escalating crime rates.

The year 2023 stands out not only for its high crime rate but also for its potential implications on the university's reputation and student recruitment strategies. As universities across the country face similar challenges, it becomes crucial to implement comprehensive safety programs and foster a transparent dialogue with the student body regarding crime prevention.

In conclusion, while the data provides a snapshot of campus crime at Friends University, it also serves as a call to action for stakeholders to prioritize student safety and well-being. For further insights on how crime rates are calculated, refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Friends University include Vernon L. Smith (Economist and Chapman University professor), George Kelly (Psychologist, founder of personal construct psychology) and Rich Mullins (Contemporary Christian singer and songwriter).

More alumni (7, by field)

Politics and law

Arts and media

Other fields

  • Darrel Ray 1950–

    Organizational psychologist, author and atheist activist

    Also attended: Vanderbilt University

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.