Friends University
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
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Amy Bragg Carey (President)
- Phone
- 3162955000
- Address
- 2100 W. University Ave., Wichita, KS 67213
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 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
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)
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
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | - | |||
| Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer. | - | |||
| Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling. | $48,573 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Biochemistry. | - | |||
| Zoology/Animal Biology. | $32,496 | |||
| Conservation Biology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Christian Studies. | $38,996 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $64,365 | |||
| General Studies. | $64,365 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $41,473 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | - | |||
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Musical Theatre. | - | |||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | |||
| Music, General. | - | |||
| Music Performance, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History and Political Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | - |
Students
1,961 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 48:52 · Freshman retention 65.4%
- Continuing undergraduates 681
- First-year undergraduates 251
- Graduate students 413
- Transfers and others 616
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,548)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
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.
56 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
32 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
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
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
Expenses$29.7M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference
Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 143 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 57 | 79 |
| Soccer | 43 | 34 |
| Basketball | 33 | 36 |
| Baseball | 68 | - |
| Wrestling | 37 | 27 |
| Volleyball | - | 47 |
| Softball | - | 35 |
| Weight Lifting | 20 | 10 |
| Golf | 15 | 11 |
| Tennis | 10 | 6 |
| Other Sports | - | - |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 108 | 71 |
| Football | 130 | - |
| Soccer | 35 | 32 |
| Basketball | 35 | 31 |
| Baseball | 55 | - |
| Wrestling | 24 | 24 |
| Volleyball | - | 38 |
| Softball | - | 33 |
| Weight Lifting | 17 | 14 |
| Golf | 18 | 10 |
| Tennis | 10 | 7 |
| Other Sports | - | - |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 95 | 76 |
| Football | 127 | - |
| Soccer | 34 | 35 |
| Baseball | 64 | - |
| Basketball | 35 | 27 |
| Wrestling | 31 | 16 |
| Softball | - | 39 |
| Volleyball | - | 34 |
| Weight Lifting | 13 | 15 |
| Golf | 13 | 11 |
| Tennis | 7 | 9 |
| Other Sports | - | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Wichita State UniversityWichita · 4.9 mi
U.S. News #288
-
Oklahoma State University-Main CampusStillwater · 108.7 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Kansas State UniversityManhattan · 112.7 mi
U.S. News #156
-
University of TulsaTulsa · 131.5 mi
U.S. News #148
-
University of KansasLawrence · 145.0 mi
U.S. News #148
-
University of Oklahoma-Norman CampusNorman · 170.7 mi
U.S. News #116
-
University of Missouri--Kansas CityKansas City · 177.6 mi
U.S. News #250
-
University of ArkansasFayetteville · 208.4 mi
U.S. News #191
-
University of Nebraska-LincolnLincoln · 219.8 mi
U.S. News #169
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Friends University:
-
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.
-
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.
-
University of Tulsa - Ranked 195, this private university is renowned for its programs in law, business, and engineering, offering a personalized education experience.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
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).
-
Vernon L. Smith 1927–
Economist and Chapman University professor
-
George Kelly 1905–1967
Psychologist, founder of personal construct psychology
-
Rich Mullins 1955–1997
Contemporary Christian singer and songwriter
-
June Bacon-Bercey 1928–2019
Meteorologist, first trained female TV meteorologist in the US
-
Frank Marshall Davis 1905–1987
Writer, poet and labor activist
-
James F. Crow 1916–2012
Population geneticist at University of Wisconsin–Madison
-
R. C. Buford 1960–
CEO of the San Antonio Spurs
-
Page Belcher 1899–1980
Republican U.S. representative from Oklahoma
-
Josh García 1993–
Dominican Republic national team soccer midfielder
More alumni (7, by field)
Politics and law
-
Carl Brewer 1957–2020
100th mayor of Wichita, Kansas
-
Gail Finney 1959–2022
Democratic member of the Kansas House
-
Mary Easley
Former Oklahoma state senator
Arts and media
-
Cindy Hohl
American Library Association president for 2024–2025
-
Beverly Hoch 1951–
Coloratura soprano and music educator
-
Rolf Potts 1970–
Travel writer and author of Vagabonding
Other fields
-
Darrel Ray 1950–
Organizational psychologist, author and atheist activist
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.