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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Sterling College

Sterling, Kansas · www.sterling.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

48.2%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$33,700

$43,286 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

670

Student-faculty ratio 8:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

26.6%

4-year; 6-year rate 36.7%

Peer median 45.1%

“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Sterling College, located in Sterling, Kansas, is a private liberal arts college known for its commitment to providing a personalized educational experience. Founded in 1887, the college emphasizes the importance of hands-on learning and community engagement, which is reflected in its distinctive motto, "To Learn, To Lead, To Serve." This motto encapsulates the institution's dedication to fostering not only academic excellence but also leadership skills and a spirit of service among its students. Sterling College prides itself on its small class sizes, allowing for close interaction between students and faculty, which enhances the educational experience and supports student success.

The college offers a wide array of undergraduate programs, with strong emphasis on liberal arts, environmental studies, and professional preparation. Sterling College is also well-regarded for its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, integrating these principles into its curriculum and campus operations. The college's scenic campus provides a supportive and vibrant community atmosphere, where students are encouraged to participate in various extracurricular activities, including athletics, arts, and service projects. The college's athletic programs foster teamwork and sportsmanship, contributing to a well-rounded student life experience. With a focus on developing well-rounded graduates, Sterling College prepares its students for successful careers and meaningful contributions to society.

Analysis of Tuition, Student Retention, and Graduation Rates

The data reveals a significant upward trend in tuition costs at Sterling College over the years. For in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students, tuition has risen from $21,200 in 2014 to $32,200 in 2024, reflecting a growth of approximately 52%. This increase in tuition can be attributed to various factors, including inflation, increased demand for higher education, and institutional funding challenges. Such rising costs may pose financial burdens on students and their families, potentially impacting enrollment numbers in future years.

In terms of student retention, there has been notable fluctuation. The retention rate for undergraduate students saw a peak of approximately 66.2% in 2014, followed by a decline to 50% in 2019, before recovering to around 59.2% in 2023. This trend suggests that while students may initially be attracted to the college, challenges in maintaining their commitment may arise, possibly linked to the rising tuition costs and other factors affecting student satisfaction and engagement.

Graduation rates also reflect concerning patterns. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students improved from 26.5% in 2013 to a peak of 43.8% in 2022, yet it dipped to 39.7% in 2023. This variability may indicate challenges in students’ academic journeys, exacerbated by financial pressures and the overall educational environment. The 150% graduation rate, while higher, still presents concerns about the number of students taking longer to complete their degrees.

Overall, these data points highlight critical areas that Sterling College must address to enhance student experience, improve retention, and support timely graduation, particularly in the context of rising tuition costs.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Rural, remote
Nearest major city
Wichita, about 60 mi
Nearest international airport
Tulsa International Airport (TUL), about 190 mi
Sterling, Kansas
Also known as
SC
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Scott Rich (President)
Phone
6202782173
City
Sterling, Kansas
Address
125 W. Cooper, Sterling, KS 67579

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
46.4%
Women
52.2%

In 2020: men 39.0%, women 42.7%.

Data insights

Admission Trends at Sterling College

The admission data for Sterling College over the years reflects significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Notably, the overall trend shows a decline in the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants from 2010 to 2021, with rates dropping from approximately 55% to around 36% for males and from 55% to roughly 42% for females. This decline indicates a more competitive admission process, likely influenced by increased applications and the college's efforts to maintain or improve its standing in national rankings.
The year 2023 marked a notable rebound in acceptance rates, with male applicants achieving a rate of approximately 62% and female applicants about 58%. This resurgence may suggest strategic adjustments in the college's admissions policies or a shift in application trends, possibly due to external factors such as a changing demographic landscape or the impact of recent global events on higher education.
Enrollment figures also reveal a variable pattern, with the highest number of enrollments occurring in 2018, which coincided with a year of increased acceptance rates. Conversely, the years with lower acceptance rates often corresponded with a decrease in enrollment, highlighting the interdependence of acceptance rates and student enrollment.
Overall, the data underscores the dynamic nature of college admissions and the importance of adapting to changing conditions in higher education. As institutions like Sterling College navigate these complexities, continued monitoring of trends will be vital for understanding future admissions landscapes.

Test Scores

SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no SAT/ACT data for students admitted in 2025.

Data insights

Trends in Standardized Test Scores at Sterling College

The data from Sterling College presents a comprehensive view of standardized test performance over the years, showcasing both SAT and ACT scores. Analyzing the trends, we observe a fluctuating participation rate among students submitting their scores, with a notable increase in the percentage of SAT test-takers peaking at 39% in 2020. This spike aligns with a broader trend in higher education where institutions are becoming increasingly test-optional or test-blind, prompting more students to submit scores when they perceive their results as competitive.

Regarding the scores themselves, there is a noticeable upward trajectory in the 25th percentile scores for both SAT reading and math, as well as ACT composite scores. Over the years, the lower bounds of SAT reading have improved from 390 in 2007 to a high of 498 in 2022, suggesting that the admitted student cohort is becoming more academically prepared. This trend is particularly relevant in the context of recent discussions around college admissions, where the emphasis on holistic review processes may be impacting the quality of applicants.

However, the data also indicates variability in the upper bounds of these scores, which reflects the diverse applicant pool Sterling College attracts. The fluctuating nature of these scores may also be indicative of changing demographics and the competitive landscape of college admissions.

In conclusion, while the increasing participation rates and improving lower score thresholds are positive indicators for Sterling College, the variability in the upper percentiles highlights the need for continued focus on attracting and retaining high-achieving students amid evolving admissions practices nationwide.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 5 in 10

820 applicants in 2025, 48.2% admitted

395 admitted 425 not admitted Yield 30.4%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's11913 international (10.9%)
Master's160 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management
16
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration
13
Management Science
10
Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other
8
Elementary Education and Teaching
6
Athletic Training/Trainer
6
Pre-Physical Therapy Studies
5
Accounting
4
Research and Experimental Psychology, Other
4
History, General
4

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Athletic Training/Trainer · Master's10 (0% international)
  • Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other · Master's6 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from Sterling College

The graduation data from Sterling College for 2023 reveals insightful trends across various disciplines. Notably, programs in Business and Education have produced a significant number of graduates, reflecting the continuing demand for professionals in these fields. For instance, the Business Administration program saw eight graduates, emphasizing the institution's role in preparing students for the workforce in critical sectors such as finance, marketing, and management.

Interestingly, the field of health-related studies, particularly Athletic Training, is also prominent, with seven master's degree graduates. This aligns with the rising awareness of health and fitness, especially in a post-pandemic world where public health and wellness have become priorities. Moreover, the presence of international students in these programs is minimal, indicating a potential area for growth in attracting global talent.

Furthermore, it is worth noting that disciplines such as Psychology and History are producing fewer graduates, with only three and four respectively. This could signal a shift in student interest towards more career-oriented programs or a response to evolving job market conditions. The absence of doctoral graduates in many fields suggests that Sterling College may primarily focus on undergraduate education, which could limit research opportunities and advanced studies.

Overall, the graduation data reflects current educational trends and the evolving landscape of job readiness, highlighting both strengths in business and health programs while also indicating areas that may require further development to enhance the academic offerings at Sterling College.

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 29 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Office Management and Supervision.-
Accounting.-
Finance, General.-
Management Science.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Real Estate.-
Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other.-
Health professionshas 21 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Athletic Training/Trainer.-
Pre-Physical Therapy Studies.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General.-
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.-
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, Other.-
Educationhas 16 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
English/Language Arts Teacher Education.-
Mathematics Teacher Education.-
Music Teacher Education.-
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.-
History Teacher Education.-
Homeland security has 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.$45,171
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Human Biology.-
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.-
Psychology has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Research and Experimental Psychology, Other.-
Community Psychology.-
History has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
History, General.-
Biologyhas 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
English has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Writing, General.-
Creative Writing.-
Professional, Technical, Business, and Scientific Writing.-
Visual and Performing artshas 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Musical Theatre.-
Fine/Studio Arts, General.-
Philosophy has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Philosophy and Religious Studies, Other.-
Communication has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia.-
Sports Communication.-
Theology has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Youth Ministry.-
Theology and Religious Vocations, Other.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-

Students

694 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 57:43 · Freshman retention 50.4%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (670)

White
374 · 55.8%
Hispanic
99 · 14.8%
International
61 · 9.1%
Black
52 · 7.8%
Unknown
39 · 5.8%
Two or more races
35 · 5.2%
Asian
4 · 0.6%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
17.5%
18–19
30.3%
20–21
32.5%
22–24
11.6%
25 and over
8.1%

Graduate students

Under 22
8.3%
22–24
87.5%
25–29
0.0%
30–34
0.0%
35 and over
4.2%

Data insights

Demographic Overview of Students at Sterling College in 2023

In 2023, Sterling College's student body exhibits a diverse composition across various classifications. The undergraduate first-year students comprise 153 individuals, with a notable gender distribution of approximately 65.4% male and 34.6% female. This gender ratio reflects a common trend in higher education, where male enrollment often exceeds female enrollment in certain fields.

The continuing undergraduate students total 360, also showing a predominantly male demographic at 60.3%. Interestingly, the undergraduate transfer students, though fewer in number at 53, have a significant male representation of 77.4%. This could suggest that transfer students may be coming from predominantly male-oriented programs or institutions.

Research students account for 24 individuals, with a more balanced gender representation—41.7% male and 58.3% female—indicating increasing female participation in graduate studies, which aligns with broader educational trends where women are earning more graduate degrees than men.

The data also highlights the ethnic diversity among students, although specific details on the breakdown of various ethnic groups are not fully available. However, the presence of white, Asian, Latino, Pacific Islander, African American, and international students suggests an effort towards inclusivity and representation.

Overall, the demographic patterns at Sterling College reflect ongoing trends in higher education, including gender disparities among different student classifications and a commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment. As colleges and universities continue to navigate these complexities, it is crucial to address the underlying factors influencing enrollment and retention across various demographics.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Sterling College

The age distribution of students at Sterling College provides a fascinating insight into the demographic makeup of the institution. The largest group of students falls within the 18-19 age range, with a total of 285 students, comprising 183 males and 102 females. This trend is consistent with many colleges, where first-year students are typically younger, reflecting the traditional pathway of entering higher education shortly after completing high school.

In the 20-21 age bracket, there is a noticeable drop in male students, with 90 males compared to 77 females. However, the presence of graduate female students in this age group indicates a growing trend of women pursuing advanced degrees. The data shows that as students progress in age, the number of males gradually decreases, particularly in the older age categories (30-34, 35-39, and beyond), which may suggest that men are less likely to continue their education compared to their female counterparts in this demographic.

The representation of students aged 25 and older is significantly lower, with the highest being in the 22-24 category, where only 82 students are recorded. This might reflect the challenges and life commitments that non-traditional students face when considering further education.

Moreover, the presence of students over 50 years of age, while minimal, points to a diverse student body that includes lifelong learners. The overall composition indicates that Sterling College successfully attracts a broad range of ages, yet the majority remains concentrated in the younger demographic, aligning with national trends in higher education enrollment. This data underscores the importance of supportive policies for older students to foster an inclusive educational environment.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Undergraduates9.1%

61 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 7.5% 15% 2016: 0.0%2017: 0.0%2018: 0.0%2019: 0.6%2020: 3.4%2021: 3.5%2022: 5.2%2023: 7.2%2024: 7.2%2025: 9.1%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025
Graduate students4.2%

1 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2019

0% 5% 10% 2019: 0.0%2020: 0.0%2021: 0.0%2022: 7.1%2023: 8.3%2024: 3.7%2025: 4.2%
2019Peer median 1.0%2025

Data insights

International Student Trends at Sterling College

The data on international students at Sterling College reveals a significant evolution over the years. From 2004 to 2015, the percentage of international undergraduate students was consistently low, with rates fluctuating between 0.14% to 2.83%. This indicates a period where the institution perhaps had limited appeal or resources for attracting foreign students. However, the landscape began to change notably starting from 2019.

In 2019, there was a marked increase in the number of international undergraduates to four students, equating to 0.62%. The following years witnessed a dramatic rise, especially in 2020, when the number of international students surged to 22, representing 3.42% of the undergraduate population. This upward trend continued, with 23 international students in 2021 and a remarkable spike to 36 in 2022, translating to 5.25%. By 2023, the percentage of international undergraduates reached 7.18% with 49 students enrolled.

The graduate program also showed signs of attracting international students, albeit at a slower pace. In 2022, the program saw one international student out of 14 total, leading to a 7.14% representation, and this increased to 8.33% with two international students in 2023.

This trend of increasing international enrollment aligns with a broader global movement where institutions are recognizing the value of diversity in their student bodies. As international competition for students intensifies, it will be crucial for Sterling College to continue fostering an inclusive environment and enhancing its global outreach efforts to sustain this growth in international student ratios in the coming years.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$43,286

Undergraduate tuition
$33,700
Room and board
$9,586
Graduate tuition
$15,347
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Tuition rose 47% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 18%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$13.9M

Tuition and fees
$6.1M44.1%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.7M26.5%
Gifts and private grants
$1.5M10.9%
Investment return
$1.3M9.4%
Government grants and contracts
$750K5.4%
Other
$500K3.6%

Expenses$16.3M

Student services
$3.8M23.5%
Instruction
$3.8M23.2%
Institutional support
$3.7M22.5%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.6M22.1%
Academic support
$1.4M8.6%

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.

All faculty
$44,138peers $65,931
Professor
$53,767peers $77,501
Associate professor
$42,965peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$42,998peers $61,725

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · NCCAA · Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference

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

2025
NAIA Division II MENWOMEN
Football98-
Basketball3926
Soccer3319
Baseball46-
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)2616
Volleyball-33
Tennis148
Softball-20
Golf132
Other Sports-12
Swimming25
2024
NAIA Division IIMENWOMEN
Football134-
Basketball3421
Soccer3517
Baseball41-
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)2116
Volleyball-30
Tennis129
Softball-20
Golf143
Other Sports110
Swimming64
2023
NAIA Division IIMENWOMEN
Football132-
Basketball3025
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)1734
Soccer3513
Baseball46-
Volleyball-25
Softball-23
Golf155
Swimming514
Tennis106

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities around Sterling College:

  1. Kansas State University - Ranked 170 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields.

  2. University of Kansas - With a rank of 151, the University of Kansas is another comprehensive institution known for its strong research programs and vibrant campus life.

  3. University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus - This university ranks 124th and is recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement.

  4. University of Nebraska-Lincoln - Ranked 159th, this comprehensive university is known for its research initiatives and offers a diverse array of programs.

  5. University of Arkansas - With a rank of 178, this university provides a supportive learning environment and a strong emphasis on research and innovation.

  6. Creighton University - As a comprehensive university ranked 124th, Creighton is known for its strong programs in health sciences and commitment to service.

  7. University of Missouri-Columbia - This institution is ranked 124th and offers a broad spectrum of programs, contributing significantly to research and public service.

These institutions reflect a range of academic opportunities and are key players in their respective regions.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
36
Drug referrals
20
Stalking
3
Dating violence
2
Residence hall fires
1

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Sterling College

The crime statistics at Sterling College over the years reflect a concerning trend in the safety of the campus environment. From 2013 to 2023, the average number of crimes reported per 1,000 students has seen significant fluctuations. Notably, 2015 marked the highest rate at 24.17 incidents per 1,000 students, which is alarmingly high compared to the 9.19 recorded in 2013. This peak in 2015 suggests a potential spike in either criminal activity or reporting practices, indicating a need for further investigation into the underlying causes.

In 2019, there was another surge, with a reported rate of 34.10 per 1,000 students, which is the highest in the entire dataset. Such a sharp increase warrants attention from the college administration and local law enforcement. It raises questions about the effectiveness of safety measures in place and whether adequate resources are allocated to prevent crime and support victims.

Interestingly, the years following 2019 show a decline in crime rates, reaching a low of 7.93 in 2023. This decline could be attributed to improved safety protocols, community engagement, or increased awareness among students about crime prevention. Nevertheless, the overall crime rates present a mixed picture of campus safety and suggest that continuous efforts are necessary to maintain and enhance the security of students.

In conclusion, while the downward trend in recent years is encouraging, the spikes observed in certain years highlight the importance of ongoing vigilance and proactive measures to ensure a safe educational environment for all students. For further information on crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Sterling College include Clarence Gilyard (Actor and educator), Windell Middlebrooks (Actor and singer) and David Hahn (Businessman and 2006 Democratic nominee for Nebraska governor).

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.