Asbury University
Acceptance rate
63.4%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$33,640
$44,444 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,789
Student-faculty ratio 13:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
59.7%
4-year; 6-year rate 69.5%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Asbury University, located in Wilmore, Kentucky, is a private Christian liberal arts university known for its commitment to academic excellence and spiritual development. Founded in 1890, the university emphasizes a holistic approach to education, integrating faith and learning. The campus is characterized by its welcoming and vibrant community, fostering a sense of belonging among students from diverse backgrounds. The university's mission is rooted in its core values of faith, scholarship, service, and community, encapsulated in its motto, "To be and to make disciples of Jesus Christ." This reflects the emphasis on character development and moral integrity, which are central to the Asbury experience.
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with notable strengths in areas such as education, business, and the arts. Asbury's faculty members are dedicated educators and experienced professionals who provide personalized attention and mentorship to students. The campus facilities include state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas, enhancing the overall learning environment. Asbury University also boasts a strong athletic program, with opportunities for students to engage in various sports while promoting teamwork and physical fitness. The supportive atmosphere, combined with the university’s commitment to academic and spiritual growth, prepares graduates to excel in their careers and make meaningful contributions to society.
Analysis of Key Data Trends at Asbury University
Asbury University has experienced notable trends in tuition, graduation rates, and student retention over the years. The increasing costs of tuition are particularly striking; from 2014 to 2024, in-state undergraduate tuition has risen from $26,076 to $33,640, marking an increase of approximately 29%. This upward trajectory in tuition can potentially affect accessibility for students, especially in a time when student debt is a growing concern nationwide.
Graduation rates have also shown variability. The timely graduation rate for undergraduates peaked at around 64.5% in 2015 but has since declined, reaching approximately 52.6% in 2023. This decline may raise questions about the support systems in place for students, especially as financial pressures mount. The 150% graduation rate, although more favorable, highlights the challenges faced by students in completing their degrees within an expected timeframe.
Retention rates have remained relatively stable, fluctuating between approximately 80% to 85% over the years. This consistency suggests that while students may face challenges during their studies, the majority are satisfied with their educational experience to continue at Asbury University. However, the slight decline in both retention and graduation rates in recent years could indicate areas that require attention to enhance student support services and academic advising.
Overall, Asbury University faces challenges typical of many institutions, including rising costs and fluctuating graduation rates. These factors could impact its student population and overall reputation, necessitating strategic measures to improve both academic outcomes and financial accessibility for prospective students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Town near a city
- Nearest major city
- Lexington, about 15 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF), about 60 mi
- Also known as
- Asbury College
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Kevin J. Brown (President)
- Phone
- 8598583511
- Address
- 1 Macklem Dr, Wilmore, KY 40390-1198
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 64.4%, women 64.4%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Asbury University
The admission data from Asbury University over the years reveals notable trends in both acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Starting from 2009, the acceptance rates for males and females show a gradual fluctuation, with a general increase in the percentage of students admitted in recent years. For instance, the male acceptance rate rose from approximately 54.2% in 2009 to 71.4% in 2023, while the female acceptance rate increased from around 56.6% to 84.2% in the same period. This indicates a growing inclusivity and potentially a more competitive applicant pool.
Enrollment numbers have also varied, with a peak in 2010 and again in 2013, but a declining trend in the following years until a slight resurgence in 2021. The number of students denied admission has also fluctuated, reflecting the changes in enrollment. The years 2020 and 2021 saw a significant number of deferrals, likely influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected many universities across the globe.
Moreover, the increasing acceptance rates, especially for female applicants, align with broader trends in higher education, where many institutions are striving to balance gender representation and create more equitable admission processes. Asbury University’s efforts in this regard may enhance its appeal to a diverse student body, fostering a richer academic environment.
Overall, these trends underscore the dynamic nature of college admissions and the shifting priorities of institutions like Asbury University in response to societal changes and challenges in recent years.
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Trends in Asbury University Admissions Data
The admissions data from Asbury University over the years reveals several noteworthy trends regarding standardized test scores and submission rates. The percentage of students submitting SAT scores has decreased from 55% in 2007 to around 31% in the years 2015 through 2023. This decline might reflect a broader trend in higher education, where an increasing number of institutions are adopting test-optional policies.
In terms of academic performance, the SAT reading scores have shown a slight fluctuation, with the 25th percentile scores remaining relatively stable between the low 500s and the mid-550s during these years. The upper range has varied, with the 75th percentile scores reaching as high as 670 in some years, indicating that while there is a consistent academic standard, the upper echelon of applicants has remained competitive.
Moreover, the ACT scores have followed a similar pattern, with the composite scores showing a slight increase over the years. The 25th percentile scores for the ACT have generally remained in the mid-20s, which is consistent with national averages for many selective universities.
This data can serve as a valuable insight for prospective students when considering their application strategy. Given the declining submission rates for standardized tests, students may focus on other aspects of their applications, such as personal statements and extracurricular activities, which may carry more weight in a holistic review process. As the higher education landscape continues to evolve, Asbury University appears to be adapting to these changes while maintaining a strong academic profile among its admitted students.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 6 in 10
2,063 applicants in 2025, 63.4% admitted
1,308 admitted 755 not admitted Yield 26.1%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's39 (0% international)
- Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language/ESL Language Instructor · Master's18 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's14 (14% international)
- Cinematography and Film/Video Production · Master's9 (0% international)
- Communication and Media Studies, Other · Master's6 (0% international)
- Communication, General · Master's4 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Asbury University
The graduation data from Asbury University for 2023 reveals notable trends in various academic disciplines, particularly in the fields of education and equine studies. Notably, the Education Leadership and Administration program produced 22 master's graduates, showcasing a strong commitment to developing educational leaders. This aligns with the increasing demand for effective leadership in educational institutions, especially in the wake of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has highlighted the need for innovative approaches to education.
Moreover, the Equestrian Studies program, with 19 graduates at the bachelor's level, reflects the university's unique offerings and the growing popularity of equine-related careers. This sector has seen significant growth as interest in animal-assisted therapies and equine management continues to rise, indicating a healthy job market for graduates in this field.
Interestingly, the data shows a complete absence of international students graduating from these programs, which may suggest potential areas for improvement in attracting a diverse student body. As universities worldwide adapt to the globalization of education, incorporating international perspectives can enrich the academic environment and broaden opportunities for all students.
Overall, the data underscores the importance of specific academic programs in meeting contemporary societal needs, particularly in education and specialized fields like equine studies. Asbury University appears to be strategically positioned to respond to these demands, although there remains room for growth in diversity and international representation among its graduates.
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/Commerce, General. | $60,316 | |||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $55,430-$61,472 | |||
| Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other. | $55,430-$61,472 | |||
| Accounting. | - | |||
| Finance, General. | - | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | - | |||
| Communication and Media Studies, Other. | - | |||
| Journalism. | - | |||
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | $32,322 | |||
| Radio, Television, and Digital Communication, Other. | $32,322 | |||
| Health Communication. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Design and Applied Arts, Other. | - | |||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |||
| Playwriting and Screenwriting. | - | |||
| Cinematography and Film/Video Production. | - | |||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | |||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bible/Biblical Studies. | - | |||
| Missions/Missionary Studies. | - | |||
| Religious Education. | - | |||
| Religious/Sacred Music. | - | |||
| Pre-Theology/Pre-Ministerial Studies. | - | |||
| Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other. | - | |||
| Youth Ministry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Equestrian/Equine Studies. | - | |||
| Pre-Veterinary Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - | |||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | |||
| Creative Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| French Language and Literature. | - | |||
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - | |||
| Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health/Medical Preparatory Programs, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - | |||
| Financial Mathematics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
Students
2,100 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 40:60 · Freshman retention 83.3%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,002
- First-year undergraduates 338
- Graduate students 311
- Transfers and others 449
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,789)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Demographic Insights on Asbury University's Student Composition in 2023
Asbury University has showcased a diverse and dynamic student body in the year 2023. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 295 students, with a notable gender distribution of 41.4% male and 58.6% female. This trend continues among the undergraduate seniors, where there are 900 students, comprising 40.7% male and 59.3% female. It is evident that the university has a slightly higher female enrollment across these categories.
The transfer students' population is relatively smaller, with 61 students, showing an even more pronounced female majority at 63.9%. This suggests a potential attraction of female students to transfer programs, which may be influenced by various factors such as academic offerings or support services tailored to their needs.
Graduate students number 246, with 37.8% male and 62.2% female, indicating a consistent trend of greater female representation in higher education levels at Asbury. This aligns with broader national trends where women are increasingly pursuing graduate degrees.
An important point to note is the diversity within these categories, particularly regarding racial and ethnic backgrounds. While specific numbers are not provided for the various subgroups, it can be inferred that the university likely reflects a mix of racial and ethnic identities among its students, which is vital for fostering an inclusive academic environment.
Overall, Asbury University's student composition in 2023 highlights a strong representation of female students across different categories, alongside a commitment to diversity, which is essential for enriching the educational experience and preparing students for a global society.
Age Demographics of Asbury University Students in 2023
The age distribution of students at Asbury University in 2023 presents an interesting overview of the collegiate environment. The data indicates that a significant portion of the undergraduate population is quite young, with nearly 63% of students being under the age of 24. This aligns with national trends in higher education, where the majority of college attendees are typically in their late teens or early twenties.
Notably, the largest age group for undergraduate males and females falls within the 18-19 age range, accounting for 184 male and 267 female students. This suggests that Asbury attracts a substantial number of first-year students, which is crucial for fostering a vibrant campus life. The numbers begin to decline as the age increases, with only a handful of students aged 30 and above, reflecting a common challenge in attracting non-traditional students.
Additionally, the representation of graduate students, while present, remains limited, particularly in the younger age brackets. This may indicate that Asbury’s graduate programs attract individuals who are slightly older, as demonstrated by the higher numbers in the 25-29 and 30-34 age groups.
Moreover, the gender distribution shows that female students consistently outnumber male students across almost all age categories. This trend, prevalent in many universities nationwide, raises questions about the factors influencing enrollment decisions and the long-term implications for male representation in higher education.
In conclusion, Asbury University’s demographic data reflects broader trends in higher education while also highlighting specific characteristics of its student body. The predominance of younger students and the gender disparity present opportunities for the university to enhance its recruitment strategies and support services.
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.
105 in 2025 · 2.0% in 2016
3 in 2025 · 0.4% in 2016
Data insights
Commentary on International Student Trends at Asbury University
The data concerning international student enrollment at Asbury University reflects a notable trend over the years, particularly among undergraduate students. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduates increased significantly from 1.26% to 5.34%. This growth indicates a growing appeal of Asbury University to students from diverse backgrounds, possibly due to its academic offerings, campus environment, and values.
Interestingly, the number of international graduate students has been less consistent, with fluctuations observed in both total enrollment and percentages. For instance, although the total graduate enrollment saw an increase from 73 in 2004 to 246 in 2023, the percentage of international students remained relatively low, peaking at just 3.85% in 2009 and declining in subsequent years. This discrepancy may suggest that while the university is attracting more international undergraduates, it faces challenges in drawing graduate students from overseas.
The increase in international representation at Asbury is part of a broader trend seen across many U.S. institutions, where international students contribute to a rich cultural tapestry on campus, enhancing the educational experience for all students. However, this trend also coincides with global events and policy changes affecting student mobility, such as visa regulations and the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In conclusion, Asbury University's growing international undergraduate enrollment is a positive sign of its expanding global reach, while efforts may be needed to enhance its appeal to prospective graduate students from abroad.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$44,444
- Undergraduate tuition
- $33,640
- Room and board
- $10,804
- Graduate tuition
- $8,700
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 21% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 71%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$49.7M
Expenses$41.1M
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 NCAA · NCCAA
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 41 | 28 |
| Baseball | 45 | - |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 21 | 19 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 21 | 19 |
| Basketball | 20 | 19 |
| Cross Country | 10 | 15 |
| Swimming | 9 | 15 |
| Volleyball | - | 24 |
| Tennis | 10 | 12 |
| Softball | - | 17 |
| Golf | 11 | - |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 47 | 30 |
| Baseball | 50 | - |
| Basketball | 27 | 17 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 15 | 14 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 15 | 14 |
| Tennis | 16 | 12 |
| Cross Country | 11 | 14 |
| Swimming | 8 | 15 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Softball | - | 16 |
| Golf | 12 | - |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 44 | 28 |
| Basketball | 22 | 19 |
| Baseball | 39 | - |
| Tennis | 11 | 16 |
| Swimming | 7 | 17 |
| Cross Country | 10 | 14 |
| Golf | 13 | 4 |
| Softball | - | 16 |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of KentuckyLexington · 14.9 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Centre CollegeDanville · 16.3 mi
Liberal Arts #54
-
Berea CollegeBerea · 28.5 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
University of LouisvilleLouisville · 64.6 mi
U.S. News #179
-
University of Cincinnati-Main CampusCincinnati · 88.1 mi
U.S. News #179
-
Xavier UniversityCincinnati · 89.5 mi
U.S. News #208
-
Miami University-OxfordOxford · 113.8 mi
U.S. News #133
-
Tennessee Technological UniversityCookeville · 125.5 mi
U.S. News #299
-
University of DaytonDayton · 132.3 mi
U.S. News #121
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding Asbury University:
-
University of Kentucky - Ranked 159 in the 2024 US News rankings, the University of Kentucky is a comprehensive university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Centre College - A highly regarded liberal arts college, Centre College is ranked 51 in the 2024 US News rankings. It is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Berea College - With a ranking of 30, Berea College is another esteemed liberal arts institution. It is notable for its commitment to providing education to students with limited financial resources.
-
University of Louisville - This comprehensive university is ranked 195 and offers a diverse array of programs and a dynamic urban campus.
-
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus - Ranked 142, the University of Cincinnati is a large public university known for its research programs and a variety of academic disciplines.
-
Vanderbilt University - A prestigious institution, Vanderbilt University is ranked 18 in the 2024 US News rankings, offering exceptional academic programs and a beautiful campus in Nashville, Tennessee.
These institutions provide a wealth of educational opportunities and contribute to the rich academic landscape surrounding Asbury University.
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
Analysis of Crime Data at Asbury University
The crime data from Asbury University shows a notable fluctuation in the recorded incidents over the years. In 2013, the crime rate peaked at 23.60 per 1000 students, which is significantly higher than subsequent years. Notably, 2014 saw a dramatic decline, with only 0.56 incidents per 1000 students reported, suggesting effective measures may have been implemented to enhance campus safety.
However, the trend does not remain consistent. A gradual increase is observed from 2015 to 2017, where the crime rate reached 6.80 per 1000 students. In 2018, the rate dropped again to 3.82, only to rise once more in 2023 to 6.18. This fluctuation indicates that while improvements have been made, challenges still persist in maintaining a low crime rate.
When examining specific categories, it is important to note the types of offenses recorded. The most significant concern seems to be related to drug and alcohol-related arrests, which are common issues on university campuses nationwide. The presence of domestic violence and stalking incidents is also alarming, echoing broader societal concerns about safety and personal security.
Overall, the crime data at Asbury University reflects an ongoing battle in managing campus safety. Continuous efforts, including awareness programs and stricter regulations, are essential to ensure a safe environment for all students. For anyone interested in understanding how these rates are calculated, more information can be found at this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Asbury University include Dean Jones (American actor and Disney leading man of the 1970s), Ted Strickland (68th governor of Ohio) and Jody Hice (Former U.S. Representative from Georgia and radio host).
-
Dean Jones 1931–2015
American actor and Disney leading man of the 1970s
-
Ted Strickland 1941–
68th governor of Ohio
-
Jody Hice 1960–
Former U.S. Representative from Georgia and radio host
-
Joseph R. Pitts 1939–
Former U.S. representative from Pennsylvania
-
Thomas C. Oden 1931–2016
Methodist theologian and author
-
Joe Frank Harris 1936–
78th governor of Georgia
-
E. Stanley Jones 1884–1973
Methodist missionary and theologian
-
Wei-Liang Chow 1911–1995
Mathematician known for algebraic geometry
-
Paul Rader 1934–2025
15th General of the Salvation Army
More alumni (7, by field)
Politics and law
-
Sue Bell Cobb 1956–
First woman chief justice of Alabama Supreme Court
Science and academia
-
Bell I. Wiley 1906–1980
Historian of the American Civil War
-
James B. Pritchard 1909–1997
Archaeologist of ancient Near East religions
-
Barbara Harrell-Bond 1932–2018
Social anthropologist in refugee studies
Arts and media
-
Andy Merrill 1966–
Voice actor and writer, voice of Brak
-
Steve Thurston 1974–
Journalist, photographer and co-founder of Integridad
Other fields
-
Frederick Bohn Fisher 1882–1938
Methodist Episcopal bishop, pastor and missionary
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.