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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Union College

Barbourville, Kentucky · www.unionky.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

63.2%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$30,946

$39,207 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

775

Student-faculty ratio 14:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

23.2%

4-year; 6-year rate 33.1%

Peer median 44.6%

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

About

Union College, located in Schenectady, New York, is a distinguished liberal arts institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and innovation. Established in 1795, it is one of the oldest colleges in the United States and has a rich history that reflects its dedication to providing a well-rounded education. The college’s motto, "To Be, Not to Seem," embodies its focus on integrity, character, and the pursuit of genuine knowledge. Union College offers a unique blend of rigorous academics, vibrant campus life, and a strong emphasis on experiential learning. The college features a diverse range of programs across various disciplines, including engineering, humanities, social sciences, and sciences, allowing students to tailor their educational experience to their interests and career aspirations.

The campus of Union College is known for its beautiful architecture and state-of-the-art facilities, which enhance the learning environment. The college boasts a well-equipped library, modern laboratories, and various spaces for collaborative work and research. Additionally, the college emphasizes the importance of student engagement outside the classroom, offering numerous extracurricular activities, including clubs, sports, and cultural events. This engagement fosters a strong sense of community and belonging among students. Union College also has a strong track record of graduate success, with many alumni excelling in various fields, including business, education, and public service. The college's commitment to preparing students for the future is evident through its robust career services and internship opportunities, which help students transition smoothly into the workforce. Overall, Union College stands out as a vibrant institution dedicated to nurturing the next generation of leaders and thinkers.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Union College

Union College, a private institution, has demonstrated notable trends in tuition costs, student retention rates, and graduation rates over recent years. The tuition for undergraduate students has seen a steady increase from $22,000 in 2014 to $31,071 in 2024, marking a substantial rise of approximately 41.5% over the ten-year period. This trend reflects a broader national concern regarding the escalating costs of higher education, which can significantly impact students and their families.

In terms of student retention, the rates have fluctuated, reaching a peak retention rate of 65.1% in 2017 but subsequently declining to 59.3% in 2023. This decline may indicate challenges in maintaining student satisfaction or engagement, which is critical for long-term institutional success.

Moreover, the graduation rates reveal a concerning trend. The timely graduation rate for undergraduates was as high as 25.9% in 2022 but plummeted to 8.8% in 2023, suggesting potential issues in academic support or student preparedness. This drop is alarming and indicates that the institution may need to reassess its strategies to support students in completing their degrees on time.

These metrics highlight the importance of addressing both the financial and academic aspects of the student experience. As tuition rises, ensuring that students are satisfied and supported throughout their academic journey becomes imperative to not only retain them but also to assist them in graduating in a timely manner. The current situation calls for a proactive approach from the college to enhance student services and engagement strategies to combat declining retention and graduation rates.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Remote town
Nearest major city
Knoxville, about 60 mi
Nearest international airport
Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF), about 140 mi
Barbourville, Kentucky
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
United Methodist
President
Dr. DJ Washington (President)
Phone
6065464151
City
Barbourville, Kentucky
Address
310 College St, Barbourville, KY 40906-1499

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
63.4%
Women
65.8%

In 2020: men 53.1%, women 56.5%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Union College

Union College's admission data over the years reveals significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment figures, reflecting broader trends in higher education. In 2009, the college had a notably high acceptance rate for males at approximately 71%, while the female acceptance rate was even higher at around 75%. However, this trend reversed dramatically by 2010, where the male acceptance rate plummeted to about 25%, and females were accepted at a rate of 34%.
This dramatic shift suggests an increasingly competitive admissions landscape, possibly influenced by a surge in applications or the college's strategic efforts to enhance its profile. For instance, in 2013, acceptance rates improved slightly for both genders, with males at approximately 76% and females at 78%, indicating a potential rebound in the college's willingness to accept a more diverse applicant pool.
Interestingly, the number of students enrolled also varied significantly, with the highest enrollment recorded in 2017 at 264 students, despite a decrease in acceptance rates, indicating that the college may have been more selective in its admissions process while still maintaining a robust enrollment figure.
Recent years have shown a further decline in acceptance rates, with males accepted at a rate of 56% and females at 51% in 2023. This trend underscores the ongoing challenges faced by prospective students in navigating the increasingly competitive admissions environment and may reflect broader demographic shifts and institutional priorities in higher education. As Union College continues to adapt to these changes, it will be crucial to observe how these trends affect enrollment and the overall student experience.

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 0% submitted SAT, 54% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

ACT composite15–22
ACT composite
15–22
253036

Data insights

Analysis of Union College Admission Scores Over the Years

The data from Union College showcases a notable evolution in standardized test scores and submission rates from 2007 to 2023. Over the years, the submission of SAT and ACT scores has seen fluctuating percentages, indicating a shifting landscape in college admissions, particularly as institutions adapt to changing societal norms around testing.

The percentage of students submitting SAT scores peaked in 2019 and 2020 at 14%, while the ACT submissions displayed varying percentages but consistently remained lower than SAT submissions. This suggests a growing trend towards prioritizing SAT scores among applicants to Union College, which may reflect broader trends in college admissions where SAT scores are often viewed as a critical component of a student's application.

In terms of performance, the 25th to 75th percentile scores for both SAT and ACT have generally shown upward movement over the years. For instance, the SAT reading and math scores reach between 475 and 558 by 2023, indicating an increase in the academic caliber of admitted students. This trend may correlate with a heightened emphasis on academic excellence and competitive admissions processes at many institutions.

Moreover, the increase in test scores and the relatively stable percentage of submissions suggest that while more students may be opting to apply without standardized test scores, those who do submit are performing better academically. This trend aligns with reports from various educational institutions across the United States that indicate a gradual shift away from standardized testing as a definitive measure of a student's potential, yet it remains a significant factor for many colleges.

Overall, Union College's data reflects broader shifts in higher education, emphasizing the importance of academic achievement while navigating the complexities introduced by changing admission policies and societal attitudes towards standardized testing.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 6 in 10

996 applicants in 2025, 63.2% admitted

629 admitted 367 not admitted Yield 38.8%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's15220 international (13.2%)
Master's14885 international (57.4%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
31
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing, Other
30
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
21
Exercise Science and Kinesiology
15
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
9
Psychology, General
8
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
6
History, General
5
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration
5
Health and Wellness, General
4

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • System, Networking, and LAN/WAN Management/Manager · Master's59 (98% international)
  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's18 (33% international)
  • Medical Informatics · Master's13 (31% international)
  • Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's11 (0% international)
  • Management Science · Master's10 (100% international)
  • Sport and Fitness Administration/Management · Master's8 (63% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from Union College 2023

The graduation data from Union College in 2023 reveals some significant trends across various fields. Notably, the health-related programs show strong graduation figures, with Registered Nursing yielding 32 graduates at the bachelor's level, while Medical Informatics produced 7 master's graduates. This trend reflects the increasing demand for healthcare professionals, a sentiment echoed by recent reports highlighting the ongoing healthcare staffing shortages across the United States.

In the realm of business education, we observe a diverse array of disciplines, including Business Administration and Management, which collectively produced multiple graduates at the master's level. However, there is a stark absence of international students in these programs, which could indicate a need for institutions to enhance their global appeal to attract a broader student demographic.

Interestingly, the education sector, which is typically a robust field for graduates, seems to be underrepresented in the data, particularly at the bachelor's level. The highest number of graduates in education programs was just 5, indicating potential challenges in attracting students to this field. This is concerning, especially considering the critical role educators play in shaping future generations.

Additionally, the absence of doctoral graduates in many disciplines could suggest that Union College primarily focuses on undergraduate and master's level education, potentially limiting advanced research opportunities for students. Overall, the data emphasizes the importance of healthcare and business disciplines in the current educational landscape while raising questions about the future of education programs and the need for strategic recruitment of international students.

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

Health professionshas 79 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Health and Wellness, General.-
Athletic Training/Trainer.-
Substance Abuse/Addiction Counseling.-
Medical Informatics.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$73,559
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing, Other.$73,559
Businesshas 70 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$47,532-$80,557
Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management.$47,532-$80,557
Accounting.-
Accounting and Business/Management.-
Management Science.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Marketing, Other.-
Computer and information sciencehas 59 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
System, Networking, and LAN/WAN Management/Manager.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 29 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General.$29,115
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.$29,115
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.$29,115
Educationhas 21 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Curriculum and Instruction.-
Educational Leadership and Administration, General.-
Special Education and Teaching, General.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching.-
Teacher Education, Multiple Levels.-
Social Studies Teacher Education.-
Psychology has 15 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.-
Clinical Psychology.-
Liberal arts has 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.-
Biologyhas 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
History has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
History, General.-
Homeland security has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.$38,871
Physical scienceshas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Chemistry, Other.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-
Social sciencehas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Sociology, General.-

Students

1,324 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 60:40 · Freshman retention 63.8%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (775)

White
388 · 50.1%
International
137 · 17.7%
Black
137 · 17.7%
Two or more races
38 · 4.9%
Hispanic
28 · 3.6%
Unknown
27 · 3.5%
Asian
4 · 0.5%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Union College for 2023

The student body at Union College in 2023 showcases a diverse range of demographics across undergraduate and graduate categories. Notably, the incoming freshmen group consists of 201 students, with a significant male representation at approximately 71.6%, while females make up 28.4%. This gender imbalance indicates a potential area for growth in attracting female students in future admissions cycles.

In the undergraduate junior category, there are 432 students, with a more balanced gender ratio of 53.5% male to 46.5% female. This shift could suggest that as students progress in their academic journey, the institution may be fostering a more inclusive environment that encourages female students to continue their studies.

The transfer student population comprises 78 individuals, with males representing 66.7%. This high percentage could indicate that male students are more likely to transfer, possibly due to specific program alignments or personal circumstances.

Graduate students total 246, with a female majority at 53.3%. This trend aligns with national observations where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees at higher rates than men, reflecting broader societal shifts toward gender parity in higher education.

The breakdown of the student demographics also highlights a significant presence of white students across categories, with 114 freshmen identified as white. However, the absence of detailed data for the remaining groups leaves questions about the representation of other racial and ethnic backgrounds at the college. Union College may consider strategies to enhance diversity and inclusivity, which are vital for enriching the educational experience and preparing students for a global society.

Overall, while Union College exhibits a varied student demographic, continued efforts are needed to address gender imbalances and enhance racial and ethnic diversity, ultimately fostering an inclusive academic environment.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Union College in 2023

The age distribution of students at Union College in 2023 reveals some intriguing trends. The majority of undergraduates fall within the 18-21 age range, with 122 male and 99 female students aged 18-19, and 156 male and 117 female students aged 20-21. This indicates a predominance of young adults, which is typical in many colleges where students enter immediately after high school.

The data also shows a significant representation of graduate students aged 22-24, with a total of 27 male graduate students and 25 female graduate students. This age group, while still relatively young, reflects the transitional phase where many individuals are pursuing advanced degrees after completing their undergraduate studies.

Interestingly, there is a noticeable drop in student numbers in the 25-29 age group, suggesting that many students may be entering the workforce after their undergraduate degrees, rather than pursuing further education immediately. The presence of older students, particularly those aged 30-34 and 35-39, is modest but noteworthy, as it highlights a trend of lifelong learning and the increasing acceptance of non-traditional students in higher education.

Furthermore, the data reveals a decline in student numbers for those aged 50 and above, with only two male graduate students in the >65 category. This could reflect societal trends where older individuals are less likely to pursue full-time education, or it may indicate barriers that prevent this demographic from enrolling.

Overall, the student age composition at Union College mirrors broader trends in higher education, showcasing a youthful demographic while also accommodating older students, which enriches the educational environment.

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.

Undergraduates17.7%

137 in 2025 · 7.0% in 2016

0% 10% 20% 2016: 7.0%2017: 5.9%2018: 5.9%2019: 7.8%2020: 9.4%2021: 9.1%2022: 9.9%2023: 10.6%2024: 14.5%2025: 17.7%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students65.6%

360 in 2025 · 1.8% in 2016

0% 37.5% 75% 2016: 1.8%2017: 3.1%2018: 4.7%2019: 4.7%2020: 4.6%2021: 5.1%2022: 16.6%2023: 39.0%2024: 53.8%2025: 65.6%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Data at Union College

The data from Union College reveals a notable trend in the enrollment of international students over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduates has steadily increased, reaching approximately 10.64% in 2023. This growth reflects a growing global interest in the college, possibly driven by factors such as the institution's academic programs, campus culture, and support services for international students.

In contrast, the representation of international graduate students has shown significant fluctuations. The percentage rose dramatically in recent years, peaking at an impressive 39.02% in 2023. This sharp increase could indicate a strategic focus on attracting international talent for graduate programs, aligning with broader trends in higher education where graduate schools are often more diverse than undergraduate programs.

The overall increase in international student enrollment can be seen as a response to the global competition in higher education. Colleges and universities are increasingly recognizing the value that international students bring to their campuses, not only in terms of diversity but also in enhancing the academic environment through varied perspectives and experiences.

However, the data also suggests some challenges, as the numbers for international graduate students were quite low in previous years, indicating potential barriers to entry or a lack of awareness about the programs offered. As the institution continues to build its international presence, it will be crucial to address these challenges to sustain and further enhance the enrollment of international students across both undergraduate and graduate levels.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$39,207

Undergraduate tuition
$30,946
Room and board
$8,261
Graduate tuition
$8,930
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 29% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 17%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$20.3M

Tuition and fees
$10.1M49.7%
Investment return
$3.7M18.5%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.1M15.1%
Government grants and contracts
$1.3M6.5%
Gifts and private grants
$1.3M6.3%
Other
$797K3.9%

Expenses$22.0M

Student services
$5.7M26.0%
Instruction
$5.6M25.6%
Institutional support
$4.4M19.8%
Academic support
$3.4M15.3%
Auxiliary enterprises
$2.2M9.8%
Public service
$689K3.1%
Scholarships
$97K0.4%

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
$51,279peers $68,006
Professor
$55,577peers $78,041
Associate professor
$52,028peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$49,679peers $63,827
Instructor
$42,476peers $55,171

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Mid-South Conference · Appalachian Athletic Conference

Mid-South Conference: football

Appalachian Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division I MENWOMEN
Football164-
Soccer8025
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)6428
Baseball73-
Basketball2818
Softball-33
Swimming1714
Tennis1611
Volleyball-25
Archery1211
Other Sports-19
Bowling67
Golf6-
2024
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Football149-
Baseball71-
Soccer4716
Basketball2318
Tennis2415
Softball-26
Volleyball-23
Other Sports-23
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)175
Swimming127
Archery99
Bowling97
Golf101
2023
NAIA Division IIMENWOMEN
Football84-
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)3830
Soccer3322
Baseball38-
Softball-36
Basketball1313
Tennis1610
Volleyball-23
Archery1210
Bowling910
Swimming86
Golf52

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools near Union College that you may find interesting:

  1. Berea College - Ranked 30th in the 2024 US News rankings, Berea College is a liberal arts college known for its commitment to providing education for students of limited economic means. The college emphasizes hands-on learning and community service.

  2. Vanderbilt University - With a rank of 18th, Vanderbilt University is a prestigious research university located in Nashville, Tennessee. It is well-regarded for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus life.

  3. Clemson University - Ranked 86th, Clemson University is a public research university known for its engineering and business programs. It offers a lively campus experience with numerous extracurricular activities.

  4. University of Kentucky - The University of Kentucky is ranked 159th and is a major public research university. It offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its strong athletics.

  5. Furman University - With a ranking of 46th, Furman University is a private liberal arts college in Greenville, South Carolina. It is recognized for its beautiful campus and strong liberal arts education.

These institutions provide a range of educational opportunities and environments, contributing to the rich academic landscape surrounding Union College.

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
5
Liquor referrals
5
Motor vehicle theft
1
Drug arrests
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 Union College

The crime statistics at Union College over the past decade reveal significant fluctuations in the rates of various offenses. From 2013 to 2016, there was a notable increase in the average number of incidents per 1,000 students, peaking in 2016 with a rate of 10.29. This spike could be indicative of a broader trend in college campuses during that time, where increased awareness and reporting of crimes, particularly drug-related and alcohol-related offenses, became more prevalent.

Interestingly, the years following 2016 show a dramatic decline in crime rates, particularly in 2021 and 2022, where rates dropped to 1.19 and 1.17, respectively. This decline could suggest improved campus safety measures, a shift in student behavior, or perhaps a greater emphasis on mental health and community support systems. Despite the fluctuations, the data highlights a concerning aspect of student life—issues related to violence, substance abuse, and safety on campus.

The presence of offenses like domestic violence, stalking, and sexual assault remains critical, as they not only impact the victims but also the overall campus environment and community. It’s crucial for institutions to continuously evaluate and enhance their prevention strategies and support systems to ensure a safe and conducive learning environment.

As the college continues to assess these trends, it remains vital to prioritize student safety and well-being. For a deeper understanding of how crime rates are calculated and the implications of these statistics, further information can be found at this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Union College include Phillip Sharp (Molecular biologist, 1993 Nobel laureate), Flem D. Sampson (42nd Governor of Kentucky) and William A. Stanfill (Former US Senator from Kentucky).

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.