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U.S. News #132 Private nonprofit, 4-year

Centenary College of Louisiana

Shreveport, Louisiana · www.centenary.edu

中文

U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027

#132

Acceptance rate

55.7%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$41,200

$56,000 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

693

Student-faculty ratio 8:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

53.8%

4-year; 6-year rate 60.0%

Peer median 45.1%

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

About

Centenary College of Louisiana, located in the picturesque city of Shreveport, is a private liberal arts college with a rich history dating back to 1825. Known for its commitment to academic excellence and student-centered learning, Centenary offers a unique blend of traditional liberal arts education and innovative programs. The college’s mission emphasizes the importance of personal growth, critical thinking, and ethical leadership, which are reflected in its motto: "To be, rather than to seem." This guiding principle inspires students to engage with their communities and develop into responsible global citizens.

The campus of Centenary College is characterized by its beautiful architecture and vibrant student life. The college features a range of facilities, including modern classrooms, well-equipped laboratories, and a dedicated library that supports research and study. Additionally, Centenary is proud of its strong faculty, comprised of experienced educators and professionals who are dedicated to mentoring students and fostering a collaborative learning environment. The college offers a diverse array of academic programs across various disciplines, including the sciences, humanities, and performing arts. With a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities, students can participate in numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic teams, enhancing their overall college experience. Centenary College continues to produce successful graduates who excel in their respective fields, making a significant impact in both local and global communities.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Centenary College of Louisiana

The data from Centenary College of Louisiana reveals several concerning trends in key metrics that warrant discussion. Firstly, the tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students have seen a significant increase over the years. From 2014 to 2024, the tuition has risen from $30,740 to $40,000, marking a nearly 30% increase. This escalation in costs can deter prospective students, especially in an era where student debt is a pressing concern across the country.

Moreover, the enrollment numbers paint a troubling picture. The undergraduate student population has decreased from 698 in 2013 to just 523 by 2023. This declining trend in enrollment may reflect a combination of rising tuition costs and possibly a perception of declining value in the degree offered. Correspondingly, the retention rate has also dropped from 68.6% in 2013 to 64.1% in 2023. A lower retention rate often signifies that students are either not satisfied with their educational experience or are unable to afford continued study, which is alarming for the institution's reputation and financial stability.

Additionally, the graduation rates, particularly the on-time graduation rate, show fluctuations but ultimately remain concerning. The rate dipped to 48.6% in 2023, highlighting challenges in student support and academic success.

Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained relatively stable, hovering around 8 to 9 students per faculty member. While this suggests a favorable student-to-teacher interaction, its effectiveness may be undermined by the declining student body and retention issues.

In conclusion, Centenary College of Louisiana faces significant hurdles with rising tuition, decreasing enrollment, and fluctuating graduation rates. Addressing these challenges will be crucial for enhancing the institution's appeal and ensuring long-term sustainability.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Midsize city
Nearest major city
Little Rock, about 170 mi
Nearest international airport
Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), about 190 mi
Shreveport, Louisiana
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
United Methodist
President
Dr. Christopher L. Holoman (President)
Phone
3188695011
City
Shreveport, Louisiana
Address
2911 Centenary Boulevard, Shreveport, LA 71104

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

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

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
52.1%
Women
59.3%

In 2020: men 62.0%, women 58.5%.

U.S. News Liberal Arts Colleges · last 10 years
#132Ranked #132 every year from 2027 to 2027

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Centenary College of Louisiana

The admission data from Centenary College of Louisiana reveals significant trends over the years, particularly regarding acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Notably, the male admission rate has varied from approximately 71.39% in 2009 to 66.97% in 2023, indicating a gradual decline over the years. Similarly, the female admission rate has also shown fluctuations, starting at around 67.17% in 2009 and dropping to 61.53% in 2023. This suggests a tightening of the admissions process, possibly reflecting an increased competitiveness in the applicant pool.
The enrollment figures have displayed variability, peaking at 276 students in 2010, while the lowest enrollment was 128 students in 2014. This inconsistency might be influenced by external factors such as economic conditions, changes in educational policies, or shifts in student preferences. The number of denied applicants has also seen notable changes, with the highest denial count reaching 769 in 2010, which could suggest a highly selective year for admissions.
Moreover, the data reveals a concerning trend in deferred admissions, with numbers often exceeding 300, peaking at 552 in 2023. This may indicate that many students are opting to postpone their college experience, potentially due to the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and its effect on higher education.
Overall, the admission statistics of Centenary College of Louisiana illustrate an evolving landscape of higher education admissions, marked by fluctuating acceptance rates, varying enrollment numbers, and a notable rise in deferred admissions. These factors warrant close attention as they may influence the college's future strategies and overall student demographics.

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 17% submitted SAT, 63% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total1060–1210Peer median 1220
ACT composite20–25
SAT Reading
530–600
600700800
SAT Math
530–610
600700800
ACT composite
20–25
253036

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Test Scores at Centenary College of Louisiana

The admission test scores at Centenary College of Louisiana reveal notable trends over the years. From 2007 to 2023, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has shown a significant downward trajectory. Starting at 49% in 2007, it has plummeted to just 16% by 2023, indicating a possible shift in applicant behavior or the college's admission policies.

The SAT reading and math scores also illustrate fluctuations, with the 25th percentile starting score for reading ranging from 470 to 540, and the 75th percentile ending scores showing a slight increase from 620 to 650 in the same timeframe. This suggests that while fewer students are submitting SAT scores, those who do are often achieving higher scores, indicating a potential increase in the overall quality of the applicant pool.

On the ACT side, the admissions data reveals similar trends, with a range of composite scores from 19 to 27 over the years, reflecting a steady increase in the academic caliber of admitted students. The percentage of students submitting ACT scores has also seen variations, which could correlate with the institution's evolving approach to standardized testing.

The trends observed may also reflect broader national patterns in college admissions, where test-optional policies are becoming more prevalent. As institutions adapt to these changes, it will be crucial for Centenary College to balance maintaining academic standards while adapting to the shifting landscape of college admissions. This evolving context will be important for prospective students to consider when applying.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 6 in 10

1,715 applicants in 2025, 55.7% admitted

956 admitted 759 not admitted Yield 24.3%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's902 international (2.2%)
Master's160 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
20
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
15
Psychology, General
8
English Language and Literature, General
6
Neuroscience
6
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General
5
Political Science and Government, General
4
Communication, General
3
French Language and Literature
3
Philosophy
3

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's11 (0% international)
  • Secondary Education and Teaching · Master's4 (0% international)
  • Elementary Education and Teaching · Master's1 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduate Data from Centenary College of Louisiana

The graduation data from Centenary College of Louisiana in 2023 reveals significant trends in various fields of study. Notably, the highest number of bachelor's degrees awarded was in Biology, with 28 graduates, which aligns with the increasing demand for professionals in the health and biological sciences sectors, especially in light of recent global health challenges. The emphasis on life sciences is indicative of a broader trend observed across numerous educational institutions, as the pandemic has highlighted the importance of healthcare and biological research.

In contrast, some disciplines, such as Business Administration, reported no bachelor's graduates, although 10 master's degrees were awarded. This could suggest a shift in focus among students towards advanced degrees in business, which often provide better career prospects and higher earning potential. This trend is consistent with recent reports indicating a growing preference for master's-level education in business, as professionals seek to enhance their qualifications in competitive job markets.

Furthermore, the data indicates that the institution has not attracted international students for most programs at either the undergraduate or graduate level, as seen by the absence of international graduates in these fields. This lack of diversity in the student body could hinder the college's global perspective and limit the cultural exchange that enriches higher education experiences.

Overall, the data reflects the evolving landscape of higher education, where certain disciplines flourish while others face challenges. Institutions must adapt to these trends to ensure they remain relevant and appealing to prospective 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

Businesshas 34 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$27,811
Accounting.-
Biologyhas 21 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Neuroscience.-
Visual and Performing artshas 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Art/Art Studies, General.-
Music, General.-
Psychology has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.-
Social sciencehas 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Economics, General.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.-
English has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-
Educationhas 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
Secondary Education and Teaching.-
Philosophy has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Philosophy.-
Foreign languages has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
French Language and Literature.-
Communication has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Communication, General.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.-
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.-
Physical scienceshas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.-
Geology/Earth Science, General.-
History has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
History, General.-

Students

712 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 49:51 · Freshman retention 70.2%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (693)

White
362 · 52.2%
Black
181 · 26.1%
Hispanic
80 · 11.5%
Two or more races
41 · 5.9%
Asian
17 · 2.5%
International
11 · 1.6%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
1.9%
18–19
58.3%
20–21
30.3%
22–24
7.6%
25 and over
1.9%

Graduate students

Under 22
10.5%
22–24
47.4%
25–29
26.3%
30–34
5.3%
35 and over
10.5%

Data insights

Demographic Insights of Centenary College Students in 2023

The student demographic data from Centenary College of Louisiana for 2023 reveals interesting trends in diversity and gender representation. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 173, with a nearly balanced gender ratio—49.7% male and 50.3% female. This suggests a healthy mix of genders among new entrants, reflecting broader societal trends of increasing female representation in higher education.

The undergraduate junior demographic, with 318 students, shows a significant gender disparity, with males comprising only 41.5% and females 58.5%. This shift may indicate a growing retention of female students as they progress through their academic journey, which aligns with national trends where women are increasingly outperforming men in college graduation rates.

In contrast, the undergraduate transfer students exhibit a more traditional male-dominated ratio, with 70% of the 20 students being male. This could reflect the realities of transfer student demographics, where males might be more likely to transfer from community colleges or other institutions.

Graduate students, totaling 33, also show a gender imbalance, with 42.4% male and 57.6% female. This again points to a trend of higher female representation in graduate studies, which has been observed nationwide.

Overall, while the college showcases a promising diversity among its student body, the fluctuating gender ratios across different categories warrant further exploration. The trends observed at Centenary College echo larger societal changes in education, where females are increasingly leading in both participation and success in higher education sectors.

Analysis of Student Age Distribution at Centenary College of Louisiana

The age distribution data of students at Centenary College of Louisiana reveals interesting insights into the demographics of the college community. A significant proportion of students falls within the traditional college age range of 18 to 21 years. Specifically, 98 male undergraduates and 139 female undergraduates are aged 18-19, while 96 males and 136 females are in the 20-21 age range. This indicates a youthful student body, which aligns well with the typical demographic patterns of many higher education institutions in the United States.

Moreover, the number of graduate students in the younger age brackets is notably low, with only a handful of individuals aged 22-24. This suggests that many students may be pursuing their undergraduate degrees before deciding to enter graduate studies, which is a common trend in academia. Additionally, there are very few students over the age of 30, highlighting how college enrollment predominantly attracts younger individuals.

The data also shows that there are no undergraduate males aged 25-29 and only one male aged 30-34. This could reflect the increasing trend of non-traditional students returning to education later in life, although the numbers at Centenary College do not currently reflect a significant presence in this demographic.

In summary, the age data underscores Centenary College’s focus on a younger student population, predominantly undergraduates in their late teens and early twenties, which may influence the college's academic programs, extracurricular activities, and support services tailored to meet the needs of this age group.

International Students

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

Undergraduates1.6%

11 in 2025 · 1.5% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.5%2017: 2.1%2018: 2.3%2019: 2.7%2020: 2.0%2021: 0.9%2022: 2.5%2023: 2.9%2024: 1.6%2025: 1.6%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025
Graduate students0.0%

0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 0.0%2018: 1.8%2019: 0.0%2020: 0.0%2021: 0.0%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.0%2024: 0.0%2025: 0.0%
2016Peer median 1.0%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Centenary College of Louisiana

The data on international student enrollment at Centenary College of Louisiana over the years reveals a concerning trend. From 2004 to 2019, the number of undergraduate students fluctuated but displayed a general decline, particularly noticeable from 2011 onwards, when the total undergraduate population dropped significantly. This decline in overall student enrollment correlates with a decrease in the number of international students, which has fallen from 27 in 2004 to just 15 in 2023.

The percentage of international students in the undergraduate population also reflects this trend, peaking at 3.20% in 2004, but plummeting to a low of 0.91% in 2021. Such a low percentage indicates that international students are becoming increasingly underrepresented in the college's student body. This decline could be attributed to various factors, including changing immigration policies, economic conditions, and increased competition from other institutions that may offer more attractive programs for international students.

The graduate program data is sparse, but the small number of international students reported there suggests similar challenges. The single data point for the proportion of international students in graduate programs in 2012 and 2018 shows a minimal presence, further highlighting the need for the college to adopt strategies to attract and retain international talent.

Overall, the decline in international enrollment at Centenary College of Louisiana mirrors broader trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly competing to attract a diverse student body. Addressing barriers faced by international students and enhancing support services could be vital for reversing this trend and enriching the campus culture.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$56,000

Undergraduate tuition
$41,200
Room and board
$14,800
Graduate tuition
$9,585
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 23% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 20%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$34.6M

Investment return
$15.0M43.4%
Tuition and fees
$7.9M22.9%
Auxiliary enterprises
$7.0M20.2%
Gifts and private grants
$4.2M12.2%
Government grants and contracts
$179K0.5%
Other
$238K0.7%

Expenses$31.9M

Institutional support
$9.4M29.4%
Student services
$9.1M28.5%
Instruction
$7.6M23.9%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.8M11.9%
Academic support
$2.0M6.1%
Public service
$71K0.2%

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
$70,270peers $65,931
Professor
$91,661peers $77,501
Associate professor
$70,721peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$64,815peers $61,725
Instructor
$55,000peers $53,914
Lecturer
$60,310peers $60,000

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference

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

2025
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football96-
Soccer2733
Baseball58-
Basketball1820
Lacrosse25-
Swimming129
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)146
Softball-20
Gymnastics-18
Golf107
Volleyball-11
2024
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football68-
Baseball55-
Soccer3017
Basketball1613
Softball-23
Lacrosse20-
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)108
Volleyball-18
Gymnastics-16
Swimming69
Golf85
2023
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Baseball60-
Soccer2824
Basketball2516
Lacrosse24-
Volleyball-22
Softball-18
Swimming810
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)88
Gymnastics-16
Football15-
Golf105

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities surrounding Centenary College of Louisiana:

  1. Rice University - Ranked 17th in the 2024 US News rankings, Rice University is a prestigious research university located in Houston, Texas. Known for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life, it offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees.

  2. University of Texas at Austin - This renowned institution ranks 32nd and is recognized for its strong emphasis on research and public service. The University of Texas at Austin offers diverse programs across various fields and has a vibrant student community.

  3. Texas A & M University-College Station - Ranked 47th, Texas A & M University is one of the largest universities in the United States. It is known for its strong engineering, business, and agricultural programs, as well as its commitment to public service.

  4. Southern Methodist University - With a ranking of 89, Southern Methodist University is located in Dallas, Texas. It offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs and is particularly well-regarded for its business and law schools.

  5. Tulane University of Louisiana - Ranked 73rd, Tulane University is a private research university in New Orleans known for its strong programs in public health, law, and business. The university's unique location offers students a vibrant cultural experience.

These institutions contribute to a rich educational landscape in the region surrounding Centenary College of Louisiana.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

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

Incidents, 2023–2025

Burglary
33
Stalking
10
Motor vehicle theft
8
Fondling
7
Dating violence
6
Rape
4

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Statistics at Centenary College of Louisiana

The crime statistics for Centenary College of Louisiana from 2013 to 2023 reveal significant fluctuations in the average crime rates per 1,000 students. Notably, there was a peak in crime rates during 2020, with an alarming rate of 72.82 incidents per 1,000 students. This spike can be associated with various societal factors, including the stress and changes related to the COVID-19 pandemic, which may have influenced both personal behavior and campus security dynamics.

In contrast, the years immediately following 2020 show a gradual decrease in crime rates, although they remain notably high compared to previous years. The statistics for 2021 and 2022 indicate that the college is still grappling with heightened criminal activity, with rates of 58.97 and 56.09 respectively. This persistent high crime rate could raise concerns among prospective students and their families regarding campus safety.

Furthermore, the data indicates that various types of arrests and offenses, including drug-related incidents and alcohol-related arrests, contribute significantly to the overall crime rate. The college community may need to implement more robust safety measures and outreach programs aimed at reducing these incidents.

It is important to note the role of community engagement and support services in addressing these issues. Colleges nationwide are recognizing the need for mental health resources and community building to foster a safer environment. As we analyze these statistics, ongoing efforts to improve campus safety and student well-being remain crucial.

For further understanding of how crime rates are calculated, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Methodology.

Notable Alumni

All 24

Notable alumni of Centenary College of Louisiana include Robert Parish (Former NBA center, three-time champion with Celtics), Tyler Johnson (Former NBA player and college assistant coach) and Charlotte Moorman (Cellist and performance artist).

See all 24 notable alumni of Centenary College of Louisiana →

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.