Olivet College
Acceptance rate
83.2%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$34,068
$46,635 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
932
Student-faculty ratio 17:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
33.9%
4-year; 6-year rate 44.1%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The University of Olivet, located in Olivet, Michigan, is a distinguished institution known for its commitment to providing a holistic education rooted in Christian values. Established in 1882, the university has a rich heritage and a strong focus on liberal arts education. Its mission emphasizes the development of students not only academically but also spiritually and socially, fostering a sense of purpose and service in the community. The university's motto, "To Know Him and Make Him Known," encapsulates its dedication to cultivating leaders who are prepared to make a positive impact in the world.
The campus boasts an inviting and vibrant atmosphere, enhanced by a close-knit community that encourages personal growth and academic excellence. With a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, Olivet offers students the opportunity to engage in various fields of study, including business, education, and the arts. The university is also known for its strong emphasis on experiential learning, with numerous internship and service opportunities that prepare students for successful careers. Furthermore, the athletic programs at Olivet foster teamwork and school spirit, contributing to a well-rounded student experience. Overall, The University of Olivet stands out for its dedication to academic rigor, community involvement, and the development of principled leaders.
Analysis of Tuition Costs, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention
The data from Olivet University showcases several significant trends, particularly concerning tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention. Over the years, there has been a consistent increase in both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate tuition fees. From 2014 to 2024, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students rose from $23,021 to $33,076, indicating a steep increase of approximately 43.6%. This rise in tuition reflects a broader trend seen across many private institutions, where educational costs have escalated, often outpacing inflation and household income growth.
In contrast to the rising tuition costs, the graduation rates present a more promising picture. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates climbed from approximately 25.8% in 2013 to 42.8% in 2023. This nearly 17% increase suggests improvements in academic support and resources provided to students, which may be correlated with the university's focus on enhancing student outcomes. Higher graduation rates can lead to better employment opportunities for graduates, which is increasingly important as the job market becomes more competitive.
Moreover, student retention rates also exhibit noteworthy fluctuations. The retention rate dipped to about 57.1% in 2021 but rebounded to approximately 64.7% in 2023. This recovery may point towards effective interventions aimed at increasing student satisfaction and engagement, essential for maintaining a stable student body.
In summary, while tuition costs continue to rise at Olivet University, the significant improvements in graduation and retention rates suggest that the institution is making strides in supporting its students. It raises an important consideration for prospective students and their families: the value of education should not only be measured in terms of cost but also by the successful outcomes that the institution is able to facilitate.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Rural, distant
- Nearest major city
- Grand Rapids, about 50 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR), about 45 mi
- Also known as
- UO Comets
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- United Church of Christ
- President
- Steven M. Corey (President)
- Phone
- 8004567189
- Address
- 320 South Main Street, Olivet, MI 49076
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2021: men 60.3%, women 60.7%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at The University of Olivet
The admission data from The University of Olivet reveals interesting trends in both male and female acceptance rates over the years. Notably, the overall admission rates for males and females have fluctuated significantly from 2009 to 2023. In 2009, the male acceptance rate was approximately 60.8%, while the female rate was slightly lower at about 60.5%. Fast forward to 2023, the male acceptance rate surged to around 81.5%, reflecting a substantial increase in accessibility for potential male applicants, while the female acceptance rate remained relatively high at about 88.6%.
The enrollment numbers also present a compelling narrative. For instance, in 2012, the university admitted 279 students, which is a stark contrast to 2022, where only 218 students were enrolled despite a higher acceptance rate. This suggests that the university may be becoming more selective or that external factors, such as changing demographics or shifting perceptions of the university's value, could be affecting enrollment numbers.
Furthermore, the number of students denied admission has shown varying trends, with peaks in 2013 and 2015. The rejection rates could indicate a competitive applicant pool, especially in years when the university received a high number of applications.
Overall, the University of Olivet seems to be navigating the challenges of attracting a diverse student body while maintaining high standards for admission. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, it will be critical for the university to adapt its strategies to ensure that it remains an attractive option for prospective students.
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 Admission Test Scores at The University of Olivet
The data from The University of Olivet over the years reveals interesting trends regarding student admissions and standardized test scores. Notably, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has seen significant fluctuations. In 2015, a remarkable 96% of admitted students submitted SAT scores, which sharply contrasts with the years preceding and following it, where submissions were as low as 3% in 2014 and 5% in 2016. This variability suggests changes in admissions policies or the testing landscape itself, especially considering the increasing number of colleges adopting test-optional policies.
When examining score ranges, it appears that the SAT Reading and Math scores have shown a slight upward trend over the years, with the 25th percentile scores rising from 370 in 2014 to 460 in 2023. This indicates an improvement in the academic preparedness of incoming students, likely reflecting broader educational trends and increased access to preparatory resources.
Furthermore, the ACT scores present a similar narrative. The comprehensive scores have also seen gradual increases, indicating that students are performing better overall. This trend aligns with national data suggesting improvements in ACT performance among high school students, possibly attributable to enhanced educational support and resources.
Overall, The University of Olivet's admission data underscores the evolving nature of standardized testing and its implications for college admissions, reflecting broader societal trends in education and assessment. The shift towards a more holistic review process may continue to influence these patterns in the years to come.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
1,516 applicants in 2025, 83.2% admitted
1,262 admitted 254 not admitted Yield 20.4%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's26 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from The University of Olivet
The graduation data from The University of Olivet reveals interesting trends across various academic disciplines in 2023. Notably, the highest number of bachelor's degrees awarded is in the field of Biology, with 22 graduates. This highlights a continued interest in biological sciences, likely driven by the increasing demand for professionals in healthcare and environmental fields.
In the realm of master's degrees, the data indicates that the business sector is gaining traction, as evidenced by the 20 graduates in the field of business administration and management. This trend aligns with broader economic shifts towards entrepreneurship and management roles, especially in post-pandemic recovery phases where businesses are adapting to new market realities.
Interestingly, there is a significant absence of international students graduating from various programs, with no international graduates recorded for most categories. This could suggest potential barriers for international students in accessing higher education or a shift in policies affecting international enrollment, which is a critical consideration for institutions aiming to enhance their global diversity.
Moreover, fields like psychology and criminal justice are also well represented, with consistent numbers of graduates, indicating stable career paths. This could reflect societal needs for mental health professionals and law enforcement experts, especially in today's complex social landscape.
Overall, the data from The University of Olivet not only showcases the various disciplines thriving in higher education but also prompts a reflection on the changing dynamics of student demographics and career readiness in a rapidly evolving job market.
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 | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $54,316 | ||
| Accounting. | - | ||
| Financial Planning and Services. | - | ||
| Actuarial Science. | - | ||
| Insurance. | $47,619-$93,172 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice and Corrections, General. | $42,571 | ||
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $42,571 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | $32,750 | ||
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $32,750 | ||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $32,750 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $32,317 | ||
| Performance and Sport Psychology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $38,907 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | - | ||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Journalism. | - | ||
| Broadcast Journalism. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sociology and Anthropology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Pre-Art Therapy. | - | ||
| Medical Illustration/Medical Illustrator. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
Students
979 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 57:43 · Freshman retention 61.4%
- Continuing undergraduates 550
- First-year undergraduates 256
- Graduate students 47
- Transfers and others 126
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (932)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Demographic Insights of Olivet University Students in 2023
In 2023, Olivet University showcases a diverse student body with a total of 918 students across various categories. The undergraduate freshmen represent a significant portion, comprising 268 students, with a male to female ratio of approximately 69.4% to 30.6%. This gender disparity may indicate ongoing challenges in attracting female students in the early stages of their college education, a trend observed in many higher education institutions nationwide.
Undergraduate juniors, totaling 549, exhibit a more balanced gender ratio, with 59.7% male and 40.3% female students. This shift might suggest that as students progress through their academic journey, the university may be enhancing its support for female retention and success. The transfer student population, while smaller at 42, reflects a slightly higher female representation with 45.2%, hinting that transfer pathways may be more appealing to women.
Graduate students, numbering 59, present an almost equal gender distribution, which is a positive indication of inclusivity in advanced academic programs. The presence of a single non-degree seeking student also highlights the university's openness to diverse educational pursuits.
The racial and ethnic composition further enriches the university's environment, although specific demographic breakdowns for upperclassmen and graduate students are not provided. Overall, Olivet University continues to strive for a balanced and inclusive academic community, addressing gender disparities while fostering a rich multicultural landscape. This aligns with broader educational trends that emphasize diversity and inclusivity as key components for enhancing the academic experience.
Age Composition of Students at The University of Olivet in 2023
The age distribution of students at The University of Olivet for 2023 reveals notable trends in the demographics of both undergraduate and graduate populations. A significant portion of the student body, particularly among undergraduates, is concentrated in the 18-19 age group, with 405 male students and 290 female students. This indicates a youthful demographic, likely reflective of a traditional college experience where students enter immediately after high school.
As we move into the older age categories, the numbers begin to decline significantly. For instance, only 45 males and 30 females are in the 20-21 age range, and the participation further diminishes in the 22-24 and older categories. This could suggest that many students either complete their studies within a few years or that the university attracts a younger cohort primarily.
The presence of graduate students aged 30-34 and beyond, while limited, illustrates a trend towards lifelong learning and the pursuit of advanced degrees among older adults. The data shows that there are more male graduate students in the 30-34 age range compared to females, which aligns with broader trends in higher education where men are often overrepresented in certain graduate programs.
Overall, the age composition at The University of Olivet reflects both traditional and modern educational pathways, highlighting the institution's role in accommodating a diverse student body across different life stages. This diversity can enrich the academic environment, fostering a broader exchange of ideas and experiences.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
2 in 2025 · 1.2% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Olivet University
The data on international student enrollment at Olivet University reveals a concerning trend over the years, particularly in undergraduate programs. Starting from 2004, there was a consistent number of international undergraduate students, peaking at 38 in 2004 with a participation rate of 3.76%. However, the numbers have drastically declined since then, hitting a low of just 2 students in 2023, which represents a mere 0.23% of the total undergraduate population.
The decline is alarming, especially considering the global context of international education, where many universities are actively seeking to increase their international student body to enhance cultural diversity and global perspectives on campus. The drop in numbers may be attributed to various factors, including changes in immigration policies, increased competition from other institutions, or possibly the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has significantly affected international travel and education.
In contrast, the data for graduate programs appears more stable, albeit lacking complete enrollment figures. The university's efforts to maintain a diverse graduate student population are commendable, but the lack of data for several years raises concerns about the effectiveness of recruitment strategies.
Overall, the significant decrease in international undergraduate enrollment at Olivet University highlights the need for a reassessment of their outreach and support mechanisms for international students. As the higher education landscape becomes increasingly competitive, it is crucial for institutions to adapt and innovate to attract and retain a diverse student body.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$46,635
- Undergraduate tuition
- $34,068
- Room and board
- $12,567
- Graduate tuition
- $7,430
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 37% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 50%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$27.5M
Expenses$28.8M
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.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association
Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 139 | - |
| Soccer | 44 | 25 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 36 | 27 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 33 | 28 |
| Basketball | 31 | 13 |
| Wrestling | 43 | - |
| Volleyball | 17 | 25 |
| Baseball | 41 | - |
| Bowling | 17 | 17 |
| Golf | 13 | 7 |
| Cross Country | 11 | 9 |
| Tennis | 9 | 9 |
| Softball | - | 17 |
| Swimming | 3 | 6 |
| Rifle | - | - |
| Other Sports | - | - |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 156 | - |
| Soccer | 48 | 26 |
| Wrestling | 56 | - |
| Basketball | 35 | 11 |
| Volleyball | 19 | 27 |
| Softball | - | 43 |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 17 | 23 |
| Bowling | 11 | 17 |
| Golf | 15 | 8 |
| Cross Country | 12 | 11 |
| Swimming | 11 | 9 |
| Tennis | 5 | 13 |
| Rifle | - | - |
| Other Sports | - | - |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 137 | - |
| Soccer | 45 | 28 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 40 | 28 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 40 | 28 |
| Basketball | 33 | 22 |
| Wrestling | 53 | - |
| Volleyball | 18 | 26 |
| Other Sports | 6 | 38 |
| Baseball | 41 | - |
| Softball | - | 36 |
| Bowling | 16 | 17 |
| Cross Country | 12 | 12 |
| Tennis | 8 | 13 |
| Swimming | 12 | 7 |
| Golf | 12 | 5 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Michigan State UniversityEast Lansing · 30.3 mi
U.S. News #69
-
Kalamazoo CollegeKalamazoo · 36.2 mi
Liberal Arts #74
-
Western Michigan UniversityKalamazoo · 36.9 mi
U.S. News #276
-
Hillsdale CollegeHillsdale · 38.2 mi
Liberal Arts #47
-
University of Michigan-Ann ArborAnn Arbor · 61.8 mi
U.S. News #25
-
Central Michigan UniversityMount Pleasant · 79.7 mi
U.S. News #262
-
Andrews UniversityBerrien Springs · 80.4 mi
U.S. News #262
-
University of Notre DameNotre Dame · 84.6 mi
U.S. News #20
-
Saint Mary's CollegeNotre Dame · 85.2 mi
Liberal Arts #78
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding The University of Olivet:
-
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor - Ranked 21 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is renowned for its strong research programs and vibrant campus life.
-
University of Notre Dame - This prestigious institution is ranked 20th and is well-known for its commitment to excellence in education and research, along with its strong Catholic tradition.
-
Northwestern University - A top-tier university ranked 9th, Northwestern is famous for its diverse academic programs and its location near Chicago, offering students rich cultural experiences.
-
University of Chicago - Known for its rigorous academics and distinguished faculty, the University of Chicago is ranked 12th and has a strong focus on research and intellectual inquiry.
-
Michigan State University - With a rank of 60, Michigan State is a large public university known for its wide range of academic programs and strong agricultural and engineering departments.
-
Kalamazoo College - A liberal arts college ranked 70th, Kalamazoo College emphasizes experiential learning and has a robust study abroad program.
These institutions provide a diverse range of educational opportunities and are highly regarded in their respective fields.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges 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 Campus Crime Data at The University of Olivet
The crime data from The University of Olivet over the past decade presents a concerning trend, particularly regarding serious offenses like gun-related arrests and drug-related incidents. In 2014, the crime rate peaked at approximately 40.21 arrests per 1,000 students, which indicates a significant level of criminal activity within the campus community. This alarming figure shows a growing concern for student safety, prompting the need for increased security measures and awareness programs.
Interestingly, there has been a noticeable decline in crime rates since 2014, with rates dropping to 9.38 arrests per 1,000 students in 2021. This reduction can be attributed to various factors, including heightened campus security, better community engagement, and a growing awareness of the importance of mental health and safety on campus. However, the slight uptick in 2022 and 2023, reflecting 14.24 and 12.84 arrests per 1,000 students respectively, suggests that complacency should not be an option. Continuous efforts must be maintained to ensure that the rising trend does not become a long-term issue.
The subsets of data reveal that arrests for drug-related offenses continue to be a significant concern, alongside incidents of domestic violence and assault. Fostering a culture of safety and support is essential for making the campus environment more secure. Institutions must take proactive measures, including educational programs and mental health resources, to address these issues effectively.
For a detailed understanding of crime rates and calculations, refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of Olivet College include Claressa Shields (Professional boxer and multi-division world champion), Seth Neddermeyer (Physicist who co-discovered the muon) and Dave Cutler (American software engineer).
-
Claressa Shields 1995–
Professional boxer and multi-division world champion
-
Seth Neddermeyer 1907–1988
Physicist who co-discovered the muon
-
Dave Cutler 1942–
American software engineer
-
Martha Keys 1930–2024
Former U.S. representative from Kansas
-
Evelyn Beatrice Longman 1874–1954
Sculptor of allegorical monuments
-
Wolfgang Mieder 1944–
German-born linguist and University of Vermont professor
-
Adeola Fayehun 1984–
Nigerian journalist
-
John Swainson 1925–1994
42nd Governor of Michigan
-
Sugar Chile Robinson 1938–
Jazz pianist and singer, child prodigy in the 1940s
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.