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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Rust College

Holly Springs, Mississippi · www.rustcollege.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

48.7%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$13,265

$19,482 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

467

Student-faculty ratio 10:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

18.0%

4-year; 6-year rate 31.7%

Peer median 45.1%

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

About

Rust College, located in Holly Springs, Mississippi, is a historically black liberal arts college founded in 1866. Renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and social justice, Rust College is dedicated to providing a well-rounded education that fosters critical thinking and leadership skills. The college’s motto, "Enter to Learn; Go Forth to Serve," encapsulates its mission to prepare students not only for professional success but also for meaningful contributions to society. This ethos is reflected in various programs that encourage community service and civic engagement, promoting a culture of giving back among its students.

The college boasts a vibrant campus life, enriched by a diverse student body and numerous extracurricular activities. Students can engage in various clubs and organizations, including the Student Government Association and cultural groups that celebrate African American heritage. Rust College also emphasizes the importance of athletics, with a range of sports programs that promote teamwork and physical fitness. With a strong focus on mentorship, Rust College’s faculty is dedicated to providing personalized attention to students, fostering an environment that encourages academic achievement and personal growth. The college's commitment to developing well-rounded individuals is evident in its robust career services, which help graduates transition successfully into the workforce. Overall, Rust College stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity, nurturing future leaders who are prepared to make a positive impact on their communities and beyond.

Analysis of Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention at Rust College

Over the years, Rust College has witnessed significant fluctuations in its tuition rates, particularly for in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. Starting from $8,900 in 2014, the tuition increased steadily until 2023, where it plateaued at $9,900, before surging to $13,840 in 2024. This dramatic increase in tuition may pose a challenge for prospective students, especially in a time when student debt is a growing concern in the United States.

The graduation rates present a concerning trend as well. For students graduating on time, the rate has varied, with a noticeable decline from 25% in 2019 to approximately 14% in 2023. This drop indicates potential issues with student engagement or support that need addressing, as lower graduation rates can impact the institution's reputation and the future prospects of its graduates.

Retention rates have also shown some volatility. After reaching a peak of approximately 76% in 2018, the rate dropped to around 44% in 2020, before rebounding to over 65% in 2023. This inconsistency may reflect changing student satisfaction levels and the effectiveness of institutional support systems. A high retention rate is crucial for ensuring that students not only enroll but also complete their degrees.

In addition to these financial and academic metrics, it is essential to consider the gender enrollment ratios. The male-to-female enrollment ratio has shown a gradual shift, with female students constituting a larger proportion of the undergraduate body. This trend is reflective of broader societal changes in higher education, where female enrollment has been on the rise.

Overall, while Rust College is making strides in certain areas, the institution must focus on stabilizing tuition increases, improving graduation and retention rates, and ensuring that it remains an attractive option for all students. Addressing these challenges effectively will be vital for the college's sustainability and growth in the coming years.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Distant town
Nearest major city
Memphis, about 35 mi
Nearest international airport
Frederick W. Smith International Airport (MEM), about 35 mi
Holly Springs, Mississippi
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
United Methodist
President
Johnny M. Moore (President)
Phone
6622528000
City
Holly Springs, Mississippi
Address
150 Rust Avenue, Holly Springs, MS 38635

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

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

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
48.2%
Women
49.0%

In 2020: men 47.3%, women 51.9%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Rust College

The admission data for Rust College over the years reveals significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment figures, indicative of broader trends in higher education. For instance, in 2023, the college achieved an impressive 79% acceptance rate for both male and female applicants. This marks a notable increase from previous years, particularly when compared to 2014, when the acceptance rates were only 15.8% for males and 12.7% for females.
The increase in acceptance rates could suggest a strategic shift toward inclusivity or an effort to attract a larger, more diverse student body. Additionally, the total number of enrolled students in 2023 was 184, which is considerably lower than the peak of 423 in 2021. This decrease in enrollment, despite a higher acceptance rate, raises questions about the factors influencing students' decisions to attend Rust College versus other institutions.
Furthermore, the significant number of denied applicants in earlier years, such as 3,196 in 2011, contrasts starkly with the 524 denials in 2023. This reduction in denials may reflect changes in the applicant pool or the college's evolving admission policies.
Overall, the trends suggest that Rust College is adapting to the changing landscape of college admissions, possibly in response to both national trends and local demands. As colleges across the nation face challenges in attracting students amidst a competitive environment, Rust College's approach may serve as a case study for effective admission strategies in the coming 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

Analysis of Admission Test Data at Rust College

The data on admission test scores at Rust College over the years presents an intriguing picture of the evolving landscape of college admissions. Notably, the percentage of students submitting ACT scores has remained relatively high, peaking at 81% in 2008 and maintaining a substantial representation in subsequent years. This trend reflects a broader shift in college admissions where standardized test scores, particularly ACT scores, play a significant role in evaluating applicant readiness.

Interestingly, while SAT scores have been included in the admissions process, their representation appears minimal, with only 2% of applicants submitting these scores as observed in several years from 2011 to 2022. This decline aligns with a national trend where many institutions are moving towards test-optional policies, thus reducing the emphasis on SAT scores in favor of a more holistic review process.

The available score ranges for the SAT reading and mathematics sections, as well as for ACT composite and subject scores, indicate a growing diversity in student performance. The introduction of score ranges in recent years suggests that the college is recognizing the varying abilities of its applicants and possibly adapting its evaluation criteria accordingly.

Moreover, the fluctuating participation rates in standardized testing underscore the impact of educational policies and societal shifts on student behavior. As we continue to witness debates around the efficacy and fairness of standardized testing, Rust College's data provides a snapshot of how these changes are manifesting at the institutional level. This evolution in admissions practices may ultimately lead to a more equitable approach to assessing student potential in higher education.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 5 in 10

3,807 applicants in 2025, 48.7% admitted

1,853 admitted 1,954 not admitted Yield 6.4%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's522 international (3.8%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
9
Business Administration and Management, General
9
Computer Science
7
Elementary Education and Teaching
7
Sociology, General
5
Kindergarten/Preschool Education and Teaching
3
Social Work
3
Education, General
2
Mathematics, General
2
Marketing/Marketing Management, General
2

U.S. studentsInternational

Data insights

Analysis of Graduate Trends at Rust College in 2023

In 2023, Rust College has seen a notable distribution of graduates across various disciplines. The most prominent field is Biology, with 22 graduates earning bachelor's degrees, highlighting the continued interest and demand for roles in healthcare and biological sciences. This trend aligns with the increasing global emphasis on health-related fields, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic, which has raised awareness about biological sciences and public health.

Business Administration also shows a solid output with 17 bachelor graduates, reflecting the ongoing importance of business skills in a rapidly changing economy. Interestingly, Computer Science has a minimal graduation count of just 3, including one international student, which may indicate a need for increased focus on technology education to meet job market demands.

Education-related programs, while traditionally significant, show lower graduation numbers. For instance, Elementary Education has only 4 graduates. This trend may reflect broader national issues regarding teacher shortages and the challenges faced in attracting new professionals to the teaching field.

Another noteworthy observation is the absence of graduates in master's and doctorate programs across most fields. This could indicate a gap in advanced education offerings or a potential area for institutional growth. Additionally, the lack of international students in most programs suggests that Rust College may need to enhance its attractiveness to international scholars to diversify its academic community.

Overall, Rust College's 2023 graduation data indicates strong performance in undergraduate education, particularly in biology and business, while also revealing areas that require attention to foster future growth and meet evolving workforce needs.

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

Educationhas 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Education, General.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
Kindergarten/Preschool Education and Teaching.-
Businesshas 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Business Administration and Management, General.-
Accounting.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Biologyhas 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$33,595
Computer and information sciencehas 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Computer Science.-
Social sciencehas 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Social Sciences, General.-
Sociology, General.-
Public administrationhas 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Social Work.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Mathematics, General.-
Communication has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Journalism.-

Students

467 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 48:52 · Freshman retention 84.4%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (467)

Black
428 · 91.6%
International
17 · 3.6%
Hispanic
9 · 1.9%
Unknown
7 · 1.5%
White
3 · 0.6%
Asian
2 · 0.4%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
0.0%
18–19
32.3%
20–21
29.3%
22–24
24.2%
25 and over
14.1%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Rust College 2023

The student population at Rust College in 2023 presents a diverse and intriguing demographic landscape. The data highlights a total of 184 undergraduate freshmen, with a near even gender distribution—48.9% male and 51.1% female. This balance is promising, as it indicates an inclusive environment for new students entering higher education.

In contrast, the undergraduate juniors display a starkly different picture. With 423 students, the ratio of males drops significantly to 37.1%, while females represent a substantial 62.9%. This shift raises questions about retention and the experiences of male students as they progress through their academic journey. It may suggest potential challenges that need addressing to support male students effectively.

The undergraduate transfer students also show a reasonably balanced gender ratio, with 45.2% male and 54.8% female. However, the research on retention and success rates among transfer students is crucial, as these individuals often bring different challenges and experiences to the college environment.

Interestingly, there is a small representation of other demographic groups within the student body, with only a handful of white individuals reported among the transfer and non-degree students. This lack of diversity highlights an area for improvement, as fostering an inclusive environment for all racial and ethnic backgrounds remains essential for a holistic educational experience.

Overall, Rust College's demographics reflect broader trends in higher education, where gender disparities and racial diversity continue to evolve. The institution might benefit from initiatives aimed at improving retention rates among male students and increasing the representation of underrepresented groups to enhance the educational experience for all students.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Rust College

The age composition of students at Rust College reveals some interesting trends about the demographics of its undergraduate and graduate population. Notably, the majority of students fall within the 18-24 age range, which aligns with the traditional college demographic. The data shows a significant number of undergraduates aged 18-19, totaling 185 students, and those aged 20-21, totaling 190 students. This suggests that Rust College primarily attracts younger students who are likely entering college immediately after high school.

Interestingly, there are no graduate students recorded in the dataset, indicating that the college may have a stronger focus on undergraduate education or that the graduate program may not be as developed or popular. This trend is also reflected in the lower numbers of students in older age brackets, with only a handful of students aged 30 and above.

The gender distribution shows a higher number of female students across all age categories compared to male students, particularly in the younger demographics. For instance, in the youngest age group (under 18), there are 13 females compared to only 6 males, indicating a positive trend towards gender diversity in younger cohorts.

Overall, the data reflects a youthful and predominantly female student body, which could influence the college's community dynamics and may shape its educational policies and campus culture. As higher education institutions continue to adapt to changing demographics, Rust College may benefit from exploring strategies to attract a more diverse age group, particularly graduate students, to enrich the academic environment.

International Students

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

Undergraduates3.6%

17 in 2025 · 2.8% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 2.8%2017: 1.7%2018: 1.7%2019: 2.2%2020: 1.4%2021: 1.0%2022: 0.4%2023: 2.0%2024: 4.2%2025: 3.6%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025

Data insights

Decline in International Student Enrollment at Rust College

The data reveals a concerning trend in the enrollment of international students at Rust College over the years. Starting from 2004, where 8% of undergraduate students were international, there is a noticeable decline in both the total number of international students and their representation within the undergraduate body. By 2023, the percentage had plummeted to just 1.99%, a stark contrast to earlier years.

Several factors could contribute to this decline. The global pandemic has significantly affected student mobility, with many aspiring international students reconsidering their plans to study abroad due to health and travel restrictions. Additionally, increased competition from other educational institutions offering more attractive programs or financial aid packages could be steering potential students away from Rust College.

Moreover, the data indicates that there has not been a parallel development in graduate student enrollment data, which remains unavailable for analysis. This absence further complicates the understanding of Rust College's overall international student landscape.

In light of recent discussions around diversity in education, this decline poses challenges not only for the college’s multicultural environment but also for the institution’s financial stability, as international students often contribute significantly to tuition revenue. It is essential for Rust College to reassess its strategies to attract and retain international students, perhaps by enhancing support services or creating more international partnerships to counteract this downward trend.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$19,482

Undergraduate tuition
$13,265
Room and board
$6,217
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 40% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 52%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$26.2M

Investment return
$8.7M33.3%
Tuition and fees
$5.2M19.9%
Gifts and private grants
$4.8M18.4%
Government grants and contracts
$4.5M17.2%
Auxiliary enterprises
$2.1M8.0%
Other
$809K3.1%

Expenses$22.7M

Institutional support
$10.7M47.1%
Instruction
$4.0M17.5%
Student services
$3.2M14.1%
Scholarships
$2.2M9.9%
Auxiliary enterprises
$1.9M8.3%
Academic support
$499K2.2%
Public service
$187K0.8%

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
$45,852peers $65,931
Associate professor
$51,974peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$44,725peers $61,725
Instructor
$42,207peers $53,914

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Gulf Coast Athletic Conference

Gulf Coast Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division I MENWOMEN
Baseball61-
Track and Field (Outdoor)2525
Cross Country2525
Basketball1520
Softball-16
Tennis88
Volleyball-10
2024
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Baseball58-
Track and Field (Outdoor)2020
Cross Country2020
Basketball1616
Softball-19
Volleyball-15
Tennis76
2023
OtherMENWOMEN
Basketball5140
Baseball75-
Volleyball-32
Track and Field (Outdoor)1416
Tennis1114
Softball-23
Cross Country1010

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools surrounding Rust College:

  1. Vanderbilt University - Ranked 18th in the 2024 US News rankings, Vanderbilt is a prestigious private research university located in Nashville, Tennessee. It is known for its excellent academic programs and vibrant campus life.

  2. Rhodes College - This liberal arts college is ranked 56th and is located in Memphis, Tennessee. Rhodes is known for its rigorous academics and beautiful campus, offering a strong sense of community.

  3. University of Alabama at Birmingham - Ranked 142nd, UAB is a public research university that is recognized for its health and medical programs. The university provides a diverse range of academic disciplines and research opportunities.

  4. University of Mississippi - With a ranking of 163, this public research university is located in Oxford, Mississippi. It is well-known for its vibrant campus culture and strong athletic programs.

  5. Mississippi State University - Ranked 216th, MSU is a public research university that offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong emphasis on research and community service.

  6. Washington University in St. Louis - This highly-ranked university (24th) is known for its strong emphasis on research, a comprehensive range of academic programs, and a beautiful campus setting.

These institutions contribute to a rich educational environment in the region, offering various opportunities for students.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

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

Incidents, 2023–2025

Domestic violence
12
Dating violence
12
Aggravated assault
9
Drug arrests
9
Liquor arrests
9
Liquor referrals
9

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Data at Rust College

The crime data from Rust College reveals a concerning trend over the years, particularly from 2013 to 2023. The average crime rate per 1,000 students has shown a significant increase, rising from 4.28 in 2013 to 37.35 in 2023. This alarming escalation highlights potential underlying issues related to campus safety and student well-being.

The most notable spike occurred between 2017 and 2018, where the average crime rate jumped from 6.57 to 28.14. This could suggest a shift in campus dynamics, possibly influenced by external factors or changes in campus policies regarding reporting and addressing crime. Furthermore, the data indicates that offenses such as assault and drug-related arrests have been persistent, contributing to the higher crime rates observed in recent years.

The rise in incidents of gun-related arrests and domestic violence points to a critical need for improved safety measures and support systems for students. This trend is not isolated to Rust College; many colleges across the country face similar challenges with rising crime rates, which can affect student enrollment and the overall campus atmosphere.

It is essential for Rust College to assess the factors contributing to these trends and develop strategies to enhance campus safety. This may involve increased security presence, better communication of resources available to students, and fostering a culture where students feel safe reporting incidents. The data underscores the importance of vigilance and proactive measures in maintaining a secure educational environment.

For reference on calculating crime rates, please visit: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Rust College include Ida B. Wells (Journalist, civil rights leader and NAACP co-founder), Anita Ward (Singer best known for Ring My Bell) and Willie Mitchell (Memphis soul record producer and arranger).

More alumni (2, by field)

Science and academia

Arts and media

  • Irvine Garland Penn 1867–1930

    Journalist, educator and author of The Afro-American Press

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.