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U.S. News #178 Private nonprofit, 4-year

Tougaloo College

Tougaloo, Mississippi · www.tougaloo.edu

中文

U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027

#178

Acceptance rate

59.9%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$12,407

$21,331 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

1,286

Student-faculty ratio 9:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

19.4%

4-year; 6-year rate 30.8%

Peer median 45.1%

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

About

Tougaloo College, located in Tougaloo, Mississippi, is a historically black college founded in 1869. It has a rich history and is known for its commitment to academic excellence, social justice, and community service. The college emphasizes the importance of a well-rounded education that combines liberal arts with practical experiences. This commitment is reflected in its motto, "Truth and Service," which inspires students to seek knowledge and apply it for the betterment of society. The institution's strong focus on social responsibility has made it a vital center for civil rights activism, particularly during the 1960s, when it served as a meeting place for civil rights leaders.

The campus features a variety of modern facilities that enhance the educational experience. Among these are state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas that support both academic and extracurricular activities. The college also prides itself on its diverse student life, offering numerous clubs and organizations that cater to a wide range of interests, encouraging students to engage with their peers and develop leadership skills. With a strong emphasis on community and collaboration, Tougaloo College prepares its graduates not only for successful careers but also for meaningful contributions to their communities. The college continues to produce notable alumni who excel in various fields, further solidifying its reputation as a cornerstone of higher education in the region.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Tougaloo College

Tougaloo College has shown a notable trend in tuition costs, with the tuition for in-state and out-of-state undergraduates remaining stable at approximately $10,735 since 2020. This stability is crucial for prospective students and their families, as rising education costs have become a significant concern nationwide. However, the increase in room and board expenses from $6,330 to $7,544 in the latest data indicates that while tuition may be fixed, living costs are on the rise, which could impact the overall affordability of attending the institution.

The student population has been on a downward trajectory from a peak of 972 undergraduates in 2013 to 657 in 2023. This decline raises questions about the college's appeal and recruitment strategies. Such reductions in enrollment can lead to diminished resources and a less vibrant campus life, which may affect the college's long-term viability.

Moreover, the graduation rates have fluctuated over the years, with the on-time graduation rate hovering around 25% in recent years. This statistic highlights a challenge for the institution, as graduation rates are often used as a metric of institutional effectiveness and student satisfaction. The necessity for improved support systems for students to ensure timely completion of their degrees is apparent.

Finally, the retention rates have experienced volatility but showed a positive rebound to approximately 81.6% in 2023. A higher retention rate can indicate that students are satisfied with their educational experience, which might counteract the negative trends in enrollment and graduation rates. It emphasizes the need for continued investment in student support services and engagement initiatives to foster a thriving academic community.

In summary, while Tougaloo College maintains a stable tuition structure, it faces significant challenges with declining enrollment and fluctuating graduation rates. The institution must enhance its student support services to address these issues and improve overall student satisfaction and success.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Midsize city
Nearest major city
Jackson, about 7 mi
Nearest international airport
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), about 170 mi
Tougaloo, Mississippi
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
United Church of Christ
President
Donzell Lee (President)
Phone
6019777700
City
Tougaloo, Mississippi
Address
500 W County Line Rd, Tougaloo, MS 39174

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

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

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
57.7%
Women
60.8%

In 2020: men 61.7%, women 74.9%.

U.S. News Liberal Arts Colleges · last 10 years
#178Ranked #178 every year from 2027 to 2027

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Tougaloo College

The admission statistics from Tougaloo College over the years reveal significant fluctuations in both acceptance and enrollment rates. In 2009, the institution experienced an exceptionally high acceptance rate of over 93% for males and nearly 97% for females, with a total enrollment of 237 students. However, this trend shifted drastically in subsequent years, particularly in 2010, when the acceptance rates plummeted to approximately 32% for males and 33% for females. This marked a turning point for the college, as it faced a substantial increase in denied applicants, reaching as high as 2,326 denials in that year alone.
The years that followed continued to show variability in admission rates, with notable declines in acceptance rates from 2011 to 2015, where male acceptance rates dipped to around 25% by 2015. Interestingly, despite this decline, the enrollment numbers remained relatively stable, suggesting that the college might have been focusing on maintaining a certain level of diversity and inclusivity in its student body.
The recent years from 2018 to 2023 show some recovery in acceptance rates, with male acceptance rates rising to about 48% and female acceptance rates hovering around 58% in 2023. This recent trend indicates a potential shift in the college's admission strategy, possibly aimed at attracting a broader range of applicants amid increasing competition in higher education.
The dynamic changes in Tougaloo College's admission statistics reflect broader trends in the higher education landscape, where institutions grapple with balancing selectivity and accessibility. As the college continues to adapt to these challenges, it will be essential to monitor how these admission practices impact the overall student experience and institutional reputation.

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 Scores at Tougaloo College (2007-2023)

The data from Tougaloo College spanning from 2007 to 2023 reveals significant fluctuations in standardized test scores and participation rates. Over the years, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT and ACT scores varied, with some years showing notably low participation. For instance, in 2011, only 3% of admitted students submitted SAT scores, which is indicative of a trend of declining reliance on standardized testing for admission decisions.

Looking at the scores themselves, there has been a general downward trend in the score ranges for both SAT and ACT over the years. In 2007, the 25th percentile SAT reading score was 560, but by 2012, this dropped to just 320. Such a decrease may reflect broader trends in education but might also indicate changes in the applicant pool or the college's admissions criteria.

Interestingly, the peak of SAT score submissions occurred in 2019, where 22% of applicants submitted scores, which is a stark contrast to 3% in 2013. This rebound in participation could suggest a renewed interest in standardized testing among prospective students or changes in the college's marketing and outreach strategies.

Despite the fluctuations in scores and participation, the college's commitment to diversity and accessibility remains commendable. The continuous adaptation of admissions policies in response to changing educational landscapes is crucial, especially as debates over the fairness and efficacy of standardized testing persist in higher education. Overall, these trends underscore the evolving nature of college admissions and the importance of considering a holistic view of student qualifications beyond mere test scores.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 6 in 10

2,334 applicants in 2025, 59.9% admitted

1,397 admitted 937 not admitted Yield 10.2%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate190 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's992 international (2.0%)
Master's70 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Psychology, General
16
Economics, General
14
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
10
Mass Communication/Media Studies
9
Elementary Education and Teaching
9
Political Science and Government, General
7
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, Other
6
Social Work
6
Computer Science
4
Chemistry, General
4

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Child Development · Master's4 (0% international)
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas, Other · Master's3 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Tougaloo College in 2023

The graduation data from Tougaloo College reveals intriguing insights into the academic landscape of the institution. Notably, the Bachelor’s degree in Biology/Biological Sciences stands out with the highest graduation rate, recording 22 graduates. This reflects the growing interest in biological sciences, a trend observed across many colleges as students increasingly pursue careers in healthcare and research.

In contrast, disciplines such as Sociology and Psychology also demonstrated significant interest, with 12 and 8 graduates respectively. This trend may correlate with the increasing societal focus on mental health and social issues, aligning with contemporary discussions about social justice and community well-being.

Another important observation is the lack of international students graduating in several programs, particularly at the bachelor level, as evidenced by the zeros in international graduation figures. This could indicate a need for Tougaloo College to enhance its appeal to global students or to foster more robust international programming, especially in fields like Computer Science and Business Administration, where the global market demands skilled professionals.

Additionally, the data shows a modest number of associate degree graduates, primarily in Biology and Education. This suggests that while students may initially pursue associate degrees, there is a definite trend toward continuing education for bachelor’s degrees, particularly in high-demand fields.

Overall, the graduation statistics from Tougaloo College highlight essential trends in student interests and indicate potential areas for growth, particularly regarding international student recruitment and expanding offerings in STEM and humanities disciplines.

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

Social sciencehas 28 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Economics, General.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.$25,533
Psychology has 16 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Psychology, General.-
Educationhas 16 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
History Teacher Education.-
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas, Other.-
Education, Other.-
Biologyhas 15 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Communication has 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Mass Communication/Media Studies.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, Other.-
Public administrationhas 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Social Work.-
Computer and information sciencehas 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Computer Science.-
History has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
History, General.-
Human science has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Child Development.-
Physical scienceshas 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.-
Visual and Performing artshas 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Music, General.-
English has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-

Students

1,301 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 41:59 · Freshman retention 83.2%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,286)

Black
689 · 53.6%
International
287 · 22.3%
Unknown
287 · 22.3%
Hispanic
10 · 0.8%
Two or more races
7 · 0.5%
White
1 · 0.1%
Asian
1 · 0.1%

Data insights

Student Demographics at Tougaloo College 2023

The student demographics at Tougaloo College for the year 2023 reveal a diverse composition across various categories. The data shows a total of 133 first-time undergraduates, with a notable gender disparity where approximately 39.1% are male and 60.9% are female. This trend continues among continuing undergraduates, where the male percentage is slightly higher at 39.3%, while female students account for 60.7%.

The transfer student population, although smaller with only 34 students, maintains a similar gender distribution, with males at 41.2% and females at 58.8%. This consistent representation of female students across these categories suggests that Tougaloo College is fostering an environment that encourages female enrollment, which is an important factor in promoting gender equality in higher education.

In contrast, the graduate student demographic is significantly skewed, with only 15% male representation against a striking 85% female. This extreme gender imbalance raises questions about the factors influencing graduate studies at the institution, possibly reflecting broader trends in fields where female students are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees.

Additionally, the overall diversity within the student body reflects a commitment to inclusivity, although specific data on racial and ethnic subgroups remains sparse. The high representation of female students across all categories is a positive development in promoting gender equity in education, and it will be interesting to see how these trends evolve in the coming years as the college continues to attract a diverse student body.

Analysis of Student Age Distribution at Tougaloo College

The age distribution data from Tougaloo College for 2023 reveals noteworthy trends in the demographics of its student body. A significant majority of students fall within the traditional college age range of 18 to 24 years. Specifically, those aged 20-21 account for a remarkable 41.5% of the total female enrollment and 32.4% of the total male enrollment, indicating that the college attracts a youthful population primarily focused on undergraduate education.

Interestingly, there is a stark contrast between the number of male and female students, especially within the 20-21 age group, where female undergraduates significantly outnumber their male counterparts. This trend continues in the 22-24 age bracket, suggesting that female students may be more likely to enroll and persist in their studies than males at this institution.

Furthermore, the data indicates a notable drop in enrollment among students aged 25 and older. For instance, only 11 males and 33 females are represented in the 25-29 age category. This decline in numbers could reflect broader societal trends, where older adults face challenges in balancing education with work and family responsibilities.

Overall, the data from Tougaloo College underscores the importance of understanding age demographics in higher education. As colleges aim to create inclusive environments that cater to diverse student needs, recognizing the unique challenges faced by older students could inform policies and support systems to improve retention and success rates across all age groups.

International Students

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

Undergraduates22.3%

287 in 2025 · 0.6% in 2016

0% 12.5% 25% 2016: 0.6%2017: 0.7%2018: 1.9%2019: 1.8%2020: 2.5%2021: 1.0%2022: 0.7%2023: 0.2%2024: 0.1%2025: 22.3%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025
Graduate students0.0%

0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 5.9%2018: 6.3%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

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Tougaloo College

The data on international student enrollment at Tougaloo College reveals significant fluctuations over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the representation of international students in undergraduate programs has varied considerably. In the early years, such as 2004, the percentage of international students was relatively low, at just 0.53%. However, it saw a notable rise in subsequent years, peaking at 2.54% in 2020. This increase suggests a growing interest in the college among international students, possibly due to its unique educational offerings or initiatives aimed at attracting a diverse student body.

Despite this growth, the numbers sharply declined in the following years; by 2023, the percentage of international students had dropped to a mere 0.15%. This decline raises concerns, especially considering the ongoing challenges faced by colleges across the United States, such as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and changing immigration policies that may discourage international enrollment.

Furthermore, the data for graduate student enrollment is sparse but indicates that there was a higher percentage of international students in 2017 and 2018, with rates of 5.88% and 6.25%, respectively. However, the absence of more recent data for graduate programs makes it difficult to analyze trends comprehensively.

In conclusion, while Tougaloo College has seen peaks in international student enrollment, the recent decline warrants attention. Strategies to enhance international visibility and support for international students could be vital in reversing this trend and fostering a more inclusive academic environment.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$21,331

Undergraduate tuition
$12,407
Room and board
$8,924
Graduate tuition
$12,113
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 17% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 39%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$34.0M

Government grants and contracts
$13.0M38.3%
Gifts and private grants
$7.1M20.7%
Tuition and fees
$5.5M16.3%
Auxiliary enterprises
$4.0M11.7%
Investment return
$2.5M7.4%
Sales and services of educational activities
$1.9M5.6%

Expenses$35.2M

Institutional support
$11.3M32.1%
Student services
$9.1M25.7%
Instruction
$3.7M10.5%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.3M9.2%
Academic support
$2.9M8.4%
Research
$2.9M8.1%
Public service
$2.1M5.9%

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
$36,378peers $65,931
Professor
$42,652peers $77,501
Associate professor
$39,317peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$35,958peers $61,725
Instructor
$29,307peers $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
Basketball2017
Soccer1818
Baseball28-
Cross Country86
Volleyball-14
2024
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Basketball2020
Soccer2015
Baseball26-
Cross Country85
Volleyball-13
2023
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Basketball2021
Baseball30-
Soccer1311
Cross Country95
Volleyball-11

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near Tougaloo College:

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

  2. Tulane University of Louisiana - With a rank of 73, Tulane University is a private research university in New Orleans, Louisiana. It offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing research and community service.

  3. 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, as well as its commitment to developing well-rounded leaders.

  4. University of Alabama at Birmingham - Ranked 142nd, UAB is a public research university in Birmingham, Alabama, known for its health sciences programs and research initiatives.

  5. University of Mississippi - Also known as Ole Miss, this university is ranked 163rd and is located in Oxford, Mississippi. It has a rich history and is known for its strong programs in law, business, and liberal arts.

These institutions are among the top choices for students in the region and offer a variety of academic opportunities.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

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

Incidents, 2023–2025

Burglary
10
Dating violence
4
Drug referrals
3
Liquor referrals
3
Motor vehicle theft
2
Weapons arrests
2

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Tougaloo College

The crime rates at Tougaloo College over the past decade present an intriguing narrative of campus safety and student behavior. Notably, there was a sharp increase in crime rates in 2018, reaching a peak of 43.51 incidents per 1,000 students. This marked a significant rise from previous years, which suggests heightened concerns that may have been influenced by various factors, including campus culture, administrative responses, or external societal pressures.

Interestingly, the subsequent years have shown a downward trend in crime rates, with 2023 reporting only 8.86 incidents per 1,000 students. This decline could indicate effective measures taken by the college to enhance safety and security on campus, as well as a possible shift in student behavior and community awareness regarding criminal activities.

Among the categories of crime, gun-related arrests and drug-related incidents have been noteworthy. The absence of significant numbers in these areas in recent years may reflect improved interventions or changes in community dynamics. However, the college still faces challenges, particularly concerning issues like domestic violence and assault, which continue to pose risks to student safety.

As we observe these trends, it is vital for the college administration to maintain transparency and engage the campus community in discussions around safety measures. Continuous monitoring and proactive strategies are essential to foster a secure educational environment. For further insights on calculating crime rates, one can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Tougaloo College include Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor (Actress and Academy Award nominee), Bennie Thompson (U.S. Representative from Mississippi) and Anne Moody (Author and Civil Rights Movement participant).

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.