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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Culver-Stockton College

Canton, Missouri · www.culver.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

99.1%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$30,875

$41,275 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

861

Student-faculty ratio 15:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

40.8%

4-year; 6-year rate 48.3%

Peer median 45.1%

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

About

Culver-Stockton College, located in Canton, Missouri, is a distinguished liberal arts institution known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus culture. Founded in 1853, the college emphasizes a holistic educational approach that blends rigorous academics with a commitment to character development and community service. The college's motto, "To Learn, To Lead, To Serve," reflects its dedication to preparing students for leadership roles in a diverse and evolving world. The scenic campus, situated on a hilltop overlooking the Mississippi River, provides an inspiring backdrop for students to engage in their studies and extracurricular activities.

The college offers a wide range of undergraduate programs, with particularly strong offerings in business, education, and the sciences. Culver-Stockton is known for its small class sizes, allowing for personalized attention from faculty members who are dedicated to student success. The college also boasts a vibrant student life, with numerous organizations, clubs, and athletic programs that promote teamwork and community engagement. The C-SC Wildcats compete in the NAIA, and the college encourages students to participate in sports as a way to develop discipline and camaraderie. With a focus on experiential learning, Culver-Stockton prepares its graduates for successful careers and meaningful lives, making it a great choice for students seeking a well-rounded education.

Trends in Tuition, Enrollment, and Graduation Rates

The data from Culver-Stockton College reveals significant trends in tuition fees, student enrollment, and graduation rates over the years. Tuition for in-state undergraduate students has steadily increased from $23,300 in 2014 to $29,915 in 2024, which represents a 28.5% rise over the decade. This escalation in educational costs reflects a broader trend observed across many American colleges and universities, often attributed to rising operational costs and reduced state funding for public higher education institutions.

In terms of student enrollment, the college experienced fluctuations in its undergraduate population. Starting from 830 students in 2014, enrollment peaked at 1,093 in 2018 before declining to 900 by 2023. This reduction could be indicative of a larger trend seen nationally, where many institutions face challenges in attracting and retaining students amid increasing tuition costs and a more competitive educational landscape.

Graduation rates also present an area of concern. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates saw a decline from 44.2% in 2018 to 42.1% in 2023. This downward trend raises questions about the effectiveness of student support services and academic programs in ensuring that students complete their degrees in a timely manner. With rising tuition coupled with decreasing graduation rates, the financial burden on students may be increasing, potentially leading to higher student debt levels.

The student-to-faculty ratio remained stable at 14:1 over the last several years, suggesting that the college has maintained a consistent level of faculty support per student. However, as enrollment fluctuates, the effectiveness of this ratio in fostering a supportive learning environment may be called into question.

Overall, the data indicates that while the college has made strides in maintaining student-to-faculty ratios, the increasing tuition and declining graduation rates highlight challenges that need addressing to ensure the long-term sustainability and attractiveness of the institution.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Rural, remote
Nearest major city
St. Louis, about 120 mi
Nearest international airport
St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL), about 110 mi
Canton, Missouri
Also known as
CULVER, C-SC
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
President
Dr. Lauren Schellenberger (President)
Phone
5732886000
City
Canton, Missouri
Address
One College Hill, Canton, MO 63435-1299

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

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

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
99.1%
Women
99.2%

In 2020: men 48.1%, women 59.9%.

Data insights

Trends in Admission Rates at Culver-Stockton College

The admission data from Culver-Stockton College over the years presents a compelling narrative about the evolving landscape of college admissions. Notably, the acceptance rates for both males and females exhibit a general decline, especially in recent years. For instance, the male acceptance rate decreased significantly from approximately 65.4% in 2009 to just around 38.9% in 2019, while the female acceptance rate followed a similar trend, dropping from 70.9% to 61.7% in the same period. This trend may reflect the increasing competition among colleges and universities, as more students apply to a limited number of spots, particularly during the peak of the college admissions cycle.
Interestingly, the enrollment numbers also vary significantly, peaking at 290 students in 2015 and then fluctuating before settling at 263 in 2023. The number of applicants denied admission saw a stark rise, particularly in 2019 when it reached a staggering 2,564. This spike in denial rates may suggest that the institution has become more selective, aligning with national trends where institutions are prioritizing the quality of their incoming classes over sheer numbers.
The data further indicates a remarkable turnaround in 2021, with extraordinarily high acceptance rates of 98.2% for males and 98.6% for females. This anomaly could be attributed to the unique circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic, when many colleges adopted more lenient admission policies to accommodate students affected by the crisis.
Overall, Culver-Stockton College's admission statistics reflect broader trends in higher education, emphasizing both the increasing competition and the fluctuating dynamics of enrollment amid external challenges.

Test Scores

SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no SAT/ACT data for students admitted in 2025.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Test Scores at Culver-Stockton College

The data from Culver-Stockton College over the years provides valuable insight into the trends of admission test scores and submission rates. Notably, the number of students submitting SAT and ACT scores has varied significantly, reflecting broader trends in college admissions. For instance, while the percentage of students submitting ACT scores peaked in 2007 at 99%, the SAT submissions fluctuated, with only a small percentage of applicants submitting these scores in recent years.

When examining the score ranges, there is a discernible increase in the lower and upper quartiles for both SAT and ACT scores over the years. For example, the SAT reading scores have shown an upward trend from 380-520 in 2009 to a range of 500-550 by 2023. This suggests that the college has been attracting academically stronger candidates, which is consistent with national trends where colleges are becoming increasingly competitive.

Moreover, the submission rates of standardized tests have been influenced by the growing number of institutions adopting test-optional policies. This trend has been particularly relevant in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, where many students faced challenges in taking standardized tests. Culver-Stockton College's data reflects a gradual shift in how prospective students approach the admissions process, with an increasing reliance on other facets of their applications beyond test scores.

Overall, the data indicates that while standardized tests remain a component of the admissions process, their relative importance may be diminishing in favor of a more holistic review of applicants. This shift could lead to a diverser student body and greater emphasis on individual student achievements beyond test performance.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 10 in 10

1,880 applicants in 2025, 99.1% admitted

1,863 admitted 17 not admitted Yield 10.3%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's2007 international (3.5%)
Master's935 international (5.4%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
25
Elementary Education and Teaching
21
Psychology, General
21
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management
15
Health and Wellness, General
14
Art/Art Studies, General
11
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration
11
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
10
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
9
Education, General
9

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's29 (3% international)
  • Curriculum and Instruction · Master's24 (0% international)
  • Mental Health Counseling/Counselor · Master's14 (0% international)
  • Athletic Training/Trainer · Master's12 (17% international)
  • Accounting · Master's8 (25% international)
  • Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services · Master's5 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from Culver-Stockton College

The graduation data from Culver-Stockton College reveals several noteworthy trends across various disciplines. Business Administration and Management stands out as the most popular program, with 27 bachelor's degrees awarded, including 2 to international students. This trend is reflective of the increasing importance placed on business education in today's global economy, where skills in management and entrepreneurship are highly sought after.

In the health and wellness sector, the program also demonstrates a strong interest with 17 bachelor's degrees conferred, though it lacks representation from international students. This absence may indicate a need for better outreach or marketing strategies to attract a diverse student population in such essential fields.

Interestingly, programs like Sport and Fitness Administration and Psychology, while having lower graduation numbers (14 and 11 respectively), still show engagement from international students, suggesting a niche interest in these areas. The inclusion of international students in the Sport and Fitness program, for instance, could be indicative of the global appeal of sports management careers.

Furthermore, the absence of master's and doctorate degree graduates across most programs highlights a potential gap in advanced education offerings, which can be crucial for career advancement in today's competitive job market. As higher education institutions continue to adapt to emerging trends and workforce needs, it may be beneficial for Culver-Stockton College to explore expanding graduate programs to cater to students seeking advanced degrees, thereby enhancing its academic portfolio and attracting a broader range of 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 81 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$53,150
Organizational Leadership.$53,150
Accounting.-
Finance, General.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Educationhas 59 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Education, General.-
Curriculum and Instruction.-
Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.$39,662
Health professionshas 50 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Health and Wellness, General.-
Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer.-
Athletic Training/Trainer.-
Mental Health Counseling/Counselor.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$69,772
Psychology has 21 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$40,542
Parks, recreation, leisure has 15 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.$35,390
Visual and Performing artshas 15 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Art/Art Studies, General.-
Music, General.-
Homeland security has 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.$41,053
Biologyhas 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Liberal arts has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
General Studies.-
Agricultural has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Agribusiness/Agricultural Business Operations.-
History has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
History, General.-
Computer and information sciencehas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Computer Science.-
Communication has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Communication, General.-
Legal professionshas 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Legal Studies.-
Social sciencehas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
International Relations and Affairs.-

Students

1,028 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 54:46 · Freshman retention 67.2%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (861)

White
596 · 69.2%
Black
141 · 16.4%
Hispanic
44 · 5.1%
Two or more races
36 · 4.2%
International
29 · 3.4%
Asian
5 · 0.6%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
4.6%
18–19
34.5%
20–21
43.1%
22–24
14.6%
25 and over
3.1%

Graduate students

Under 22
3.6%
22–24
52.1%
25–29
18.6%
30–34
7.8%
35 and over
18.0%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Culver-Stockton College in 2023

The student composition at Culver-Stockton College for the year 2023 reveals a diverse community with notable gender distributions and racial demographics. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 263 students, with a male representation of approximately 57.8% and females accounting for 42.2%. This trend of higher male enrollment continues among upperclassmen, where 528 students are recorded with a male percentage of 54.5%.

Interestingly, transfer students show a slightly higher male ratio at 60.3%, while graduate students present a contrasting picture with a majority of 56.6% females, indicating a potential trend where more women are pursuing advanced degrees. Overall, the institution exhibits a balanced gender ratio across various student categories, although males slightly outnumber females among undergraduates.

In terms of racial composition, while specific data for upperclassmen and transfer students are not available, the freshmen cohort consists predominantly of white students, making up 52.6% of their group. This may suggest an ongoing challenge for the college in terms of enhancing diversity and inclusivity, particularly in attracting students from underrepresented backgrounds.

As educational institutions increasingly prioritize diversity, Culver-Stockton College may benefit from strategic initiatives aimed at fostering a more inclusive environment that encourages enrollment from various racial and ethnic groups. This shift is essential not only for enriching campus culture but also for preparing all students for a diverse workforce. The data highlights both progress and the areas where further efforts are necessary, aligning with broader societal movements towards equality and representation in education.

Age Composition of Students at Culver-Stockton College in 2023

The student age composition at Culver-Stockton College in 2023 reveals interesting trends that reflect both traditional and non-traditional student demographics. The largest group of students is in the 18-19 year age range, with 214 male undergraduates and 179 female undergraduates, making up a significant portion of the student body. This is indicative of the institution's appeal to recent high school graduates, likely due to its undergraduate programs.

As students progress into their early twenties, the numbers remain strong, particularly in the 20-21 age bracket, where there are 194 male undergraduates and 150 female undergraduates. However, the transition into graduate programs shows a shift, as the number of graduate students in the 22-24 age range is relatively modest, with only 26 males and 29 females. This could suggest that many students are either entering the workforce earlier or choosing to pursue graduate studies later in life.

The data also highlights a noticeable drop in student numbers for those aged 25 and older, which aligns with broader trends observed in higher education. The traditional college-age demographic is shrinking as more working professionals seek further education at different stages in their careers.

Overall, while Culver-Stockton College retains a strong base of young, traditional students, the presence of non-traditional students, particularly in the 25-29 and 30-34 age ranges, indicates a diverse educational environment that accommodates a variety of life stages and experiences. This diversity can enrich the learning experience for all students and foster a vibrant campus community.

International Students

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

Undergraduates3.4%

29 in 2025 · 7.7% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 7.7%2017: 6.3%2018: 6.2%2019: 4.7%2020: 4.3%2021: 3.4%2022: 3.4%2023: 4.0%2024: 3.0%2025: 3.4%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025
Graduate students3.6%

6 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 0.0%2018: 0.0%2019: 0.0%2020: 2.6%2021: 5.8%2022: 3.8%2023: 3.0%2024: 4.3%2025: 3.6%
2016Peer median 1.0%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Culver-Stockton College

The data on international student enrollment at Culver-Stockton College reveals notable trends over the years. Starting in 2004, the percentage of international undergraduate students was relatively low, with only 0.84% of the total undergraduate population being international. However, there was a significant increase in international enrollment in the following years, particularly in 2009 and 2010, where the percentage surged to 2.35% and 3.05%, respectively. This might indicate marketing efforts or changes in recruitment strategies aimed at attracting more international students.

From 2015 onwards, the college witnessed a dramatic rise in the number of international undergraduates, with the peak reaching 7.72% in 2016. This growth can be attributed to several factors, including a broader acceptance of international education, increased global mobility, and possibly a heightened interest in U.S. higher education. The data also shows a decline in international enrollment in subsequent years, dropping to 3.41% in 2022 and 4.00% in 2023. This decline could reflect global trends influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic and its lingering effects on travel and education.

In terms of graduate enrollment, the data reflects a more stable but lower percentage of international students, peaking at 5.77% in 2021. The increase in graduate international student enrollment suggests that Culver-Stockton College may be becoming more attractive to postgraduate students, potentially due to specific programs or research opportunities.

Overall, while the college has made strides in increasing its international student population, recent fluctuations pose questions regarding future recruitment strategies and the impact of global events on international student mobility.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$41,275

Undergraduate tuition
$30,875
Room and board
$10,400
Graduate tuition
$6,200
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 24% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 31%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$28.4M

Tuition and fees
$11.3M39.9%
Auxiliary enterprises
$7.0M24.8%
Gifts and private grants
$4.8M16.8%
Investment return
$4.4M15.4%
Government grants and contracts
$238K0.8%
Sales and services of educational activities
$137K0.5%
Other
$517K1.8%

Expenses$23.7M

Institutional support
$6.1M25.8%
Student services
$5.0M21.1%
Instruction
$4.8M20.2%
Auxiliary enterprises
$2.8M11.9%
Academic support
$355K1.5%
Other
$4.6M19.5%

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
$56,211peers $65,931
Professor
$66,983peers $77,501
Associate professor
$65,752peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$51,157peers $61,725
Lecturer
$49,035peers $60,000

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Heart of America Athletic Conference

Heart of America Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division II MENWOMEN
Football169-
Soccer4636
Baseball67-
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)3628
Basketball3420
Softball-53
Volleyball2023
Lacrosse-17
Bowling67
Other Sports12-
Golf51
2024
NAIA Division IIMENWOMEN
Football179-
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)5037
Soccer3744
Basketball4630
Baseball58-
Softball-56
Volleyball1624
Golf118
Lacrosse-18
Bowling105
2023
NAIA Division IIMENWOMEN
Football188-
Soccer4445
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)5828
Baseball60-
Basketball3524
Volleyball1034
Softball-36
Lacrosse-24
Bowling711
Golf67
Other Sports--

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools near Culver-Stockton College:

  1. Knox College - A liberal arts college ranked 75th in the 2024 US News rankings, Knox College is known for its strong emphasis on writing and critical thinking.

  2. University of Missouri-Columbia - Ranked 124th among national universities, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  3. Principia College - With a ranking of 51, Principia College is a liberal arts institution that focuses on a holistic education.

  4. University of Iowa - This major public research university is ranked 93rd and is renowned for its writing program and vibrant campus life.

  5. Augustana College - A liberal arts college ranked 100th, Augustana offers a personalized education with a strong community feel.

  6. Washington University in St. Louis - One of the top universities in the nation, ranked 24th, it is known for its outstanding research facilities and academic programs.

  7. Grinnell College - A highly selective liberal arts college ranked 11th, Grinnell is celebrated for its rigorous academic standards and commitment to social justice.

These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are recognized for their academic excellence.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

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

Incidents, 2023–2025

Drug arrests
21
Drug referrals
15
Liquor referrals
15
Rape
7
Fondling
3
Liquor arrests
3

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

Data insights

Campus Crime Trends at Culver-Stockton College

The crime statistics at Culver-Stockton College over the past decade reveal a downward trend in reported incidents, which is encouraging for campus safety. In 2013, the average number of crimes reported per 1,000 students was approximately 72.82, peaking at 87.54 in 2014. However, from 2015 onwards, there has been a notable decline, reaching a low of 10.30 in 2022.

The most significant decrease occurred between 2018 and 2021, where the crime rate fell drastically from 31.22 to 12.92. This reduction could be attributed to various factors, including improved campus security measures, increased awareness, and proactive community engagement in crime prevention. The college's administration may have implemented strategies focusing on educational programs and support services aimed at addressing issues such as alcohol and drug-related offenses, which have historically contributed to campus crime.

Interestingly, the reduction in serious offenses, such as gun-related arrests and domestic violence, indicates a positive shift in campus culture. However, the statistics also highlight that while the overall crime rate has decreased, there are still incidents occurring that necessitate continued vigilance and proactive measures.

The substantial drop in crime rates over the years suggests a positive trend towards enhancing student safety and wellbeing. Nevertheless, ongoing efforts to maintain this momentum are crucial to ensure that Culver-Stockton College remains a safe environment for all students. For further information on crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Culver-Stockton College include Joshua W. Alexander (U.S. Secretary of Commerce under Woodrow Wilson), Edward V. Long (Former U.S. Senator from Missouri) and Lew Hitch (Former professional basketball player).

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.