Lincoln University
Out-of-state tuition
$17,692
In-state $9,796
Peer median $17,955
Undergraduates
1,926
Student-faculty ratio 11:1
Peer median 14 : 1
Graduation rate
17.2%
4-year; 6-year rate 29.7%
Peer median 26.9%
“Peers” are all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Lincoln University, located in the picturesque region of New Zealand, is renowned for its commitment to excellence in research and education, particularly in the fields of agriculture, environmental sciences, and land-based studies. Established in 1878, this university boasts a rich history and has cultivated a strong reputation for its innovative approach to learning and its emphasis on practical, hands-on experience. The campus is set in a stunning natural environment, which provides students with a unique opportunity to engage with the surrounding landscape while contributing to sustainable practices and research.
The university prides itself on its diverse and inclusive community, fostering a collaborative atmosphere among its students and faculty. With a strong focus on student support and well-being, Lincoln University offers a variety of facilities, including modern lecture halls, laboratories, and recreational areas, ensuring that students have access to the resources they need for a successful academic journey. The university's motto, "In the service of the community," reflects its mission to prepare graduates who are not only skilled professionals but also responsible global citizens. Graduates from Lincoln University are highly sought after in the job market, thanks to the university's strong industry connections and emphasis on employability skills, making it an attractive choice for students aiming for a bright future.
Analysis of Key Educational Metrics at Lincoln University
The data from Lincoln University reveals several noteworthy trends that deserve attention. One of the most striking aspects is the significant increase in tuition fees over the years. For in-state undergraduate students, tuition rose from $6,838 in 2014 to $9,290 in 2024, marking an increase of approximately 36%. Meanwhile, out-of-state undergraduate tuition jumped from $13,228 to $16,882, a staggering increase of around 27%. This trend aligns with the broader national narrative regarding rising college costs, which has led many prospective students and families to question the value of higher education.
Another critical metric is the graduation rate. The percentage of students graduating on time is concerning, with rates fluctuating between 5.6% and 12.1% over the years. The 100% graduation rate peaked at 12.1% in 2023, suggesting some improvement, but overall, the low figures indicate persistent issues with student retention and support. The graduation rate is essential not only for students' success but also for the institution's reputation and funding.
Additionally, the retention rate has shown slight fluctuations, hovering around 49% to 53% in recent years. The rates indicate that nearly half of the students do not continue their studies, which raises questions about the university's ability to provide a supportive and engaging educational environment. Retention is critical for fostering a thriving academic community and ensuring students achieve their academic goals.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio illuminates another area of concern. The ratio decreased from 15:1 in 2013 to 13:1 in 2022, before returning to 15:1 by 2023. While a lower ratio can enhance personalized attention for students, the fluctuating numbers imply inconsistencies in faculty recruitment and retention, potentially impacting the quality of education.
In conclusion, while Lincoln University has made some strides in certain areas, the significant rise in tuition, low graduation rates, and retention challenges highlight the need for strategic improvements to enhance the overall educational experience for its students. These metrics not only reflect the university's current state but also its future trajectory in an increasingly competitive landscape.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Small city
- Nearest major city
- St. Louis, about 100 mi
- Nearest international airport
- St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL), about 100 mi
- Also known as
- Lincoln University of Missouri
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. John Moseley, Ed.D. (President)
- Phone
- 5736815000
- City
- Jefferson City, Missouri
- Address
- 820 Chestnut Street, Jefferson City, MO 65101
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Agriculture, General · Master's9 (11% international)
- Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services · Master's8 (0% international)
- Social Sciences, Other · Master's7 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's4 (0% international)
- Natural Sciences · Master's1 (0% international)
- History, General · Master's1 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Lincoln University
The graduation data from Lincoln University for 2023 reflects a diverse range of programs and highlights trends in higher education. Notably, the Registered Nursing program has produced the highest number of graduates, with a total of 22 students earning their bachelor's degree. This aligns with the ongoing demand for healthcare professionals, especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has underscored the importance of nursing and allied health fields.
In contrast, the Criminal Justice program also demonstrates significant interest, yielding 20 bachelor's graduates. This suggests a sustained interest in law enforcement and public safety careers, especially as societal concerns about crime and justice continue to be prevalent in discussions.
Moreover, it's interesting to observe the representation of international students, particularly in the Education and Psychology fields, where a small but notable number of international graduates were recorded. This indicates Lincoln University's appeal to a global student body, which is essential in fostering a diverse educational environment.
On the other hand, several fields, such as Sociology and various Engineering technologies, show a minimal number of graduates, potentially indicating either a lack of student interest or challenges in these areas. As the job market evolves, it will be crucial for academic institutions to adapt their offerings to meet changing workforce demands.
Overall, Lincoln University's graduation data provides valuable insights into current educational trends and student interests, reflecting broader societal needs and the dynamic nature of higher education.
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 | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $62,183-$66,592 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $39,331 | |||
| Accounting. | - | |||
| General Merchandising, Sales, and Related Marketing Operations, Other. | $26,760 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Special Education and Teaching, Other. | - | |||
| Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services. | - | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $33,262 | |||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | - | |||
| Social Science Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agriculture, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |||
| Sociology, General. | - | |||
| Social Sciences, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $32,331 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $35,467 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $21,282 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | - | |||
| Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Information Science/Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Journalism. | $26,356 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | $32,951 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Sciences. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
Students
2,054 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 44:56 · Freshman retention 59.9%
- Continuing undergraduates 913
- First-year undergraduates 331
- Graduate students 128
- Transfers and others 682
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,926)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Lincoln University in 2023
In 2023, Lincoln University showcased a diverse student body, with a total of 1,426 students across various categories. The undergraduate first-year students comprised 350 individuals, with a gender distribution of 46% male and 54% female, indicating a slightly higher representation of women in this group. This trend continues among undergraduate continuing students, where 857 students were enrolled, with females making up 64.2% of the population, reflecting a growing inclination toward female enrollment in higher education.
The undergraduate transfer students accounted for 116 individuals, presenting a more balanced gender ratio, with 52.6% male and 47.4% female. This might suggest that transfer students are more evenly represented across genders, possibly due to varied experiences in different educational environments.
Graduate students, numbering 103, exhibited a near parity in gender representation, with 48.5% male and 51.5% female, further emphasizing the university's commitment to inclusivity.
The overall gender ratios highlight an encouraging trend towards gender equity in higher education, particularly among undergraduate continuing students. However, the data also reveals a need for further exploration into the factors influencing these gender distributions, especially in various demographic subgroups. As global conversations around diversity and inclusion continue to evolve, it will be essential for institutions like Lincoln University to foster an environment that supports and encourages participation from all demographic backgrounds, ensuring that underrepresented groups are adequately supported in their academic pursuits.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Lincoln University
The age distribution of students at Lincoln University in 2023 reveals interesting trends that reflect both traditional and non-traditional educational pathways. A significant portion of the undergraduate population is under 18 and in the 18-19 age bracket, accounting for approximately 34% and 34.8% of the total student body, respectively. This indicates a strong influx of fresh high school graduates entering higher education.
As we move into the 20-21 age group, there is a slight decline in the number of students, with this category comprising 22.3% of the total. Notably, the enrollment drops off more sharply in the 22-24 age range, suggesting that students may be taking gap years or delaying their undergraduate studies for various reasons, such as work or personal commitments.
The representation of older students, particularly those aged 25 and above, remains modest, with the 25-29 age group contributing only about 6.2% to the total. However, the presence of students aged 30-34 and older indicates that Lincoln University is accommodating a diverse range of learners, possibly reflecting a broader trend towards lifelong learning.
Moreover, the gender distribution shows that female students slightly outnumber male students across most age categories, highlighting ongoing shifts in gender dynamics within higher education. The data suggests a need for universities to continue adapting their offerings to cater to a wide range of student needs, including flexible scheduling and support services for non-traditional students. Overall, Lincoln University’s age composition illustrates a vibrant educational community with varied backgrounds and experiences, which is essential for fostering a rich learning environment.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
111 in 2025 · 1.8% in 2016
29 in 2025 · 13.2% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Lincoln University
The data from Lincoln University reveals a notable decline in the number of international students enrolled in both undergraduate and graduate programs from 2004 to 2023. For undergraduates, the percentage of international students decreased from 5.05% in 2004 to 3.99% in 2023. This decline is concerning, especially in the context of global trends where many universities are actively seeking to attract international talent.
The graduate programs, while experiencing a slight fluctuation, show an overall increase in the percentage of international students, rising from 11.93% in 2004 to 18.45% in 2023. This suggests a growing appeal of Lincoln University’s graduate offerings to international students, possibly reflecting the university's efforts to enhance its academic reputation and support services for postgraduate candidates.
Such trends may be influenced by broader socio-economic factors, including changes in immigration policies, global economic conditions, and competition from other institutions. The recent global pandemic has also significantly impacted international student mobility, leading to uncertainties and challenges for both students and educational institutions.
For Lincoln University, addressing the decline in undergraduate international student enrollment could be crucial for maintaining diversity and enhancing the educational experience for all students. This could involve targeted marketing strategies, partnerships with overseas institutions, and strengthening support systems for international students. In contrast, the growth in graduate enrollment presents an opportunity for the university to further develop its postgraduate programs and expand its appeal to a global audience.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$27,948
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $17,692
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $9,796
- Room and board
- $10,256
- Graduate tuition
- $13,236
Peer median tuition + room and board $29,573 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 32% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 69%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$77.2M
Expenses$67.0M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Great Lakes Valley Conference
Great Lakes Valley Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 69 | - |
| Soccer | 46 | 18 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 27 | 23 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 27 | 23 |
| Softball | - | 40 |
| Basketball | 15 | 14 |
| Baseball | 25 | - |
| Golf | 7 | 5 |
| Cross Country | - | 10 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 47 | 54 |
| Football | 74 | - |
| Basketball | 17 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 29 |
| Golf | 8 | 6 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 57 | 62 |
| Football | 118 | - |
| Basketball | 18 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Golf | 10 | 6 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of Missouri-ColumbiaColumbia · 27.7 mi
U.S. News #95
-
Missouri University of Science and TechnologyRolla · 47.2 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Washington University in St LouisSt. Louis · 100.4 mi
U.S. News #16
-
University of Missouri--St. LouisSaint Louis · 100.7 mi
U.S. News #276
-
Principia CollegeElsah · 101.4 mi
Liberal Arts #74
-
Saint Louis UniversitySaint Louis · 104.4 mi
U.S. News #100
-
University of Missouri--Kansas CityKansas City · 134.0 mi
U.S. News #250
-
University of KansasLawrence · 168.2 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Southern Illinois University-CarbondaleCarbondale · 170.7 mi
U.S. News #288
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding Lincoln University:
-
Washington University in St Louis - Ranked 24th in the 2024 US News rankings, this prestigious university is known for its rigorous academic programs and strong research initiatives across various fields.
-
University of Missouri-Columbia - This comprehensive university ranks 124th and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, focusing on research and public service.
-
Saint Louis University - With a rank of 105, this university is recognized for its commitment to social justice and community service, offering diverse programs and a vibrant campus life.
-
University of Kansas - Ranked 151st, this university is known for its strong emphasis on research and offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - At 35th place, this institution is renowned for its engineering and business programs, making it a leading comprehensive university in the Midwest.
These schools provide a range of educational opportunities and are well-regarded in their respective fields.
Peer median 4.9 · all 85 public 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 Crime Data at Lincoln University
The crime statistics at Lincoln University over the years display notable fluctuations, with a concerning peak in 2018, where the average crime rate reached 39.71 per 1,000 students. This year marked a significant rise in criminal incidents, suggesting potential underlying issues affecting campus safety. Interestingly, the subsequent years indicate a gradual decline in crime rates, culminating in a low of 17.20 in 2021, before witnessing a slight increase in 2023 to 28.37.
Among the various categories of offenses, gun-related arrests and drug-related arrests stand out as critical areas of concern. The data indicates that while gun arrests remained relatively low across the years, drug arrests saw a more significant rise, showcasing a pressing need for improved drug education and prevention programs on campus.
Moreover, the presence of domestic violence and assault incidents highlights the necessity for stronger support systems for victims and educational initiatives to foster a safer campus environment. The university's administration should prioritize mental health resources and community outreach to tackle these issues effectively.
Overall, while the data suggests that Lincoln University has made strides in reducing crime rates in recent years, continued vigilance and proactive measures are essential to ensure the safety and well-being of its students. For further insights into crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
All 25Notable alumni of Lincoln University include Oliver Lake (Jazz saxophonist, flutist and composer), Blaine Luetkemeyer (U.S. Representative for Missouri's 3rd district) and Julius Hemphill (Jazz composer and saxophonist).
-
Oliver Lake 1942–
Jazz saxophonist, flutist and composer
-
Blaine Luetkemeyer 1952–
U.S. Representative for Missouri's 3rd district
-
Julius Hemphill 1938–1995
Jazz composer and saxophonist
-
Lincoln Kilpatrick 1932–2004
Film, television and stage actor
-
Lerone Clarke 1981–
Jamaican sprinter, Commonwealth Games 100m champion
-
Mervyn M. Dymally 1926–2012
41st Lieutenant Governor of California and congressman
-
John Hicks 1941–2006
Jazz pianist, composer and arranger
-
Ann Walton Kroenke 1948–
Walmart heiress and billionaire
-
Abubakar Habu Hashidu 1944–2018
Nigerian politician, former governor of Gombe State
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.