William Jewell College
Acceptance rate
38.4%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$20,610
$31,930 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
924
Student-faculty ratio 10:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
58.9%
4-year; 6-year rate 62.2%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
William Jewell College, located in Liberty, Missouri, is a private liberal arts college known for its commitment to academic excellence and a strong sense of community. Founded in 1849, the college has a rich history and a tradition of fostering critical thinking and ethical leadership among its students. The campus is characterized by its beautiful historic buildings and well-maintained grounds, creating an inviting environment for students to learn and grow. The college's mission emphasizes the development of the whole person, encouraging students to engage in both academic pursuits and extracurricular activities, which contributes to a vibrant campus culture.
The college offers a wide range of undergraduate programs across various fields, including humanities, sciences, business, and education, with a strong focus on experiential learning. Students benefit from a low student-to-faculty ratio, which allows for personalized attention and mentorship opportunities. William Jewell College is also recognized for its robust student life, featuring numerous clubs and organizations that cater to diverse interests, including academic societies, cultural groups, and athletic teams. The college's commitment to service and community engagement is evident through various initiatives, providing students with opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world settings. Overall, William Jewell College stands out as an institution dedicated to nurturing well-rounded individuals prepared for successful careers and meaningful lives.
Analysis of Key Data Trends at William Jewell College
William Jewell College has experienced significant fluctuations in both tuition costs and student enrollment over recent years. The tuition for in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has shown a continuous upward trend from 2014 to 2019. However, an unexpected decrease occurred in 2022, where tuition dropped to $19,310, a substantial reduction from the previous year’s $34,450. This decline raises questions about the institution's financial strategy and its response to changing economic conditions, particularly in light of the broader trends in higher education where many institutions are grappling with affordability challenges.
The student enrollment data reveals a concerning decline in undergraduate numbers, dropping from over 1,000 students in 2013 to just 734 in 2020. The situation appears to have slightly improved with a modest increase to 824 students by 2023. This shrinking student body is indicative of a broader trend affecting many colleges, where changing demographics and rising tuition costs deter potential students.
Moreover, the retention rates have fluctuated, peaking at around 81.5% in 2016 but dropping to approximately 74.8% in 2023. This decline suggests that while students may initially enroll, the college faces challenges in maintaining student satisfaction and engagement, which could be linked to the increased financial burdens or academic pressures.
Lastly, the graduation rates present a mixed picture. Although there was a notable improvement in the on-time graduation rate, reaching approximately 61.7% in 2023, it is essential to sustain this momentum to enhance the institution's reputation and attract future students.
In conclusion, William Jewell College faces both opportunities and challenges ahead. Addressing tuition affordability, enhancing student experience, and improving retention will be crucial in reversing the enrollment decline and ensuring the institution's long-term sustainability.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Kansas City, about 10 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Kansas City International Airport (MCI), about 15 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Drew Van Horn (President)
- Phone
- 8164155979
- Address
- 500 College Hill, Liberty, MO 64068-1896
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 50.2%, women 42.7%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at William Jewell College
The admission data for William Jewell College over the years reveals significant fluctuations in both acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Notably, there is a distinct trend of decreasing acceptance rates for both male and female applicants, particularly in recent years. For instance, in 2021, the acceptance rate for males plummeted to approximately 38.2%, while for females it fell to around 35.0%. Such low acceptance rates indicate a highly competitive environment, likely influenced by an increase in applications as the institution's reputation grows.
Furthermore, the total number of students enrolled has also varied, with peaks and troughs reflecting changes in acceptance rates and the overall applicant pool. The data shows that the number of denied applicants has consistently exceeded the number of enrollments, suggesting that the college is becoming increasingly selective. The largest number of denied applicants occurred in 2010, with over 1,100 students turned away, a figure that has not significantly decreased in subsequent years.
It is also noteworthy that the number of deferred admissions has fluctuated, peaking in 2013 and 2012, suggesting that the college is utilizing deferrals as a strategy to manage applicant numbers and maintain a balanced enrollment.
In summary, the trends at William Jewell College illustrate the broader patterns in higher education where institutions are striving to maintain quality while managing a growing number of applicants. As the demand for higher education continues to rise, colleges may need to adapt their admission strategies to navigate the complexities of enrollment management effectively.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 5% submitted SAT, 54% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Test Scores and Submission Rates at William Jewell College
Over the years, William Jewell College has shown fluctuations in both the submission rates and scores of standardized tests like SAT and ACT. For instance, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has varied, peaking at 16% in 2010, but dropping to as low as 4% in 2018 and 2023. This decline in submission rates may reflect a broader trend among prospective students, who are increasingly opting for test-optional policies prevalent across many colleges and universities.
In terms of scores, the SAT reading and math scores have also experienced variations. The 25th percentile scores for both sections have ranged from 440 to 560, indicating a relatively stable range of student performance. The 75th percentile scores have shown a more significant range, with the highest recorded in 2014 for SAT reading at 670, suggesting that while some students excel, the overall applicant pool's performance is diverse.
The ACT scores present a similar narrative, with the composite score's 25th and 75th percentiles displaying a range of achievement levels. The highest recorded ACT composite score was 30 in 2014, showcasing the potential for high-caliber students at William Jewell College.
As the college navigates the changing landscape of admissions, it will be crucial to analyze these trends further. The shift towards test-optional admissions may alter the profile of entering students, emphasizing the importance of holistic reviews that consider various aspects of a candidate's application beyond standardized test scores. This approach could lead to a more diverse and well-rounded student body, aligning with contemporary educational values.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 4 in 10
1,929 applicants in 2025, 38.4% admitted
740 admitted 1,189 not admitted Yield 33.0%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Teacher Education, Multiple Levels · Master's11 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at William Jewell College
The graduation data from William Jewell College in 2023 reveals interesting trends across various disciplines. Notably, the Registered Nursing program stands out with 52 graduates, indicating a robust interest in healthcare professions, which is consistent with the growing demand for healthcare workers in the U.S. This trend aligns with national statistics showing a critical shortage of nurses, emphasizing the importance of such programs in meeting healthcare needs.
In the realm of business, two distinct programs—Business Administration and Accounting—collectively produced 41 graduates, with a significant representation of international students in the general business program. This reflects a global interest in business education, as institutions increasingly attract international talent. Given the current economic climate and globalization trends, graduates in this field are well-positioned for diverse career opportunities.
The education sector, particularly in Curriculum and Instruction, produced 11 master's graduates. This highlights a commitment to developing skilled educators, which is essential as educational institutions adapt to evolving teaching methodologies and technological advancements. However, the absence of graduates in other education-related fields suggests a potential area for growth, as the demand for qualified teachers continues to rise.
Overall, the data showcases a balanced distribution across disciplines while underscoring the importance of healthcare, business, and education in the current job market. As the economy evolves, these programs will likely play a crucial role in shaping the workforce of the future.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $57,388 | ||
| Non-Profit/Public/Organizational Management. | $57,388 | ||
| Accounting. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | - | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $75,796 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $44,036 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | ||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | - | ||
| Teacher Education, Multiple Levels. | - | ||
| Music Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Data Science, General. | - | ||
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Biochemistry. | - | ||
| Molecular Biology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economics, General. | - | ||
| International Relations and Affairs. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - | ||
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Engineering, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | ||
| Musical Theatre. | - | ||
| Music, General. | - | ||
| Music Performance, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
959 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 50:50 · Freshman retention 73.8%
- Continuing undergraduates 604
- First-year undergraduates 244
- Graduate students 35
- Transfers and others 76
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (924)
Data insights
Demographic Insights into William Jewell College's Student Body
The 2023 demographic data from William Jewell College reveals a diverse and dynamic student composition. Among the undergraduate newcomers, there is a notable representation of male students, accounting for approximately 54.3%, while female students slightly trail at 45.7%. This gender distribution indicates a balanced yet male-leaning freshman class.
In contrast, the returning undergraduate students exhibit a more equitable gender ratio, with males making up 49.1% and females 50.9%. This shift towards gender parity among the older students may reflect broader social trends towards inclusivity and gender equality in higher education.
The data for transfer students shows a significant male predominance, with 61.2% of this group identified as male. This could suggest that transfer students may be more likely to be male, potentially due to varying factors in their previous educational experiences or institutional environments.
Graduate students at William Jewell College reflect a stark contrast, with only 34.5% identifying as male, while female students comprise a substantial 65.5%. This trend aligns with national observations in many graduate programs, where women often outnumber men, particularly in fields such as education and health sciences.
A deeper analysis of the racial and ethnic breakdown among these groups is necessary, as the provided data hints at diversity but lacks complete visibility. Understanding the nuances of this demographic structure can help the institution tailor its programs and support systems to better meet the needs of its diverse student body. As educational institutions worldwide strive for inclusivity, insights from such demographics can inform policies and practices that foster an enriching academic environment for all students.
Analysis of Age Composition at William Jewell College in 2023
The age composition of students at William Jewell College in 2023 reveals intriguing insights about its demographic structure. The majority of the student body, particularly undergraduates, falls within the 18-21 age range, accounting for approximately 49% of the total male and female students. This suggests that the college primarily attracts traditional-age students, which is consistent with national trends in higher education where younger individuals make up a significant portion of enrollment.
Interestingly, there is a notable gender disparity in the undergraduate population. For every male undergraduate, there are approximately 1.11 female undergraduates, indicating a slightly higher female enrollment. This aligns with broader educational trends, as many colleges and universities across the U.S. have reported a higher number of female students compared to males in recent years.
As we move into older age brackets, the number of students decreases significantly. For instance, there are only 19 students aged 25-29 and even fewer in the 30-34 age group, highlighting a trend of lower enrollment among non-traditional students. This trend could be influenced by various factors, including family commitments and career obligations that may deter older individuals from pursuing higher education.
Overall, the age composition data for William Jewell College reflects broader patterns seen in U.S. higher education, with a predominance of traditional-aged students and a slight gender imbalance favoring female enrollment. This information can be crucial for the college's future recruitment strategies, as it may need to consider initiatives aimed at attracting non-traditional students to diversify its demographic profile further.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
52 in 2025 · 4.6% in 2016
1 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at William Jewell College
The international student enrollment data at William Jewell College reveals interesting trends over the years. Initially, in 2004, the percentage of international undergraduate students was a mere 0.98%. However, this figure gradually increased, peaking in 2016 with 4.56% of undergraduates being international students. This growth indicates a positive trend towards attracting a more diverse student body.
The year 2015 marked a significant jump in the number of international undergraduates, with 46 students, contributing to an increase in representation to 4.41%. This upward trajectory continued, albeit with fluctuations, reaching a notable 4.94% in 2017 before slightly declining in subsequent years. The data for 2021 shows a resurgence, with 20 international students comprising 2.71% of the undergraduate population, suggesting that the college may be recovering from challenges posed by global events, including the COVID-19 pandemic.
On the graduate level, the data is sparse but indicates that in 2015, 17 out of 1043 graduate students were international, which translates to a 1.63% representation. The most recent data from 2021 shows a modest 7.69% representation, indicating some potential growth in attracting international graduate students.
Overall, while William Jewell College has made strides in increasing its international student enrollment, there remains room for improvement. The data suggests a need for enhanced recruitment strategies to attract more international students, particularly in the graduate programs, as higher education institutions globally are increasingly recognizing the value of diverse perspectives in academia.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$31,930
- Undergraduate tuition
- $20,610
- Room and board
- $11,320
- Graduate tuition
- $6,300
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose -35% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 27%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$35.5M
Expenses$41.7M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Great Lakes Valley Conference
Great Lakes Valley Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 111 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 57 | 48 |
| Soccer | 48 | 38 |
| Lacrosse | 46 | 23 |
| Baseball | 49 | - |
| Swimming | 25 | 17 |
| Basketball | 17 | 15 |
| Weight Lifting | 16 | 11 |
| Wrestling | - | 26 |
| Golf | 12 | 12 |
| Tennis | 14 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 22 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 58 | 55 |
| Football | 100 | - |
| Soccer | 43 | 32 |
| Swimming | 32 | 19 |
| Baseball | 46 | - |
| Lacrosse | 32 | 14 |
| Basketball | 18 | 14 |
| Weight Lifting | 14 | 12 |
| Tennis | 14 | 11 |
| Golf | 14 | 9 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Wrestling | - | 15 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 105 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 48 | 56 |
| Soccer | 46 | 28 |
| Baseball | 45 | - |
| Swimming | 26 | 18 |
| Basketball | 18 | 17 |
| Wrestling | 15 | 14 |
| Tennis | 16 | 12 |
| Golf | 15 | 10 |
| Weight Lifting | 11 | 13 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Volleyball | - | 21 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of Missouri--Kansas CityKansas City · 17.3 mi
U.S. News #250
-
University of KansasLawrence · 49.0 mi
U.S. News #148
-
University of Missouri-ColumbiaColumbia · 113.7 mi
U.S. News #95
-
Kansas State UniversityManhattan · 116.1 mi
U.S. News #156
-
Creighton UniversityOmaha · 161.2 mi
U.S. News #100
-
University of Nebraska--OmahaOmaha · 162.4 mi
U.S. News #299
-
University of Nebraska-LincolnLincoln · 162.5 mi
U.S. News #169
-
Drake UniversityDes Moines · 167.5 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Missouri University of Science and TechnologyRolla · 168.2 mi
U.S. News #191
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near William Jewell College:
-
University of Missouri-Kansas City - Ranked 269 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a diverse array of programs and is known for its commitment to research and community engagement.
-
University of Kansas - With a rank of 151, the University of Kansas is a major public research university that provides a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, fostering innovation and academic excellence.
-
University of Missouri-Columbia - This institution is ranked 124 and is recognized for its strong research initiatives and vibrant campus life, making it a prominent choice for students in Missouri.
-
Grinnell College - A top liberal arts college ranked 11th, Grinnell is known for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to social responsibility, providing students with a well-rounded education.
-
Washington University in St Louis - This prestigious university is ranked 24th and is celebrated for its outstanding academic offerings and research opportunities across various disciplines.
These institutions contribute to a vibrant educational landscape surrounding William Jewell College, offering numerous opportunities for students in the region.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Trends at William Jewell College
The crime statistics at William Jewell College reveal a fluctuating yet concerning trend over the past decade. Starting from 2013, the average number of offenses per 1,000 students showed a gradual decline until 2015, where it reached its lowest point at 13.40. However, a significant spike occurred in 2016, with the rate rising to 20.13, indicating a potential increase in criminal activity on campus.
The years following 2016 saw an alarming rise in offenses, peaking in 2018 with a rate of 39.66 per 1,000 students. This surge could be attributed to various factors, including increased awareness and reporting of incidents, or possibly a real increase in the incidents themselves. In contrast, the subsequent years, particularly 2021 and 2023, exhibit a notable decrease in crime rates, dropping to 11.19 and 5.39, respectively. This decline may reflect effective campus safety measures or a change in student behavior.
The data on specific types of offenses, like drug arrests and alcohol-related incidents, while not detailed here, are crucial for understanding the campus environment. Notably, issues such as domestic violence and sexual assault remain critical concerns that universities across the nation are striving to address. As college campuses continue to evolve, the importance of fostering a safe educational environment cannot be overstated. For further insights on calculating crime rates, refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of William Jewell College include Jim Davis (Actor, played Jock Ewing in Dallas), Don Page (Theoretical physicist at the University of Alberta) and Nancy Boyda (Former US representative for Kansas).
-
Jim Davis 1909–1981
Actor, played Jock Ewing in Dallas
-
Don Page 1948–
Theoretical physicist at the University of Alberta
-
Nancy Boyda 1955–
Former US representative for Kansas
-
Earl Thomas Coleman 1943–
Former U.S. Representative from Missouri
-
Clarence Andrew Cannon 1879–1964
Missouri congressman, chaired House Appropriations Committee
-
Dallas Willard 1935–2013
Philosopher and Christian spirituality writer
-
C. A. Robins 1884–1970
Physician and 22nd governor of Idaho
-
Connie Dover 2000–
Celtic and American folk singer-songwriter
-
Robin Carnahan 1961–
Former GSA Administrator and Missouri Secretary of 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.