Hastings College
Acceptance rate
71.6%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$37,770
$49,820 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
933
Student-faculty ratio 14:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
44.7%
4-year; 6-year rate 54.6%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Hastings College, located in Hastings, Nebraska, is a private liberal arts college known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus culture. Established in 1882, the college emphasizes a holistic education, fostering critical thinking and creativity among its students. The college's motto, "Enter to learn; go forth to serve," reflects its commitment to developing not only knowledgeable individuals but also responsible citizens who are prepared to make meaningful contributions to society. This guiding principle is evident in the college's robust community service programs and leadership opportunities, encouraging students to engage actively with their communities.
The college boasts a diverse array of academic offerings, with over 60 majors and minors across various disciplines, including the arts, sciences, and business. Hastings College benefits from a dedicated and accomplished faculty, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1, allowing for personalized attention and mentorship. The campus is equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational spaces, which enhance the learning experience. The college also emphasizes a well-rounded student life, with numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic programs that promote camaraderie and personal growth. With a strong focus on preparing students for successful careers, Hastings College has a commendable track record of graduate employment, with many alumni finding opportunities in diverse fields shortly after graduation.
Analysis of Key Data Points for Hastings College
Hastings College, a private institution, has shown notable trends in several key areas over the years. One of the most striking observations is the consistent increase in tuition fees. From 2014 to 2024, tuition for in-state undergraduate students rose from $25,520 to $36,130, marking an increase of approximately 41.7%. This trend reflects a broader issue in higher education where tuition continues to rise significantly, often outpacing inflation and impacting student affordability and accessibility.
In parallel to rising tuition, enrollment numbers have experienced a concerning decline. The number of undergraduate students decreased from 1,183 in 2015 to just 919 in 2023, representing a drop of about 22.3%. This trend may suggest that rising costs are deterring prospective students, or it could reflect broader demographic shifts affecting college enrollment nationally. The reduction in student numbers can also impact the college's financial viability and its ability to maintain diverse academic programs.
Retention rates provide another layer of insight. Although there has been some fluctuation over the years, the retention rate for undergraduate students stands at approximately 72.4% in 2023. This indicates that while the college retains a significant proportion of its students, there is still room for improvement, especially in light of the declining enrollment figures. High retention is typically linked to student satisfaction and engagement, suggesting that Hastings College may need to evaluate and enhance its support services and campus experience.
Lastly, the graduation rates have shown a slight improvement, with the on-time graduation rate increasing to 50.7% in 2023 compared to 45.8% in 2014. This upward trend, although modest, indicates that the college is making strides in helping students complete their degrees in a timely manner, which is essential for both student success and institutional reputation.
In summary, Hastings College is navigating complex dynamics characterized by rising tuition, declining enrollment, satisfactory retention rates, and improving graduation rates. These trends necessitate strategic planning and innovative approaches to ensure the institution's sustainability and continued growth.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Omaha, about 130 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Kansas City International Airport (MCI), about 210 mi
- Also known as
- Hastings College
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Presbyterian Church (USA)
- President
- Rich Lloyd (President)
- Phone
- 40246324027405
- Address
- 710 N Turner Ave, Hastings, NE 68901
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 69.6%, women 64.2%.
Data insights
Analysis of Hastings College Admission Trends
The admission data for Hastings College over the years reveals intriguing trends that reflect the evolving landscape of higher education. From 2009 to 2023, the college has seen fluctuations in both male and female admission rates, with male acceptance rates starting at approximately 77% and dipping to around 72% by 2023, while female acceptance rates also show a decline from about 81% to 71%. This suggests a tightening of admission standards over the years, possibly in response to an increasing applicant pool or a strategic shift in enrollment policies.
Moreover, the total enrollment numbers have varied, peaking in 2014 with 345 new students, which indicates an initial growth phase. However, subsequent years like 2017 and 2019 saw lower enrollments of 278 and 264, respectively. The reasons behind these fluctuations could be attributed to broader demographic trends, changes in educational funding, or shifts in student preferences, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly impacted college admissions nationwide.
Interestingly, the number of students denied admission has also remained substantial, with peaks reaching over 700 denials in certain years. This reflects the competitive nature of the admissions process at Hastings College, highlighting the importance of applicants to stand out in a crowded field.
Overall, the data presents a picture of Hastings College adapting to external pressures and internal goals, navigating the complexities of enrollment strategies while striving to maintain a diverse and academically capable student body. The challenges of maintaining enrollment numbers amidst fluctuating acceptance rates underscore the ongoing transformations in the higher education sector.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 0% submitted SAT, 4% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Data at Hastings College
The admissions data for Hastings College over the years reveals notable trends in standardized test score submissions and performance among accepted students. First, there has been a gradual increase in the number of SAT submissions, peaking to 31% in 2019 and 2020, reflecting a growing trend of students opting to submit these scores as part of their applications. This increase could correlate with a broader trend in higher education, where more institutions have begun to adopt test-optional policies, allowing students to decide whether to submit standardized test scores.
The SAT reading and math scores show fluctuating ranges but remain relatively consistent, with the 25th percentile scores generally ranging from the low 400s to mid-500s, indicating that while there are variations, students admitted generally have comparable profiles. The 75th percentile scores also suggest a stable performance among the upper echelon of accepted students, consistently reaching the 600 mark in reading and math sections.
Moreover, the ACT scores reveal similar patterns, with the composite scores indicating that students accepted into Hastings College have maintained a competitive standing over the years. The consistent performance in both tests indicates that Hastings College continues to attract a solid pool of applicants who are academically prepared for college-level work.
Overall, the data reflects a positive trajectory in terms of engagement with standardized testing and the academic readiness of incoming students, which is essential for the college's ongoing commitment to maintaining educational standards and enhancing the student experience. As the landscape of college admissions evolves, it will be interesting to see how Hastings College adapts to these changes while continuing to support its students' academic success.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 7 in 10
2,102 applicants in 2025, 71.6% admitted
1,506 admitted 596 not admitted Yield 17.7%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's2 (0% international)
- Business and Innovation/Entrepreneurship Teacher Education · Master's2 (50% international)
- Biology Teacher Education · Master's2 (100% international)
- Elementary Education and Teaching · Master's1 (0% international)
- Health Teacher Education · Master's1 (100% international)
- Mathematics Teacher Education · Master's1 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduates from Hastings College in 2023
In 2023, Hastings College displayed diverse graduation figures across various academic programs. Business Administration and Management emerged as the most popular major, with 38 students earning bachelor's degrees, including 5 international students. This trend aligns with national data indicating a sustained interest in business-related fields, likely due to the growing demand for skilled professionals in the global market.
Exercise Science and Kinesiology followed, with 16 bachelor's graduates, including 5 from international backgrounds. This reflects the increasing emphasis on health and fitness, a trend amplified by the global health crises highlighting the importance of physical well-being.
Notably, the data revealed a significant disparity in graduate levels across programs. While some fields, such as psychology and interdisciplinary studies, produced a handful of graduates, others like education and English literature showed no completions. This raises questions about student interest and institutional support for these disciplines, especially given the current educational climate that increasingly values STEM and health-related programs.
The absence of master's and doctorate graduates in most fields suggests a potential gap in advanced study opportunities or interest at Hastings College. With a growing emphasis on lifelong learning and specialization in higher education, this gap could affect the college's ability to attract students seeking graduate-level degrees.
Overall, Hastings College's 2023 graduation data reflects broader educational trends, emphasizing the need for institutions to adapt their offerings to meet student interests and market demands effectively.
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. | $47,543 | ||
| Accounting. | - | ||
| Finance, General. | - | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Biochemistry. | - | ||
| Wildlife Biology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminology. | - | ||
| Economics, General. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Organizational Communication, General. | - | ||
| Health Communication. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dramatic/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft, Other. | - | ||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $35,848 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - | ||
| Web Page, Digital/Multimedia and Information Resources Design. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy and Religious Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Restaurant, Culinary, and Catering Management/Manager. | - |
Students
956 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 49:51 · Freshman retention 65.6%
- Continuing undergraduates 568
- First-year undergraduates 267
- Graduate students 23
- Transfers and others 98
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (933)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Hastings College 2023
The student demographics at Hastings College in 2023 reveal a diverse and dynamic academic environment. The data indicates that the largest group of students is composed of undergraduate freshmen, totaling 264 individuals. This group has a slightly higher percentage of male students at 53.4%, compared to female students at 46.6%. This gender distribution reflects a common trend in many colleges, where freshmen often exhibit a more balanced gender ratio, although males hold a slight edge.
In contrast, the undergraduate juniors represent a significant portion of the student body with 614 students, but they display a distinct gender imbalance, with females constituting 55.5% and males only 44.5%. This shift in gender dynamics may suggest an increasing trend of female enrollment in higher education, which aligns with broader statistics showing that women are earning degrees at higher rates than men in many regions.
The data for transfer students shows a remarkable male predominance, with 70% being male. This could be indicative of various factors, including the fields of study more frequently pursued by transfer students, or perhaps a reflection of societal trends in educational paths.
Graduate students, while fewer in number at 17, show an even more pronounced gender disparity, with 82.4% males. This could suggest that certain graduate programs attract more male candidates, which might warrant further investigation into specific disciplines.
Overall, the demographic data from Hastings College highlights ongoing trends in higher education regarding gender ratios and the diverse backgrounds of students. As institutions strive for inclusivity and equity, understanding these trends is essential for fostering an educational environment that supports all students.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Hastings College in 2023
The age distribution of students at Hastings College in 2023 reveals intriguing insights into the demographics of the student body. The majority of students fall within the 18-19 and 20-21 age brackets, with 206 male undergraduates and 237 female undergraduates in the younger group, and 166 male undergraduates and 206 female undergraduates in the slightly older group. This indicates a vibrant influx of traditional-aged college students, which is a common trend in many higher education institutions.
Interestingly, the number of graduate male students is notably low, with only a handful (10) in the 22-24 age range and just one in the 30-34 age range. This suggests that graduate programs at Hastings may attract older students or that there may be barriers preventing younger graduates from enrolling in further studies.
In contrast, the presence of non-traditional students aged 25 and older is minimal, which may reflect broader societal trends whereby younger individuals are more likely to pursue higher education immediately after secondary school. The data reveals a mere 6 male and female students aged 25-29, indicating that few individuals return to education during this period.
The overall gender distribution is also noteworthy, as the number of female students surpasses that of male students across various age categories. This aligns with national trends in higher education, where female enrollment has steadily increased over the years.
In conclusion, Hastings College's age composition illustrates a youthful student body primarily made up of traditional-age undergraduates, with a notable gender disparity favoring female students. Understanding these dynamics can help inform future recruitment strategies and support services tailored to the needs of diverse student populations.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
56 in 2025 · 2.3% in 2016
7 in 2025 · 7.3% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Trends at Hastings College
The data on international students at Hastings College reveals significant fluctuations over the years, highlighting broader trends in global education. Initially, from 2004 to 2010, the number of undergraduate international students remained relatively low, with percentages hovering below 2%. This could reflect a limited outreach or appeal of the college in the international market.
However, a notable shift occurs post-2015, where the number of international undergraduate students began to rise sharply. By 2023, the percentage of international students in the undergraduate population soared to 6.75%, with 62 international students enrolled. This growth may indicate improved recruitment strategies or a growing reputation for the college among international communities.
The graduate student figures also show an interesting increase in the percentage of international enrollment, reaching 17.65% by 2023. This is a considerable rise compared to earlier years, suggesting that Hastings College is becoming more attractive for graduate studies.
The increase in international students can be attributed to various factors, including the global demand for higher education, the college's strategic initiatives to attract a diverse student body, and perhaps the overall educational environment in the U.S., which remains appealing despite political and economic challenges.
Overall, the data indicates that Hastings College is making strides in diversifying its student population, which not only enriches the campus culture but also prepares all students for an increasingly globalized world. This trend is likely to continue as institutions recognize the benefits of international diversity in education.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$49,820
- Undergraduate tuition
- $37,770
- Room and board
- $12,050
- Graduate tuition
- $13,660
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 38% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 49%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$51.3M
Expenses$33.5M
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 NAIA · Great Plains Athletic Conference
Great Plains Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NAIA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 77 | 67 |
| Football | 119 | - |
| Basketball | 45 | 29 |
| Soccer | 33 | 38 |
| Baseball | 67 | - |
| Wrestling | 26 | 25 |
| Golf | 25 | 12 |
| Softball | - | 34 |
| Volleyball | - | 32 |
| Bowling | 16 | 12 |
| Tennis | 8 | 10 |
| Other Sports | - | 12 |
| Rifle | - | - |
| NAIA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 75 | 84 |
| Football | 108 | - |
| Soccer | 29 | 45 |
| Baseball | 73 | - |
| Basketball | 42 | 29 |
| Wrestling | 27 | 25 |
| Golf | 21 | 12 |
| Softball | - | 30 |
| Bowling | 16 | 13 |
| Volleyball | - | 28 |
| Tennis | 6 | 8 |
| Other Sports | - | 10 |
| Rifle | - | - |
| NAIA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 66 | 86 |
| Football | 125 | - |
| Soccer | 36 | 35 |
| Basketball | 31 | 31 |
| Baseball | 60 | - |
| Wrestling | 22 | 16 |
| Softball | - | 26 |
| Volleyball | - | 26 |
| Bowling | 15 | 11 |
| Golf | 16 | 9 |
| Tennis | 8 | 10 |
| Other Sports | - | 7 |
| Rifle | - | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of Nebraska-LincolnLincoln · 89.1 mi
U.S. News #169
-
University of Nebraska--OmahaOmaha · 131.9 mi
U.S. News #299
-
Creighton UniversityOmaha · 135.0 mi
U.S. News #100
-
Kansas State UniversityManhattan · 135.7 mi
U.S. News #156
-
University of South DakotaVermillion · 169.1 mi
U.S. News #262
-
University of KansasLawrence · 200.7 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Wichita State UniversityWichita · 206.7 mi
U.S. News #288
-
University of Missouri--Kansas CityKansas City · 228.2 mi
U.S. News #250
-
Drake UniversityDes Moines · 255.6 mi
U.S. News #191
Data insights
Here is a brief introduction to some notable colleges and universities near Hastings College:
-
University of Nebraska-Lincoln - Ranked 159th in the 2024 US News rankings, this is a comprehensive university known for its research programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Creighton University - With a ranking of 124, Creighton is a private university that offers a strong liberal arts education and is particularly noted for its health sciences programs.
-
University of Kansas - Ranked 151st, the University of Kansas is a public research university with a diverse array of programs and a lively campus atmosphere.
-
Iowa State University - This comprehensive university is ranked 115th and is well-respected for its engineering and agricultural programs.
-
Drake University - Ranked 178th, Drake is a private university that offers a strong liberal arts education and is known for its law and business programs.
-
University of Denver - With a ranking of 124, this private university is known for its business and law programs, as well as its commitment to experiential learning.
-
United States Air Force Academy - This highly prestigious institution is ranked 7th and offers a unique combination of military training and academic excellence.
These institutions provide a range of opportunities for higher education in various fields, making the area around Hastings College a vibrant educational hub.
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 Hastings College
The crime statistics at Hastings College from 2013 to 2023 reveal notable fluctuations in the crime rate per 1,000 students. The data shows a peak in 2018 with a crime rate of 23.79 per 1,000 students, which is significantly higher than the 16.17 rate recorded in 2015. This increase could be attributed to various factors such as heightened awareness of campus safety, changes in campus policies, or even an increase in student enrollment leading to more reported incidents.
Interestingly, the year 2021 saw a dip in crime rates to 17.31, possibly reflecting the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which altered student life and campus activities. However, by 2023, the rate climbed again to 25.43, suggesting a resurgence in criminal activity as campus life normalized.
The data also highlights specific types of crimes, such as drug-related arrests and alcohol-related incidents, which are critical for understanding the nature of offenses occurring on campus. For instance, the continued presence of alcohol-related arrests indicates a persistent issue within student culture that colleges nationwide are grappling with.
Overall, these trends underscore the importance of continuous monitoring and proactive measures to ensure student safety and well-being on campus. Colleges must engage in effective strategies to address these issues, such as enhanced security measures, educational programs on substance use, and support systems for students in need.
For further insights on how crime rates are calculated, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Hastings College include Clayton Anderson (Retired NASA astronaut, ISS Expedition 15 crew member), Gary Anderson (Two-time Olympic shooting champion; former Nebraska legislator) and Tom Osborne (Former Nebraska football coach and politician).
-
Clayton Anderson 1959–
Retired NASA astronaut, ISS Expedition 15 crew member
-
Gary Anderson 1939–
Two-time Olympic shooting champion; former Nebraska legislator
-
Tom Osborne 1937–
Former Nebraska football coach and politician
-
Mary W. Gray 1938–
Mathematician, statistician and lawyer
-
Bill Barrett 1929–2016
Former U.S. Representative from Nebraska
-
Yoo Chang-soon 1918–2010
Prime Minister of South Korea in 1982
-
Ben Heine 1983–
Belgian visual artist and music producer
-
Michael Hancock 1969–
45th Mayor of Denver, Colorado
-
Bart Kofoed 1964–
Former professional point guard
More alumni (11, by field)
Politics and law
-
Robert G. Simmons 1891–1969
Nebraska Republican politician and judge
-
Park Yong-man 1881–1928
Korean nationalist and independence activist
-
Jeanine E. Jackson 1949–
Diplomat, ambassador to Burkina Faso and Malawi
Science and academia
-
George Norlin 1871–1942
President of the University of Colorado
-
Robert Edouard Moritz 1868–1940
German-American mathematician
Arts and media
-
Margaret E. Haughawout 1874–1964
Writer, poet and college professor
-
L. Vance Phillips 1858–1939
China-painting artist and Pi Beta Phi co-founder
Sports
-
Ryan Junge 1984–
Retired American soccer player
-
Yannic Thiel 1989–
German former professional footballer
-
Jerry Drake 1969–
Former Arizona Cardinals defensive lineman
-
Akeem Ward 1996–
Soccer defender for San Antonio FC
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.