Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus
Acceptance rate
91.7%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$9,054
In-state $7,074
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
4,239
Student-faculty ratio 18:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
26.4%
4-year; 6-year rate 36.5%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus (ENMU) is located in Portales, New Mexico, and is known for its dedication to providing a diverse and inclusive educational environment. Established in 1934, ENMU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with strong emphasis on liberal arts, sciences, business, and education. The university is particularly noted for its commitment to student success, underscored by its motto, "Educate, Engage, Empower." This reflects its mission to not only impart knowledge but also to actively involve students in their education and empower them to make meaningful contributions to society.
The campus is characterized by its welcoming community atmosphere and a robust array of facilities designed to enhance student life. ENMU boasts modern classrooms, state-of-the-art laboratories, and dedicated spaces for research, all aimed at fostering an engaging learning experience. The university also emphasizes extracurricular activities, with numerous student organizations and athletics programs that contribute to a vibrant campus life. ENMU's commitment to student engagement is further reflected in its strong support services, including academic advising and career counseling, which help prepare students for successful futures. With a strong focus on community involvement and real-world applications of learning, ENMU continues to cultivate a nurturing environment for students to thrive.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus
Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus has exhibited notable trends in tuition costs, student retention rates, and graduation rates over the years. The tuition for in-state undergraduate students has steadily increased from $4,558 in 2014 to $6,738 in 2023, highlighting the growing financial burden on students. Similarly, out-of-state undergraduate tuition has risen from $10,069 to $8,718 during the same period. This fluctuation in tuition could significantly influence prospective students' decisions, especially as the cost of education continues to be a pressing issue nationwide.
Moreover, the student retention rate has shown some variability, starting at 62.5% in 2013 and peaking at 63.2% in 2018, before experiencing a slight decline in subsequent years, reaching 62.3% in 2023. Retention rates are crucial as they reflect students' satisfaction and the university's ability to support them through their academic journeys. A healthy retention rate can often correlate with positive graduation outcomes.
Speaking of graduation rates, the statistics reveal an encouraging trend. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students has improved from 10.7% in 2013 to 20.3% in 2023, while the 150% graduation rate rose from 24.1% to 29.4%. These figures indicate that more students are not only completing their degrees but are also doing so within a reasonable timeframe, which enhances the university's reputation and the value of its educational programs.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained relatively stable at around 16-19 students per faculty member over the years. This ratio plays a critical role in the academic experience, influencing class sizes, individual attention, and overall educational quality. A lower student-to-faculty ratio generally suggests a more personalized learning environment, which can further contribute to higher retention and graduation rates.
In conclusion, while Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus faces challenges with rising tuition costs, the positive trends in retention and graduation rates reflect its commitment to student success. Addressing financial concerns while maintaining educational quality will be essential for the university's continued growth and appeal to future students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Remote town
- Nearest major city
- Albuquerque, about 200 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), about 190 mi
- Also known as
- ENMU-Portales
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- James Johnston (President)
- Phone
- 5755621011
- City
- Portales, New Mexico
- Address
- ENMU Station 2, 1500 S Ave K, Portales, NM 88130
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 55.5%, women 60.0%.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Rates at Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus
The admission data for Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus over the years reveals significant trends that reflect broader changes in higher education. Starting from 2009, the overall acceptance rates for both male and female applicants showed a general decline. For instance, in 2009, the male admission rate was approximately 67.5%, while by 2023, it plummeted to about 27.3%. Similarly, the female admission rate dropped from 66.1% in 2009 to around 27.7% in 2023.
This decline in acceptance rates may be attributed to several factors, including increased competition among applicants and possibly changes in the university's enrollment policies. Notably, the number of applications appears to have surged, with the denial numbers rising sharply in recent years, particularly evident in 2021 and 2022, where the university denied over 900 applications each year.
Furthermore, while the enrollment figures initially rose, they have fluctuated in the latter years, indicating a potential struggle to maintain student numbers amidst tightening admission standards. The significant increase in deferred admissions, especially in 2021, suggests that many students are still interested in attending but may face barriers that delay their enrollment.
As higher education institutions adapt to changing demographics and economic conditions, these trends at Eastern New Mexico University highlight the ongoing challenges faced by both prospective students and the university itself in maintaining a balanced and diverse student body.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Health Specialty1 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 51% submitted SAT, 14% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Standardized Test Scores at Eastern New Mexico University
The data from Eastern New Mexico University over the years reflects a notable trend in standardized test scores and submission rates. From 2007 to 2023, the number of students submitting SAT scores has generally increased, peaking at 44% in 2023. This escalation suggests a growing recognition of the importance of standardized testing in college admissions, possibly influenced by national trends and institutional policies.
In terms of SAT scores, the middle 50% range has shown fluctuations. The SAT reading and math scores have varied, with the lower end starting at 385 in 2007 and climbing to 430 by 2023, while the upper range has generally maintained a steady increase, indicating that while more students are submitting scores, the quality of those scores is also improving. This could be indicative of better preparation or changes in educational practices in the region.
Moreover, the ACT scores present a similar narrative, with the average scores showing slight improvements over the years. The consistent rise in both the submission percentages and the scores may reflect not only the students' increasing academic preparedness but also the university's commitment to attracting a more qualified applicant pool.
Overall, the trends observed at Eastern New Mexico University align with broader educational movements in the U.S., where standardized testing remains a significant component of the college admission process, highlighting the ongoing dialogue about its role and efficacy in evaluating student readiness for higher education.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
1,727 applicants in 2025, 91.7% admitted
1,583 admitted 144 not admitted Yield 37.0%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Education, General · Master's79 (1% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's59 (7% international)
- Audiology/Audiologist and Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist · Master's34 (0% international)
- Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's33 (0% international)
- Speech Communication and Rhetoric · Master's25 (32% international)
- Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse · Master's16 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Eastern New Mexico University in 2023
The graduation data from Eastern New Mexico University for 2023 reveals interesting trends across various academic disciplines, particularly in the fields of healthcare, education, and business. Notably, the highest number of master's degrees conferred were in the field of general education, with 88 graduates, indicating a strong emphasis on teaching and educational leadership within the institution. This aligns with the national trend of increasing demand for qualified educators, particularly in light of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has highlighted the importance of effective education systems.
In the realm of healthcare, both registered nursing and audiology/speech-language pathology programs produced significant numbers of graduates, with 16 and 65 respectively. This reflects the growing need for healthcare professionals, a trend exacerbated by the ongoing public health challenges. The increase in graduates from these programs is essential to meet the workforce demands in the healthcare sector.
Interestingly, the data also shows that international students occupied a small fraction of total graduates, particularly in bachelor and master's programs. For example, only 1 international student graduated with a bachelor's degree in general studies. This could suggest a need for universities to enhance their recruitment strategies for international students, especially as globalization continues to influence higher education dynamics.
Moreover, the data indicates that there are relatively few graduates in fields like environmental science and agriculture, which may point to a potential gap in workforce preparation for these critical areas. As sustainability and food security become increasingly pressing issues, it may be prudent for the university to bolster these programs to foster a skilled workforce ready to tackle these challenges. Overall, these trends provide valuable insights into the areas of strength and opportunities for growth within the university's academic offerings.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $37,371-$53,567 | |||
| General Studies. | $37,371-$53,567 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audiology/Audiologist and Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist. | $35,923-$74,933 | |||
| Speech-Language Pathology Assistant. | - | |||
| Clinical/Medical Social Work. | $42,697 | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $81,852-$84,119 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | $62,160 | |||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | $59,606 | |||
| Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services. | - | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $47,597-$55,033 | |||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $47,597-$55,033 | |||
| Agricultural Teacher Education. | $39,906-$47,000 | |||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | $39,906-$47,000 | |||
| Trade and Industrial Teacher Education. | $39,906-$47,000 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $48,490-$82,905 | |||
| Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other. | $48,490-$82,905 | |||
| Accounting. | $50,144 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $38,064 | |||
| Counseling Psychology. | $48,645 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aviation/Airway Management and Operations. | $91,027 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $37,711 | |||
| Forensic Science and Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Anthropology, General. | - | |||
| Sociology, General. | $39,969 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |||
| Cinematography and Film/Video Production. | - | |||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | |||
| Music, General. | $45,589 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $33,796 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering Technologies/Technicians, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - | |||
| Wildlife, Fish and Wildlands Science and Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agriculture, General. | - | |||
| Dairy Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cooking and Related Culinary Arts, General. | - |
Students
5,725 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 38:62 · Freshman retention 62.0%
- Continuing undergraduates 2,251
- First-year undergraduates 568
- Graduate students 1,486
- Transfers and others 1,420
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (4,239)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Eastern New Mexico University
The student body composition at Eastern New Mexico University in 2023 reveals interesting insights into gender distribution and diversity among different student classifications. The data indicates that undergraduate freshmen comprise 424 students, with a significant female representation of 59.2%, compared to 40.8% male students. This trend continues among upperclassmen, transfer students, and graduate students, where females outnumber males, with female representation peaking at 74.9% in the graduate category.
The ethnic breakdown of students shows that the majority of the student population is composed of White students, followed by significant representations from other ethnic groups. While the detailed breakdown for upperclassmen and graduate students is not available, the trend suggests a predominantly White demographic within the institution. The data does not specify the proportions of international students, which could indicate a limited presence in comparison to domestic students.
This gender imbalance, particularly in graduate programs, reflects broader trends in higher education, where female students are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees. The overall high percentage of female students could be indicative of changing societal norms, encouraging women to seek higher education and career advancement.
As universities strive for inclusivity and diversity, Eastern New Mexico University’s demographics highlight the ongoing need to engage underrepresented groups and foster a more balanced environment. The institution's efforts to support a diverse student body can play a crucial role in enhancing educational outcomes and preparing students for a multicultural workforce.
Analysis of Student Age Distribution at Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus
The age distribution of students at Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus reveals a diverse and dynamic academic environment. A significant proportion of the student body is composed of younger individuals, particularly those under the age of 24, which aligns with national trends in higher education where younger students often pursue their undergraduate degrees directly after high school.
Notably, students aged 18-19 represent a substantial group, with a total of 678 students in this category. This suggests that the university successfully attracts students immediately following their secondary education. The data indicates a slight decline in numbers for students aged 20-21, as well as those in their early twenties (22-24), which could reflect a variety of factors, including changing preferences for gap years or alternative pathways to higher education.
Interestingly, the presence of older students (ages 25 and above) demonstrates the university's appeal to non-traditional students. The combined total of students aged 25-29 and 30-34 is 663, indicating a robust enrollment of individuals seeking to further their education later in life. This trend is consistent with a growing recognition of the value of lifelong learning and professional development.
Furthermore, the gender distribution shows a higher number of female students across most age categories, particularly in the 25-29 age range. This finding aligns with broader national trends indicating that women are increasingly pursuing higher education and advanced degrees.
Overall, the age composition at Eastern New Mexico University reflects a vibrant community of learners, bridging the gap between traditional and non-traditional students, and highlighting the importance of inclusivity in higher education.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
106 in 2025 · 1.6% in 2016
49 in 2025 · 3.1% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Eastern New Mexico University
The data from Eastern New Mexico University reveals significant trends in the enrollment of international students over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of undergraduate international students has shown a gradual increase, albeit with fluctuations. In the early years, the proportion of international undergraduates was quite low, starting at just 0.36% in 2004 and reaching a peak of 3.38% in 2009. However, after 2009, there was a noticeable decline in the percentage of international undergraduates, dropping to 1.39% by 2018.
For graduate students, the trend appears more stable but still reflects the challenges in attracting international talent. The percentage of international graduate students fluctuated, peaking at 3.91% in 2004 but generally remaining below 3% in the subsequent years. The figures indicate that while there is a presence of international students, the overall percentages remain relatively modest compared to other universities that are known for their diverse student populations, particularly in the United States.
This trend may correlate with broader national and global issues affecting international student mobility, such as changes in visa regulations, economic factors, and the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As universities globally compete for international talent, Eastern New Mexico University may need to enhance its appeal through targeted recruitment strategies and supportive services to improve these numbers in the coming years.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$17,500
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $9,054
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $7,074
- Room and board
- $8,446
- Graduate tuition
- $7,480
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose -15% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 31%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$132M
Expenses$81.9M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Lone Star Conference
Lone Star Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 72 | 55 |
| Football | 120 | - |
| Soccer | 32 | 40 |
| Basketball | 14 | 15 |
| Baseball | 28 | - |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Rodeo | 5 | 11 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 78 | 74 |
| Football | 143 | - |
| Soccer | 35 | 41 |
| Baseball | 38 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 17 |
| Rodeo | 12 | 17 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 125 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 32 | 43 |
| Soccer | 31 | 26 |
| Baseball | 45 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 13 |
| Softball | - | 26 |
| Rodeo | 8 | 17 |
| Volleyball | - | 20 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Texas Tech UniversityLubbock · 93.9 mi
U.S. News #186
-
University of New Mexico-Main CampusAlbuquerque · 196.3 mi
U.S. News #236
-
New Mexico State University-Main CampusLas Cruces · 236.3 mi
U.S. News #250
-
University of Texas--El PasoEl Paso · 247.1 mi
U.S. News #262
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus:
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Texas Tech University - Ranked 216 in the 2024 US News rankings, Texas Tech University is a comprehensive university located in Lubbock, Texas. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
University of New Mexico-Main Campus - With a ranking of 236, the University of New Mexico is known for its diverse academic programs and vibrant campus life in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
-
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus - This comprehensive university ranks 124 in the US News rankings. It is located in Norman, Oklahoma and is recognized for its research contributions and strong athletic programs.
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United States Air Force Academy - Ranked 7th, this prestigious institution provides a rigorous academic and military training program for future leaders of the U.S. Air Force.
-
Southern Methodist University - Located in Dallas, Texas, this university ranks 89th and offers a blend of liberal arts and professional education.
These institutions not only contribute to the higher education landscape but also enhance the cultural and academic environment in the region.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities 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 Rates at Eastern New Mexico University
The crime statistics from Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus show a fluctuating trend over the years. From 2013 to 2019, the average crime rate per 1,000 students had a peak in 2019, reaching 9.73 incidents. This period reflects a concerning pattern of increasing criminal activity, especially considering that the total number of crimes also increased during these years, with a notable spike in 2014 and again in 2019.
However, the data from 2020 onwards indicates a significant decline in crime rates. The average crime rate plummeted to 4.71 in 2020 and continued to decrease, reaching a low of 1.63 in 2021. This sharp drop could be attributed to various factors, including increased campus security measures, changes in student behavior, or even the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which altered campus life considerably.
Particularly noteworthy is the absence of severe crimes such as homicide or robbery in recent years, which can be seen as a positive trend for campus safety. However, the resurgence of minor offenses such as drug and alcohol arrests suggests that while violent crime has diminished, issues related to substance use remain a concern.
Overall, while the decline in crime rates is encouraging, continuous monitoring and proactive measures are essential to maintain safety and address any underlying issues that may contribute to criminal behavior on campus. For further understanding of crime rate calculations, one can refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus include Jack Williamson (Science fiction writer called Dean of Science Fiction), Ronny Cox (Actor and musician) and Michael Blake (Author of Dances With Wolves, Oscar-winning screenwriter).
-
Jack Williamson 1908–2006
Science fiction writer called Dean of Science Fiction
-
Ronny Cox 1938–
Actor and musician
-
Michael Blake 1945–2015
Author of Dances With Wolves, Oscar-winning screenwriter
-
Steven Michael Quezada 1963–
Actor, played Gómez in Breaking Bad
-
Steve Pearce 1947–
Former U.S. Representative, Bureau of Land Management director
-
Daryush Shokof 1954–
Iranian film director, artist and writer based in Germany
-
John Edward Douglas 1945–
Retired FBI agent and criminal profiling pioneer
-
Diana Ossana 1949–
Screenwriter who collaborated with Larry McMurtry
-
Stephen Jay Berg 1951–
Catholic Bishop of Pueblo
More alumni (12, by field)
Politics and law
-
Ed Foreman 1933–2022
Businessman and former U.S. congressman
-
Juan Babauta 1953–
Sixth governor of the Northern Mariana Islands
-
Katherine D. Ortega 1934–
38th Treasurer of the United States
-
Miguel Garcia 1951–
New Mexico state representative
Science and academia
-
Clyde Snow 1928–2014
American forensic anthropologist
-
Gary Urton 1946–
Harvard anthropologist and Pre-Columbian studies professor
Arts and media
-
Tade Ogidan 1960–
Nigerian film director, screenwriter and producer
-
Karen Lafferty 1948–
Contemporary Christian singer and songwriter
-
Paul Ellison 1941–
Double bassist and Rice University professor
Sports
-
Anthony Bardon 1993–
Gibraltarian footballer and coach
-
Dana Altman 1958–
College basketball coach, formerly at Oregon
-
Jon Dalzell 1960–
American-Israeli former basketball shooting guard
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.
Recent News at Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus
Summarized daily from the school's official news. Click "Source" for the original story.
-
Eastern New Mexico University announced plans to unveil a new campus mural titled 'Answering the Call,' designed by ENMU alumnus Jacob Lee.
Source: enmu.edu
No updates on this topic in this month.
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.