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U.S. News #142 Private nonprofit, 4-year

Houghton College

Houghton, New York · www.houghton.edu

中文

U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027

#142

Acceptance rate

88.7%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$18,430

$29,790 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

1,162

Student-faculty ratio 12:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

52.8%

4-year; 6-year rate 60.9%

Peer median 45.1%

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

About

Houghton University, located in the scenic Western New York region, is a private Christian liberal arts university known for its commitment to academic excellence and spiritual growth. Established in 1883, the university has a rich history of providing a holistic education that integrates faith and learning. Houghton University emphasizes its core values through its motto, "To Know Him and Make Him Known," which reflects its dedication to fostering a community where students can deepen their understanding of their faith while preparing for their future careers. The campus is characterized by a vibrant and supportive community, where students are encouraged to engage in various extracurricular activities, including music, theater, and athletics, fostering a well-rounded student experience.

The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with particular strengths in the arts, humanities, and sciences. With a favorable student-to-faculty ratio, Houghton University prides itself on its dedicated faculty members who are not only accomplished in their fields but also committed to mentoring and guiding students throughout their academic journey. The university’s picturesque campus features modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational spaces that promote both learning and personal growth. Houghton University’s commitment to student life is evident in its array of student organizations, service opportunities, and cultural events, creating a nurturing environment that prepares graduates for success in their chosen professions and in their communities.

Analysis of Key Trends in Houghton University Data

Houghton University, a private institution, has exhibited notable trends in tuition fees, student enrollment, and graduation rates over recent years.

Firstly, the tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students have steadily increased from approximately $27,728 in 2014 to $34,466 in 2021, marking a significant rise of about 24%. A brief decrease in 2022 to $16,446 can be attributed to external factors, potentially including economic conditions or institutional changes, before a rebound to $17,290 in 2024. This fluctuation highlights the financial pressures students face and may influence future enrollment decisions.

Secondly, student enrollment has shown a concerning downward trend. The number of undergraduate students dropped from 1,147 in 2013 to just 805 in 2023, representing a decline of approximately 30%. This decrease raises questions about the university's appeal and the competitive landscape of higher education, especially in light of rising tuition costs and changing student preferences.

Moreover, graduation rates have fluctuated, with the timely graduation rate dipping to 56.4% in 2023 after peaking at 66.8% in 2020. This decline may reflect challenges students face in completing their degrees on time, potentially exacerbated by increased financial burdens.

Retention rates also present a mixed picture. While there was a peak retention rate of approximately 90.9% in 2019, it fell to 80.6% in 2023, suggesting that more students are choosing to leave before completing their studies. This trend could be linked to the aforementioned increases in tuition and decreasing enrollment numbers.

In conclusion, Houghton University is at a crossroads, facing challenges related to tuition affordability, student retention, and graduation rates. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the institution's future sustainability and its ability to attract and retain students in an increasingly competitive higher education environment.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Rural, remote
Nearest major city
Buffalo, about 50 mi
Nearest international airport
Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF), about 45 mi
Houghton, New York
Also known as
Houghton University
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Wesleyan
President
Wayne D. Lewis, Jr. (President)
Phone
5855679200
City
Houghton, New York
Address
1 Willard Ave, Houghton, NY 14744

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

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

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
86.5%
Women
90.0%

In 2020: men 76.3%, women 83.1%.

U.S. News Liberal Arts Colleges · last 10 years
#142Ranked #142 every year from 2027 to 2027

Data insights

Analysis of Houghton University's Admission Trends

The admission data for Houghton University over the years reveals several interesting trends in both acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Starting from 2009, the acceptance rates for male and female students were relatively high, indicating a more lenient admission process. However, the data shows a noticeable decline in acceptance rates, particularly for male applicants, reaching a low of approximately 68% in 2012.
Interestingly, the years following 2012 exhibit significant fluctuations in acceptance rates. For instance, in 2014 and 2015, the rates for male applicants surged to over 92%, signifying a potential strategic shift in admission policies aimed at increasing enrollment. The number of students enrolled also varied considerably, with peaks in certain years, suggesting a responsive approach to the changing educational landscape and possibly a reaction to external factors like economic conditions.
The data also highlights the number of denied applicants, with notable spikes in rejection rates in certain years, particularly during the earlier years of this dataset. For example, in 2012, the university denied over 300 applicants, reflecting a more competitive admission environment. This could be attributed to a variety of factors, including a larger applicant pool or strategic goals for maintaining the institution’s academic standards.
Overall, Houghton University appears to have adapted its admissions strategy over the years, responding to broader trends in higher education. The fluctuating acceptance rates and varying enrollment numbers suggest a dynamic institution committed to finding a balance between maintaining quality and expanding its student body. As the higher education landscape continues to evolve, it will be crucial for Houghton University to remain agile in its admissions practices to attract and retain a diverse and talented student population.

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 24% submitted SAT, 3% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total1170–1375Peer median 1220
ACT composite26–31
SAT Reading
600–695
600700800
SAT Math
570–680
600700800
ACT composite
26–31
253036

Data insights

Analysis of Houghton University's Admission Scores Over the Years

The data from Houghton University reveals significant trends in admission scores and the number of applicants submitting standardized test results over the years. From 2007 to 2023, there has been a noticeable fluctuation in both the SAT and ACT scores, as well as the participation rates among applicants.

Initially, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores remained consistently high, with rates around 90% in the earlier years. However, by 2022, this figure dropped dramatically to just 28%, and it slightly improved to 31% in 2023. This decline may reflect a broader shift in college admissions practices, where many institutions are moving toward test-optional policies. Such changes are likely influenced by a growing recognition of the limitations of standardized tests in assessing a student's potential.

In examining the scores, we see that the 25th percentile and 75th percentile scores for both reading and math sections of the SAT have fluctuated, with the most recent data from 2023 showing a range from 570 to 670 in reading. This indicates that while the university has maintained competitive score ranges, the overall trend in scores appears to be stabilizing after some years of decline.

Moreover, the ACT participation and scores also reflect similar trends, with the percentage of applicants submitting scores decreasing significantly in recent years. This trend aligns with national patterns where many students are opting out of standardized tests, likely due to changes in educational approaches and increased emphasis on holistic admissions processes.

Overall, Houghton University's admission data highlights the evolving landscape of college admissions, characterized by changing participation rates in standardized testing and a potential shift toward more holistic evaluations of student qualifications. As this trend continues, it will be crucial for universities to adapt their admission strategies to attract a diverse and capable student body.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 9 in 10

1,041 applicants in 2025, 88.7% admitted

923 admitted 118 not admitted Yield 23.2%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate110 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's18514 international (7.6%)
Master's200 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
29
Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Studies
15
Elementary Education and Teaching
15
Psychology, General
14
Speech Communication and Rhetoric
13
Art/Art Studies, General
8
History, General
8
Exercise Science and Kinesiology
7
Environmental Science
6
Music, Other
6

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Reading Teacher Education · Master's8 (0% international)
  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's6 (0% international)
  • Music, General · Master's2 (0% international)
  • Conducting · Master's2 (0% international)
  • Music Performance, General · Master's1 (0% international)
  • Music, Other · Master's1 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduate Numbers by Major at Houghton University in 2023

The data from Houghton University for the year 2023 presents a diverse range of graduate programs, highlighting the varying levels of student interest and enrollment across disciplines. Notably, the Business Administration and Management program produced 10 master's graduates, indicating a strong focus on business-related education, which aligns with national trends emphasizing the importance of business skills in the current job market.

In the realm of undergraduate programs, Biology/Biological Sciences emerged as a significant field with 26 graduates, showcasing the ongoing interest in life sciences, which is likely spurred by the increasing demand for healthcare professionals and research scientists. Conversely, Education programs, particularly Elementary Education, saw only 18 graduates, suggesting potential challenges in attracting students to teaching careers amid a competitive job landscape.

Interestingly, the data also reveals a lack of graduates in several areas, including Environmental Studies and various performing arts disciplines, which may reflect either a decreased interest or possibly a lack of resources and faculty to support these programs effectively. The absence of graduates in fields like Philosophy and Criminal Justice may also indicate shifting societal values and career aspirations among students, with more favoring degrees that offer clearer pathways to employment.

Furthermore, the presence of international students in the Biological Sciences and Information Sciences fields, albeit in small numbers, underscores the university's role in attracting a global student body, particularly in high-demand fields. Overall, this data reflects broader educational trends and highlights areas for potential growth and investment at Houghton University.

All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard

*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes

Businesshas 46 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Business/Commerce, General.-
Business Administration and Management, General.$54,438
Accounting.-
Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General.-
Human Resources Development.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Visual and Performing artshas 31 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Design and Visual Communications, General.-
Art/Art Studies, General.-
Music, General.-
Music Performance, General.-
Music Theory and Composition.-
Conducting.-
Music, Other.-
Educationhas 28 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Elementary Education and Teaching.$38,224
Secondary Education and Teaching.$38,224
Music Teacher Education.-
Reading Teacher Education.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 22 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Studies.-
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.-
Psychology has 16 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$38,232
Communication has 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.$44,833
Biologyhas 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$37,057
Biomedical Sciences, General.$37,057
Biochemistry.-
Neuroscience.-
Natural resources has 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Environmental Studies.-
Environmental Science.-
History has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
History, General.-
Theology has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Bible/Biblical Studies.-
Theology/Theological Studies.-
English has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-
Writing, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-
Liberal arts has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.-
Humanities/Humanistic Studies.-
Physical scienceshas 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.-
Physics, General.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General.-
Philosophy, Politics, and Economics.-
Cultural has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Regional Studies (U.S., Canadian, Foreign).-
Social sciencehas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Development Economics and International Development.-
Computer and information sciencehas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Information Science/Studies.-
Homeland security has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.-

Students

1,200 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 41:59 · Freshman retention 84.0%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,162)

White
658 · 56.6%
Unknown
344 · 29.6%
International
53 · 4.6%
Black
45 · 3.9%
Two or more races
26 · 2.2%
Hispanic
15 · 1.3%
Asian
13 · 1.1%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
28.8%
18–19
36.8%
20–21
23.6%
22–24
7.7%
25 and over
3.1%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.0%
22–24
63.2%
25–29
15.8%
30–34
5.3%
35 and over
15.8%

Data insights

Student Demographics at Houghton University 2023

The student demographic data for Houghton University in 2023 reveals an interesting composition of the student body, particularly in terms of gender distribution and racial diversity. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 175 students, with a notable 40.6% being male and 59.4% female. This trend continues among the undergraduate sophomores, where the gender ratio shifts slightly with 35.6% male and 64.4% female among the 542 students.

The data indicates a significant female presence across the undergraduate categories, which aligns with national trends in higher education where female enrollment has surpassed male enrollment in many institutions. This phenomenon raises questions about the factors contributing to this disparity, such as academic interests and societal influences.

Additionally, the racial breakdown among students is crucial for understanding the university's commitment to diversity. Although specific figures for the racial demographics of sophomores and transfers are not available, the overall representation of different ethnic groups is vital for fostering an inclusive educational environment. The presence of various ethnicities enriches the academic experience and enhances cultural awareness among students.

Moreover, the data highlights the ongoing challenges of maintaining a balanced gender ratio and ensuring diverse representation. As universities strive to create equitable opportunities for all students, it is essential to address these disparities and promote inclusiveness. This demographic information not only shapes the university's policies but also impacts the broader community and its future workforce. Overall, Houghton University demonstrates a commitment to diversity and gender equity, reflecting broader trends in higher education.

Analysis of Age Distribution at Houghton University

The age composition of students at Houghton University reveals significant insights into its demographic landscape, particularly among undergraduate and graduate populations. The majority of students fall within the traditional college age range of 18-24. Specifically, students aged 18-19 account for approximately 38% of the total female enrollment and about 29% of total male enrollment. This highlights a strong presence of younger students, indicating that Houghton University attracts a significant number of first-time college attendees.

Interestingly, the data shows that as students age, the number of enrolled students declines sharply. For instance, only 6% of the total male students and 8% of female students are aged 25-29, and the numbers dwindle further in older age categories. This trend is not uncommon in higher education institutions, where younger students typically dominate enrollment figures. However, it also suggests that the university may have limited appeal or support for non-traditional students, who often juggle education with work and family commitments.

The presence of graduate students aged 22-24 is noteworthy, suggesting that many individuals pursue further education shortly after completing their undergraduate degrees. This indicates a robust pipeline from undergraduate to graduate education, which can be beneficial for the institution's reputation and academic offerings.

In conclusion, Houghton University’s student age distribution pattern reflects a typical trend observed in many universities, with a strong emphasis on younger students. This demographic insight could inform university policies, program offerings, and support systems aimed at fostering a more inclusive environment for all age groups.

International Students

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

Undergraduates4.6%

53 in 2025 · 11.1% in 2016

0% 7.5% 15% 2016: 11.1%2017: 12.2%2018: 10.4%2019: 5.3%2020: 3.4%2021: 3.2%2022: 5.1%2023: 6.0%2024: 5.6%2025: 4.6%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025
Graduate students0.0%

0 in 2025 · 15.0% in 2016

0% 10% 20% 2016: 15.0%2017: 12.5%2018: 15.4%2019: 0.0%2020: 17.2%2021: 12.5%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.0%2024: 0.0%2025: 0.0%
2016Peer median 1.0%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Data at Houghton University

The data regarding international students at Houghton University reveals a fluctuating trend over the years. From 2004 to 2023, international undergraduate enrollment has generally increased, peaking at 11.09% in 2016. This indicates a growing attraction for Houghton University among international students, possibly due to its academic programs or campus environment. However, there have been significant drops in the total undergraduate population, particularly in recent years, which could be attributed to broader trends in higher education or the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In contrast, the proportion of international graduate students appears to have varied more significantly, with the highest percentage reaching 17.24% in 2020. The notable increase in graduate international enrollment during this time may reflect a global shift towards advanced degrees and the increasing value placed on international education.

It is essential to consider that fluctuations in international enrollment can be influenced by various factors, including immigration policies, global economic conditions, and the university's recruitment strategies. The recent data indicates a slight resurgence in international undergraduate enrollment in 2023, suggesting that Houghton University may be recovering from the pandemic's impact.

Overall, while Houghton University has made strides in attracting international students, ongoing efforts will be crucial to maintain and grow these numbers in an increasingly competitive educational landscape. This analysis underscores the importance of adaptive strategies to promote the university's offerings to a diverse student body.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$29,790

Undergraduate tuition
$18,430
Room and board
$11,360
Graduate tuition
$15,896
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Tuition rose -37% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 34%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$38.7M

Investment return
$13.0M33.7%
Tuition and fees
$10.0M25.8%
Auxiliary enterprises
$8.5M21.9%
Gifts and private grants
$6.4M16.5%
Sales and services of educational activities
$429K1.1%
Government grants and contracts
$274K0.7%

Expenses$32.3M

Instruction
$9.5M29.6%
Student services
$8.9M27.6%
Auxiliary enterprises
$6.7M20.9%
Institutional support
$5.4M16.6%
Academic support
$1.6M4.9%
Public service
$98K0.3%
Research
$61K0.2%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

All faculty
$59,605peers $65,931
Professor
$66,371peers $77,501
Associate professor
$56,003peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$51,718peers $61,725

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · NCCAA · Empire Eight

Empire Eight: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)6078
Soccer3125
Baseball44-
Basketball2113
Volleyball1716
Field Hockey-21
Tennis99
Softball-12
2024
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)4164
Soccer2524
Basketball2015
Baseball32-
Volleyball1414
Field Hockey-20
Softball-18
Tennis68
2023
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)5252
Soccer2624
Baseball32-
Basketball1713
Field Hockey-17
Tennis98
Softball-15
Volleyball-15

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable colleges and universities near Houghton University:

  1. University at Buffalo (Ranked 76) - A flagship institution of the State University of New York system, known for its research and diverse academic programs.

  2. Rochester Institute of Technology (Ranked 98) - Renowned for its strong emphasis on career-oriented education and its programs in engineering, technology, and the arts.

  3. University of Rochester (Ranked 47) - A prestigious private research university with a strong focus on research and liberal arts education.

  4. Cornell University (Ranked 12) - An Ivy League university offering a wide range of programs and known for its commitment to public service and research.

  5. Syracuse University (Ranked 67) - A private research university known for its diverse programs, particularly in communications, business, and the arts.

  6. Binghamton University (Ranked 73) - A well-regarded public research university recognized for its academic rigor and vibrant student community.

  7. Hamilton College (Ranked 16) - A highly selective liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on writing and critical thinking.

These institutions offer a variety of academic opportunities and are well-regarded in their respective fields.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

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

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
35
Drug referrals
4
Fondling
3
Rape
2
Stalking
2

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Houghton University

The data on crime rates at Houghton University reveals some notable trends over the years. In 2013, the average crime rate per 1000 students was relatively low at 2.23, but it experienced a sharp increase in 2014 to 6.73. This spike may indicate a period of increased incidents, which could be attributed to various factors such as changes in campus security policies or social dynamics among students.

The years following, particularly 2015 to 2017, showed fluctuations with crime rates hovering around 2.80 to 6.99. Interestingly, 2018 marked another rise to 7.67, suggesting ongoing challenges related to campus safety. The data for 2020 and 2021 indicates a peak in crime rates at 8.67 and 8.65 respectively, potentially reflecting broader societal issues exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which have been widely reported to affect college environments in various ways.

However, a significant drop occurred in 2022, where the crime rate fell to 1.79, the lowest in the observed period. This decline could suggest effective intervention measures or a shift in student behavior and campus culture. The subsequent year, 2023, saw a slight increase to 5.28, indicating that while there are improvements, challenges remain.

These trends highlight the importance of continuous monitoring and proactive measures in maintaining campus safety. Understanding the underlying causes of these fluctuations is essential for further improving security measures and fostering a safer educational environment. For more on how crime rates are calculated, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Houghton College include Deborah L. Birx (Physician, White House Coronavirus Task Force coordinator), Ira S. Bowen (Physicist and astronomer who explained nebulium) and A. W. Tozer (Christian pastor, author and magazine editor).

More alumni (8, by field)

Science and academia

  • Robert Beckford 1965–

    British theologian and professor

  • Victor P. Hamilton 1941–

    Old Testament scholar, former Asbury University professor

    Also attended: Brandeis University

  • Robert E. Longacre 1922–2014

    Linguist and missionary known for discourse analysis

    Also attended: University of Pennsylvania

  • Bruce Waltke 1930–

    Old Testament and Hebrew professor, theologian

    Also attended: Harvard University

  • Ralph F. Young 1942–1999

    Historian who taught at Temple University

  • Anthony C. Yu 1938–2015

    Scholar of literature and religion at University of Chicago

    Also attended: Fuller Theological Seminary, University of Chicago

Arts and media

  • Wilfred Conwell Bain 1908–1997

    Music educator and dean of Indiana University School of Music

    Also attended: New York University

Sports

  • Josiah Snelgrove 1986–

    Canadian soccer player

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.