Belmont Abbey College
Acceptance rate
74.7%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$19,500
$32,474 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
1,298
Student-faculty ratio 12:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
41.6%
4-year; 6-year rate 46.9%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Belmont Abbey College, located in Belmont, North Carolina, is a private Catholic liberal arts college known for its strong commitment to academic excellence and character formation. Founded in 1885 by the Benedictine monks of Belmont Abbey, the college emphasizes a holistic education that nurtures both intellect and spirit, aligning with its motto, "Ut in omnibus glorificetur Deus" (That in all things God may be glorified). The beautiful, serene campus provides an ideal environment for students to engage in their studies while also fostering a deep sense of community. The college's architecture reflects its rich heritage, featuring buildings that embody a blend of traditional and contemporary styles, offering modern facilities alongside historical charm.
The college offers a variety of undergraduate programs across different disciplines, with notable strengths in business, education, and the liberal arts. Belmont Abbey College is particularly recognized for its small class sizes, which facilitate meaningful interactions between students and faculty, ensuring personalized attention and mentorship opportunities. The school's commitment to athletics is also noteworthy, as it competes in the NCAA Division II, encouraging students to engage in sports and fostering a spirit of teamwork and discipline. Graduates of Belmont Abbey College are well-prepared for the job market, with many finding successful careers in diverse fields, reflecting the college's dedication to producing capable and ethical leaders. The vibrant campus life includes a range of student organizations, cultural events, and community service opportunities, enriching the educational experience and promoting a strong sense of belonging among students.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Belmont Abbey College
Belmont Abbey College, a private institution, has shown interesting trends in several crucial metrics over the years. One of the most significant observations is the fluctuation in student enrollment numbers. From 2013 to 2016, there was a steady decline in undergraduate students, dropping from 1,706 to 1,495. However, by 2022, the numbers began to stabilize, hovering around 1,507 students, indicating a potential turnaround in attracting undergraduates.
Another noteworthy metric is the graduation rates, particularly the on-time graduation rate, which improved from approximately 27% in 2013 to about 40% in 2023. This upward trend suggests that the college may have implemented effective support systems and academic resources that enhance student success, leading to higher graduation rates.
Tuition rates have also been a focal point for prospective students. The in-state and out-of-state tuition for undergraduate programs remained constant at $18,500 from 2014 to 2023, with a notable increase to $19,500 projected for 2024. The stability in tuition, contrasted with the increase in room and board costs, could influence students' perception of the overall affordability of attending Belmont Abbey College.
Finally, the student-to-faculty ratio has seen a downward trend, from 15 students per faculty member in 2013 to 12 in 2023. This reduction may enhance the quality of education and personalized attention students receive, potentially contributing to both retention and graduation rates.
In conclusion, Belmont Abbey College demonstrates promising trends in student retention and graduation rates, which are critical factors for both current and prospective students. The institution's ability to maintain stable tuition rates amidst rising costs in other areas may further support its appeal in a competitive higher education landscape.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a midsize city
- Nearest major city
- Charlotte, about 10 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), about 6 mi
- Also known as
- BAC
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Roman Catholic
- President
- Dr. Joseph F. Wysocki (Interim President)
- Phone
- 7044616700
- City
- Belmont, North Carolina
- Address
- 100 Belmont-Mt Holly Road, Belmont, NC 28012-1802
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 77.6%, women 83.7%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Belmont Abbey College
The admission data from Belmont Abbey College reveals significant fluctuations in both male and female acceptance rates over the years. Notably, the male acceptance rate reached its peak in 2018 at an impressive 98.9%, while the female acceptance rate also exhibited a high of 99.5% in the same year. This trend indicates a shift towards greater inclusivity and accessibility in the admissions process, reflecting broader national trends in higher education.
In contrast, the years preceding 2017 show a more competitive admission landscape, with rates frequently below 75% for both genders. This could be attributed to various factors, including increased application volumes, institutional policies aimed at maintaining quality, or a response to demographic changes in the applicant pool. The sharp increase in enrollment numbers in recent years, particularly in 2023 with 394 new students, suggests a growing interest in the college, possibly driven by its reputation and academic offerings.
However, the data also indicates considerable numbers of denied and deferred applications, particularly in earlier years, which may reflect a rigorous selection process. The decrease in denied applications and the rise in enrollment numbers towards 2022 and 2023 could signify a strategic shift in admissions policies, allowing more students to pursue their academic goals at Belmont Abbey College.
Overall, the data emphasizes the evolving nature of admissions at Belmont Abbey, showcasing a balancing act between maintaining academic standards and expanding access to a diverse student body. As the college continues to adapt to changing educational landscapes, it remains essential to monitor these trends to ensure that all prospective students have the opportunity to thrive.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 90% submitted SAT, 84% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions at Belmont Abbey College
The admissions data from Belmont Abbey College over the years reveals significant trends in student performance and the number of standardized test submissions. From 2007 to 2023, there has been a noticeable decline in the percentage of students submitting SAT scores for admission. For instance, in 2007, 86% of applicants submitted SAT scores, while by 2023, this figure had dropped to just 28%. This decline may reflect a broader national trend as many colleges and universities have shifted towards test-optional policies, which allow students to apply without submitting standardized test scores.
In terms of performance, the range of SAT and ACT scores among admitted students has shown some fluctuations. The 25th percentile SAT reading scores started at 450 in 2007 and reached a peak of 528 in 2022 before settling back to 460 by 2023. This fluctuation may indicate changes in the applicant pool's quality or the college's evolving admissions criteria.
Moreover, the data illustrates a declining trend in the number of test-takers. For instance, the number of students submitting SAT scores fell from 238 in 2007 to just 109 in 2023. This significant reduction could be a direct effect of the increasing acceptance of alternative assessment methods and the diminishing emphasis on standardized testing in higher education.
Overall, Belmont Abbey College's admissions data reflects the changing landscape of college admissions, where traditional metrics like standardized test scores are becoming less central to the evaluation process, potentially influenced by broader educational reforms and shifting societal values regarding education.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 7 in 10
4,221 applicants in 2025, 74.7% admitted
3,151 admitted 1,070 not admitted Yield 12.6%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's22 (0% international)
- Health Information/Medical Records Technology/Technician · Master's10 (0% international)
- Human Computer Interaction · Master's7 (0% international)
- Organizational Leadership · Master's5 (0% international)
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, General · Master's4 (0% international)
- Communication, General · Master's3 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Belmont Abbey College
The graduation data from Belmont Abbey College for 2023 reveals significant trends in the fields of study chosen by students. Notably, the Sports and Fitness Administration/Management program produced the highest number of bachelor's graduates, with 28 students completing their degrees. This reflects a growing interest in health-related careers, particularly in the context of an increasing societal focus on fitness and wellness.
In contrast, the Health Care Administration/Management program demonstrates a shift towards graduate-level education, as it produced 11 master's graduates. This trend aligns with the broader national emphasis on advanced healthcare management skills, likely driven by the complexities introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, which necessitated a more robust healthcare infrastructure.
Moreover, the data indicate a remarkable absence of graduates in critical fields such as registered nursing and various business disciplines at the undergraduate level. This could point to a potential gap in workforce readiness in high-demand areas, such as healthcare and business management. The lack of international students graduating from many programs also raises questions about the global appeal of certain disciplines at the institution.
Overall, the 2023 graduation statistics suggest a concentration in health-related fields, particularly at the graduate level, while highlighting potential areas for growth in undergraduate programs. As the job market continues to evolve, it will be crucial for Belmont Abbey College to align its offerings with industry demands to ensure that graduates are well-prepared for their careers.
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. | $51,245 | ||
| Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management. | $51,245 | ||
| Organizational Leadership. | $51,245 | ||
| Accounting. | $58,844 | ||
| Finance, General. | - | ||
| Management Science. | - | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | - | ||
| Health Information/Medical Records Technology/Technician. | - | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Facilities Management, General. | - | ||
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $26,705 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $44,254 | ||
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | $44,254 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $44,534 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $38,454 | ||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $28,949 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Applied Economics. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| American Government and Politics (United States). | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Human Computer Interaction. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Theology/Theological Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
Students
1,388 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 55:45 · Freshman retention 70.4%
- Continuing undergraduates 774
- First-year undergraduates 390
- Graduate students 90
- Transfers and others 134
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,298)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Belmont Abbey College in 2023
The student body composition at Belmont Abbey College for the year 2023 reveals interesting insights into the demographics and gender ratios of its undergraduate and graduate populations. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 394 students, with a notable male representation of 57.1% and females at 42.9%. This trend of a higher male enrollment is consistent with the overall undergraduate population, where the male-to-female ratio is relatively balanced, demonstrating a shift towards inclusivity in higher education.
In the category of undergraduate upperclassmen, the total number reaches 913 students, with males making up 51.7% and females at 48.3%, indicating an almost equal distribution. This trend is promising as it reflects growing interest among female students in pursuing higher education at Belmont Abbey, aligning with national trends that show increasing female enrollment in colleges across the United States.
However, the data for transfer students and graduate students shows distinct variations. The transfer students total 106, with a higher male percentage of 61.3%, while the graduate students, though fewer in number at 26, exhibit a strikingly higher female presence at 76.9%. This suggests that females are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees, which is a positive sign of shifting educational aspirations and opportunities for women.
The demographic breakdown among different ethnic groups within these categories also highlights a diverse student body, although specific numbers are not fully provided. Overall, Belmont Abbey College appears to be fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, with a notable progression towards gender balance and an increasing representation of various ethnic backgrounds among its students. This reflects broader societal changes and the importance of diversity in educational settings.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Belmont Abbey College
The age distribution of students at Belmont Abbey College in 2023 presents an interesting snapshot of the student body. A notable majority of undergraduates fall within the 18-19 age bracket, with 358 male and 314 female students, indicating that the college attracts a significant number of traditional-age students right out of high school. This trend is common among many colleges, reflecting a preference for younger students who are typically more engaged in campus life.
As we move to the 20-21 age category, the numbers remain robust, with 257 male and 214 female undergraduates. However, the participation rates begin to decline in the subsequent age groups. For instance, in the 22-24 range, only 78 males and 50 females are enrolled, suggesting that a considerable number of students may be graduating or transferring during this period.
The representation of older students is notably minimal, with just a handful of individuals aged 30 and above. This trend may reflect a broader pattern in higher education, where younger students dominate enrollment figures, while older individuals often pursue alternative pathways or non-traditional educational routes.
Furthermore, the absence of graduate male students in the younger age categories signifies a potential gap in the transition from undergraduate to graduate studies for males, which could merit further investigation. Overall, the data indicates a youthful and predominantly traditional student demographic, characteristic of liberal arts colleges, which may shape the college’s policies and student support systems.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
73 in 2025 · 2.4% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2022
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Belmont Abbey College
The international student enrollment at Belmont Abbey College has shown fluctuating trends over the years, particularly in the undergraduate segment. In 2004, the percentage of international students was at a modest 3.82%, with 33 out of 863 undergraduates being international. However, there was a noticeable peak in 2007 when the percentage rose slightly to 4.14%. This peak was followed by years of decline, with the percentage dropping to as low as 1.35% in 2015.
Interestingly, the enrollment numbers began to recover starting in 2019, with the percentage rising to 2.31% and reaching 3.73% in 2023, reflecting a growing interest from international students in the college. This recent increase could be attributed to various factors, including the college's efforts to enhance its global outreach and the overall rise in demand for higher education in the United States post-pandemic.
On the graduate level, data is only available for the last two years, showing a significant jump in the number of international students from 10 in 2022 to 26 in 2023, suggesting a potential upward trend. This growth could indicate the college's commitment to diversifying its student body and fostering a more inclusive educational environment.
Overall, the international student demographics at Belmont Abbey College demonstrate a complex interplay of factors influencing enrollment trends, highlighting both challenges and opportunities in attracting a global student population. The college may benefit from strategically enhancing its recruitment efforts and support services for international students to sustain and further this growth trajectory.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$32,474
- Undergraduate tuition
- $19,500
- Room and board
- $12,974
- Graduate tuition
- $17,624
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 5% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 29%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$71.5M
Expenses$50.4M
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 · Conference Carolinas
Conference Carolinas: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Other Sports | 78 | 52 |
| Soccer | 60 | 50 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 53 | 39 |
| Baseball | 90 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 51 | 39 |
| Lacrosse | 64 | 25 |
| Basketball | 59 | 27 |
| Tennis | 38 | 25 |
| Wrestling | 54 | - |
| Volleyball | 24 | 26 |
| Bowling | 36 | 13 |
| Cross Country | 26 | 20 |
| Softball | - | 43 |
| Golf | 23 | 13 |
| Field Hockey | - | 27 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 66 | 52 |
| Other Sports | 57 | 61 |
| Lacrosse | 86 | 31 |
| Baseball | 96 | - |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 53 | 38 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 52 | 38 |
| Tennis | 37 | 23 |
| Volleyball | 23 | 32 |
| Softball | - | 47 |
| Wrestling | 47 | - |
| Cross Country | 28 | 14 |
| Field Hockey | - | 36 |
| Golf | 21 | 14 |
| Bowling | 25 | 10 |
| Basketball | 14 | 15 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 61 | 44 |
| Lacrosse | 66 | 33 |
| Baseball | 95 | - |
| Other Sports | 52 | 38 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 50 | 33 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 48 | 33 |
| Tennis | 40 | 20 |
| Wrestling | 48 | - |
| Cross Country | 30 | 16 |
| Volleyball | 20 | 26 |
| Softball | - | 45 |
| Field Hockey | - | 38 |
| Golf | 22 | 15 |
| Bowling | 19 | 10 |
| Basketball | 17 | 9 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of North Carolina at CharlotteCharlotte · 17.8 mi
U.S. News #169
-
Davidson CollegeDavidson · 19.9 mi
Liberal Arts #16
-
Wofford CollegeSpartanburg · 54.6 mi
Liberal Arts #68
-
Wake Forest UniversityWinston-Salem · 74.0 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Furman UniversityGreenville · 82.4 mi
Liberal Arts #57
-
University of South Carolina-ColumbiaColumbia · 87.3 mi
U.S. News #121
-
University of North Carolina at GreensboroGreensboro · 88.9 mi
U.S. News #208
-
North Carolina A&T State UniversityGreensboro · 90.6 mi
U.S. News #219
-
Elon UniversityElon · 104.1 mi
U.S. News #100
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Belmont Abbey College:
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Duke University - Ranked 7th in the 2024 US News rankings, Duke University is a prestigious private research university located in Durham, North Carolina. It is known for its rigorous academics, vibrant campus life, and strong athletic programs.
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University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - With a rank of 22, this public university is renowned for its research initiatives and commitment to public service. It is part of the University of North Carolina system and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Wake Forest University - This private university is ranked 47th and is known for its liberal arts education, small class sizes, and strong focus on the ethical and character development of its students.
-
Clemson University - Ranked 86th, Clemson is a public research university in South Carolina known for its engineering and business programs, as well as its vibrant campus culture.
-
Elon University - With a rank of 133, Elon is recognized for its strong emphasis on experiential learning and its commitment to engaged learning, providing students with numerous opportunities for internships and study abroad.
-
Davidson College - Ranked 16th, Davidson is a highly regarded liberal arts college known for its rigorous academics and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are well-respected in their respective fields.
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 Rates at Belmont Abbey College
The crime data from Belmont Abbey College over the years reflects a fluctuating trend in campus safety, which merits attention. Starting in 2013 with a relatively low crime rate of 13.13 incidents per 1000 students, the numbers saw a significant spike in 2014, reaching a staggering 92.77. This peak could suggest a particular incident or a series of events that led to an increased number of recorded crimes.
From 2015 to 2017, there was a gradual rise in crime rates, peaking at 64.48 in 2017 before dropping again to 28.67 in 2020. This downward trend in 2020 might be indicative of external factors, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which altered student behavior and campus activities. In 2021, however, the crime rate surged again to 62.58, demonstrating that safety concerns remain an ongoing issue for the college community.
The data shows that incidents related to gun arrests and domestic violence are present, alongside other offenses such as alcohol and drug-related arrests. These statistics highlight the importance of ongoing safety measures and support systems within the college, particularly in addressing issues like substance abuse and interpersonal violence.
Overall, while Belmont Abbey College has seen fluctuations in crime rates, the importance of continued vigilance and proactive measures cannot be overstated. The fluctuating numbers may reflect broader trends in campus safety and societal issues, emphasizing the need for constant evaluation and enhancement of campus security strategies.
For further details on calculating crime rates, please refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Belmont Abbey College include Patrick McHenry (Former congressman and interim House Speaker), Raymond O'Connor (Character actor) and John McDermott (Catholic Bishop of Burlington).
-
Patrick McHenry 1975–
Former congressman and interim House Speaker
-
Raymond O'Connor 1952–2023
Character actor
-
John McDermott 1963–
Catholic Bishop of Burlington
-
Vincent Stanislaus Waters 1904–1974
Catholic Bishop of Raleigh
-
Emilio Pagán 1991–
Major League Baseball pitcher
-
Winder R. Harris 1888–1973
Journalist and US representative from Virginia
-
Alex Castellanos 1986–
Former MLB outfielder for the Los Angeles Dodgers
-
Danny Doyle 1940–
Former NBA player for the Detroit Pistons
-
Tony Suarez 1956–2007
Soccer forward and 1981 ASL Rookie of the Year
More alumni (12, by field)
Politics and law
-
David A. Bowers 1952–
Former mayor of Roanoke, Virginia
-
David Brumbaugh 1960–2017
Oklahoma state representative and businessman
-
Bob Marshall 1944–
Former Virginia House of Delegates member
-
Joseph Cryan 1961–
Democratic New Jersey state senator
-
Eugene O'Dunne 1875–1959
Judge of the Supreme Bench of Baltimore City
Science and academia
-
Josef Schmid 1965–
NASA flight surgeon and Air Force Reserve major general
-
James W. Crawford III 1957–
Texas Southern University president and former Navy officer
Arts and media
-
Nikki Hornsby
Musician, songwriter, singer and guitarist
Sports
-
Alex Pledger 1987–
New Zealand basketball player in Australia's NBL
-
Michal Smolen 1993–
Slalom canoeist, 2015 world championships K1 bronze medalist
-
Clay Dimick 1994–
American professional soccer player
Other fields
-
Joseph Lennox Federal 1910–2000
Catholic bishop of Salt Lake City
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.