Elizabeth City State University
Acceptance rate
64.2%
2025
Peer median 80.5%
Out-of-state tuition
$10,536
In-state $6,536
Peer median $17,955
Undergraduates
2,154
Student-faculty ratio 19:1
Peer median 14 : 1
Graduation rate
24.3%
4-year; 6-year rate 42.1%
Peer median 26.9%
“Peers” are all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) is a public university located in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. Established in 1891, it is part of the University of North Carolina system. ECSU is renowned for its commitment to providing quality education, and it emphasizes a strong liberal arts foundation alongside specialized professional training. The university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs across various fields, with notable strengths in areas such as aviation science, marine and environmental science, and teacher education. The school’s motto, “To Be, To Know, To Do,” encapsulates its mission to empower students to achieve personal and professional success.
The campus environment at ECSU is vibrant and inclusive, promoting a sense of community and belonging among its diverse student body. The university is known for its supportive faculty and staff who are dedicated to student success, providing mentorship and guidance throughout the academic journey. ECSU boasts modern facilities, including state-of-the-art labs, a well-equipped library, and recreational spaces that enhance student life. The university also has a rich tradition of athletics, encouraging students to participate in a variety of sports through its NCAA Division II programs. Overall, Elizabeth City State University is not just an educational institution, but a nurturing ground for future leaders and innovators, fostering both academic excellence and personal growth in its students.
Analysis of Key Data Trends at Elizabeth City State University
The data from Elizabeth City State University reveals significant trends in tuition, student enrollment, and graduation rates over the years. One notable observation is the fluctuation in tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. For instance, the in-state tuition increased from $4,429 in 2014 to $3,356 in 2023, indicating a substantial drop in costs. Conversely, the out-of-state tuition has seen a gradual rise, growing from $15,286 in 2014 to $7,356 in 2023. This decline in in-state tuition may be linked to efforts to make education more accessible to local students, especially in light of the economic challenges posed by the pandemic.
Another critical aspect is the trend in student enrollment. The number of undergraduate students has shown a slight increase from 2,336 in 2014 to 2,033 in 2023, signaling a potential stabilization after a significant drop in earlier years. This increase might reflect the university's efforts to attract and retain students amid competitive higher education landscapes.
Graduation rates present a mixed picture. The four-year graduation rate showed a modest increase to approximately 20.59% in 2023, while the six-year graduation rate improved to 43.14%. These rates suggest that while timely graduation remains a challenge, more students are ultimately completing their degrees, which is a positive trend for the institution.
Retention rates have also fluctuated but appear to be on the rise, reaching approximately 76.23% in 2023. This improvement could be indicative of enhanced student support services and engagement initiatives aimed at fostering a more supportive learning environment.
Overall, Elizabeth City State University is navigating through challenges while demonstrating resilience through strategic adjustments in tuition, enrollment, and graduation efforts, reflecting a commitment to student success.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Virginia Beach, about 35 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Norfolk International Airport (ORF), about 45 mi
- Also known as
- ECSU
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. S. Keith Hargrove, Sr (Chancellor)
- Phone
- 2523353400
- Address
- 1704 Weeksville Rd, Elizabeth City, NC 27909
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 80.5% · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 58.1%, women 70.1%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Elizabeth City State University
The admission statistics from Elizabeth City State University over the years present a compelling narrative about the institution's evolving landscape. The data reveals fluctuations in both male and female acceptance rates, with male acceptance rates peaking at approximately 74.5% in 2009 and witnessing a notable drop to around 45.5% by 2013. This trend suggests a significant tightening of admission standards or possibly a decrease in the number of applicants, which is consistent with broader trends seen across many universities in recent years, especially during economic downturns.
Conversely, the female acceptance rates show a more stable but still concerning trend, starting at approximately 82.9% in 2009 and dropping to about 76.4% in 2023. This decrease might reflect an increase in competition among female applicants or a change in the university's admission strategy aimed at balancing gender representation.
The total enrollment numbers fluctuated significantly, with a peak enrollment of 664 students in 2011 and a sharp decline to just 203 by 2017, highlighting potential challenges the university faced in attracting and retaining students. The high denial rates, particularly in 2013, where nearly 1,436 applications were rejected, indicate a potential mismatch between the university's capacity and the number of applicants.
Looking at the deferment numbers, the increase in deferred admissions over the years points to a growing trend where students are choosing to delay their entry, possibly due to external factors like financial constraints or a desire to pursue other opportunities before committing to higher education.
Overall, these trends underscore the need for universities like Elizabeth City State University to adapt their admissions strategies to remain competitive and accessible, especially in a rapidly changing educational environment.
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
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 · 3% submitted SAT, 11% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Test Scores at Elizabeth City State University
The data from Elizabeth City State University over the years reflects significant fluctuations in standardized test scores and submission rates. In the early years, such as 2007 to 2013, the university saw a higher percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores, with rates consistently above 90%. This trend indicates a strong reliance on SAT scores for admissions, which aligns with many colleges' practices during that period.
However, from 2016 onwards, there is a noticeable decline in both the number of students submitting SAT scores and the submission rates, dropping to as low as 9% in 2022. This decline may reflect broader trends in higher education, where many institutions are moving towards test-optional policies, allowing students to apply without standardized test scores. This shift could be influenced by the increasing awareness of equity issues in standardized testing and the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on testing availability.
In terms of score ranges, there is an observable increase in the SAT reading and math scores over the years, particularly between 2019 and 2023. The 25th percentile scores have improved, indicating that while fewer students are submitting scores, those who do are generally achieving higher results. The 75th percentile also shows a positive trend, suggesting that the quality of admitted students remains competitive.
Overall, while Elizabeth City State University is experiencing lower submission rates for standardized tests, the quality of those who are submitting scores appears to be on an upward trajectory. This dual trend highlights the changing landscape of college admissions and the evolving criteria that institutions may prioritize.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 6 in 10
5,489 applicants in 2025, 64.2% admitted
3,525 admitted 1,964 not admitted Yield 12.0%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Elementary Education and Teaching · Master's24 (0% international)
- Biology/Biological Sciences, General · Master's5 (0% international)
- Mathematics, General · Master's4 (0% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's2 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Elizabeth City State University
The graduation data from Elizabeth City State University for 2023 reveals intriguing insights into the academic landscape of the institution. Notably, the most popular degree awarded is at the bachelor's level, particularly in the fields of Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Criminal Justice, and Business Administration, with graduation numbers reaching 52, 43, and 35 respectively. This trend emphasizes the growing interest in versatile and practical skills that these programs provide, aligning with contemporary job market demands.
Interestingly, while many programs at the bachelor level show robust graduation numbers, the master's degrees reveal a different story. The only notable master's program is in Elementary Education, which produced 20 graduates. This limited output at the master's level may suggest that many students prefer to enter the workforce after completing their bachelor's degrees. Additionally, there are no recorded international students graduating with master's or doctoral degrees, indicating a potential area for growth in attracting a more diverse student body at higher academic tiers.
Moreover, fields such as Computer Science, Mathematics, and Biology show minimal graduation rates, especially at the master's level where only 6 graduates were reported for both Mathematics and Biology. This could point to a broader trend within STEM disciplines, where students may find more lucrative opportunities in industry without pursuing advanced degrees.
In conclusion, the graduation statistics from Elizabeth City State University reflect a strong inclination towards undergraduate education in practical fields, while simultaneously underscoring challenges in attracting international students and fostering graduate-level education. As institutions adapt to changing educational and workforce landscapes, addressing these trends will be crucial for future academic strategies.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | $41,623 | ||
| Sustainability Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $36,079 | ||
| Accounting. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | - | ||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $40,697-$50,899 | ||
| Kindergarten/Preschool Education and Teaching. | $40,697-$50,899 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $34,102 | ||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $34,102 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $38,142 | ||
| Homeland Security. | - | ||
| Crisis/Emergency/Disaster Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aeronautics/Aviation/Aerospace Science and Technology, General. | $44,578 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Arts. | - | ||
| Graphic Design. | - | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $44,910 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $35,340 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering/Engineering-Related Technologies/Technicians, Other. | $60,760 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | $37,193 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | $35,720 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
Students
2,258 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 49:51 · Freshman retention 76.9%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,271
- First-year undergraduates 419
- Graduate students 104
- Transfers and others 464
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,154)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Enrollment Diversity at Elizabeth City State University in 2023
The enrollment data from Elizabeth City State University in 2023 reveals interesting insights into the composition and diversity of the student body. The undergraduate first-year students account for a notable portion of the student population, with a total of 350 enrolled. This group is relatively balanced in terms of gender, with 51.7% male and 48.3% female students, reflecting a slight male majority.
In contrast, the undergraduate upperclassmen (1,339 students) show a more pronounced gender disparity, with females making up 59.6% of this demographic. This shift may indicate not only a growing retention of female students but also their increasing participation in various academic programs at the university.
The transfer students group, comprising 223 individuals, maintains a relatively balanced gender ratio of 47.5% male and 52.5% female. This suggests that the university is successful in attracting and retaining students from diverse backgrounds, though the male representation is slightly lower than that of females.
Graduate students represent a smaller segment of the population, with 116 enrolled, and a stark gender imbalance, as only 22.4% are male. This significant underrepresentation of males in graduate programs may point to broader trends in higher education, where females are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees.
Overall, the data indicates that Elizabeth City State University is fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. However, the university should continue to explore strategies to encourage male enrollment, particularly in graduate programs, to ensure a more balanced representation across all levels of study.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Elizabeth City State University
The age composition of students at Elizabeth City State University in 2023 reveals interesting trends and demographic insights. The highest concentration of students is seen in the 18-19 age group, with 295 male undergraduates and 321 female undergraduates, showcasing a robust influx of traditional-aged college students. This trend aligns with national statistics indicating that most university students fall within this age range, reflecting the typical transition from high school to higher education.
As we progress through the age categories, there is a noticeable decline in the number of students. For instance, in the 20-21 age group, there are 225 male undergraduates and 328 female undergraduates, suggesting a slightly higher retention among females. The data further highlights a critical shift in student population as the age increases, particularly in categories 22-24 and 25-29, where the numbers drop significantly, indicating that older students may face challenges such as balancing work and studies or family obligations.
Notably, the presence of graduate students is minimal, especially in the younger age brackets. For example, there are only six male graduates and 14 female graduates in the 22-24 age range, suggesting that pursuing graduate education may be less common immediately after completing an undergraduate degree. The age of non-traditional students, particularly those above 30, remains small, with only a handful of individuals in each category, reflecting a broader trend in higher education where older adults may be less likely to enroll.
Overall, the demographic data from Elizabeth City State University reflects broader societal trends in education, particularly the predominance of younger students and the challenges faced by older learners in accessing and completing higher education.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
23 in 2025 · 0.1% in 2016
1 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Commentary on International Student Data at Elizabeth City State University
The data on international students at Elizabeth City State University highlights significant fluctuations in enrollment trends over the years, particularly for undergraduate students. In 2004, the university had a mere three international undergraduates, representing only 0.13% of the total undergraduate population. By 2023, this number had increased to 19, showing a remarkable growth in the percentage of international students to approximately 0.93%. This gradual increase indicates a positive trajectory in attracting international talent, which is crucial for enhancing the cultural diversity and global competitiveness of the university.
However, the data also reveals inconsistencies, particularly in the graduate student category where there are gaps in reporting. For instance, from 2004 to 2016, the graduate student enrollment data is largely absent, making it challenging to assess trends accurately. In 2023, the university reported one international graduate student, contributing to about 0.86% of total graduate enrollment. This suggests that while undergraduate numbers are slowly increasing, the graduate programs may still struggle to attract international students.
These trends can be understood within the broader context of global higher education, where institutions are increasingly competing for a limited pool of international students. Factors such as visa policies, economic conditions, and perceptions of U.S. higher education play pivotal roles in these dynamics. As the university seeks to enhance its international profile, understanding these trends will be critical for developing targeted recruitment strategies to improve its appeal to prospective international students. Overall, the university's journey reflects the broader challenges and opportunities within the international education landscape.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$22,522
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $10,536
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $6,536
- Room and board
- $11,986
- Graduate tuition
- $21,973
Peer median tuition + room and board $29,573 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose -38% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 57%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$116M
Expenses$96.0M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association
Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 120 | - |
| Basketball | 23 | 28 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Softball | - | 17 |
| Cross Country | 7 | 5 |
| Golf | 11 | - |
| Tennis | - | 11 |
| Bowling | - | 7 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 121 | - |
| Basketball | 18 | 16 |
| Volleyball | - | 20 |
| Cross Country | 8 | 8 |
| Softball | - | 11 |
| Tennis | - | 11 |
| Bowling | - | 8 |
| Golf | 7 | - |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 145 | - |
| Basketball | 22 | 19 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Cross Country | 7 | 10 |
| Golf | 11 | - |
| Bowling | - | 8 |
| Tennis | - | 7 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
College of William and MaryWilliamsburg · 73.8 mi
U.S. News #52
-
East Carolina UniversityGreenville · 79.5 mi
U.S. News #202
-
Virginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmond · 111.4 mi
U.S. News #156
-
University of RichmondUniversity of Richmond · 115.8 mi
Liberal Arts #21
-
North Carolina State University at RaleighRaleigh · 141.6 mi
U.S. News #73
-
Duke UniversityDurham · 153.2 mi
U.S. News #8
-
University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel Hill · 160.4 mi
U.S. News #27
-
University of North Carolina--WilmingtonWilmington · 170.0 mi
U.S. News #219
-
University of Virginia-Main CampusCharlottesville · 175.0 mi
U.S. News #26
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Elizabeth City State University:
-
Duke University - Ranked 7th in the 2024 US News, Duke University is a prestigious institution located in Durham, North Carolina, known for its strong academic programs and research initiatives.
-
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - With a rank of 22, this university is renowned for its public research programs and vibrant campus life, making it one of the top educational institutions in the country.
-
University of Virginia-Main Campus - Ranked 24th, the University of Virginia is famous for its historic campus and rigorous academic standards, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
William & Mary - As the 53rd ranked university, William & Mary is noted for its rich history and strong liberal arts curriculum.
-
University of Richmond - This university, ranked 25th, is a private liberal arts college known for its strong programs and beautiful campus.
-
George Mason University - Ranked 105th, George Mason University is recognized for its diverse academic offerings and research contributions.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are highly regarded in their respective fields.
Peer median 4.9 · all 85 public 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
Crime Trends at Elizabeth City State University
The crime statistics at Elizabeth City State University present a fluctuating yet concerning trend over the last decade. Looking closely at the data, there was a significant spike in crime rates in 2014, with an alarming rate of 38.91 incidents per 1,000 students. This rate saw a gradual decrease in the following years, but a notable resurgence occurred in 2020, reaching a peak of 56.08 incidents per 1,000 students. This spike coincides with the broader societal impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which could have contributed to increased stress and unrest within the campus community.
Specific categories of crime, such as gun-related arrests, have shown a persistent presence in the data. The rates of such incidents, alongside others like drug and alcohol arrests, suggest that substance abuse and related offenses remain critical issues on campus. For instance, the gun-related arrests were particularly high in 2014 and remained a concern in subsequent years, indicating the need for enhanced campus safety measures.
Moreover, the decrease in crime rates in the years following 2020, particularly in 2021 and 2022, might reflect the university's commitment to improving safety protocols and community awareness initiatives. However, the uptick in 2023 suggests that challenges remain, warranting ongoing attention from university administration and local law enforcement.
As universities strive to create a safe and conducive learning environment, the data underscores the necessity for continuous evaluation and proactive measures to combat crime and support student well-being. For further insights into crime rates and their calculation methods, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Elizabeth City State University include Alex Haley (Writer, author of Roots), Mike Gale (American basketball player) and Nate Higgs (Basketball player and coach).
-
Alex Haley 1921–1992
Writer, author of Roots
-
Mike Gale 1950–2020
American basketball player
-
Nate Higgs 1970–
Basketball player and coach
-
Tim Cofield 1963–
Former NFL and CFL linebacker
-
John Walton 1947–
Former professional football quarterback and coach
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.