Livingstone College
Acceptance rate
59.2%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$18,296
$25,090 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
924
Student-faculty ratio 14:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
16.9%
4-year; 6-year rate 24.6%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Livingstone College, located in Salisbury, North Carolina, is a historically Black college that has been dedicated to providing quality education since its founding in 1882. The college emphasizes a strong liberal arts education while also offering a range of professional programs. One of the distinguishing features of Livingstone College is its commitment to community service and social justice, guided by its motto, "Enter to Learn; Depart to Serve." This reflects the college's focus on developing not just knowledgeable graduates but also responsible citizens who contribute positively to society.
The campus culture at Livingstone College is vibrant and inclusive, fostering a close-knit community among students and faculty. The college offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including athletics, student organizations, and cultural events, which enhance the overall student experience. Livingstone College's athletic teams are known as the Blue Bears, and they participate in various sports in the NCAA Division II. The college also boasts modern facilities, including well-equipped classrooms, libraries, and recreational areas that support both academic and personal development. With a strong emphasis on student engagement and leadership, Livingstone College prepares its graduates for successful careers and meaningful lives, making it a significant institution in the realm of higher education.
Analysis of Key Educational Metrics at Livingstone College
The data from Livingstone College reveals several crucial trends in tuition, student demographics, graduation rates, and retention rates that highlight the institution's changing landscape over the years.
Firstly, tuition costs for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students show a consistent increase from $16,024 in 2014 to $18,296 in 2019, remaining stable through 2023. This steady tuition rate may indicate a focus on affordability during a time when many colleges are facing backlash over rising costs. However, the introduction of graduate tuition in 2024 at $12,439 could suggest future expansions in graduate programs, which may attract a different demographic of students.
In terms of student enrollment, there has been a noticeable decline in undergraduate student numbers, dropping from 1,175 in 2014 to just 839 in 2023. This decline raises concerns about the college's appeal or competitiveness in the current educational market. Coupled with the increasing male-to-female ratio in the undergraduate population—where male enrollment rose to approximately 59% by 2023—this shift could impact the college's social dynamics and diversity.
Graduation rates show a glimmer of improvement, with the on-time graduation rate rising from about 11.5% in 2016 to 17.7% in 2023. This increase, although still low, suggests that efforts to improve academic support and student engagement may be having a positive effect. This is further supported by a significant rise in retention rates, which climbed from approximately 48% in 2013 to nearly 70% in 2023. Such an increase is critical as it reflects the institution's commitment to student success and could serve as an appealing factor for potential students.
Collectively, these metrics indicate that while Livingstone College faces challenges in student enrollment and gender balance, there are promising signs of improvement in graduation and retention rates, suggesting a potential for revitalization in the coming years.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Winston-Salem, about 30 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), about 40 mi
- Also known as
- Livingstone College
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church
- President
- Anthony Davis (President)
- Phone
- 7042166000
- City
- Salisbury, North Carolina
- Address
- 701 W Monroe St, Salisbury, NC 28144
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 46.3%, women 52.6%.
Data insights
Analysis of Livingstone College Admission Trends
The admission data of Livingstone College reveals significant fluctuations in both acceptance rates and enrollment numbers over the years. Notably, the male acceptance rate peaked at approximately 71.4% in 2014, while the female acceptance rate reached a high of about 72.6% in 2016. These figures indicate a relatively open admission policy during these periods, potentially reflecting the college's efforts to attract a diverse student body.
However, the data also shows a concerning trend in the years following 2016, where acceptance rates for both genders saw a decline. For example, in 2018, the male acceptance rate dropped to about 36.1%, and the female acceptance rate decreased to roughly 38.1%. Such declines suggest that the college may have faced increased competition or a shift in admissions strategy, possibly becoming more selective.
The enrollment numbers also exhibited variability, with a peak of 453 new students in 2015 followed by a decline to just 204 in 2021. This decrease in enrollment could be attributed to several factors, including changes in application numbers, demographic shifts, or broader trends affecting higher education institutions, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Moreover, the number of students denied admission has consistently remained high, with the highest denial number reaching 4,578 in 2017. This suggests that while the college may still be receiving a substantial number of applications, it is unable to accommodate all potential students, further complicating its admission landscape.
Overall, the data paints a complex picture of Livingstone College's admission dynamics, reflecting broader trends in higher education and the challenges faced by institutions in maintaining enrollment and managing acceptance rates amid changing circumstances.
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Trends in Standardized Test Scores at Livingstone College
The data from Livingstone College over the years reveals a notable trend in the submission and performance of standardized tests among applicants. A significant decrease in the number of SAT submissions is evident, dropping from 182 in 2007 to a mere 36 in 2023, which corresponds to a decline in the percentage of applicants submitting these scores from 70% to just 17%. This could reflect a broader trend in higher education where many institutions are moving towards test-optional policies, thereby reducing the emphasis on standardized testing in college admissions.
Moreover, the scores themselves show some fluctuation over the years. For instance, the SAT Reading scores have witnessed a gradual rise, peaking in recent years, indicating that while fewer students are submitting scores, those who do are performing better. The 25th percentile SAT Reading score increased from 323 in 2007 to a high of 420 in 2022, suggesting an improvement in the academic preparedness of those who choose to submit their scores.
Conversely, the percentage of ACT submissions also declined, mirroring the SAT trends. While the ACT scores displayed a similar upward trajectory, the overall participation in standardized testing appears to be diminishing, which may raise concerns about how colleges assess applicants' readiness for college-level work.
The evolving landscape of college admissions, coupled with a focus on holistic review processes, emphasizes the importance of various factors beyond standardized test scores. As institutions adapt to changing educational paradigms, Livingstone College's trends reflect broader shifts in how potential students are evaluated and how they choose to present their academic qualifications.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 6 in 10
6,721 applicants in 2025, 59.2% admitted
3,982 admitted 2,739 not admitted Yield 8.6%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's5 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Livingstone College
The graduation data from Livingstone College in 2023 reveals noteworthy trends across various disciplines. The most significant number of graduates can be found in the Bachelor's programs, particularly in Sport and Fitness Administration and Criminal Justice, with 21 and 14 graduates respectively. This highlights a growing interest in fields related to health, fitness, and public safety, possibly reflecting societal trends emphasizing wellness and security.
Interestingly, there are no reported graduates in the master's and doctorate categories across the majority of programs. This absence may suggest that students are opting for immediate entry into the workforce after obtaining their bachelor’s degrees rather than pursuing advanced studies. It could also indicate limited offerings in graduate-level programs within the college, which might impact its competitiveness in attracting students seeking higher education.
Another point of interest is the absence of international students graduating in most programs, with only a few completing associate degrees in Culinary Arts. This could reflect broader challenges faced by international students, particularly in navigating visa regulations and finding suitable academic environments.
The data also shows that while many programs have potential for growth, such as English Language and Literature or Music, they currently have minimal graduation rates. This presents an opportunity for the college to diversify its offerings and attract a broader student base.
Overall, Livingstone College appears to be successfully producing graduates in certain high-demand fields, yet it faces challenges in graduate programs and international student enrollment, which are critical for enhancing its academic reputation and diversity.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $23,907 | |||
| Hospitality Administration/Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $16,260 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Culinary Arts/Chef Training. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $31,190 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $25,949 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | $32,448 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | |||
| Mathematics Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Music, General. | - |
Students
936 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 58:42 · Freshman retention 70.6%
- Continuing undergraduates 520
- First-year undergraduates 342
- Graduate students 12
- Transfers and others 62
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (924)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Livingstone College for 2023
The student demographics at Livingstone College in 2023 reveal intriguing insights into the composition and diversity of the student body. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 217 students, with a significant majority of 70% being male. This indicates a strong male presence in the incoming class, which might reflect broader trends in higher education where male enrollment is often higher in certain disciplines.
For undergraduate upperclassmen, the total population is considerably larger, with 586 students. The gender ratio here is more balanced, with males constituting 54.4% and females 45.6%. This shift towards a more equitable gender representation could suggest that as students progress, the gender gap narrows, possibly due to various factors such as retention rates or the academic environment fostering inclusivity.
The data on transfer students is limited, with only 36 individuals reported. This small number and a high male ratio of 72.2% may point to specific trends in student mobility or the challenges faced by female transfer students in adapting to new environments.
Furthermore, the breakdown of demographics by race among freshmen indicates minimal representation from certain groups, such as white students, which raises concerns regarding diversity and inclusion. In the context of national discussions on equity in education, Livingstone College may benefit from initiatives aimed at attracting a more diverse student population, enhancing not only the college's appeal but also enriching the academic environment for all students.
Overall, these statistics underscore the importance of continuous efforts in promoting a balanced and diverse student body, which is essential for fostering an inclusive community in higher education.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Livingstone College
The age composition of students at Livingstone College in 2023 presents interesting insights into the demographic trends within the institution. Notably, there is a significant concentration of students aged 18-21, with a combined total of 550 students in this age bracket, which accounts for approximately 81% of the total student population. This trend aligns with the traditional college demographic, where younger students typically dominate enrollment figures.
The data also reveals that the institution has a slight gender imbalance among undergraduate students, with 189 male undergraduates compared to 105 female undergraduates in the 18-19 age group. This indicates that male students represent roughly 64% of the undergraduate population in this category, which could suggest a potential area for further recruitment of female students.
As students age, the numbers decrease significantly, particularly in the categories of 25-29 and above, where the male and female populations drop to single digits. This decline may reflect broader societal trends where older individuals are less likely to pursue traditional college education or may prefer alternative educational paths.
Interestingly, the college accommodates a small number of non-traditional students aged 30 and above, with only a handful of students in the 30-34 and 35-39 age groups. This points towards a potential opportunity for Livingstone College to expand its outreach and support for adult learners, particularly as the demand for lifelong learning continues to grow in today's rapidly changing job market.
In summary, Livingstone College's student age demographics reveal a youthful population with opportunities for gender balance improvements and a potential focus on attracting older students.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
48 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 6.7% in 2024
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Livingstone College
The data on international student enrollment at Livingstone College reveals a concerning trend over the years. Starting in 2004, the percentage of international undergraduate students was at 2.99%, which was a relatively healthy figure compared to subsequent years. However, this percentage sharply declined in the following years, hitting a low of just 0.18% in 2010. Such a drastic drop raises questions about the college's appeal to international students and possibly reflects broader challenges such as shifting immigration policies, economic factors, or competition from other institutions.
From 2012 onwards, there was a slight recovery, peaking in 2020 with 2.67%. This increase may have been influenced by global events that heightened the awareness of educational opportunities in the U.S. However, the latest data from 2023 shows a worrying decrease again to just 0.60%. This downward trend could indicate that Livingstone College is struggling to maintain its international student population, which is critical for enhancing cultural diversity and enriching the educational experience.
Overall, the fluctuating numbers highlight the need for the institution to reassess its strategies to attract and retain international students. As many colleges are increasingly recognizing the value of a global student body, Livingstone College must explore innovative approaches to enhance its international presence and address the challenges faced by prospective international students.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$25,090
- Undergraduate tuition
- $18,296
- Room and board
- $6,794
- Graduate tuition
- $14,078
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 6% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 3%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$30.8M
Expenses$32.2M
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 · Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association
Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association: football, basketball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 84 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 45 | 21 |
| Basketball | 23 | 16 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Volleyball | - | 22 |
| Golf | 7 | - |
| Bowling | - | 7 |
| Tennis | - | 6 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 58 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 39 | 17 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 33 | 15 |
| Basketball | 20 | 18 |
| Cross Country | 8 | 7 |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
| Softball | - | 14 |
| Bowling | - | 10 |
| Golf | 6 | - |
| Tennis | - | 6 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 102 | - |
| Basketball | 45 | 19 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 37 | 18 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 35 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 16 |
| Cross Country | 8 | 6 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Golf | 11 | - |
| Bowling | - | 11 |
| Tennis | - | 7 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Davidson CollegeDavidson · 23.4 mi
Liberal Arts #16
-
University of North Carolina at CharlotteCharlotte · 28.8 mi
U.S. News #169
-
Wake Forest UniversityWinston-Salem · 34.0 mi
U.S. News #34
-
University of North Carolina at GreensboroGreensboro · 46.7 mi
U.S. News #208
-
North Carolina A&T State UniversityGreensboro · 48.5 mi
U.S. News #219
-
Elon UniversityElon · 62.5 mi
U.S. News #100
-
University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel Hill · 82.0 mi
U.S. News #27
-
Duke UniversityDurham · 89.6 mi
U.S. News #8
-
Wofford CollegeSpartanburg · 95.4 mi
Liberal Arts #68
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding Livingstone College:
-
Duke University - Ranked 7th in the 2024 US News rankings, Duke University is a prestigious research university located in Durham, North Carolina. Known for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life, Duke offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees.
-
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - This university is ranked 22nd and is renowned for its strong emphasis on research, public service, and liberal arts education. As one of the oldest public universities in the United States, it has a rich history and a commitment to academic excellence.
-
Wake Forest University - With a ranking of 47, Wake Forest is a private university located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. It is known for its small class sizes and strong liberal arts curriculum, providing a personalized education experience.
-
Elon University - Ranked 133rd, Elon University is known for its commitment to experiential learning and strong community engagement. The university offers a range of undergraduate programs and has a vibrant campus life.
-
University of North Carolina at Charlotte - As the 178th ranked university, UNC Charlotte offers a diverse range of programs and is recognized for its focus on research and innovation in the region.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and enrich the academic landscape around Livingstone College.
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 Livingstone College
The crime statistics from Livingstone College over the past decade reveal significant fluctuations in campus safety. In 2013, the college experienced a notably high crime rate of 33.30 incidents per 1,000 students, which marked the peak in this dataset. However, a commendable downward trend began in 2014, with the rate decreasing to 10.89, showcasing effective measures taken by the college to enhance campus security and student safety.
The years following continued to demonstrate a decline in the crime rate, reaching as low as 5.92 in 2021, which reflects a proactive approach to crime prevention. Nevertheless, there was a slight uptick in 2022 and 2023, where the crime rates rose to 12.36 and 16.69 respectively. This increase may prompt the college administration and local law enforcement to reassess strategies to ensure a safe environment for all students.
Particularly concerning are the categories of gun arrests, drug-related incidents, and alcohol offenses, which are critical areas for ongoing monitoring and intervention. The prominence of these crimes emphasizes the need for continuous awareness programs and support systems for students.
Overall, while the downward trend in crime rates indicates progress, recent increases highlight the necessity for sustained vigilance and proactive measures to maintain a safe campus atmosphere. For those interested in understanding how these crime rates are calculated, further information can be found at this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Livingstone College include Quanera Hayes (Sprinter, 2020 US Olympic Trials 400m champion), James Emman Kwegyir Aggrey (Gold Coast educator, missionary and pan-Africanist) and Ruth Clement Bond (African-American educator, civic leader and quilt designer).
-
Quanera Hayes 1992–
Sprinter, 2020 US Olympic Trials 400m champion
-
James Emman Kwegyir Aggrey 1875–1927
Gold Coast educator, missionary and pan-Africanist
-
Ruth Clement Bond 1904–2005
African-American educator, civic leader and quilt designer
-
John Kinard 1936–1989
Pastor, activist, director of Anacostia Museum
-
Patrick Hilliman 1982–
Retired Dutch basketball player
-
Philip A. Payton, Jr. 1876–1917
African-American real estate entrepreneur
-
DJ Alamo 1968–
DJ and producer, founding member of Brand Nubian
-
Jeremiah Daniel Baltimore 1852–1929
African-American engineer and educator
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.