Meredith College
U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027
#119
Down 4 from 2026
Acceptance rate
74.2%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$45,630
$58,910 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
1,206
Student-faculty ratio 10:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
63.0%
4-year; 6-year rate 67.8%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Meredith College, located in Raleigh, North Carolina, is a distinguished women's college known for its commitment to empowering women through education. Founded in 1891, the college has a rich history and a strong tradition of academic excellence. The campus is set on a beautiful 225-acre site, providing a serene and conducive environment for learning and personal growth. The college's mission emphasizes the importance of developing leadership skills, fostering critical thinking, and promoting a sense of social responsibility among its students. The school motto, “The Future is Female,” reflects its dedication to preparing women for success in a rapidly changing world.
The college offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with particular strengths in fields such as business, education, and the arts. Meredith College prides itself on its small class sizes and low student-to-faculty ratio, fostering personalized attention and mentorship from highly qualified faculty. This supportive academic environment helps students thrive both academically and personally. The campus culture is vibrant and inclusive, encouraging involvement in various extracurricular activities, including athletics, clubs, and community service. Meredith College also boasts an impressive record of graduate employment, with many alumni finding success in their chosen fields and making significant contributions to society. Overall, Meredith College stands out as a leader in women's education, preparing its students to become empowered and engaged leaders in their communities and beyond.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Meredith College
Meredith College, a private institution, has experienced notable changes in several key metrics over the past decade, particularly in tuition, graduation rates, student retention, and the gender ratio of its student body.
Firstly, the tuition fees have shown a consistent upward trend. Starting from approximately $30,562 in 2014, tuition for in-state undergraduate students has increased to about $43,936 by 2024. This represents a significant financial commitment for students and their families, highlighting the growing cost of higher education, which can often outpace general inflation rates. Such increases may impact enrollment numbers in the future, as potential students weigh the financial burden against the value of the education provided.
Secondly, the graduation rates have shown a positive trajectory. The on-time graduation rate rose from approximately 43.4% in 2013 to about 57.3% in 2023. This increase indicates improvements in the academic support and resources available to students, potentially enhancing their overall college experience and success. A higher graduation rate can also strengthen the institution's reputation, making it more attractive to prospective students.
Moreover, retention rates have fluctuated but generally reflect a commitment to student support. The retention rate increased from about 71.4% in 2013 to 85.6% in 2021, before dropping to around 76.9% in 2023. This fluctuation suggests challenges in maintaining student engagement and satisfaction, perhaps influenced by external factors, such as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on educational experiences.
Lastly, the gender ratio remains heavily skewed towards female students, with women consistently representing over 99% of the undergraduate population in recent years. This gender disparity highlights Meredith College's unique position as a women’s college, which may continue to attract female students seeking a supportive educational environment tailored to their needs.
Overall, while Meredith College has made strides in graduation and retention rates, the rising tuition costs pose a challenge that may affect future enrollment and accessibility for students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- In Raleigh
- Nearest international airport
- Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), about 8 mi
- Also known as
- Meredith, Meridith
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Aimee Sapp (President)
- Phone
- 9197608600
- City
- Raleigh, North Carolina
- Address
- 3800 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC 27607-5298
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Best #115, lowest #119, latest #119 over the last ten years.
Data insights
Analysis of Admissions Data at Meredith College
The admissions data for Meredith College reveals significant trends over the years that reflect both the competitive nature of college admissions and the shifting demographics of applicants. Notably, the percentage of female applicants admitted has fluctuated, with acceptance rates ranging from approximately 60% to 73% over the examined years. This variability may indicate changes in the number of applications received, the college's strategic enrollment goals, or evolving standards for admissions.
In particular, the data shows a decrease in enrollment numbers from 2019 onwards, with the most recent year (2023) reporting an enrollment of 332 students, suggesting a potential decline in interest or a strategic decision by the college to limit the size of incoming classes. Additionally, the increase in the number of denied applications, particularly in the years leading up to 2023, highlights the growing competitiveness of the admissions process, as the college appears to have become more selective.
Moreover, the number of deferred applications has also seen a notable rise, particularly in 2020 and 2021, which could reflect not only the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic but also a broader trend of students taking time to consider their options before committing to enrollment. The implications of these trends are significant, as they may affect the college's future enrollment strategies and financial stability.
Overall, Meredith College's admissions data illustrates a complex landscape of higher education admissions, marked by fluctuating acceptance rates, changing enrollment figures, and the increasing selectivity of the institution. This ongoing evolution necessitates continued analysis and adaptation by the college to remain competitive in the higher education arena.
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
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Business School1 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 11% submitted SAT, 14% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Scores at Meredith College
The admission data from Meredith College over the years reveals some significant trends in standardized testing scores and the proportion of applicants submitting these scores. Notably, there has been a steady increase in both the SAT reading and math scores among admitted students from 2007 through 2023. For instance, the 25th percentile SAT reading score improved from 470 in 2007 to 600 in 2023, while the 75th percentile score rose from 570 to 680 during the same period. This upward trajectory suggests that the college is becoming increasingly selective, attracting higher-achieving students.
Conversely, the percentage of admitted students submitting SAT scores has experienced a sharp decline, dropping from 97% in 2007 to only 16% in 2023. This drastic reduction reflects a broader trend in higher education, where many institutions are adopting test-optional policies. The trend indicates that students may be opting to apply without submitting standardized test scores, possibly due to the recognition that such scores may not be the sole indicators of a candidate's potential.
Additionally, the number of students submitting scores has decreased significantly, from 441 in 2007 to just 53 in 2023, suggesting a shift in student perspectives on the value of standardized tests. This evolution in admissions practices aligns with national discussions about equity in education, as many institutions seek to create a more holistic and inclusive application process. Overall, Meredith College's admission data illustrates a complex landscape where rising academic standards coexist with changing attitudes toward standardized testing.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 7 in 10
1,983 applicants in 2025, 74.2% admitted
1,471 admitted 512 not admitted Yield 18.5%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's27 (7% international)
- Human Nutrition · Master's22 (5% international)
- Foods, Nutrition, and Wellness Studies, General · Master's20 (10% international)
- Industrial and Organizational Psychology · Master's16 (13% international)
- Elementary Education and Teaching · Master's7 (29% international)
- Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration · Master's5 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of 2023 Graduates at Meredith College
The graduation data from Meredith College for 2023 reveals several noteworthy trends and insights across various fields of study. Notably, in the realm of undergraduate degrees, the Biology program stands out with 39 graduates, making it the most popular major offered. This aligns with a broader trend in higher education, where biological sciences have consistently attracted students due to increasing interests in health, medicine, and environmental issues.
In the realm of graduate education, the Foods, Nutrition, and Wellness Studies program produced 35 master's graduates, with one being an international student. This suggests a rising awareness of nutrition's impact on health and well-being, reflecting global trends emphasizing preventive healthcare and wellness. The focus on nutrition studies is particularly relevant in today's context of public health discussions, especially in light of the recent pandemic that has heightened awareness of dietary habits.
Interestingly, other programs such as Marketing and Interior Design also contributed to the graduating class, with 19 and 25 bachelor’s degrees awarded respectively. However, there were no graduates in graduate-level programs for these areas, which may indicate a gap in advanced education opportunities or a preference for immediate employment in these fields.
Moreover, the lack of graduates in certain areas, such as international/globalization studies or public/applied history, points to potential under-enrollment or a shift in student interests that could warrant further investigation by the institution. Overall, these trends not only highlight the varied interests of students at Meredith College but also reflect broader societal needs and job market demands that educational institutions must consider in future curriculum development.
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. | $39,793-$79,670 | ||
| Accounting. | - | ||
| Hospitality Administration/Management, General. | - | ||
| Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General. | - | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $45,372 | ||
| Fashion Merchandising. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dance, General. | - | ||
| Fashion/Apparel Design. | $36,649 | ||
| Interior Design. | $36,649 | ||
| Graphic Design. | $36,649 | ||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | ||
| Musical Theatre. | - | ||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | ||
| Music Performance, General. | - | ||
| Voice and Opera. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Foods, Nutrition, and Wellness Studies, General. | - | ||
| Human Nutrition. | - | ||
| Child Development. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $41,567 | ||
| Biomedical Sciences, General. | $41,567 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $36,913 | ||
| Industrial and Organizational Psychology. | $70,104 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forensic Anthropology. | - | ||
| Economics, General. | - | ||
| International Relations and Affairs. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - | ||
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | - | ||
| Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Health, General. | - | ||
| Dietetics/Dietitian. | $52,671 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | ||
| Art Teacher Education. | - | ||
| Music Teacher Education. | - | ||
| Drama and Dance Teacher Education. | - | ||
| Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language/ESL Language Instructor. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Data Science, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
1,465 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 0:100 · Freshman retention 79.4%
- Continuing undergraduates 868
- First-year undergraduates 272
- Graduate students 259
- Transfers and others 66
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,206)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Meredith College in 2023
In 2023, Meredith College presents a distinctive demographic profile among its student body. The undergraduate new freshmen, comprising 332 students, are entirely female, indicating the institution's commitment to women's education. This trend is further echoed in the undergraduate continuing students, where the total of 913 students is also 100% female. Such a composition highlights the college's ongoing appeal and mission to foster an inclusive environment for women.
The undergraduate transfer students, while significantly fewer in number at 49, continue to reflect a similar trend with a female-only demographic. This pattern emphasizes the college's strong reputation among women transitioning from other institutions. In contrast, the graduate student body of 265 includes a small representation of male students, making up about 9.8% of this group, with females comprising the overwhelming majority.
Examining the racial and ethnic breakdown, the majority of students across categories identify as White, with 197 of the new freshmen and 605 continuing students falling into this category. The data reflects a critical need for diverse representation, particularly among other racial and ethnic groups, including Asian, Latinx, and Black students, as they appear to be underrepresented.
Overall, the statistics indicate that Meredith College remains a predominantly female institution with significant room for improvement concerning racial and ethnic diversity. As educational institutions increasingly aim for inclusive environments, Meredith's demographic makeup may necessitate strategies to attract a more diverse student population, ensuring a richer educational experience for all.
Age Composition at Meredith College: A Closer Look
The age composition of students at Meredith College in 2023 reveals a predominantly young demographic, with a significant concentration of undergraduate females aged 18-21. Among the total female students, 598 are in the 18-19 age range, representing approximately 109.9% of the undergraduate female population, highlighting the college's appeal to recent high school graduates.
As students progress into their early twenties, the number of undergraduates remains substantial, with 538 females aged 20-21 and a total of 545 females in this age bracket. This trend aligns with national statistics indicating that a large portion of college attendees are between the ages of 18 and 24, emphasizing that Meredith College continues to attract younger students.
However, the data also indicates a noticeable drop-off in enrollment for older age groups. For instance, the 22-24 age category sees a decline in female undergraduates, with 110 enrolled. This trend continues as we look at the 25-29 and older categories, where the numbers dwindle significantly, suggesting that the pursuit of higher education may shift for many individuals as they transition into their late twenties and beyond, perhaps due to career commitments or family responsibilities.
Additionally, the presence of graduate students, particularly females aged 30-34 and 40-49, reflects a growing trend of mature students returning to education. The college's environment fosters a supportive atmosphere for both traditional and non-traditional students, which is crucial as educational attainment becomes increasingly linked to career advancement in today's job market.
In summary, Meredith College's age composition illustrates a vibrant community of young learners while acknowledging the importance of supporting older students in their academic pursuits, contributing to the college's diverse educational landscape.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
31 in 2025 · 5.3% in 2016
12 in 2025 · 4.4% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Trends at Meredith College
The data from Meredith College presents an intriguing overview of the international student population over the years. In the early years, such as 2004, the proportion of international undergraduates was a modest 1.05%, with a gradual increase in subsequent years, peaking at 5.30% in 2016. This increase indicates a growing appeal of the college to international students, possibly due to enhanced global outreach or marketing efforts.
However, a concerning trend emerges in the later years, particularly from 2017 onwards, where the percentage of international undergraduates has fallen significantly. For instance, in 2021, the percentage dropped to just 1.05%, reflecting a potential decline in the college's attractiveness to international students or possible shifts in global education dynamics. Similar trends are observed in graduate enrollment, where the percentage of international students remained relatively low, with a peak of 4.44% in 2016 but declining to 3.77% by 2023.
This decline could also be attributed to the broader impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted international travel and education. As colleges worldwide adapt to these changes, it is crucial for Meredith College to strategize on how to re-engage potential international students. Offering flexible online learning options, enhancing support services for international students, and showcasing the unique aspects of campus life could be effective approaches.
In conclusion, while Meredith College has seen fluctuations in its international student population, the recent decline suggests an urgent need for reassessment and re-engagement strategies to ensure a diverse and vibrant academic community in the years to come.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$58,910
- Undergraduate tuition
- $45,630
- Room and board
- $13,280
- Graduate tuition
- $14,020
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 35% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 32%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$64.9M
Expenses$56.1M
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 · USA South Athletic Conference
USA South Athletic Conference: basketball, cross country
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
North Carolina State University at RaleighRaleigh · 1.3 mi
U.S. News #73
-
Duke UniversityDurham · 19.7 mi
U.S. News #8
-
University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel Hill · 21.7 mi
U.S. News #27
-
Elon UniversityElon · 50.1 mi
U.S. News #100
-
North Carolina A&T State UniversityGreensboro · 63.5 mi
U.S. News #219
-
University of North Carolina at GreensboroGreensboro · 65.3 mi
U.S. News #208
-
East Carolina UniversityGreenville · 75.3 mi
U.S. News #202
-
Wake Forest UniversityWinston-Salem · 91.7 mi
U.S. News #34
-
University of North Carolina--WilmingtonWilmington · 118.1 mi
U.S. News #219
Data insights
Here are some notable institutions near Meredith College:
-
Duke University - Ranked 7th nationally, Duke University is renowned for its rigorous academic programs, distinguished faculty, and vibrant campus life.
-
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - With a ranking of 22, UNC Chapel Hill is one of the oldest public universities in the United States, known for its commitment to research and public service.
-
Wake Forest University - Ranked 47th, Wake Forest offers a unique blend of liberal arts education and a strong emphasis on ethics and leadership.
-
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University - Also known as Virginia Tech, this institution is ranked 47th and is celebrated for its engineering and technology programs.
-
William & Mary - With a ranking of 53, this historic institution is known for its strong liberal arts curriculum and a close-knit community.
-
Davidson College - Ranked 16th, Davidson is a highly selective liberal arts college known for its strong academics and emphasis on honor and integrity.
These schools offer a diverse range of programs and experiences for students in the region.
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 Meredith College
The crime statistics at Meredith College from 2013 to 2023 reveal significant fluctuations in the reported incidents per 1,000 students. A noticeable peak occurred in 2020, with a staggering rate of 13.92, which can be attributed to various factors, including possible changes in campus safety policies or a rise in reported incidents during the pandemic.
Interestingly, the years preceding this spike showed a downward trend, particularly from 2013 to 2015, where crime rates significantly decreased. This decline might reflect effective crime prevention efforts or heightened awareness among students regarding campus safety. However, the dramatic rise in 2020 indicates that the college faced challenges during that year, which may have coincided with a broader national trend of increased crime rates during the pandemic.
After the peak in 2020, the crime rate appears to stabilize somewhat, with lower rates reported in 2021 and 2022. This reduction could signify the institution's ongoing efforts to enhance campus security and foster a safer environment for students. Nevertheless, the data highlights the importance of continuous monitoring and proactive measures to address any potential safety concerns.
Overall, while there are fluctuations in crime rates, the focus should remain on strategies that promote safety and well-being on campus. Institutions like Meredith College must remain vigilant and responsive to changing circumstances to protect their communities effectively. 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 Meredith College include Judy Woodruff (Former anchor of PBS NewsHour), Roxie Collie Laybourne (Ornithologist, pioneer of forensic ornithology) and Beth Leavel (Stage and screen actress and singer).
-
Judy Woodruff 1946–
Former anchor of PBS NewsHour
-
Roxie Collie Laybourne 1910–2003
Ornithologist, pioneer of forensic ornithology
-
Beth Leavel 1955–
Stage and screen actress and singer
-
Sarah Parker 1942–
Former chief justice of North Carolina Supreme Court
-
Lucy T. Allen 1941–
Former North Carolina General Assembly member
-
Susan Hill 1948–2010
Abortion rights activist and clinic organization president
-
May Thompson Evans 1901–1993
Teacher and federal government official
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.