Methodist University
Acceptance rate
75.1%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$41,250
$55,500 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,467
Student-faculty ratio 11:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
29.4%
4-year; 6-year rate 40.8%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Methodist University, located in Fayetteville, North Carolina, is a private university known for its commitment to providing a well-rounded education grounded in the liberal arts. Established in 1956, the university is affiliated with the United Methodist Church, which influences its values and mission. The university's motto, "A Community of Learning," reflects its dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for students from diverse backgrounds. With a focus on personal and academic growth, Methodist University encourages students to engage in critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and community service.
One of the standout features of Methodist University is its strong emphasis on experiential learning. The university offers a variety of programs that allow students to gain practical experience in their fields of study, including internships, service-learning opportunities, and research projects. Methodist University is particularly renowned for its programs in business, health sciences, and education, which are designed to prepare students for successful careers. The campus boasts modern facilities, including well-equipped classrooms, laboratories, and recreational spaces, promoting a vibrant student life. Additionally, the university is home to numerous student organizations and athletic teams, encouraging students to participate in extracurricular activities that enhance their educational experience. With a strong focus on student success and a dedicated faculty, Methodist University is committed to helping its graduates achieve their professional aspirations and make meaningful contributions to society.
Analysis of Key Trends at Methodist University
Methodist University, a private institution, has shown significant trends in tuition fees, student enrollment, graduation rates, and student retention over the years. The tuition fees have been on a consistent upward trajectory, indicating a growing financial burden for students. For instance, the undergraduate tuition for in-state students has escalated from approximately $27,830 in 2014 to around $39,664 in 2024, representing a staggering increase of over 42% in just a decade. This sharp rise in tuition can be attributed to various factors, including inflation and increased operational costs, which can deter potential students from enrolling.
In terms of student enrollment, there has been a noticeable decline, particularly in undergraduate numbers, which dropped from 2,243 in 2014 to 1,448 in 2023. This decline raises concerns about the university's appeal and competitiveness in attracting new students, especially amidst a growing trend of students exploring online education options and more affordable institutions.
The graduation rates have also displayed variability. While the timely graduation rate increased from 16.3% in 2013 to 23.8% in 2023, it still highlights a significant challenge, as nearly three-quarters of students are not graduating on time. This statistic underscores the potential need for enhanced academic support and resources to ensure student success.
Retention rates have seen some improvement, rising from 54.6% in 2013 to 62.3% in 2023. This upward trend suggests that once students enroll, they are more likely to continue their studies, possibly due to improved student services or campus environments. However, the persistent issues with tuition and enrollment must be addressed to maintain this positive momentum and ensure the university's long-term sustainability. Overall, while there are some positive signs, the university must navigate these challenges diligently to remain competitive in the educational landscape.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Midsize city
- Nearest major city
- Raleigh, about 50 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), about 50 mi
- Also known as
- Methodist
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- United Methodist
- President
- Dr. Stanley T. Wearden (President)
- Phone
- 9106307000
- Address
- 5400 Ramsey St, Fayetteville, NC 28311-1420
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 58.6%, women 71.9%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Methodist University
The admission data for Methodist University reveals significant trends in both male and female acceptance rates over the years. Starting with an acceptance rate of approximately 74% for males and about 71% for females in 2009, we observe a gradual decline in these figures, culminating in a male acceptance rate of around 73% and a female acceptance rate of about 83% by 2023. This fluctuation indicates a shifting approach to admissions, possibly influenced by changing institutional priorities or demographics in the applicant pool.
The total enrollment numbers reflect a similar narrative, with a peak enrollment of 551 students in 2012 followed by a steady decrease, reaching 326 in 2023. Over the years, the number of applicants denied admission has varied widely, with the highest number of denials (2,103) occurring in 2017. This could suggest an increasingly competitive environment or a rise in applications that outpaces the institution's capacity to admit students.
Additionally, the data shows a consistent number of deferred admissions, peaking at 2,045 in 2014, indicating that many students are either uncertain about their immediate college plans or that the university has adopted a policy of deferring applicants to maintain a balanced enrollment.
In summary, Methodist University appears to be navigating a complex landscape of application trends, acceptance rates, and enrollment strategies. The increasing female acceptance rate juxtaposed with the overall decline in enrollment may reflect broader societal trends in education, where female applicants are increasingly prioritized or more represented in higher education. This trend calls for further investigation into the factors influencing these dynamics and the university's strategic response to them.
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
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Health Specialty2 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 · 10% submitted SAT, 15% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in SAT and ACT Scores at Methodist University
The data from Methodist University over the years reveals significant trends in the standardized test scores of admitted students. Notably, while the number of students submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, the percentage of applicants submitting these scores has generally shown an upward trend until around 2018, after which there was a decline. For instance, in 2009, 75% of the admitted students submitted SAT scores, but this percentage dropped to just 12% by 2023. This decline might reflect broader trends in college admissions, where many institutions have adopted test-optional policies in recent years, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Analyzing the scores, we observe that the 25th percentile for SAT reading and math scores has gradually increased over the years. By 2022, the 25th percentile SAT reading score was reported at 550, a notable increase from earlier years, indicating that the university is attracting higher-achieving students. The upper 75th percentile also shows a similar upward trend, suggesting that the overall academic caliber of incoming students is on the rise.
Moreover, the ACT scores also reflect a similar tendency, with both the 25th and 75th percentile scores demonstrating improvement over the years. This is critical as it suggests that Methodist University is successfully appealing to academically strong candidates, which can enhance the institution's reputation and academic environment.
In summary, while the number of test submissions has decreased, the quality of admitted students, as indicated by their standardized test scores, appears to be improving. This duality of declining submission rates alongside rising scores could be a strategic shift in the university’s admissions approach, aligning with national trends towards more holistic review processes.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
2,743 applicants in 2025, 75.1% admitted
2,061 admitted 682 not admitted Yield 15.3%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Physician Assistant · Master's37 (0% international)
- Physical Therapy/Therapist · Doctoral34 (0% international)
- Occupational Therapy/Therapist · Doctoral22 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's7 (0% international)
- Health/Health Care Administration/Management · Master's3 (0% international)
- Mental Health Counseling/Counselor · Master's2 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Methodist University
The graduation data from Methodist University reveals some intriguing insights into the educational trends for the year 2023, particularly in the fields of health and biological sciences. Notably, the Physician Assistant program stands out with 39 graduates at the master's level, indicating a robust interest and demand for this profession. This aligns with the growing need for healthcare professionals, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has significantly highlighted the importance of accessible healthcare services.
Moreover, the Adult Health Nurse/Nursing program also produced a respectable number of graduates, with 15 at the bachelor's level and 4 international students. This reflects a broader trend in nursing education, where institutions are emphasizing the importance of training skilled nurses to meet healthcare demands. Interestingly, programs related to biological sciences, such as Biological and Biomedical Sciences, produced 17 bachelor's graduates. This indicates a steady interest in biological fields, likely driven by advancements in biotechnology and health-related research.
On the other hand, several programs, particularly in the arts and social sciences, did not report any graduates. This could suggest a potential area for growth or reevaluation within these departments, as they may need to adapt their offerings to attract more students or align with current job market demands.
Overall, the data highlights a clear focus on health-related fields, which is consistent with national trends emphasizing the importance of healthcare education in responding to societal needs. As the job market continues to evolve, it will be essential for academic institutions to remain agile in their program offerings to meet the changing demands of the workforce.
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 | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | - | ||||
| Physician Assistant. | $120,592 | ||||
| Mental Health Counseling/Counselor. | - | ||||
| Occupational Therapy/Therapist. | $73,981 | ||||
| Physical Therapy/Therapist. | $73,981 | ||||
| Adult Health Nurse/Nursing. | $75,912 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $49,886 | ||||
| Organizational Leadership. | $49,886 | ||||
| Accounting. | - | ||||
| Finance and Financial Management Services, Other. | - | ||||
| Business Statistics. | - | ||||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | $33,247 | ||||
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $33,247 | ||||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $33,247 | ||||
| Sports Studies. | $33,247 | ||||
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, Other. | $33,247 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $45,364 | ||||
| Fire/Arson Investigation and Prevention. | - | ||||
| Cybersecurity Defense Strategy/Policy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | ||||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | - | ||||
| Music Performance, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - | ||||
| Communication and Media Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Control Technologies/Technicians, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Data Science, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
Students
1,822 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 57:43 · Freshman retention 65.1%
- Continuing undergraduates 987
- First-year undergraduates 315
- Graduate students 355
- Transfers and others 165
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,467)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Demographic Insights at Methodist University for 2023
In the year 2023, Methodist University showcased a diverse student body with a total enrollment reflecting a mix of undergraduate and graduate students. Among the new undergraduate students, there are 326 individuals, with a significant male representation at approximately 66.9% and female representation at 33.1%. This gender distribution indicates a pronounced male dominance in the freshman class, a trend that may prompt discussions about gender balance in higher education.
The returning undergraduate students number 946, displaying a more balanced gender ratio of about 51.9% male and 48.1% female, hinting at an ongoing effort toward inclusivity in the academic environment. This balance is crucial as it fosters a more cooperative and diverse learning atmosphere, which is essential for the development of future leaders.
The transfer students, totaling 170, have a slightly higher female representation at 53.5%, reflecting a shift in gender dynamics among those transitioning to new academic settings. In contrast, the graduate student population consists of 363 individuals, predominantly female at around 68.3%, which may reflect the growing trend of women pursuing advanced degrees, aligning with national statistics showing increasing female enrollment in graduate programs.
However, the data on ethnic diversity remains incomplete, with the breakdown of various racial and ethnic groups not fully reported for all student categories. The inclusion of detailed demographic data is vital for understanding the broader social context and ensuring that all student voices are heard and represented within the university community. As universities strive to create equitable educational environments, maintaining transparency and providing comprehensive demographic insights will be key to fostering an inclusive academic culture.
Analysis of Student Age Distribution at Methodist University
The age distribution of students at Methodist University reveals a diverse and vibrant academic community, particularly among undergraduates. The largest group comprises students aged 18-19, with 360 male undergraduates and 213 female undergraduates, showcasing the university's appeal to traditional college-age students. This age group represents approximately 37% of the total male student population and 37% of the total female student population, indicating a strong influx of fresh talent into the university.
As we analyze the subsequent age brackets, the number of students gradually decreases, with a notable drop in those aged 25-29, where male undergraduates number only 36, while female undergraduates rise to 60. This trend may reflect the changing priorities of students as they transition from undergraduate studies to the workforce or further education.
The presence of a significant number of graduate students, particularly in the 22-24 age range, with 40 male graduates and 109 female graduates, suggests that Methodist University is a hub for advanced studies. This aligns with national trends where more individuals pursue graduate education to enhance their career prospects.
Interestingly, the data shows that the representation of older students (ages 30 and above) is relatively low, with only a handful of students in each category. This might indicate that Methodist University primarily attracts younger learners, which could be a point of consideration for future recruitment strategies to engage non-traditional students.
Overall, the age distribution at Methodist University highlights a predominance of younger students, underscoring the institution's role in shaping the educational journeys of the next generation. As universities continue to adapt to the evolving educational landscape, understanding these demographics will be crucial for fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all students.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
100 in 2025 · 8.4% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 3.2% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Methodist University
The data reveals significant fluctuations in the enrollment of international students at Methodist University over the years. Starting with a modest representation of 2.53% of undergraduate students in 2004, there has been a noticeable increase, peaking at 10.40% in 2019. This growth reflects a broader trend in many U.S. universities, where international enrollment has often been influenced by global events, economic factors, and shifts in immigration policies.
Interestingly, while the undergraduate international student population has shown a steady increase, the percentage of international graduate students has not experienced the same upward trajectory. For instance, in 2006, the graduate international student percentage stood at a mere 1.16%, with 11 students, and only reached 4.02% by 2011. This inconsistency suggests potential barriers for graduate students, which could be due to varying program structures, funding opportunities, or competitive admissions processes.
Moreover, the years 2020 and 2021 saw a decline in both undergraduate and graduate enrollments, likely influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted global travel and education. The recent years, particularly 2022 and 2023, indicate a recovery phase, albeit with lower numbers than the peak years.
Overall, the data underscores the importance of understanding the dynamics of international student enrollment, as it not only impacts university diversity and culture but also reflects the global educational landscape. As universities navigate post-pandemic recovery, strategies to attract and support international students will be crucial for maintaining a vibrant academic community.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$55,500
- Undergraduate tuition
- $41,250
- Room and board
- $14,250
- Graduate tuition
- $47,895
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 35% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 26%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$60.2M
Expenses$51.9M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · USA South Athletic Conference
USA South Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 175 | - |
| Baseball | 78 | - |
| Soccer | 39 | 31 |
| Lacrosse | 42 | 22 |
| Basketball | 32 | 22 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 39 | 14 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 35 | 17 |
| Golf | 24 | 16 |
| Softball | - | 26 |
| Tennis | 14 | 9 |
| Cross Country | 9 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 167 | - |
| Baseball | 71 | - |
| Soccer | 37 | 32 |
| Basketball | 37 | 21 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 35 | 23 |
| Lacrosse | 34 | 21 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 34 | 18 |
| Golf | 25 | 18 |
| Softball | - | 30 |
| Tennis | 13 | 9 |
| Cross Country | 8 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 185 | - |
| Baseball | 80 | - |
| Soccer | 32 | 29 |
| Lacrosse | 35 | 23 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 35 | 23 |
| Basketball | 35 | 19 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 33 | 21 |
| Golf | 25 | 18 |
| Softball | - | 38 |
| Tennis | 12 | 13 |
| Cross Country | 12 | 13 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
North Carolina State University at RaleighRaleigh · 46.3 mi
U.S. News #73
-
University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel Hill · 54.6 mi
U.S. News #27
-
Duke UniversityDurham · 59.9 mi
U.S. News #8
-
Elon UniversityElon · 75.7 mi
U.S. News #100
-
North Carolina A&T State UniversityGreensboro · 82.1 mi
U.S. News #219
-
University of North Carolina at GreensboroGreensboro · 83.2 mi
U.S. News #208
-
University of North Carolina--WilmingtonWilmington · 84.7 mi
U.S. News #219
-
East Carolina UniversityGreenville · 90.9 mi
U.S. News #202
-
Wake Forest UniversityWinston-Salem · 104.7 mi
U.S. News #34
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Methodist University:
-
Duke University - Ranked 7th in the 2024 US News rankings, Duke University is a prestigious private research university located in Durham, North Carolina. Known for its rigorous academics and distinguished faculty, it offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - This public university ranks 22nd and is one of the oldest public universities in the United States. It is renowned for its strong emphasis on research and a vibrant campus life.
-
North Carolina State University at Raleigh - With a rank of 60, NC State is a leading public research university offering a variety of programs, particularly in engineering and technology. It is located in the capital city of North Carolina, Raleigh.
-
Wake Forest University - Ranked 47th, this private university is known for its small class sizes and strong liberal arts curriculum. It fosters a close-knit community and emphasizes ethical leadership.
-
University of Richmond - This liberal arts university is ranked 25th and is celebrated for its beautiful campus and commitment to student success. It offers a wide range of undergraduate programs and boasts a strong alumni network.
These institutions contribute to the rich educational landscape surrounding Methodist University.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities 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 Trends at Methodist University
The crime statistics at Methodist University over the past decade reveal significant fluctuations in the campus safety landscape. The average crime rate per 1,000 students peaked at 31.03 in 2013 and showed a gradual decline over the next few years, hitting a low of 4.38 in 2022. This reduction in crime rates suggests effective measures have been implemented to enhance campus safety and reduce incidents.
However, the notable spike in 2020, with an average crime rate of 31.91, raises concerns. This could coincide with societal disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic, including increased stress and isolation, which often correlates with higher crime rates. Interestingly, the numbers for 2023 indicate a slight increase to 11.82, which, while still low compared to earlier years, suggests that the university must remain vigilant.
Analyzing specific offenses, the absence of reported incidents related to gun arrests, drug arrests, and alcohol arrests in recent years reflects positively on the campus environment. The data also indicates a lack of serious offenses such as murder and sexual assault, which is reassuring for students and parents alike.
Overall, while the trend indicates improvements in safety, the university should continue to prioritize preventive measures and community outreach to maintain and further improve campus security. Engaging students in safety programs and fostering a culture of awareness can further support this positive trajectory. More information regarding crime rates and their calculation can be found at: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Methodist University include Christopher Daniels (Professional wrestler, AEW Head of Talent Relations), Stacey Milbern (Disability justice activist) and Ekow Hayford (Ghanaian member of parliament).
-
Christopher Daniels 1970–
Professional wrestler, AEW Head of Talent Relations
-
Stacey Milbern 1987–2020
Disability justice activist
-
Ekow Hayford 1970–2020
Ghanaian member of parliament
-
TJR 1983–
DJ and music producer
-
Ruth Carter Stapleton 1929–1983
Christian evangelist and sister of Jimmy Carter
-
David Adakudugu 1968–2019
Ghanaian politician and member of parliament
-
Becky Burleigh 1967–
Soccer coach and former player
-
John W. Handy 1944–
Retired United States Air Force general
-
Chad Collins 1978–
Professional golfer
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.