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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Methodist University

Fayetteville, North Carolina · www.methodist.edu

中文

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
Fayetteville, North Carolina
Also known as
Methodist
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
United Methodist
President
Dr. Stanley T. Wearden (President)
Phone
9106307000
City
Fayetteville, North Carolina
Address
5400 Ramsey St, Fayetteville, NC 28311-1420

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
72.5%
Women
79.4%

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

SAT total1080–1250Peer median 1158
ACT composite22–27
SAT Reading
550–630
600700800
SAT Math
530–620
600700800
ACT composite
22–27
253036

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)

Associate90 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's30822 international (7.1%)
Master's490 international (0.0%)
Doctoral560 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
48
Psychology, General
31
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
25
Exercise Science and Kinesiology
18
Adult Health Nurse/Nursing
17
Accounting
16
Social Work
13
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies
13
Industrial Engineering
12
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management
12

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

Health professionshas 121 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
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
Businesshas 90 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Business Administration and Management, General.$49,886
Organizational Leadership.$49,886
Accounting.-
Finance and Financial Management Services, Other.-
Business Statistics.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 44 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
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
Psychology has 31 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.-
Biologyhas 25 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Homeland security has 23 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.$45,364
Fire/Arson Investigation and Prevention.-
Cybersecurity Defense Strategy/Policy.-
Computer and information sciencehas 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Computer Science.-
Public administrationhas 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Social Work.-
Engineeringhas 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Industrial Engineering.-
Educationhas 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Education, General.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
Visual and Performing artshas 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Graphic Design.-
Music Performance, General.-
Liberal arts has 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.-
Communication has 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.-
Communication and Media Studies, Other.-
Social sciencehas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Political Science and Government, General.-
Engineering technologieshas 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Environmental Control Technologies/Technicians, Other.-
Physical scienceshas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Chemistry, General.-
English has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
English Language and Literature, General.-
History has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
History, General.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Data Science, General.-
Foreign languages has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Spanish Language and Literature.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Mathematics, General.-

Students

1,822 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 57:43 · Freshman retention 65.1%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,467)

White
648 · 44.2%
Black
294 · 20.0%
Hispanic
174 · 11.9%
Unknown
163 · 11.1%
International
100 · 6.8%
Two or more races
51 · 3.5%
Asian
17 · 1.2%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
1.1%
18–19
33.8%
20–21
31.9%
22–24
12.6%
25 and over
20.6%

Graduate students

Under 22
5.4%
22–24
45.9%
25–29
28.7%
30–34
8.5%
35 and over
11.5%

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.

Undergraduates6.8%

100 in 2025 · 8.4% in 2016

0% 7.5% 15% 2016: 8.4%2017: 9.4%2018: 10.2%2019: 10.4%2020: 9.7%2021: 7.9%2022: 6.6%2023: 6.3%2024: 6.4%2025: 6.8%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students0.0%

0 in 2025 · 3.2% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 3.2%2017: 4.0%2018: 3.1%2019: 2.5%2020: 1.2%2021: 0.0%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.0%2024: 0.0%2025: 0.0%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

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
Tuition and room and board over time

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

Tuition and fees
$32.9M54.7%
Auxiliary enterprises
$10.8M17.9%
Gifts and private grants
$9.4M15.7%
Investment return
$5.4M9.0%
Government grants and contracts
$988K1.6%
Other
$698K1.2%

Expenses$51.9M

Instruction
$20.0M38.5%
Student services
$11.6M22.4%
Institutional support
$8.7M16.7%
Auxiliary enterprises
$8.3M16.1%
Academic support
$3.3M6.3%

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.

All faculty
$77,847peers $68,006
Professor
$92,371peers $78,041
Associate professor
$80,307peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$69,536peers $63,827
Instructor
$47,110peers $55,171

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · USA South Athletic Conference

USA South Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football175-
Baseball78-
Soccer3931
Lacrosse4222
Basketball3222
Track and Field (Indoor)3914
Track and Field (Outdoor)3517
Golf2416
Softball-26
Tennis149
Cross Country99
Volleyball-15
2024
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football167-
Baseball71-
Soccer3732
Basketball3721
Track and Field (Outdoor)3523
Lacrosse3421
Track and Field (Indoor)3418
Golf2518
Softball-30
Tennis139
Cross Country89
Volleyball-15
2023
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football185-
Baseball80-
Soccer3229
Lacrosse3523
Track and Field (Outdoor)3523
Basketball3519
Track and Field (Indoor)3321
Golf2518
Softball-38
Tennis1213
Cross Country1213
Volleyball-14

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near Methodist University:

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. 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.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
42
Drug referrals
30
Burglary
18
Dating violence
12
Rape
10
Stalking
5

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).

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.