University of Mount Olive
Acceptance rate
75.8%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$27,366
$39,406 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,944
Student-faculty ratio 17:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
39.2%
4-year; 6-year rate 48.7%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The University of Mount Olive (UMO) is a private Christian university located in Mount Olive, North Carolina. Founded in 1951, UMO has a mission to provide a quality education rooted in Christian values, and it emphasizes the importance of developing the whole person through a liberal arts education. The university's motto, "In Your Hands," reflects its commitment to empowering students to take control of their education and future. UMO offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong focus on liberal arts, business, education, and health sciences. The small class sizes promote personalized attention and foster close relationships between students and faculty, contributing to a supportive and engaging academic environment.
The campus culture at UMO is vibrant and inclusive, with a strong emphasis on community service, leadership, and spiritual growth. Students are encouraged to participate in various extracurricular activities, including athletics, clubs, and volunteer opportunities. The university's athletic teams, known as the Trojans, compete in NCAA Division II and are known for their competitive spirit and dedication. UMO's facilities are modern and well-equipped, providing students with access to state-of-the-art resources for their studies and activities. The university's commitment to student success is evident in its comprehensive support services, including academic advising and career services, which help students prepare for successful careers upon graduation. Overall, UMO strives to create a nurturing environment that fosters both academic achievement and personal development, making it a unique choice for students seeking a holistic educational experience.
Analysis of Key Metrics at University of Mount Olive
The University of Mount Olive, a private institution, has shown notable trends in various educational metrics over the years. One of the most striking aspects is the increase in tuition fees. The undergraduate tuition has surged from $17,300 in 2014 to $25,950 in 2024, marking an increase of approximately 50%. This dramatic rise in costs can create financial strain on students and their families, potentially impacting enrollment rates and the diversity of the student body.
Simultaneously, the student enrollment figures have been declining. The number of undergraduate students decreased from 3,714 in 2013 to just 2,019 in 2023. This trend raises concerns about the institution's attractiveness and the long-term sustainability of its programs. A declining student body can also affect the campus community and resources available, as fewer students may lead to less vibrant campus life and reduced funding from tuition.
Another crucial metric is the graduation rate, which has fluctuated over the years. The on-time graduation rate saw a high of approximately 42% in 2021, but has been inconsistent, dropping to 37.3% in 2023. This inconsistency may reflect various challenges faced by students, including financial pressures or inadequate academic support.
Lastly, the retention rate has been relatively stable, hovering around 62% to 69% over the past few years. While it appears to have stabilized, this rate indicates that a significant portion of students do not continue their education at Mount Olive, which could be linked to the rising tuition costs and the overall student experience offered by the university.
In conclusion, the University of Mount Olive faces critical challenges regarding tuition affordability, enrollment sustainability, graduation success, and student retention. Addressing these issues will be essential for the university to enhance its reputation and secure its future in the competitive higher education landscape.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Rural, distant
- Nearest major city
- Raleigh, about 50 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), about 60 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Original Free Will Baptist
- President
- Ed Croom (President)
- Phone
- 9196530854
- Address
- 634 Henderson St, Mount Olive, NC 28365-0919
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 60.1%, women 57.4%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at the University of Mount Olive
The admission data from the University of Mount Olive reveals interesting trends over the years, particularly in the context of acceptance rates and enrollment numbers. From 2010 to 2023, the acceptance rate for male students has fluctuated, showing a general declining trend from 58.4% in 2010 to 75.7% in 2023. This suggests an increase in selectivity, which may be attributed to a growing applicant pool or a strategic shift in the university's admission policies.
In contrast, the acceptance rate for female students has shown a similar trend, starting at 53.5% in 2010 and reaching 73.8% in 2023. The narrowing of the gender gap in admission rates could indicate the university's commitment to supporting gender diversity within its student body.
Enrollment numbers have also varied significantly, peaking in 2010 with 383 new students and seeing a decline to 239 in 2022. This decline in enrollment, especially notable during the pandemic years, could reflect broader challenges faced by institutions across the country, such as changing demographics and economic factors influencing college attendance.
Moreover, the number of students denied admission has generally increased, indicative of competitive admissions processes. The substantial number of deferred admissions, particularly in 2021, reflects a growing trend where institutions are cautious about immediate enrollment amidst uncertainties.
Overall, these trends at the University of Mount Olive highlight the evolving landscape of higher education, where institutions must adapt to fluctuating applicant behaviors and external circumstances while striving to maintain enrollment and diversity within their campuses.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 0% submitted SAT, 10% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Data at the University of Mount Olive
The admission data for the University of Mount Olive reveals significant trends in standardized test scores and submission rates over the years. Notably, the submission rate for SAT scores peaked in 2011 at 66%, indicating a strong engagement from applicants during that year. However, this figure has notably declined in recent years, dropping to just 14% in both 2022 and 2023. This decline could reflect a broader national trend where students are increasingly opting to apply to colleges that are test-optional, a shift accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent reevaluation of the role standardized testing plays in college admissions.
Moreover, the range of SAT reading and math scores has shown some fluctuation. For instance, the 25th percentile reading scores have improved over the years, with the latest range being between 490 and 570, suggesting that the overall quality of admitted students may be increasing. However, the observed drop in the number of test submissions could indicate a shift in applicant profiles, where students with lower scores may opt not to submit their results in a more competitive landscape.
The overall decrease in the percentage of students submitting scores could also influence the university’s admissions strategy moving forward. As more institutions adopt flexible admissions policies, the University of Mount Olive may need to reassess its criteria and outreach to prospective students to remain competitive. This evolution in admission practices highlights the need for adaptive strategies to attract a diverse range of candidates while maintaining academic standards.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
1,926 applicants in 2025, 75.8% admitted
1,459 admitted 467 not admitted Yield 19.8%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Counseling Psychology · Master's37 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's34 (0% international)
- Health/Health Care Administration/Management · Master's7 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from University of Mount Olive
The graduation data from the University of Mount Olive for 2023 reveals some intriguing trends across various academic disciplines. Notably, the most graduates were recorded in the field of Criminal Justice/Safety Studies, with 36 students obtaining their bachelor's degree. This aligns with the increasing national focus on criminal justice reform and public safety, highlighting the relevance of this field in today's social climate.
In the realm of psychology, Counseling Psychology produced a significant number of master's graduates, totaling 27. This may reflect the growing awareness of mental health issues and the increasing demand for qualified professionals in this area, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has amplified the need for mental health resources.
Interestingly, the data shows a complete absence of associate degree graduates across all disciplines, implying a potential area for growth for the university. This could suggest that students are either opting to pursue bachelor's degrees directly or that the university may need to enhance its offerings for associate programs, particularly in vocational fields.
Moreover, the absence of international students graduating in several programs suggests a possible need for the university to bolster its international recruitment strategies. As universities increasingly compete for global talent, enhancing support systems for international students could foster a more diverse learning environment.
Overall, the graduation data not only reflects the current educational trends but also indicates areas for potential development and adaptation in response to societal needs and global competition.
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. | $55,929-$64,177 | |||
| Organizational Leadership. | $55,929-$64,177 | |||
| Accounting and Business/Management. | $50,804 | |||
| Finance, General. | - | |||
| Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General. | $52,651 | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - | |||
| Clinical Psychology. | - | |||
| Counseling Psychology. | - | |||
| Applied Psychology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | $48,488-$88,827 | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $83,084 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | |||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $38,326 | |||
| Agricultural Teacher Education. | $47,386 | |||
| Art Teacher Education. | $47,386 | |||
| English/Language Arts Teacher Education. | $47,386 | |||
| Music Teacher Education. | $47,386 | |||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | $47,386 | |||
| Social Studies Teacher Education. | $47,386 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $44,969 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agriculture, General. | - | |||
| Agricultural Business and Management, General. | $45,863 | |||
| Agricultural Production Operations, General. | - | |||
| Agricultural Communication/Journalism. | - | |||
| Plant Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Agriculture/Veterinary Preparatory Programs, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Studies. | - | |||
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $31,989 | |||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $31,989 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $44,754 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Information Science/Studies. | - | |||
| Computer Science. | - | |||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Biochemistry. | - | |||
| Environmental Biology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | - | |||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | |||
| Voice and Opera. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aviation/Airway Management and Operations. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sports Communication. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Religion/Religious Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Resources/Conservation, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | |||
| Professional, Technical, Business, and Scientific Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
Students
2,109 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 33:67 · Freshman retention 71.7%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,258
- First-year undergraduates 261
- Graduate students 165
- Transfers and others 425
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,944)
Data insights
Student Demographics at University of Mount Olive in 2023
The student composition at the University of Mount Olive for the year 2023 showcases a diverse and gender-imbalance demographic. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there is a near-equal gender distribution with 48.9% male and 51.1% female students, indicating a welcoming environment for new students. However, this balanced ratio shifts significantly among upperclassmen and transfer students, with males comprising only 33% and 30.9% respectively, highlighting a trend where fewer males continue their education at this stage.
The graduate student demographic presents an even starker contrast, with only 17.7% male representation against a significant 82.3% female population. This could suggest that females are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees, reflecting broader trends in higher education where women are earning more graduate degrees than men.
The racial composition of students is also noteworthy, particularly the representation of white students across different classifications, which remains the highest among all ethnic groups. This could indicate a lack of diversity within the student body and suggests that the university may need to enhance its outreach and support for minority groups and international students.
Overall, while the University of Mount Olive has a strong influx of female students, the disparity in male representation, especially in graduate programs, raises questions about the university's engagement strategies for male students and broader societal trends affecting their educational choices.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at the University of Mount Olive in 2023
The age composition of students at the University of Mount Olive reveals insightful trends regarding the demographics of its undergraduate and graduate populations. Notably, the largest group of students falls within the 18-21 age bracket, which is consistent with national patterns in higher education where younger individuals predominantly pursue undergraduate degrees.
In particular, those aged 18-19 represent 41.5% of the total male student body and 41.6% of the total female student body, highlighting a significant youthful presence on campus. Furthermore, the 20-21 age group continues this trend, with 33.3% of male and 37.4% of female students, suggesting that the university is effectively attracting recent high school graduates.
Interestingly, the data shows a notable increase in the number of students aged 25-29, especially among females, who comprise 88.6% of that age group. This suggests that the university is appealing to non-traditional students who may be returning to education later in life, reflecting broader societal shifts in career paths and lifelong learning.
The presence of students aged 40 and above is also significant, particularly among females, who make up 80.4% of this demographic. This trend points to a growing acceptance and encouragement of adult education, aligning with contemporary discussions about the importance of education in a rapidly changing job market.
In conclusion, the age distribution at the University of Mount Olive showcases a diverse student body, with strong representation from both traditional and non-traditional students. This diversity enriches the academic environment, fostering a culture of shared experiences and perspectives.
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.
104 in 2025 · 3.3% in 2016
4 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Data at the University of Mount Olive
The data regarding international students at the University of Mount Olive reveals significant trends over the years. The total number of undergraduate students has generally decreased from 2011 to 2023, dropping from 3,855 to 2,019. Despite this overall decline, the number of international undergraduate students has shown variability, particularly peaking at 110 in 2014, which corresponds to a notable increase in the percentage of international students from 0.88% in 2011 to 3.84% in 2022. This upward trend in the proportion of international students may indicate an increasing global interest in the university, reflecting broader trends in higher education where institutions are striving to diversify their student bodies.
Conversely, the graduate student data shows a different story as the total number of graduate students has fluctuated, with a peak of 244 in 2018, although the percentage of international students remains largely unreported, making it difficult to ascertain the exact representation. The available data shows that international students constituted only 0.46% of the graduate population in 2019, a stark contrast to the growth observed in the undergraduate segment.
These trends could be influenced by various factors, including changes in immigration policies, global socio-economic conditions, and the university's strategic initiatives to attract more diverse student demographics. As universities across the United States adapt to shifting global landscapes, it is essential for institutions like the University of Mount Olive to continue analyzing these patterns to enhance their international recruitment strategies and ensure a culturally rich educational environment.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$39,406
- Undergraduate tuition
- $27,366
- Room and board
- $12,040
- Graduate tuition
- $18,700
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 49% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 63%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$45.7M
Expenses$35.8M
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 · Conference Carolinas
Conference Carolinas: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 104 | 92 |
| Lacrosse | 43 | 41 |
| Soccer | 46 | 38 |
| Basketball | 41 | 28 |
| Baseball | 52 | - |
| Wrestling | 31 | 19 |
| Volleyball | 14 | 22 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Tennis | 14 | 10 |
| Field Hockey | - | 21 |
| Golf | 11 | 9 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 110 | 77 |
| Soccer | 43 | 36 |
| Lacrosse | 46 | 32 |
| Wrestling | 47 | 25 |
| Basketball | 33 | 23 |
| Baseball | 48 | - |
| Volleyball | 14 | 21 |
| Field Hockey | - | 26 |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| Tennis | 13 | 10 |
| Golf | 11 | 6 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 83 | 61 |
| Lacrosse | 45 | 36 |
| Soccer | 47 | 30 |
| Wrestling | 54 | 13 |
| Basketball | 37 | 21 |
| Baseball | 50 | - |
| Volleyball | 17 | 21 |
| Softball | - | 28 |
| Field Hockey | - | 23 |
| Tennis | 12 | 10 |
| Golf | 13 | 8 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
East Carolina UniversityGreenville · 48.2 mi
U.S. News #202
-
North Carolina State University at RaleighRaleigh · 52.4 mi
U.S. News #73
-
University of North Carolina--WilmingtonWilmington · 68.8 mi
U.S. News #219
-
Duke UniversityDurham · 73.4 mi
U.S. News #8
-
University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel Hill · 73.5 mi
U.S. News #27
-
Elon UniversityElon · 101.6 mi
U.S. News #100
-
North Carolina A&T State UniversityGreensboro · 112.8 mi
U.S. News #219
-
University of North Carolina at GreensboroGreensboro · 114.4 mi
U.S. News #208
-
Wake Forest UniversityWinston-Salem · 139.5 mi
U.S. News #34
Data insights
Here are some notable universities surrounding the University of Mount Olive:
-
Duke University - Ranked 7th in the 2024 US News rankings, Duke University is a prestigious private research university located in Durham, North Carolina. It is known for its strong programs in law, business, and medicine, as well as its beautiful campus and rich athletic tradition.
-
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - This esteemed public university is ranked 22nd. It is recognized for its commitment to research and public service, and it offers a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields.
-
North Carolina State University at Raleigh - With a ranking of 60, NC State is known for its engineering, veterinary, and agricultural programs. It is a leading public research university that emphasizes innovation and practical application of knowledge.
-
Wake Forest University - Ranked 47th, Wake Forest is a private university located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. It is known for its liberal arts education and strong programs in business and law.
-
University of Richmond - This private liberal arts university is ranked 25th and is known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education and a beautiful campus.
-
Davidson College - Davidson is a highly regarded liberal arts college, ranked 16th. It is known for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to honor and integrity.
These institutions provide a range of academic opportunities and are known for their excellence in various fields of study.
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
Crime Trends at the University of Mount Olive
The crime statistics at the University of Mount Olive over the past decade reveal notable fluctuations in the rates of various offenses. From 2013 to 2023, the average crime rate per 1,000 students showed a general decline, peaking in 2016 with a rate of 5.34, before dropping to a low of 2.44 in 2021. This trend indicates a significant improvement in campus safety, particularly in recent years.
In 2013, the campus recorded a high of 4.52 incidents per 1,000 students, which rose to 5.34 in 2016. However, the subsequent years displayed a downward trajectory, culminating in a rate of 2.68 in 2019 and 2.44 in 2021. This decline is encouraging, suggesting that measures taken by the university to enhance safety and security may have had a positive impact.
Notably, while the overall crime rate has seen a decrease, certain categories such as drug-related arrests and alcohol-related offenses merit closer examination. The data indicates that various types of offenses fluctuate, underscoring the importance of continued vigilance and intervention strategies.
As universities across the nation grapple with safety concerns, the trends at the University of Mount Olive reflect broader patterns in higher education. The ongoing commitment to fostering a safe learning environment is crucial, especially as crime rates can impact student retention and overall campus morale. It is imperative for institutions to remain proactive in addressing safety concerns, ensuring that students can focus on their education without fear of crime. For more information on crime rate calculations, please visit this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
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.