North Carolina Wesleyan College
Acceptance rate
80.2%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$35,586
$48,934 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
1,262
Student-faculty ratio 13:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
29.2%
4-year; 6-year rate 38.4%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU), located in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, is a private liberal arts university that emphasizes a strong commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. Founded in 1956, the university is affiliated with the United Methodist Church, which enriches the campus culture with a focus on ethical leadership, service, and inclusivity. NCWU's mission is to provide a challenging education that fosters critical thinking, creativity, and personal growth, preparing students for successful careers and meaningful lives.
The university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with notable strengths in business, education, and the liberal arts. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1, NCWU ensures personalized attention and mentorship for its students, facilitating a supportive learning environment. The campus is equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, technology labs, and recreational spaces that enhance student life. Extracurricular activities, including athletics and various clubs, provide students with opportunities to engage, develop leadership skills, and build lifelong friendships. NCWU takes pride in its dedicated faculty, who are not only educators but also mentors and advisors, helping students navigate their academic and professional journeys. Overall, North Carolina Wesleyan University is a vibrant, welcoming community that prepares students to make a positive impact in the world.
Analysis of Key Metrics at North Carolina Wesleyan University
The data from North Carolina Wesleyan University highlights several significant trends in tuition costs, graduation rates, student retention, and gender ratios among undergraduates. Over the past decade, there has been a consistent increase in both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate tuition. From 2014 to 2024, tuition rose from $26,632 to $35,536, reflecting a 33.3% increase. This rise may deter prospective students, particularly given the current economic climate where student debt is a growing concern.
Graduation rates have shown some fluctuations, with the on-time graduation rate peaking at 33.3% in 2022 before declining to 24.2% in 2023. This decline could be indicative of various challenges students face, such as financial burdens or academic difficulties. It is essential for the university to investigate the underlying reasons for this trend and implement support systems to enhance student success.
Retention rates, however, present a more positive outlook. Retention has improved from around 56% in 2013 to approximately 66% in 2023. This upward trend suggests that once students enroll, they are increasingly likely to continue their studies at the university, which is a positive sign of student satisfaction and institutional support.
The gender ratio among undergraduates has also shifted, with male students increasing from about 39% in 2013 to over 50% in 2023. This change could signify a broader trend in higher education, where more females are enrolling in various academic programs, potentially impacting classroom dynamics and future workforce representation.
Overall, while tuition increases pose a challenge, the improvements in retention and the evolving gender dynamics present opportunities for North Carolina Wesleyan University to strengthen its academic community and support services.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Small city
- Nearest major city
- Raleigh, about 50 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), about 60 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- United Methodist
- President
- Evan Duff (President)
- Phone
- 2529855100
- Address
- 3400 N Wesleyan Blvd, Rocky Mount, NC 27804
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 57.5%, women 69.4%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at North Carolina Wesleyan University
The admission data for North Carolina Wesleyan University over the years reveals significant trends in both admission rates and overall enrollment figures. In 2009, the university had a notably low admission rate for males at approximately 22.76%, indicating a highly selective process. However, over the years, this rate fluctuated, peaking at around 69.47% for males in 2023, suggesting a shift towards a more inclusive admission strategy.
Female admission rates also displayed variability, starting at 18.62% in 2009 and reaching 65.77% in 2023. This progressive increase in female admission rates highlights an important trend towards gender balance in enrollment, which is critical for fostering diversity and equity in higher education.
The number of students enrolled has also varied, peaking at 379 in 2019 before declining to 249 in 2023. This decline in enrollment could reflect broader trends in higher education, including demographic shifts and changing preferences among prospective students. The significant number of denied applications, especially in recent years, underscores the competitive nature of admissions, with over 1,500 applications denied in 2021 alone.
Furthermore, the data indicates a rising trend in the number of students who defer admission, suggesting that potential students are increasingly considering their options or possibly facing uncertainties that influence their decision to postpone enrollment.
Overall, North Carolina Wesleyan University's admission statistics illustrate a dynamic landscape, with ongoing adjustments in response to external factors and the evolving educational climate. These trends are essential for understanding the university's strategic direction and its efforts to maintain a diverse and vibrant student body.
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Test Scores at North Carolina Wesleyan University
The admission test scores data from North Carolina Wesleyan University over the years presents a compelling narrative regarding the trends in standardized test submissions and performance. Over the years from 2007 to 2023, there has been noticeable fluctuation in the number of students submitting SAT and ACT scores, with some years witnessing substantial increases while others show declines. For instance, in 2011, 100% of admitted students submitted SAT scores, indicating a possible shift in admission policies or a higher interest in college education during that period.
Looking closely at the scores, the reading and math sections of the SAT have shown varying ranges for the 25th and 75th percentiles. The highest recorded range for SAT reading scores can be seen in 2015, with scores spanning from 371 to 565, suggesting an upward trend in the academic capabilities of admitted students. This is particularly significant against the backdrop of the national conversation regarding the importance of standardized testing in college admissions, especially as more institutions consider test-optional policies.
Furthermore, the ACT scores, while less frequently submitted as indicated by the percentages, also show a range that reflects the overall academic preparedness of students. The consistent submission of these scores could be reflective of a cultural or regional emphasis on standardized testing as a measure of academic achievement.
Overall, the data not only highlights individual yearly trends but also points to broader implications regarding educational policies, student preparedness, and the evolving landscape of college admissions. The shifts in submission rates and score ranges may reflect changing attitudes toward standardized testing, influenced by ongoing debates about access and equity in higher education.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
1,856 applicants in 2025, 80.2% admitted
1,489 admitted 367 not admitted Yield 17.5%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's52 (0% international)
- Organizational Leadership · Master's40 (0% international)
- Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration · Master's18 (0% international)
- Public Health, General · Master's4 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at North Carolina Wesleyan University
The graduation data from North Carolina Wesleyan University reveals intriguing insights into the academic landscape of the institution. Notably, the highest number of graduates at the bachelor's level is in Organizational Leadership, with 37 graduates. This reflects a growing trend towards leadership and management skills in today's job market, indicating that students are increasingly prioritizing competencies that make them competitive in various fields.
In contrast, certain disciplines, such as Environmental Science and Pre-Veterinary Studies, show no graduates in the bachelor's or advanced degree categories. This raises questions about student interest and institutional support for these programs. Additionally, the lack of master's graduates in many fields suggests a potential gap in opportunities for further education, which may limit career advancement for graduates seeking specialized knowledge.
Moreover, the data reveals a small but notable presence of international students, particularly in Computer and Information Sciences, with six international graduates. This highlights the university's appeal to a global audience, particularly in high-demand fields like technology. However, with only a few international graduates across other disciplines, there may be opportunities for the university to enhance its recruitment strategies to attract a more diverse student body.
Overall, this data underscores the need for North Carolina Wesleyan University to continuously assess its academic offerings and support systems to meet the evolving demands of students and the job market, especially in high-growth areas such as health care, technology, and leadership.
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. | $44,543-$60,005 | ||
| Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management. | $44,543-$60,005 | ||
| Organizational Leadership. | $44,543-$60,005 | ||
| Accounting. | $45,165 | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $42,024 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | - | ||
| Public Health, General. | - | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $39,069-$53,975 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $32,169 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $52,855 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $31,176 | ||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $31,176 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Biomedical Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Religion/Religious Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
Students
1,419 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 46:54 · Freshman retention 58.5%
- Continuing undergraduates 825
- First-year undergraduates 257
- Graduate students 157
- Transfers and others 180
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,262)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at North Carolina Wesleyan University
In 2023, North Carolina Wesleyan University showcased a diverse student body across various classifications. The undergraduate freshmen cohort comprises 249 students, with a notable male representation of 65.5%, while females account for 34.5%. This significant male majority may reflect broader trends in higher education where certain fields, particularly in STEM, attract more male students.
The undergraduate continuing students consist of 864 individuals, with a more balanced gender distribution—47.5% male and 52.5% female. This shift indicates a growing inclusivity and possibly a more diverse academic environment, as female students increasingly pursue higher education.
The transfer students, numbering 91, exhibit a similar trend to the freshmen, with only 37.4% male students. This statistic could imply that transfer students, potentially coming from community colleges or other institutions, may be following pathways that attract a higher percentage of women.
Lastly, the graduate student population, totaling 88, shows a pronounced female dominance at 69.3%. This trend aligns with national statistics indicating that women are earning more graduate degrees than men in recent years, especially in education, health, and social sciences.
The demographic breakdown also hints at the need for continued efforts towards diversity, equity, and inclusion, particularly among underrepresented groups. As institutions strive to create a welcoming environment for all students, understanding these gender ratios and the diverse backgrounds of students will be pivotal in shaping future policies and programs.
Age Composition of Students at North Carolina Wesleyan University
The age distribution of students at North Carolina Wesleyan University reveals interesting trends in the demographics of its student body. Among the youngest age group, under 18, there are 11 male undergraduates and 8 female undergraduates, indicating a relatively small cohort of students who are still in their teenage years.
The age bracket of 18-19 shows a significant influx of students, with 236 male undergraduates and 98 female undergraduates, making it the largest group. This is typical for universities, where many students begin their higher education journey right after high school. As we move to the 20-21 age range, the numbers remain substantial, with a nearly balanced representation of male and female undergraduates, although females slightly outnumber males.
The data shows a gradual decline in the number of students as age increases, particularly after the age of 24, which is consistent with national trends where younger individuals are more likely to pursue traditional undergraduate education. The presence of graduate students is minimal in comparison, indicating that this university primarily serves a younger demographic.
Additionally, the gender ratio across various age groups suggests that the university has a slightly higher number of female students overall, especially in the 25-29 age group, where there are significantly more female undergraduates than males. This trend could reflect broader societal changes where women are increasingly pursuing higher education.
Overall, the age composition at North Carolina Wesleyan University highlights a predominantly young and diverse student body, with a notable representation of female students, which could have implications for the university's programs and support services.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
172 in 2025 · 4.9% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2019
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Trends at North Carolina Wesleyan University
The data from North Carolina Wesleyan University reveals significant trends regarding international students over the years. The undergraduate population has seen a notable increase in the number and percentage of international students. From a mere 0.18% in 2004, the share of international undergraduates skyrocketed to 13.69% by 2023. This represents a remarkable growth in diversity within the student body, reflecting a broader trend in U.S. higher education where institutions increasingly attract students from around the globe.
The peak of international undergraduate enrollment occurred in 2022, with 159 international students, translating to 11.17% of the total undergraduate population. This suggests that the university has successfully established itself as a welcoming environment for international students, possibly enhancing its global reputation.
Interestingly, the data on graduate students appears incomplete, but the available figures indicate a small representation of international students in this category. In 2019, for instance, there were 27 graduate students, with no percentages documented for the following years, indicating potential areas for growth.
Overall, the upward trend in the percentage of international undergraduates at North Carolina Wesleyan University highlights the institution's commitment to fostering a diverse academic environment. This mirrors national trends in higher education where institutions are recognizing the value of international perspectives in enriching the educational experience for all students. As universities adapt to ever-changing global dynamics, the importance of international student recruitment will remain critical for academic diversity and institutional growth.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$48,934
- Undergraduate tuition
- $35,586
- Room and board
- $13,348
- Graduate tuition
- $12,700
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 26% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 40%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$29.5M
Expenses$31.6M
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: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 145 | - |
| Soccer | 56 | 27 |
| Baseball | 45 | - |
| Basketball | 18 | 15 |
| Tennis | 24 | 8 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 11 | 17 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Lacrosse | - | 13 |
| Golf | 11 | - |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 152 | - |
| Soccer | 55 | 24 |
| Baseball | 61 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 24 | 24 |
| Tennis | 24 | 8 |
| Basketball | 18 | 10 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Lacrosse | - | 14 |
| Golf | 11 | - |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 134 | - |
| Soccer | 52 | 20 |
| Baseball | 50 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 26 | 23 |
| Tennis | 28 | 8 |
| Basketball | 14 | 12 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Volleyball | - | 20 |
| Lacrosse | - | 13 |
| Golf | 10 | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
East Carolina UniversityGreenville · 36.5 mi
U.S. News #202
-
North Carolina State University at RaleighRaleigh · 52.9 mi
U.S. News #73
-
Duke UniversityDurham · 65.0 mi
U.S. News #8
-
University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel Hill · 71.8 mi
U.S. News #27
-
Elon UniversityElon · 96.8 mi
U.S. News #100
-
College of William and MaryWilliamsburg · 104.6 mi
U.S. News #52
-
Virginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmond · 107.2 mi
U.S. News #156
-
University of RichmondUniversity of Richmond · 108.4 mi
Liberal Arts #21
-
North Carolina A&T State UniversityGreensboro · 111.8 mi
U.S. News #219
Data insights
Here are some notable universities surrounding North Carolina Wesleyan University:
-
Duke University - Ranked 7th in the 2024 US News rankings, Duke University is a prestigious research university located in Durham, North Carolina. It is known for its rigorous academic programs, vibrant campus life, and strong emphasis on research and community service.
-
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. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is renowned for its research initiatives and commitment to public service.
-
North Carolina State University at Raleigh - Ranked 60th, NC State is known for its engineering, agriculture, and life sciences programs. It has a strong focus on research and innovation and is located in the vibrant city of Raleigh.
-
Wake Forest University - With a ranking of 47, Wake Forest is a private university in Winston-Salem, known for its liberal arts education and strong emphasis on ethics and personal development.
-
University of Virginia-Main Campus - Ranked 24th, UVA is a historic public university located in Charlottesville, Virginia. It is recognized for its distinguished faculty, beautiful campus, and strong emphasis on student self-governance.
These institutions offer a diverse range of programs and opportunities 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 North Carolina Wesleyan University
The data from North Carolina Wesleyan University reveals fluctuations in crime rates from 2013 to 2023. The average number of infractions per 1,000 students peaked in 2017 at 10.35, indicating a year of notable incidents. However, the subsequent years show a decline, with numbers dropping to a low of 3.42 in 2015. This decline was also observed in 2021, where the crime rate fell to 4.30, suggesting improved safety measures or a change in student behavior.
Interestingly, the highest recorded crime rates occurred in 2020 and 2021, with a significant spike in 2020 at 11.13. This increase may correlate with the unique challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which created unprecedented stress and changes in campus life. The data indicates that incidents related to gun-related arrests and drug-related offenses have been notable contributors to the overall crime rates.
Furthermore, the presence of domestic violence and other serious crimes, including assault and sexual offenses, requires continuous attention from campus authorities to enhance student safety. The variations in these statistics underscore the importance of proactive measures and community engagement in reducing crime and fostering a safe academic environment.
It is crucial for universities to analyze these trends and invest in preventive strategies to ensure student well-being. For more detailed information on calculating crime rates, you can refer to 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.