William Peace University
Acceptance rate
94.3%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$34,176
$46,782 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
722
Student-faculty ratio 13:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
36.7%
4-year; 6-year rate 42.9%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
William Peace University (WPU), located in Raleigh, North Carolina, is a private liberal arts university known for its strong commitment to personalized education and student success. Founded in 1857, WPU has a rich history and a vibrant campus culture that fosters both academic and personal growth. The university prides itself on its small class sizes, allowing for a more intimate learning environment where faculty members can provide individual attention and mentorship to students. This close-knit community encourages collaboration and engagement, making it easier for students to form lasting connections with their peers and professors.
The university offers a variety of undergraduate programs, particularly emphasizing liberal arts education, business, and health sciences. WPU is dedicated to preparing its graduates for successful careers, evident from its strong focus on experiential learning, internships, and partnerships with local businesses. The university's location in Raleigh, a thriving city with a robust job market, provides students with ample opportunities for internships and employment after graduation. Additionally, William Peace University is known for its commitment to athletics, offering various sports programs that promote teamwork and a healthy lifestyle. With a strong emphasis on developing well-rounded individuals, WPU continues to cultivate a supportive and enriching environment that empowers students to achieve their goals.
Trends in Tuition, Enrollment, and Graduation Rates at William Peace University
Over the years, William Peace University has experienced notable changes in tuition fees, enrollment numbers, and graduation rates. Tuition has steadily increased from $23,900 in 2014 to $33,150 in 2024 for in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. This represents a significant rise of approximately 38.5% over the decade, which reflects a broader trend in higher education where rising costs often limit accessibility for prospective students. The average room and board fees have also seen increases, further contributing to the financial burden on students.
In terms of enrollment, there has been a sharp decline in undergraduate student numbers, decreasing from 1,081 in 2014 to just 713 in 2023. This trend could be attributed to various factors, including rising tuition costs and changing demographics in the applicant pool. The decline in enrollment is concerning as it directly impacts the university's financial stability and its ability to offer diverse programs and services.
The graduation rates present another area of concern. The on-time graduation rate hovered around 28.4% in recent years, with variations that suggest instability in student retention and completion. This rate, coupled with a retention rate that fluctuated significantly, indicates potential challenges in ensuring students persist through to graduation. The retention rate was particularly promising at 76.6% in 2022 but dropped to 60.2% in 2023, highlighting the need for interventions to support students throughout their academic journey.
Overall, these trends at William Peace University underscore critical challenges facing many institutions of higher education today, including rising costs, declining enrollment, and the necessity for improved support systems to enhance student success and graduation outcomes.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- In Raleigh
- Nearest international airport
- Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), about 10 mi
- Also known as
- Peace
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Presbyterian Church (USA)
- President
- Lynn Morton, Ph.D. (President)
- Phone
- 9195082000
- City
- Raleigh, North Carolina
- Address
- 15 E Peace St, Raleigh, NC 27604-1194
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 52.2%, women 49.7%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at William Peace University
The admission data from William Peace University reveals significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment figures over the years. Notably, the admissions for both male and female applicants show a tendency towards higher selectivity in recent years. For instance, in 2014, the male acceptance rate soared to an impressive 91.74%, indicating a potentially oversubscribed applicant pool or a strategic shift in the university's admission policies. Conversely, the female acceptance rate has consistently fluctuated, peaking at approximately 64.83% in 2023.
Enrollment numbers also exhibit variability, with the highest recorded enrollment of 328 students in 2014 and a notable drop in the following years. This trend could suggest changes in university marketing strategies, program offerings, or external factors influencing student decisions, such as economic conditions or competition from other institutions.
The number of denied applications has generally increased, particularly striking during the 2016-2020 period, where denials peaked at over 1,000 in 2020. This surge in denials aligns with a broader trend in higher education where many institutions are becoming more selective, potentially reflecting the increased applicant pool due to rising high school graduation rates and a focus on attracting top talent.
Overall, the data points to a complex interplay of factors impacting admissions at William Peace University, reflecting broader trends in higher education that prioritize selectivity and competitiveness while navigating the challenges of enrollment management. As the university continues to adapt to these dynamics, understanding these trends will be crucial for prospective students and the institution alike.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 11% submitted SAT, 11% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Test Scores at William Peace University
The admission test score data from William Peace University shows a notable trend over the years, particularly in SAT and ACT performance. In the early years, such as 2007 to 2011, the SAT scores demonstrated a relatively stable range, with the middle 50% scoring between 440 to 540 for SAT Reading and 520 to 540 for SAT Mathematics. This period saw a high percentage of applicants submitting their scores, with percentages often above 79%.
However, a significant decline in the number of applicants submitting scores occurred post-2015. For instance, in 2015, only 49% of applicants submitted SAT scores, which dropped to merely 12% by 2023. This drop in submission rates raises concerns about the reliance on standardized tests for admissions, especially considering the growing debate over test-optional policies in colleges across the United States.
In terms of actual scores, there has been a noticeable downward trend in the lower quartile SAT scores, dropping from around 440 in 2007 to 518 by 2023 for the reading component. This suggests that while the submitters are fewer, their performance has not significantly improved, which could reflect a broader shift in the academic preparedness of incoming students or changes in the university's admission strategy.
Ultimately, the data reveals an evolving landscape in college admissions, where reliance on standardized test scores is being reconsidered, potentially reflecting larger societal changes in educational assessment and access. As universities, including William Peace University, navigate these changes, it will be crucial to maintain standards while also adapting to the needs of a diverse applicant pool.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
1,044 applicants in 2025, 94.3% admitted
984 admitted 60 not admitted Yield 17.1%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from William Peace University for 2023
The graduation data from William Peace University for 2023 reveals interesting trends in student completions across various disciplines. Notably, Business Administration and Management topped the list with 30 graduates, highlighting the ongoing popularity and demand for business-related degrees in today's job market. This is consistent with national trends, where business degrees often lead in enrollment due to the diverse career opportunities they present.
In the realm of the arts and humanities, Game and Interactive Media Design appears significant, with 18 graduates, indicating a growing interest in digital and interactive fields. This aligns with the increasing reliance on technology and digital media in entertainment and education sectors, suggesting that universities are adapting their programs to meet industry demands.
Additionally, the data shows a minor presence of international students in various programs, with only one graduate in Biology and one in Marketing from the international cohort. This could reflect broader immigration trends and the challenges that international students face in accessing higher education in the United States, particularly in light of recent policy changes and economic factors.
Moreover, the health-related field, represented by Registered Nursing, produced four graduates, which is crucial given the escalating demand for healthcare professionals, exacerbated by the global pandemic. This underscores the importance of nursing programs in equipping students with the necessary skills for a vital sector of the economy.
Overall, the data indicates a strong inclination towards business and creative fields, while also shedding light on the challenges faced by international students and the healthcare sector's growing significance. These insights can inform future educational strategies and policy decisions at the university level.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $45,081 | |
| Organizational Leadership. | $45,081 | |
| Science/Technology Management. | $45,081 | |
| Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General. | - | |
| Management Science. | - | |
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $27,919 | |
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $27,919 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Visual and Performing Arts, General. | - | |
| Game and Interactive Media Design. | $26,522 | |
| Theatre/Theatre Arts Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | |
| Education/Teaching of Individuals in Elementary Special Education Programs. | - | |
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | |
| Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Criminology. | $40,976 | |
| Political Science and Government, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $34,640 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $32,534 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | - | |
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | - | |
| Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Law Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| International/Globalization Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
Students
722 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 47:53 · Freshman retention 73.6%
- Continuing undergraduates 431
- First-year undergraduates 168
- Transfers and others 123
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (722)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at William Peace University in 2023
The student demographic data for William Peace University in 2023 reveals a diverse and intriguing composition among its undergraduate and graduate populations. The total number of new undergraduate students stands at 136, with a noteworthy male representation of 59.6%, indicating a slight predominance of males in this category. In contrast, the returning undergraduates show a more balanced gender distribution, with females slightly outnumbering males at a ratio of 51.1% to 48.9%.
The transfer student demographic presents a significant male majority, as 64.7% of this group is male. This notable difference in gender representation across the categories raises questions about the factors influencing student choices at various stages of their academic journey.
In terms of racial and ethnic diversity, the data highlights that the white population remains the majority among new undergraduates, comprising 62.3% of their group. However, it is critical to recognize the presence of other groups, including Asian, Latino, African American, and international students, each contributing to the university's multicultural environment.
Overall, while the university shows a strong male presence among new and transfer students, the balanced gender ratio among returning undergraduates suggests a more inclusive environment for all students. As education institutions increasingly strive for diversity and inclusion, continual monitoring and support for various demographic groups will be essential to ensure an equitable educational experience for everyone.
Analysis of Student Age Distribution at William Peace University
The age distribution of students at William Peace University reveals a predominantly young demographic, with a significant concentration in the 18-21 age range. Specifically, students under 18 years account for approximately 1.3% of the total population, while those aged 18-19 represent 42.9% and 20-21 year-olds make up 43.8%. This indicates that the university attracts a large number of traditional college-age students, which is in line with national trends in higher education.
As students age, the numbers start to decline sharply. The 22-24 age group constitutes only 9.8%, while those aged 25-29 and above see even lower representation, indicating that the university is primarily serving younger undergraduates. The data highlights a minimal enrollment of graduate students, as evidenced by the absence of graduate males and a very limited number of graduate females.
Gender distribution shows a healthy mix, with female undergraduates slightly outnumbering their male counterparts in the younger age groups, particularly in the 18-21 categories. This trend is reflective of broader societal patterns where females are increasingly pursuing higher education.
Overall, the age composition at William Peace University underscores a youthful and predominantly undergraduate student body, which may pose challenges for retention and engagement as these students transition into their mid to late twenties. Institutions of higher education may need to consider strategies to support students beyond traditional college years, especially as the workforce evolves and lifelong learning becomes a necessity.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
7 in 2025 · 0.7% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at William Peace University
The data on international student enrollment at William Peace University reveals a fluctuating trend over the years. Starting from 2004, the proportion of international undergraduate students has generally remained low, with percentages ranging from 0.11% to 1.08%. Notably, the peak was observed in 2022 with 1.08% of the undergraduate population being international students, which indicates a slight improvement in attracting students from abroad.
However, there are concerning dips in subsequent years, particularly in 2018 and 2017, where the percentage plummeted to 0.11% and 0.19% respectively. Such declines could be attributed to various factors, including changing visa regulations, economic conditions, or shifts in global student mobility trends, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The overall total of undergraduate students also witnessed a downward trend, culminating in 713 students in 2023. This indicates that while the university may have made efforts to attract international students, the overall enrollment numbers have not been robust enough to significantly impact the international student population's ratio.
The landscape of higher education is increasingly competitive, with institutions worldwide vying for international talent. As universities seek to diversify their student bodies, it will be crucial for William Peace University to implement targeted recruitment strategies and enhance support services for international students. Building a welcoming environment and fostering a global campus culture may prove essential in reversing the declining trend in international enrollment and ensuring a vibrant academic community.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$46,782
- Undergraduate tuition
- $34,176
- Room and board
- $12,606
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 32% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 27%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$20.5M
Expenses$25.3M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · USA South Athletic Conference
USA South Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 35 | 21 |
| Baseball | 54 | - |
| Lacrosse | 19 | 16 |
| Basketball | 20 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Volleyball | - | 21 |
| Swimming | 8 | 8 |
| Tennis | 7 | - |
| Golf | 6 | - |
| Cross Country | 1 | - |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 63 | - |
| Soccer | 36 | 19 |
| Basketball | 20 | 11 |
| Lacrosse | 16 | 12 |
| Softball | - | 27 |
| Volleyball | - | 23 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 13 | 6 |
| Tennis | 7 | 8 |
| Swimming | 5 | 7 |
| Golf | 7 | - |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 43 | 24 |
| Soccer | 39 | 23 |
| Baseball | 52 | - |
| Lacrosse | 23 | 16 |
| Softball | - | 27 |
| Basketball | 17 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 24 |
| Swimming | 8 | 10 |
| Tennis | 6 | 6 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
North Carolina State University at RaleighRaleigh · 2.1 mi
U.S. News #73
-
Duke UniversityDurham · 22.3 mi
U.S. News #8
-
University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel Hill · 24.6 mi
U.S. News #27
-
Elon UniversityElon · 53.1 mi
U.S. News #100
-
North Carolina A&T State UniversityGreensboro · 66.5 mi
U.S. News #219
-
University of North Carolina at GreensboroGreensboro · 68.3 mi
U.S. News #208
-
East Carolina UniversityGreenville · 72.3 mi
U.S. News #202
-
Wake Forest UniversityWinston-Salem · 94.7 mi
U.S. News #34
-
University of North Carolina--WilmingtonWilmington · 116.3 mi
U.S. News #219
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near William Peace University:
-
Duke University - Ranked 7th in the 2024 US News rankings, Duke University is a prestigious research university located in Durham, North Carolina, known for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - With a ranking of 22, this university is renowned for its strong emphasis on public service and research, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Wake Forest University - Ranked 47th, Wake Forest is a private university in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, celebrated for its commitment to the liberal arts and exceptional student-faculty engagement.
-
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University - Also known as Virginia Tech, this university ranks 47th and is well-regarded for its engineering, technology, and architecture programs.
-
William & Mary - Ranked 53rd, William & Mary is the second oldest institution of higher education in the U.S., located in Williamsburg, Virginia, and is known for its distinguished academic programs and historical significance.
These institutions offer a variety of programs and are recognized for their academic excellence 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 Trends at William Peace University
The crime data at William Peace University reveals significant fluctuations in the crime rate over the years from 2013 to 2023. Notably, the average number of incidents per 1,000 students peaked in 2015 at 32.5, indicating a concerning spike in criminal activities. This trend is concerning, particularly in the context of campus safety, which is a priority for students and their families.
In contrast, the years 2021 to 2023 show a notable decline in crime rates, with averages dropping to 11.57 and 12.62 respectively. This reduction could reflect enhanced safety measures, improved campus security, or a shift in student behavior, possibly influenced by the pandemic's impact on campus life. It is critical for the administration to continue monitoring these trends and invest in safety initiatives as necessary.
Another point of interest is the specific types of arrests, including those related to gun possession and drug offenses. Despite the overall drop in crime, the focus on these particular categories remains vital. As campus communities contend with issues like substance abuse and violence, ongoing educational programs and resources are essential in fostering a safe environment for all.
Urban campus crime trends often correlate with broader societal issues, such as economic conditions and community relations. As such, continuous engagement with local law enforcement and community outreach can help mitigate potential risks. For further insights on crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of William Peace University include Fortune Feimster (Comedian, writer and actress), Gail Godwin (Novelist and short story writer) and Jacqueline Novogratz (Founder and CEO of Acumen).
-
Fortune Feimster 1980–
Comedian, writer and actress
-
Gail Godwin 1937–
Novelist and short story writer
-
Jacqueline Novogratz 1961–
Founder and CEO of Acumen
-
Mary Hilliard Hinton 1869–1961
North Carolina painter, historian and anti-suffragist
-
Alice Willson Broughton 1889–1980
First Lady of North Carolina from 1941 to 1945
-
Lisa Stone Barnes 1966–
North Carolina House Republican politician
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.