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U.S. News #181 Private nonprofit, 4-year

Warren Wilson College

Swannanoa, North Carolina · www.warren-wilson.edu

中文

U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027

#181

Acceptance rate

71.3%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$41,500

$54,550 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

740

Student-faculty ratio 12:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

37.8%

4-year; 6-year rate 45.4%

Peer median 45.1%

“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Warren Wilson College, located in Swannanoa, North Carolina, is a unique liberal arts college that emphasizes a distinctive triad of academics, work, and service. Founded in 1894, the college is known for its strong commitment to sustainability and social justice, deeply ingrained in its mission and educational approach. This is reflected in its motto, "The World Needs You," which inspires students to engage actively with their communities and the environment. The campus spans over 1,100 acres and is surrounded by the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, providing students with an idyllic setting for both study and personal growth.

The college offers a range of undergraduate programs, with a strong emphasis on experiential learning, which allows students to apply classroom knowledge to real-world situations. Notably, all students participate in a work program, contributing to various campus operations while gaining practical skills. Warren Wilson College is also renowned for its vibrant campus culture, promoting a sense of community through various student-led organizations, outdoor activities, and artistic endeavors. The college's commitment to environmental stewardship is exemplified in its organic farm and sustainable practices throughout campus life. With a focus on holistic education and personal development, Warren Wilson College prepares students not only for successful careers but also for meaningful lives dedicated to making a positive impact in the world.

Analysis of Key Trends at Warren Wilson College

Warren Wilson College has demonstrated notable trends in tuition and student demographics over recent years. The tuition for undergraduate students has shown a consistent upward trajectory, increasing from $29,540 in 2014 to $40,290 projected for 2024. This represents a significant financial burden for students and their families, especially considering that both in-state and out-of-state tuition rates remain identical. The rising costs of education can lead to increased student debt, potentially affecting enrollment and diversity in the coming years.

In terms of student enrollment, there has been a decline in the number of undergraduate students, dropping from 852 in 2013 to only 723 by 2023. This decrease raises concerns about the institution's attractiveness to prospective students, particularly in a competitive educational landscape. Coupled with fluctuating graduation rates, which saw a drop from 46.2% in 2015 to 33.8% in 2023 for timely graduation, it indicates potential challenges in student retention and success.

Moreover, the gender ratio among undergraduates has exhibited a consistent trend, with female students outnumbering males significantly, reaching a ratio of approximately 66% female to 34% male in 2023. This could impact campus culture and community dynamics, highlighting the need for strategies to attract a more balanced demographic.

Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has shifted slightly, with 8 students for every faculty member in 2023. While a low student-to-faculty ratio is generally favorable, consistent monitoring is necessary to ensure that academic support and resources remain aligned with student needs, particularly as enrollment figures fluctuate.

Overall, Warren Wilson College is at a critical juncture, facing challenges related to rising tuition, declining enrollment, and shifting demographics that necessitate strategic planning and proactive measures to ensure its sustainability and appeal in the higher education sector.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Rural, near a city
Nearest major city
Greenville, about 50 mi
Nearest international airport
Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), about 90 mi
Swannanoa, North Carolina
Also known as
Warren Wilson, WWC
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Damian Fernandez (President)
Phone
8287712000
City
Swannanoa, North Carolina
Address
701 Warren Wilson Rd, Swannanoa, NC 28778-2099

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
58.3%
Women
79.3%

In 2020: men 81.0%, women 86.6%.

U.S. News Liberal Arts Colleges · last 10 years
#181Ranked #181 every year from 2027 to 2027

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Warren Wilson College

Warren Wilson College's admission statistics reveal significant trends over the years, particularly in acceptance rates and enrollment numbers. The male acceptance rate fluctuated, starting at approximately 67.1% in 2009 and peaking at around 89.8% in 2012, before stabilizing around 80% in recent years. In contrast, the female acceptance rate showed a slightly less volatile pattern, beginning at about 83.4% in 2009 and reaching a high of 95.0% in 2012. This suggests that the college may have aimed to maintain a gender-balanced admission strategy, as evidenced by the relatively high acceptance rates for both genders.
The number of enrolled students also varied, with a notable peak of 251 in 2019, which coincides with a relatively low denial rate of 146 that year. However, the overall trend indicates a decline in enrollment numbers towards 2023, where only 192 students were admitted. This decrease could reflect broader trends in higher education, such as demographic shifts, changing perceptions of value in college education, or economic factors impacting students' decisions to enroll.
Moreover, the number of deferred admissions has consistently increased, with a staggering 886 deferrals reported in 2021. This may indicate that students are opting to take more time before committing to their college choices, a trend seen across various institutions amid the ongoing uncertainty due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In conclusion, the admission data from Warren Wilson College suggests a dynamic landscape influenced by various factors, including gender balance, economic conditions, and shifting student preferences, which are reflective of broader trends in higher education today.

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 0% submitted SAT, 6% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

ACT composite25–29
ACT composite
25–29
253036

Data insights

Analysis of Standardized Test Scores at Warren Wilson College

The data from Warren Wilson College reveals significant trends in standardized test score submissions and results over the years. A notable decline in the number of students submitting SAT scores is observed, particularly from 2018 onwards, with submissions dropping to as low as 1% in 2023. This trend reflects a broader movement in higher education where many institutions are adopting test-optional policies, allowing students the choice to apply without standardized test scores.

Despite the decline in submissions, the scores of those who did submit show a consistent range, with the 25th percentile SAT reading scores ranging from 500 to 620 and the 75th percentile scores fluctuating between 650 and 695 over the years. This consistency suggests that while fewer students are choosing to take the SAT, those who do tend to be academically competitive, as evidenced by the higher score ranges.

The ACT data presents a similar narrative. The number of ACT submissions has also decreased, with the percentage of students submitting scores dropping significantly in recent years. However, the performance of those students remains commendable, with the ACT composite scores showing an upward trend in the 75th percentile, indicating that the students who choose to submit scores are increasingly performing well.

In conclusion, the data from Warren Wilson College exemplifies the shifting landscape of college admissions, where the emphasis on standardized testing is waning. This change may provide opportunities for a more holistic review of applicants, focusing on diverse talents and experiences beyond just test scores.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 7 in 10

1,361 applicants in 2025, 71.3% admitted

971 admitted 390 not admitted Yield 17.9%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's1816 international (3.3%)
Master's192 international (10.5%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Sociology and Anthropology
19
Visual and Performing Arts, General
18
Environmental Studies
16
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
15
Psychology, General
13
Conservation Biology
13
Environmental Science
11
Creative Writing
9
English Language and Literature, General
8
History, General
7

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Creative Writing · Master's19 (11% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Warren Wilson College (2023)

The graduation data from Warren Wilson College reveals intriguing trends across various fields of study. Notably, the Master’s program in Creative Writing stands out with 29 graduates, indicating a robust interest in the arts and humanities, particularly in creative disciplines. This is complemented by the international enrollment of one student, showcasing the program's appeal beyond domestic borders.

In the realm of psychology, there were 15 undergraduate graduates, along with three international students, suggesting a healthy interest in psychological studies, which are increasingly relevant in today's society, given the growing focus on mental health awareness.

Conversely, several programs, such as Business Administration and Environmental Studies, exhibited modest graduation figures, with only seven graduates each at the bachelor level. This could reflect a competitive job market in these fields or perhaps a strategic focus on quality rather than quantity in graduates.

Interestingly, the data also highlights a lack of diversity in the fields of study at the doctoral level, with no graduates reported across most disciplines. This raises questions about the institution's capacity for advanced research and its attractiveness for doctoral candidates. Programs such as Sociology and Environmental Studies, which traditionally draw interest in higher education, show no doctoral completions, potentially indicating areas for growth and development.

Overall, the graduation data suggests a strong emphasis on creative and psychological studies at Warren Wilson College, while also revealing potential gaps in higher-level graduate programs. This analysis could inform future curricular developments and recruitment strategies to enhance the diversity and attractiveness of advanced degree offerings.

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

English has 36 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-
Creative Writing.-
Biologyhas 29 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Biochemistry.-
Conservation Biology.-
Natural resources has 27 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Environmental Studies.$26,655
Environmental Science.$26,655
Visual and Performing artshas 22 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Visual and Performing Arts, General.-
Music, General.-
Social sciencehas 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Sociology and Anthropology.-
Psychology has 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$32,689
Agricultural has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Agroecology and Sustainable Agriculture.-
Public administrationhas 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Social Work.-
History has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
History, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Facilities Management, General.-
Outdoor Education.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General.-
International/Globalization Studies.-
Data Science, General.-
Philosophy has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Philosophy.-
Businesshas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.-
Health professionshas 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions, General.-
Physical scienceshas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.-
Communication has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Communication, General.-

Students

791 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 33:67 · Freshman retention 70.9%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (740)

White
560 · 75.7%
Hispanic
61 · 8.2%
Black
36 · 4.9%
Two or more races
31 · 4.2%
International
27 · 3.6%
Unknown
13 · 1.8%
Asian
7 · 0.9%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
0.9%
18–19
37.4%
20–21
41.1%
22–24
13.1%
25 and over
6.5%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.0%
22–24
0.0%
25–29
13.7%
30–34
7.8%
35 and over
78.4%

Data insights

Student Demographics at Warren Wilson College in 2023

The student population at Warren Wilson College in 2023 showcases a diverse array of individuals across different classifications. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 192 students, with a notable 42.7% identifying as male and 57.3% as female. This gender distribution reflects a trend seen in many higher education institutions, where female enrollment often exceeds that of males.

For undergraduate upperclassmen, the total number of students rises significantly to 466, but the gender composition shifts, with male students making up 31.8% and female students 68.2%. This further underscores the growing presence of women in higher education, particularly in traditional college settings.

The data for transfer students and graduates, while limited, indicates a smaller group with 39 transfer students and 70 graduate students, both showing a predominance of female students (71.8% and 71.4%, respectively). This trend is consistent across various educational institutions, highlighting an increasing number of women pursuing advanced degrees.

The breakdown of students by race/ethnicity, particularly among freshmen, reveals that white students represent the majority at 148 out of 192. This demographic trend prompts a broader discussion about diversity and inclusivity in higher education, especially as colleges aim to create environments that reflect the varied backgrounds of society.

Overall, the 2023 data from Warren Wilson College indicates a college environment increasingly characterized by female students, alongside an urgent need for continued efforts towards enhancing racial and ethnic diversity within the student body. As institutions of higher education evolve, these trends will be crucial in shaping future policies and outreach initiatives.

Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Warren Wilson College

The age demographics of students at Warren Wilson College in 2023 reveal a predominantly young student body, with the majority of undergraduates falling within the 18-21 age range. Specifically, students aged 18-19 account for 111 male undergraduates and a notable 187 female undergraduates, indicating a strong female presence in this age group.

As students progress into their twenties, the figures suggest a balanced enrollment for both genders among those aged 20-21, with 83 male undergraduates and 187 female undergraduates. This trend of higher female enrollment continues, particularly in the younger age brackets, which may reflect broader societal trends in higher education where females increasingly outnumber males.

Interestingly, the number of graduate students remains low, with only a handful in the 25-34 age range. This could point towards a preference for younger students to pursue undergraduate studies directly after high school, while older students may be less inclined to enter graduate programs immediately.

Moreover, the data shows a significant drop-off in older age categories, with very few students aged 35 and above, which raises questions about the accessibility and appeal of higher education for non-traditional students.

Overall, Warren Wilson College exhibits a youthful demographic that aligns with current trends in higher education, where younger students dominate enrollment figures. This may have implications for campus resources, support services, and community engagement strategies aimed at fostering an inclusive environment for students of all ages.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Undergraduates3.6%

27 in 2025 · 2.7% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 2.7%2017: 2.2%2018: 2.5%2019: 2.4%2020: 2.8%2021: 2.9%2022: 3.5%2023: 4.7%2024: 3.9%2025: 3.6%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025
Graduate students0.0%

0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 1.5%2018: 0.0%2019: 0.0%2020: 0.0%2021: 0.0%2022: 1.3%2023: 2.9%2024: 0.0%2025: 0.0%
2016Peer median 1.0%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Warren Wilson College

The data on international student enrollment at Warren Wilson College reveals a fluctuating trend over nearly two decades. The undergraduate population has generally seen a decrease in the percentage of international students, with a notable peak of 4.70% in 2023, compared to a low of 2.15% in 2017. This variability indicates potential changes in the college's appeal to international students, possibly influenced by global events, policies, and the college's international outreach efforts.

In the graduate segment, however, the data is sparse and shows only a few recorded international students, specifically in 2014 and 2023, where the percentages were only 1.59% and 2.86%, respectively. This raises questions about the graduate program's attractiveness to international applicants or the college's capacity to support them.

The overall trend suggests that while there may be an increasing interest among undergraduates, the graduate program has not similarly attracted a significant international cohort. This discrepancy could be attributed to numerous factors, including program offerings, funding opportunities, and the overall academic environment.

In light of global movements towards increased international collaboration in education, Warren Wilson College may benefit from targeted strategies to enhance its appeal to both undergraduate and graduate international students. As educational institutions continue to adapt to a rapidly changing world, it will be crucial for Warren Wilson College to assess and respond to these evolving dynamics to maintain and potentially grow its international student population.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$54,550

Undergraduate tuition
$41,500
Room and board
$13,050
Graduate tuition
$21,200
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Tuition rose 27% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 32%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$33.5M

Tuition and fees
$9.5M28.3%
Auxiliary enterprises
$9.0M26.8%
Gifts and private grants
$3.6M10.9%
Government grants and contracts
$2.9M8.7%
Investment return
$150K0.4%
Other
$8.4M25.0%

Expenses$30.8M

Instruction
$9.2M29.8%
Auxiliary enterprises
$6.5M21.1%
Student services
$6.0M19.6%
Institutional support
$5.6M18.0%
Academic support
$2.4M7.7%
Public service
$1.2M3.8%

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.

All faculty
$56,517peers $65,931
Professor
$61,226peers $77,501
Associate professor
$57,731peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$54,479peers $61,725
Instructor
$44,065peers $53,914

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Other · Other

Other: basketball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Other Sports2039
Soccer1921
Basketball1615
Lacrosse1516
Volleyball1014
Swimming911
Cross Country77
2024
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Other Sports1429
Soccer2319
Basketball1316
Lacrosse1514
Swimming1019
Volleyball1311
Cross Country98
2023
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer2221
Basketball2115
Other Sports188
Lacrosse1312
Swimming912
Cross Country610

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable colleges and universities near Warren Wilson College:

  1. Furman University - Ranked 46th in the 2024 US News rankings, Furman University is a private liberal arts college located in Greenville, South Carolina. It is known for its strong academic programs and beautiful campus.

  2. Davidson College - With a rank of 16, Davidson College is a prestigious liberal arts college in Davidson, North Carolina. It is renowned for its rigorous academic curriculum and commitment to developing ethical leaders.

  3. Clemson University - Ranked 86th, Clemson University is a public research university located in Clemson, South Carolina. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its strong engineering and business schools.

  4. University of Georgia - This public research university is ranked 47th and is located in Athens, Georgia. The University of Georgia is one of the oldest public universities in the United States and offers a diverse array of programs.

  5. Wake Forest University - Also ranked 47th, Wake Forest University is a private university in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. It is recognized for its small class sizes and strong emphasis on liberal arts education.

  6. Emory University - Ranked 24th, Emory University is a private research university in Atlanta, Georgia. It is well-known for its health sciences programs and its commitment to research and community service.

These institutions present a variety of options for students interested in pursuing higher education in the region.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Drug referrals
127
Liquor referrals
125
Domestic violence
2
Dating violence
1
Stalking
1

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Warren Wilson College

The crime statistics at Warren Wilson College reveal a significant decline in the average number of offenses reported per 1,000 students from 2013 to 2018. The data shows a peak in 2013 with a rate of 121.65, which then steadily decreased to 33.38 by 2018. This trend indicates effective measures taken by the college to enhance campus safety and reduce criminal activities. The drop in crime rates is commendable, particularly in the context of rising concerns about campus safety nationwide.

However, there was a slight uptick in reported offenses in 2019 and 2020, reaching 41.30 and 41.97 respectively. This resurgence may reflect broader societal challenges, including rising tensions and issues related to mental health, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Such fluctuations in crime data can often correlate with external factors affecting student behavior and institutional responses.

More recently, in 2022, the crime rate increased again to 52.80, which could indicate emerging challenges that the college administration must address. It is crucial for the institution to maintain proactive measures and continue engaging with the campus community to foster a safe environment.

Overall, while the data suggests a positive trend in some years, the recent increases highlight the need for ongoing vigilance and adaptive strategies to ensure the safety of all students. For further understanding of how these rates are calculated, you can refer to this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Warren Wilson College include James Franco (Actor and filmmaker), Lewis Pullman (Actor and musician, son of Bill Pullman) and David Weber (Science fiction author of the Honor Harrington series).

More alumni (5, by field)

Science and academia

  • Pentti Kanerva 1937–

    Neuroscientist, originator of sparse distributed memory

    Also attended: Stanford University

Arts and media

From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.

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.