Warren Wilson College
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
- 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
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 81.0%, women 86.6%.
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
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)
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
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | ||
| Creative Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Biochemistry. | - | ||
| Conservation Biology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | $26,655 | ||
| Environmental Science. | $26,655 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visual and Performing Arts, General. | - | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sociology and Anthropology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $32,689 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Agroecology and Sustainable Agriculture. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Facilities Management, General. | - | ||
| Outdoor Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | - | ||
| International/Globalization Studies. | - | ||
| Data Science, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | - |
Students
791 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 33:67 · Freshman retention 70.9%
- Continuing undergraduates 490
- First-year undergraduates 174
- Graduate students 51
- Transfers and others 76
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (740)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
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.
27 in 2025 · 2.7% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
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
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
Expenses$30.8M
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 · Other · Other
Other: basketball, cross country
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Other Sports | 20 | 39 |
| Soccer | 19 | 21 |
| Basketball | 16 | 15 |
| Lacrosse | 15 | 16 |
| Volleyball | 10 | 14 |
| Swimming | 9 | 11 |
| Cross Country | 7 | 7 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Other Sports | 14 | 29 |
| Soccer | 23 | 19 |
| Basketball | 13 | 16 |
| Lacrosse | 15 | 14 |
| Swimming | 10 | 19 |
| Volleyball | 13 | 11 |
| Cross Country | 9 | 8 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 22 | 21 |
| Basketball | 21 | 15 |
| Other Sports | 18 | 8 |
| Lacrosse | 13 | 12 |
| Swimming | 9 | 12 |
| Cross Country | 6 | 10 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Furman UniversityGreenville · 47.4 mi
Liberal Arts #57
-
Wofford CollegeSpartanburg · 53.4 mi
Liberal Arts #68
-
Clemson UniversityClemson · 68.0 mi
U.S. News #80
-
The University of Tennessee-KnoxvilleKnoxville · 86.4 mi
U.S. News #109
-
Davidson CollegeDavidson · 90.2 mi
Liberal Arts #16
-
University of North Carolina at CharlotteCharlotte · 98.6 mi
U.S. News #169
-
University of GeorgiaAthens · 125.9 mi
U.S. News #52
-
Wake Forest UniversityWinston-Salem · 126.5 mi
U.S. News #34
-
University of South Carolina-ColumbiaColumbia · 137.4 mi
U.S. News #121
Data insights
Here are some notable colleges and universities near Warren Wilson College:
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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 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).
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James Franco 1978–
Actor and filmmaker
-
Lewis Pullman 1993–
Actor and musician, son of Bill Pullman
-
David Weber 1952–
Science fiction author of the Honor Harrington series
-
Duncan Trussell 1974–
Actor, stand-up comedian and podcast host
-
Donaldas Kairys 1977–
Lithuanian basketball coach and former player
-
Reginald Dwayne Betts 1980–
Poet, legal scholar and prison reform advocate
-
David Wilcox 1958–
Folk musician, singer-songwriter and guitarist
-
Fran Wilde 1972–
Science fiction and fantasy writer
-
Sara Benincasa 1980–
Comedian and author
More alumni (5, by field)
Science and academia
-
Pentti Kanerva 1937–
Neuroscientist, originator of sparse distributed memory
Arts and media
-
Adrian Blevins 1964–
Poet and university teacher
-
Billy Edd Wheeler 1932–2024
Songwriter, performer, writer, and visual artist
-
Catherine Barnett 1960–
Poet and educator
-
Dilruba Ahmed
American poet, writer and educator
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.