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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Capital University

Columbus, Ohio · www.capital.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

70.2%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$43,234

$56,218 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

1,609

Student-faculty ratio 9:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

56.5%

4-year; 6-year rate 61.1%

Peer median 44.6%

“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Capital University, located in Columbus, Ohio, is a distinguished institution known for its commitment to liberal arts education and professional studies. Established in 1830, it has a rich history and tradition of fostering academic excellence and community engagement. The university’s motto, “The Greatness of the Mind,” reflects its dedication to cultivating intellectual curiosity and critical thinking among students. Capital University emphasizes a holistic educational approach, encouraging students to explore various disciplines while developing essential skills for their future careers.

The campus environment at Capital University is vibrant and inclusive, offering a diverse array of student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The university's state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, libraries, and recreational centers, provide students with the resources they need to thrive academically and socially. Capital is particularly known for its strong emphasis on community service and experiential learning, allowing students to engage with the local community and apply their knowledge in real-world settings. The university’s commitment to preparing students for successful careers is evident in its robust career services and strong alumni network, which supports graduates as they transition into the workforce. Overall, Capital University is dedicated to fostering a nurturing and dynamic learning environment that empowers students to achieve their goals and make a positive impact in the world.

Analysis of Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention

The data from Capital University reveals significant trends in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention that are crucial for prospective students and policymakers alike. Over the past decade, tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has steadily increased. For instance, in 2014, the undergraduate tuition was approximately $31,990, which has escalated to nearly $41,788 by 2024. This represents an increase of around 30% in just ten years, highlighting the rising financial burden on students and their families.

Alongside rising tuition, graduation rates have shown fluctuations. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates was approximately 48.9% in 2013, peaked at 55.3% in 2018, and has remained around 53% in recent years. This suggests that while some initiatives may have temporarily improved graduation outcomes, the rates have not consistently risen, indicating potential challenges in student support or engagement.

Moreover, the retention rates, which measure the percentage of first-year students who return for their sophomore year, have seen a positive trend, increasing from about 74.6% in 2013 to nearly 78.2% in 2023. This improvement may reflect enhanced student services or academic support systems that help students feel more connected to the university, thereby increasing their likelihood of staying.

Overall, the increasing tuition costs juxtaposed with variable graduation rates and improved retention present a complex picture of the university's educational landscape. These trends warrant consideration from both administration and prospective students, as they reflect the evolving challenges and commitments involved in higher education today.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Suburb of a large city
Nearest major city
In Columbus
Nearest international airport
John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), about 4 mi
Columbus, Ohio
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Evangelical Lutheran Church
President
Jared Tice (President)
Phone
6142366011
City
Columbus, Ohio
Address
1 College and Main, Columbus, OH 43209-2394

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
62.6%
Women
76.4%

In 2020: men 65.0%, women 77.2%.

Data insights

Trends in Admission Rates and Enrollment at Capital University

The admission data from Capital University reveals notable trends in both gender-specific acceptance rates and overall enrollment figures over the years. From 2014 to 2023, the acceptance rate for male applicants saw a decline from approximately 75.6% to 66.9%, indicating increasing competition for male students. Conversely, female applicants experienced a less dramatic decline, starting from around 78.2% and tapering off to 76.3%. This suggests a growing gender parity in terms of acceptance rates, although females still enjoy a slightly higher acceptance rate.
Enrollment numbers fluctuated during this period, peaking in 2022 with 424 students enrolling, but then dropping to 518 in 2023. The number of denied applicants has consistently remained high, peaking at 1,319 in 2017 and 2018, which reflects the mounting competitive landscape of university admissions. The data highlights an interesting dynamic; while the overall number of applicants appears to be increasing, the university is also becoming more selective in its admissions process.
Moreover, the trend of increased deferrals indicates that many students are opting to delay their entry into university, possibly due to external factors such as the ongoing effects of the pandemic and shifting priorities among prospective students. This dynamic not only shapes the university's enrollment strategies but also prompts a reevaluation of how institutions approach student support and engagement.
In conclusion, the data from Capital University presents a complex picture of evolving admission trends, reflecting broader shifts in higher education and societal factors influencing student decisions.

School and Program Rankings

U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking

Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 15% submitted SAT, 39% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total910–1180Peer median 1158
ACT composite18–25
SAT Reading
450–590
600700800
SAT Math
460–590
600700800
ACT composite
18–25
253036

Data insights

Analysis of Capital University's Admission Data Trends

The admission data from Capital University over the years reveals a notable trend in both SAT and ACT scores as well as the number of applicants submitting these scores. From 2007 to 2023, there has been a significant decrease in the percentage of students submitting SAT scores, dropping from 35% to just 16% in 2023. This decline parallels a broader trend in higher education where standardized test requirements are being reassessed, with many institutions opting for test-optional policies in light of varying student circumstances, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In terms of performance, the scores for reading and mathematics show fluctuations over the years, but there is a modest increase in the 25th percentile for reading scores, rising from 470 in 2007 to 510 in 2023. This suggests that while fewer students are taking the SAT, those who do may be performing better. Conversely, the 75th percentile scores have also shown some improvement, indicating that higher-achieving students are continuing to apply, which could enhance the overall academic profile of admitted students.

The data also reflects a similar pattern with ACT scores, where the number of submissions has decreased significantly. The percentage of students submitting ACT scores has also declined, mirroring the SAT trend. These changes may indicate a shift in how students perceive standardized testing, as well as how universities adapt to these perceptions in their admission processes.

Overall, Capital University's admission data illustrates the evolving landscape of college admissions, where traditional metrics like standardized tests are being reconsidered, potentially leading to a more holistic approach to evaluating student potential. This evolution may ultimately benefit a diverse range of applicants, allowing for a broader representation of talents and skills within the student body.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 7 in 10

4,520 applicants in 2025, 70.2% admitted

3,174 admitted 1,346 not admitted Yield 11.8%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's3928 international (2.0%)
Master's804 international (5.0%)
Doctoral1251 international (0.8%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
51
Exercise Science and Kinesiology
27
Psychology, General
24
Business Administration and Management, General
24
Criminology
23
Music, Other
23
Early Childhood Education and Teaching
20
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
16
Social Work
15
Accounting
14

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Law · Doctoral125 (1% international)
  • Mental Health Counseling/Counselor · Master's34 (0% international)
  • Music Teacher Education · Master's13 (0% international)
  • Theology/Theological Studies · Master's9 (0% international)
  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's9 (44% international)
  • Nursing Education · Master's6 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from Capital University in 2023

The graduation data from Capital University in 2023 reveals several noteworthy trends across various fields of study. One of the most striking observations is the complete absence of undergraduate and master’s degree graduates in fields such as Law, Registered Nursing, Psychology, and Business Administration. This could indicate a strategic focus on doctoral programs, particularly in Law, where 100% of the graduates are at the doctoral level. This trend is significant, especially in a time when legal education is evolving to meet diverse societal needs and demands.

In the Registered Nursing field, the presence of 81 graduates at the bachelor level, with a small fraction being international students, highlights an ongoing commitment to addressing healthcare workforce shortages. The nursing profession has been in high demand, especially post-pandemic, which may explain the robust number of graduates in this area.

Conversely, the data shows limited international representation in several categories. For instance, only a few international students graduated from Registered Nursing and Psychology, reflecting potential barriers for foreign students, such as visa regulations and economic factors. This may warrant further investigation into how institutions can enhance support systems for international students.

The absence of graduates in interdisciplinary studies and the performing arts suggests a potential misalignment with student interests or market demands. This could signal opportunities for Capital University to innovate and create programs that resonate more with current educational trends and job market needs.

Overall, the graduation statistics emphasize the importance of aligning educational offerings with workforce demands, especially in critical fields like healthcare and law.

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

Legal professionshas 125 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Law.$64,345
Health professionshas 99 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Mental Health Counseling/Counselor.-
Art Therapy/Therapist.-
Nursing Education.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$76,542
Nursing Administration.$76,542
Educationhas 66 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Special Education and Teaching, General.$42,942
Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services.-
Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching.$42,645
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.$42,645
Art Teacher Education.$40,152
Mathematics Teacher Education.$40,152
Music Teacher Education.$40,152
Social Studies Teacher Education.$40,152
Businesshas 65 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Business Administration and Management, General.$50,591-$92,997
Accounting.-
Business/Managerial Economics.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.$47,168
Visual and Performing artshas 43 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Art/Art Studies, General.-
Music, General.$28,878
Music Performance, General.$28,878
Music Theory and Composition.$28,878
Keyboard Instruments.$28,878
Voice and Opera.$28,878
Music, Other.$28,878
Music Management.-
Social sciencehas 36 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Criminology.$35,785
Political Science and Government, General.-
Political Science and Government, Other.-
Sociology, General.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 27 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.-
Psychology has 24 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.$33,344
Biologyhas 21 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$28,582
Biochemistry.-
Communication has 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.-
Radio and Television.$36,910
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia.$36,910
Organizational Communication, General.-
Public Relations/Image Management.-
Public administrationhas 15 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Social Work.$44,946
Theology has 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Theology/Theological Studies.-
Divinity/Ministry.-
Computer and information sciencehas 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Computer Science.$75,147
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.-
English has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
English Language and Literature, General.-
Creative Writing.$35,339
Professional, Technical, Business, and Scientific Writing.$35,339
Foreign languages has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
French Language and Literature.$32,698
Spanish Language and Literature.$32,698
Physical scienceshas 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Chemistry, General.-
History has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
History, General.-
Natural resources has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Environmental Science.-
Philosophy has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Religion/Religious Studies.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Mathematics, General.-
Engineeringhas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Computer Engineering, General.-

Students

2,263 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 43:57 · Freshman retention 75.5%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,609)

White
1,058 · 65.8%
Black
217 · 13.5%
Hispanic
132 · 8.2%
Two or more races
96 · 6.0%
Unknown
46 · 2.9%
Asian
37 · 2.3%
International
21 · 1.3%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
1.2%
18–19
39.7%
20–21
41.6%
22–24
10.6%
25 and over
6.8%

Graduate students

Under 22
3.4%
22–24
39.3%
25–29
31.7%
30–34
7.6%
35 and over
18.0%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Capital University in 2023

The data from Capital University for the year 2023 reveals significant insights into the demographic composition of its student body. A total of 2,617 students are categorized into different groups, including first-year undergraduates, continuing undergraduates, transfer students, and graduate students. The undergraduate first-year students account for 518 individuals, while the continuing undergraduates represent the largest group at 1,297 students, indicating a robust retention and enrollment trend.

Gender representation shows a notable female majority across all categories. For instance, the ratio of female students in the first-year undergraduate group stands at 58.1%, while the continuing undergraduates exhibit a similar pattern with 59.1% female representation. This trend continues among transfer students, where the female ratio rises to 74.4%. The graduate student population also reflects this majority, with 59.4% being female.

In terms of racial diversity, the data suggests a predominance of white students across the student categories, with the first-year undergraduates having 329 white students, which constitutes about 63.5% of the group. The continuing undergraduate group also shows a high percentage of white students, though specific numbers for other racial categories are not provided.

This demographic overview highlights the university's commitment to diversity and inclusion, while also emphasizing the need for ongoing efforts to enhance representation across various ethnic groups. The female majority may reflect broader societal trends in higher education, where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees. Overall, these statistics provide a foundation for understanding the dynamics within Capital University's student population as they adapt to an ever-evolving educational landscape.

Commentary on Student Age Demographics at Capital University

The age distribution of students at Capital University in 2023 reveals significant insights into the student body's composition. A striking observation is the predominance of students aged 18-21, with a total of 1,610 students in this age bracket, accounting for approximately 82% of the total enrollment. This trend aligns with national data indicating that younger students, particularly those fresh out of high school, continue to dominate college campuses across the United States.

The data also highlights a noteworthy gender disparity among undergraduate students, where female undergraduates outnumber their male counterparts significantly, especially in the 18-19 age group, where there are 481 females compared to 313 males. This gender imbalance persists across almost all younger age categories, suggesting a broader trend in higher education where women are increasingly pursuing undergraduate degrees.

In contrast, the age groups of 25 and older show a notable decrease in enrollment, particularly among males, which may reflect changing societal norms regarding education and career paths. The presence of graduate students aged 22-24 is relatively strong, with a total of 278 students in this category, indicating that many individuals are opting to continue their education immediately after completing their undergraduate studies.

Moreover, the data reveals a very small number of students over the age of 65, which is consistent with trends in higher education that show older individuals are less represented in traditional college settings. This age demographic can benefit from tailored programs that encourage lifelong learning and accessibility to education.

Overall, the student age composition at Capital University mirrors broader trends in higher education, underscoring the need for institutions to adapt their offerings to cater to an increasingly diverse and younger student population.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Undergraduates1.3%

21 in 2025 · 1.8% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.8%2017: 1.9%2018: 1.9%2019: 1.6%2020: 1.6%2021: 1.6%2022: 1.8%2023: 1.7%2024: 1.4%2025: 1.3%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students1.8%

12 in 2025 · 1.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.0%2017: 2.2%2018: 2.6%2019: 1.7%2020: 1.8%2021: 2.2%2022: 2.2%2023: 1.6%2024: 1.4%2025: 1.8%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Trends at Capital University

The data on international students at Capital University reveals a fluctuating but generally increasing trend in the percentage of undergraduate international students from 2004 to 2023. Initially, the percentage of international undergraduates was a mere 0.60%, gradually rising to a peak of 1.81% in 2016. This increase reflects the university's growing appeal to international students, likely due to enhanced academic programs and global outreach efforts.

However, the total number of undergraduate students has shown a downward trajectory, dropping from 2,830 in 2004 to 1,938 in 2023. This decline raises concerns about the overall enrollment strategy and may hint at broader trends in higher education, where institutions are grappling with demographic changes and competition from other universities, both domestic and international.

In contrast, the graduate student numbers have not seen the same growth. The proportion of international graduate students remained relatively low, peaking at just 4.39% in 2006, followed by a decline that saw the percentage hover around 1-2% in recent years. This stagnation might suggest that while the undergraduate programs are increasingly attracting international talent, the graduate programs may require more robust strategies to enhance their appeal.

Overall, the data underscores the importance of strategic planning in addressing the challenges of recruitment and retention of international students. As universities worldwide adapt to changing landscapes, it is crucial that Capital University evaluates and optimizes its offerings, ensuring that both undergraduate and graduate programs are attractive to a diverse student body.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$56,218

Undergraduate tuition
$43,234
Room and board
$12,984
Graduate tuition
$13,530
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 32% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 38%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$75.3M

Tuition and fees
$39.8M52.8%
Investment return
$14.9M19.8%
Auxiliary enterprises
$10.5M13.9%
Gifts and private grants
$6.4M8.4%
Government grants and contracts
$941K1.2%
Sales and services of educational activities
$125K0.2%
Other
$2.7M3.6%

Expenses$79.3M

Instruction
$31.9M40.3%
Institutional support
$15.9M20.1%
Student services
$13.2M16.6%
Auxiliary enterprises
$12.5M15.8%
Academic support
$5.7M7.2%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

All faculty
$78,394peers $68,006
Professor
$104,443peers $78,041
Associate professor
$74,352peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$64,649peers $63,827
Instructor
$61,674peers $55,171

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Ohio Athletic Conference

Ohio Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football89-
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)5130
Soccer2833
Lacrosse4118
Baseball48-
Basketball1816
Softball-21
Golf126
Volleyball-15
Bowling77
Tennis-9
2024
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)6940
Football92-
Lacrosse4219
Soccer2723
Baseball46-
Basketball2118
Softball-24
Tennis812
Volleyball-18
Golf106
2023
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)6543
Football102-
Lacrosse3721
Soccer3324
Baseball41-
Basketball1819
Tennis1511
Softball-24
Volleyball-24
Golf136

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools around Capital University:

  1. Ohio State University-Main Campus - Ranked 43rd in the 2024 US News rankings, it is a comprehensive university known for its diverse programs and research opportunities.

  2. Denison University - This liberal arts college is ranked 39th and is recognized for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.

  3. Kenyon College - Also ranked 39th, Kenyon is a prestigious liberal arts college known for its rigorous academics and beautiful campus.

  4. University of Dayton - Ranked 133rd, this comprehensive university is noted for its commitment to service and community engagement.

  5. Miami University-Oxford - Another comprehensive university, Miami is ranked 133rd and is celebrated for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education.

  6. Oberlin College - This liberal arts college ranks 51st and is renowned for its progressive history and commitment to social justice.

These institutions offer a variety of academic programs and unique campus experiences, making them excellent choices for students in the region.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Drug referrals
94
Liquor referrals
80
Drug arrests
28
Motor vehicle theft
25
Rape
12
Burglary
11

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Capital University

The data presented for Capital University reveals a fluctuating trend in crime rates over the past decade. Starting from 2013, the average rate of recorded offenses per 1,000 students was relatively high at 14.79, peaking in 2015 and 2016 with rates of 22.44 and 22.74 respectively. This spike could be indicative of a rise in various offenses, particularly those related to drug and alcohol arrests, which are often prevalent on college campuses.

Interestingly, the years following the peak saw a decline in the overall crime rate, with 2022 recording the lowest rate at 9.86 per 1,000 students. This reduction may reflect improved campus safety measures and community engagement initiatives, as well as a potential shift in student behavior. However, the data for 2023 shows a significant increase to 24.61, suggesting a resurgence in criminal activities that warrants further investigation.

Crime types such as assault, robbery, and domestic violence remain critical areas of concern. With fluctuations in the data, it becomes crucial for university administrations to continuously analyze these trends, implement preventive measures, and foster an environment where students feel safe and supported.

In the broader context, this data mirrors national trends in campus crime, where many institutions experience similar patterns of peaks and declines. It emphasizes the importance of ongoing dialogue about safety, mental health resources, and the need for proactive strategies to combat crime on campuses. For further information on crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Capital University include Jim Jordan (U.S. Representative from Ohio), Harley Rouda (Former US Representative from California) and Deborah Pryce (Former U.S. representative from Ohio).

More alumni (13, by field)

Politics and law

Arts and media

  • John James Piatt 1835–1917

    Poet and diplomat

Other fields

  • Eric Norelius 1833–1916

    Swedish-American Lutheran minister, church leader and author

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.