Defiance College
Acceptance rate
47.5%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$29,320
$41,926 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
529
Student-faculty ratio 11:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
36.8%
4-year; 6-year rate 41.9%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Defiance College is a private liberal arts college located in Defiance, Ohio. Established in 1850, the college offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong emphasis on experiential learning and community engagement. The college is known for its commitment to the values of service and leadership, encapsulated in its motto “To Know, To Love, To Serve.” This guiding principle not only shapes the academic curriculum but also fosters a culture of compassion and responsibility among students.
The campus is characterized by its vibrant community and a welcoming atmosphere that encourages students to thrive both academically and socially. Defiance College boasts modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas that support a well-rounded educational experience. The college also places a strong emphasis on athletics, offering a variety of sports programs that promote teamwork and physical fitness. With a focus on personal development, Defiance College prepares its graduates for successful careers and responsible citizenship in a global society.
Analysis of Defiance College Trends
Defiance College has experienced several notable trends in key metrics over the past decade, particularly in tuition fees, student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates.
Firstly, tuition fees have shown a significant upward trajectory. For undergraduate students, in-state and out-of-state tuition has risen from approximately $28,690 in 2014 to about $38,778 in 2024, marking an increase of around 35%. This increase may pose a barrier for prospective students and their families, particularly in an era where student debt is a growing concern nationwide.
On the enrollment front, there has been a concerning decline in the number of undergraduate students. From a high of 917 students in 2013, the enrollment has plummeted to 486 by 2023, indicating a dramatic drop of roughly 47%. This decline raises questions about the college's appeal and competitiveness in attracting new students, especially in a challenging higher education landscape.
Graduation rates have also fluctuated, although there has been a recent improvement. The on-time graduation rate dipped to a low of 18.77% in 2019 but rebounded to 40.77% in 2023. This recovery is a positive sign, suggesting that the college may be implementing effective measures to support students in completing their degrees in a timely manner.
Lastly, retention rates have shown variability as well. The retention of undergraduate students peaked at 61.77% in 2013 but has since stabilized around 57.86% in 2023. Maintaining or improving retention is crucial for Defiance College, as higher retention rates often correlate with better graduation outcomes and institutional stability.
In summary, while Defiance College has made strides in some areas, the challenges of rising tuition costs and declining enrollment numbers must be addressed to ensure long-term viability and success. The college will need to explore innovative strategies to enhance its attractiveness to prospective students while ensuring the affordability and quality of education.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Toledo, about 45 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), about 80 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- United Church of Christ
- President
- Richanne Mankey (President)
- Phone
- 4197844010
- Address
- 701 N Clinton St., Defiance, OH 43512
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 45.7%, women 60.4%.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Rates at Defiance College
The admission statistics from Defiance College over the years reveal a noteworthy trend in the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants. From 2009 to 2023, the male acceptance rate has seen fluctuations, starting at approximately 73.9% in 2009 and dropping to about 62.9% by 2023. Meanwhile, the female acceptance rate began at around 71.9% and showed a similar decline, reaching about 62.7% in 2023. This downward trend in acceptance rates suggests a more competitive admission process, possibly influenced by an increase in applications or a shift in the college's strategic enrollment goals.
The enrollment numbers illustrate varying levels of interest in the college, with the highest enrollment of 300 students recorded in 2012, followed by a decline in subsequent years, particularly noted in 2017 and 2018 where enrollments dropped to 138 and 151, respectively. This decline may reflect broader trends in college admissions across the United States, where many institutions are experiencing decreased interest due to demographic shifts and changing perceptions of higher education's value.
Furthermore, the number of applicants denied admission has significantly increased, peaking at 1,362 denials in 2021. This sharp rise indicates that Defiance College has become more selective, aligning with national trends where colleges are striving to maintain high academic standards amid increasing competition.
In summary, Defiance College's data reflects a complex narrative of increasing selectivity, fluctuating enrollment, and changing admission dynamics that mirror broader trends in higher education. As institutions adapt to these evolving landscapes, prospective students may need to prepare more rigorously to secure their places in the college of their choice.
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Analysis of Defiance College Admission Data
The admission data for Defiance College over the years presents an intriguing perspective on the academic performance of its incoming students as measured by standardized tests like the SAT and ACT. Notably, while the number of students submitting SAT scores fluctuated, there was a significant spike in 2012 and 2019, with the latter year seeing 43% of applicants submitting SAT scores, the highest in the recorded period. This could indicate a growing interest or confidence in the academic offerings of the institution.
In terms of academic performance, the SAT reading and math scores show variability. The lower end of the SAT reading scores, for instance, dropped to 360 in 2018, suggesting that the college may be admitting a more diverse range of academic abilities, potentially broadening its appeal to different types of students. Conversely, the upper quartile scores indicate a steady performance, with the reading scores reaching as high as 560 in several years, suggesting that while the college is attracting a wider range of students, it still maintains a core of academically strong candidates.
ACT scores also reflect a similar trend, with the composite scores showing a range that suggests variability in applicant preparedness. The 25th percentile scores indicate that some students may be entering with lower readiness, raising questions about the support systems in place for these individuals.
Overall, Defiance College's admission data points to a strategic approach to enrollment, balancing inclusivity with maintaining academic standards, which is essential in today's evolving educational landscape. As institutions navigate the complexities of admissions in a post-pandemic world, understanding these trends will be crucial for future strategies.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 5 in 10
1,754 applicants in 2025, 47.5% admitted
834 admitted 920 not admitted Yield 21.6%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's10 (0% international)
- Education, General · Master's6 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Defiance College
The graduation data from Defiance College reveals several noteworthy trends across various fields of study for the year 2023. A clear observation is the significant number of graduates in the realm of Business Administration and Management, with a total of 13 bachelor's degree recipients. This underscores the growing demand for business-oriented education, which aligns with current labor market trends that favor graduates with skills in management and commerce.
In the area of Exercise Science and Kinesiology, there is a notable output of 14 graduates with bachelor's degrees. This is particularly relevant as there is an increasing emphasis on health and wellness in society, driven by a growing awareness of physical fitness and the importance of mental health. This trend is echoed in the fields of Sport and Fitness Administration, which also produced graduates, reflecting the expanding job market in health-related sectors.
Interestingly, education-related programs, particularly Early Childhood Education and Teaching, have yielded a modest number of graduates, suggesting a stable, albeit cautious, interest in this vital field. However, the absence of graduates in more specialized areas such as Clinical Laboratory Science or Forensic Science may indicate limited offerings or student interest in these vital sectors.
Moreover, the data indicates a lack of international students graduating in most disciplines, which may reflect broader global trends in higher education where institutions are increasingly looking to attract international talent. The overall distribution of graduates suggests that while traditional fields like Business and Education remain robust, there is room for growth in health sciences and technical fields.
In summary, Defiance College's graduation statistics for 2023 highlight a strong emphasis on business and health-related disciplines, pointing towards the evolving priorities in education that align with labor market needs.
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 | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | |||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | |||
| Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching. | - | |||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | - | |||
| Social Studies Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | - | |||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $49,760 | |||
| Accounting. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - | |||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Police Science. | - | |||
| Cybersecurity Defense Strategy/Policy. | - | |||
| Forensic Science and Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Medicine/Pre-Medical Studies. | - | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - |
Students
568 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 64:36 · Freshman retention 55.6%
- Continuing undergraduates 249
- First-year undergraduates 178
- Graduate students 39
- Transfers and others 102
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (529)
Data insights
Demographic Composition of Defiance College in 2023
The student demographic data from Defiance College for the year 2023 reveals insightful trends in the composition of the student body. Among the undergraduate freshers, there are 149 enrolled students, with a notable gender disparity. Approximately 68.5% of these students are male, compared to just 31.5% female, highlighting a significant gender imbalance in this category.
For the undergraduate juniors, the total number of students is 303, with males making up 58.4% and females at 41.6%. This trend of male predominance continues, albeit at a reduced ratio compared to the freshers. The figures for undergraduate transfer students show an equal distribution of genders, with 50% males and 50% females, indicating a more balanced representation in this group.
In the graduate category, there are 54 students, with a slight male majority at 51.9% compared to 48.1% female students, suggesting a gradual shift towards gender parity in postgraduate studies.
Additionally, the data presents an opportunity to analyze racial and ethnic diversity among students, particularly in the categories of undergraduate freshers and juniors. The presence of various racial groups, including white, Asian, and Latino students, reflects the evolving demographic landscape of higher education institutions in the United States.
Overall, while the college shows a consistent pattern of higher male enrollment across most categories, the equal ratio in transfer students and the gradual shift toward gender balance in graduate studies indicate positive trends. As institutions strive for inclusivity and diversity, such data is crucial for understanding the changing dynamics within colleges and tailoring support systems that foster equitable educational experiences for all students.
Analysis of Student Age Distribution at Defiance College in 2023
The age distribution of students at Defiance College reveals interesting trends regarding the demographics of its student body. The majority of students fall within the traditional college age range of 18-21, with 113 male undergraduates and 76 female undergraduates aged 18-19, and 127 male undergraduates and 82 female undergraduates aged 20-21. This indicates a strong representation of younger students, which is typical for many colleges aiming to attract fresh high school graduates.
As we move into the 22-24 age group, there is a noticeable decline in the number of male undergraduates (52) and an increase in graduate males (14), suggesting a transition from undergraduate studies to graduate programs. The female demographics mirror this trend, with 38 undergraduate females and 7 graduate females in the same age group. This shift may reflect the growing trend of students pursuing advanced degrees before entering the workforce.
Interestingly, the data also highlights the presence of non-traditional students, particularly those aged 25 and older, where both male and female students are represented, albeit in smaller numbers. For instance, there are 16 total students aged 25-29 and 12 aged 30-34, indicating that Defiance College is accommodating a diverse range of students who may be balancing education with career or family responsibilities.
Overall, Defiance College's age composition showcases a predominance of younger students, with a gradual inclusion of older, non-traditional students, reflecting broader trends in higher education where institutions are increasingly catering to varied demographics and life experiences. This diversity can enhance the educational environment, fostering a rich mix of perspectives and backgrounds among students.
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 · 1.9% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Defiance College
The data on international student enrollment at Defiance College over the years reveals notable trends and fluctuations. From 2004 to 2022, the percentage of international undergraduate students began at a modest 0.43% and peaked at 1.91% in 2016. This increase reflects a broader trend in higher education where institutions increasingly recognize the value of diversity and global perspectives in enriching the educational environment.
However, subsequent years show a concerning decline in both overall undergraduate enrollment and the number of international students. By 2022, only 0.19% of undergraduates were international, signaling a potential issue for the institution. This decline may be attributed to various factors, including changes in immigration policies, global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and the competitive landscape of higher education, where many universities are vying for a limited pool of international students.
In the graduate sector, while data is sparse, the few available figures indicate that the percentage of international students also faced challenges. The highest recorded percentage was 2.50% in 2008, but the absence of consistent data post-2015 raises concerns about the institution's ability to attract and retain graduate-level international talent.
Overall, the decline in international student enrollment at Defiance College mirrors challenges faced by many institutions in the U.S. and highlights the importance of strategic initiatives to enhance global recruitment efforts, ensuring a diverse and vibrant campus community.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$41,926
- Undergraduate tuition
- $29,320
- Room and board
- $12,606
- Graduate tuition
- $9,450
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose -6% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 28%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$18.0M
Expenses$17.8M
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 NAIA · Mid-States Football Association · Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference
Mid-States Football Association: football
Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NAIA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 134 | - |
| Baseball | 48 | - |
| Soccer | 24 | 15 |
| Basketball | 20 | 15 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 13 | 9 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 13 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 20 |
| Golf | 11 | 6 |
| Softball | - | 17 |
| Cross Country | 10 | 5 |
| Wrestling | 4 | - |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 115 | - |
| Baseball | 45 | - |
| Soccer | 28 | 15 |
| Basketball | 20 | 14 |
| Volleyball | - | 21 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Golf | 5 | 5 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 3 | 3 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 3 | 3 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 96 | - |
| Soccer | 25 | 18 |
| Basketball | 22 | 19 |
| Baseball | 32 | - |
| Softball | - | 27 |
| Volleyball | - | 22 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 11 | 7 |
| Wrestling | 17 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 10 | 6 |
| Golf | 8 | 7 |
| Cross Country | 4 | 2 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Bowling Green State University-Main CampusBowling Green · 37.6 mi
U.S. News #276
-
University of ToledoToledo · 45.9 mi
U.S. News #299
-
Hillsdale CollegeHillsdale · 46.3 mi
Liberal Arts #47
-
University of Michigan-Ann ArborAnn Arbor · 75.0 mi
U.S. News #25
-
Ball State UniversityMuncie · 93.5 mi
U.S. News #227
-
Western Michigan UniversityKalamazoo · 93.9 mi
U.S. News #276
-
Kalamazoo CollegeKalamazoo · 94.0 mi
Liberal Arts #74
-
Wayne State UniversityDetroit · 98.9 mi
U.S. News #186
-
Michigan State UniversityEast Lansing · 99.4 mi
U.S. News #69
Data insights
Here are some notable colleges near Defiance College:
-
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor - Ranked 21 in the 2024 US News, it is a comprehensive university known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
University of Notre Dame - With a rank of 20, this prestigious university is renowned for its commitment to education, research, and community service.
-
Bowling Green State University-Main Campus - Ranked 280, this comprehensive university offers diverse programs and a welcoming campus environment.
-
Hillsdale College - A liberal arts college ranked 39, known for its classical education and emphasis on the principles of the American founding.
-
Kalamazoo College - This liberal arts college ranks 70 and is recognized for its international study programs and a strong commitment to experiential learning.
-
Michigan State University - Ranked 60, this comprehensive university is known for its vast array of programs and research opportunities.
-
Ohio State University-Main Campus - With a rank of 43, it is one of the largest universities in the nation, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Denison University - A liberal arts college ranked 39, known for its rigorous academic environment and strong emphasis on student engagement.
These colleges offer a range of educational opportunities and are well-regarded in their respective fields.
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 Defiance College Crime Data
The crime data from Defiance College over the years reveals an interesting trend in campus safety. In 2013, the average crime rate per 1000 students was notably high at 28.23, which suggests significant concerns regarding campus safety at that time. However, a sharp decline in crime rates is observed in subsequent years, particularly between 2014 and 2017, where incidents dropped to as low as 12.65 in 2017.
Despite the fluctuations, the overall trend demonstrates an improvement in campus safety, particularly from 2019 onward, where the crime rates hovered around lower figures, such as 11.20 in 2021 and 18.52 in 2023. This suggests that the college may have implemented more effective safety measures, possibly including increased security presence or educational programs aimed at reducing crime.
Interestingly, specific types of incidents such as gun arrests and drug-related offenses could significantly impact these statistics. The absence of on-campus occurrences for various offenses in recent years highlights a potential success in crime prevention strategies.
It is essential for institutions to continuously monitor and address campus safety, as it directly affects student well-being and satisfaction. The downward trend in crime rates at Defiance College is a promising indicator, suggesting that ongoing efforts in safety and awareness are yielding positive results.
For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Defiance College include John Ashton (Actor in the Beverly Hills Cop films), Terence T. Henricks (Former NASA astronaut, four Space Shuttle missions) and Paul Gillmor (U.S. Representative from Ohio).
-
John Ashton 1948–2024
Actor in the Beverly Hills Cop films
-
Terence T. Henricks 1952–
Former NASA astronaut, four Space Shuttle missions
-
Paul Gillmor 1939–2007
U.S. Representative from Ohio
-
Richard Mourdock 1951–
Former Indiana treasurer who defeated Richard Lugar
-
Amenta Matthew 1952–
Former Marshall Islands legislator
-
Bruce Goodwin 1949–2020
Ohio state representative and former educator
-
Bud Moodler 1912–1977
Professional basketball player in the NBL
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.