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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Lake Erie College

Painesville, Ohio · www.lec.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

70.4%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$37,634

$50,670 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

941

Student-faculty ratio 12:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

31.1%

4-year; 6-year rate 42.0%

Peer median 44.6%

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

About

Lake Erie College, located in Painesville, Ohio, is a private liberal arts institution that has been providing quality education since its establishment in 1856. The college is known for its commitment to fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment, where students are encouraged to explore their interests and develop their skills. The college's motto, "Lux et Veritas," which translates to "Light and Truth," reflects its dedication to academic excellence and ethical leadership.

One of the standout features of Lake Erie College is its small class sizes, which facilitate personalized attention from faculty and create a tight-knit community among students. The college offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, including popular fields such as business, education, and equestrian studies, which are particularly notable due to the college's strong emphasis on experiential learning and hands-on opportunities. Additionally, the picturesque campus, situated near Lake Erie, provides a serene and inspiring backdrop for academic pursuits and recreational activities. The vibrant student life includes numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic programs that encourage students to engage socially and develop leadership skills. Overall, Lake Erie College prides itself on cultivating well-rounded individuals who are prepared for successful careers and meaningful lives.

Analysis of Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention

The data from Lake Erie College reveals several noteworthy trends concerning tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention over recent years. Firstly, tuition fees have been consistently rising, with in-state undergraduate tuition increasing from $27,368 in 2014 to $36,032 in 2024, marking an increase of approximately 32% within a decade. This relentless surge in costs may pose significant financial challenges for students and their families, especially in light of the broader context of rising student debt across the nation.

Graduation rates, particularly the on-time graduation rate for undergraduates, show fluctuations over the years. The rate improved from 34% in 2013 to 42% in 2023, indicating a positive trend towards higher completion rates. However, it is essential to recognize that the rate dipped to a low of 27.8% in 2016, suggesting past challenges in student support or engagement that have since been addressed to some extent.

Retention rates exhibit a similar pattern, with a peak of approximately 71% in 2014, followed by a decline to about 60% in 2020. However, retention rebounded to roughly 66% in 2023, reflecting a possible improvement in student services or campus experience that encourages students to continue their education at the institution.

Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has decreased from 16:1 in 2013 to 11:1 in 2023, indicating a potential enhancement in academic support and personalized attention for students. This development may be a contributing factor to the improvements seen in graduation and retention rates, as smaller class sizes often lead to better student engagement and outcomes.

In summary, while tuition continues to rise, the college has made strides in improving graduation rates and student retention, reflecting a commitment to student success amidst the challenges of rising costs.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Suburb of a large city
Nearest major city
Cleveland, about 30 mi
Nearest international airport
Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE), about 35 mi
Painesville, Ohio
Also known as
LEC
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Jennifer Schuller (President)
Phone
4403757000
City
Painesville, Ohio
Address
391 W Washington St, Painesville, OH 44077-3389

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
70.4%
Women
70.3%

In 2020: men 59.6%, women 54.9%.

Data insights

Trends in Lake Erie College Admissions and Rankings

The admission trends at Lake Erie College over the years reveal significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. The data shows that from 2009 to 2023, the acceptance rate for male applicants varied from approximately 53% to 88%, while the female acceptance rate ranged from about 52% to 90%. Such variability indicates the college's changing admission policies, possibly influenced by broader trends in higher education enrollment, economic factors, or shifts in applicant demographics.
In particular, the year 2012 stands out with the highest acceptance rates for both genders, suggesting a potential strategy to increase enrollment numbers during that period. Conversely, the years 2010 and 2016 experienced lower acceptance rates, which may reflect a more selective approach towards prospective students. The number of applicants also fluctuated significantly, peaking in 2016 with 748 denials, indicating a highly competitive applicant pool.
The overall enrollment numbers have shown some stability, with an average of around 200 to 270 new students each year. However, the number of deferred admissions has been notably high in certain years, particularly in 2012 and 2016, suggesting that many students were interested in attending but may have needed to postpone their plans, possibly due to financial or personal reasons.
Additionally, the college's ranking has likely played a role in these trends. As the institution's reputation evolves, it may attract different applicant pools, influencing both the number of applications and the acceptance rates. Overall, these admission statistics reflect the dynamic nature of higher education, where colleges must continuously adapt to changing societal and economic landscapes.

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 Admission Test Scores at Lake Erie College

The data from Lake Erie College reveals significant trends in the standardized test scores and submission rates over the years. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores fluctuated, peaking at 44% in 2011 and dropping to just 12% in 2023. This decline could be reflective of a broader national trend where fewer students are opting to take standardized tests, influenced by the increasing number of institutions adopting test-optional policies.

Looking at the actual scores, the range of SAT Reading and Mathematics scores for admitted students varied considerably. For instance, the lower quartile SAT Reading score has seen a notable increase from 330 in 2011 to 490 in 2023, indicating a rising trend in the academic preparedness of admitted students. Meanwhile, the upper quartile scores also show improvement, suggesting that the college may be attracting higher-achieving students over time.

The ACT scores present a similar narrative, showcasing a gradual enhancement in the academic profile of students. The comprehensive ACT scores have consistently moved upwards, with the lower and upper quartile scores reflecting a comparable trend to that of the SAT.

This data underscores Lake Erie College's evolving admissions landscape, where a decrease in test submissions does not correlate with a decline in student quality. Instead, it highlights the institution's ability to attract a more academically prepared student body amidst changing attitudes towards standardized testing. As the college continues to adapt to these trends, it may need to reassess its admissions strategies to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of candidate potential beyond test scores alone.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 7 in 10

1,370 applicants in 2025, 70.4% admitted

964 admitted 406 not admitted Yield 19.7%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's1547 international (4.5%)
Master's899 international (10.1%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Early Childhood Education and Teaching
28
Business Administration and Management, General
24
Psychology, General
16
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
11
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management
9
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration
8
Equestrian/Equine Studies
7
Communication, General
6
Finance, General
6
Special Education and Teaching, General
5

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's40 (20% international)
  • Physician Assistant · Master's25 (4% international)
  • Education, General · Master's14 (0% international)
  • Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General · Master's6 (0% international)
  • Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's2 (0% international)
  • Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication · Master's1 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Lake Erie College in 2023

The graduation data from Lake Erie College for 2023 reveals some intriguing trends across various fields of study. Notably, the health and medical disciplines appear to have a robust presence, particularly in the Physician Assistant program, which graduated 26 master's students, indicating a strong demand for healthcare professionals. The emphasis on health-related fields aligns with national trends, where the healthcare sector continues to grow due to an aging population and increasing health concerns.

In the business domain, several programs show varying levels of activity. The general Business Administration and Management program, for example, did not produce any bachelor's graduates this year. Yet, it is noteworthy that the Marketing and Finance tracks also reflect limited graduation figures, suggesting a potential area for growth or reevaluation of program offerings to better align with market needs.

The education sector also stands out, with multiple programs yielding a combined total of over 20 master's graduates. This reflects a continuing investment in educational pathways, which is crucial given the ongoing teacher shortages in various regions.

Interestingly, programs in interdisciplinary studies and environmental sciences, while less populated, can indicate a shift towards more holistic and sustainable approaches in education, preparing students for emerging challenges in a rapidly changing world.

Overall, while some programs are thriving, others may need to reassess their curricula and outreach efforts to attract more students, particularly in fields like business and technology, which are essential for economic growth and innovation. The data underscores the importance of adapting educational offerings to meet evolving societal and professional demands.

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

Businesshas 84 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$61,791
Organizational Leadership.$61,791
Accounting.-
Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies.-
Finance, General.-
Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Educationhas 50 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Education, General.$49,412
Educational Leadership and Administration, General.-
Special Education and Teaching, General.-
Secondary Education and Teaching.-
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.-
Health professionshas 28 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Physician Assistant.$110,046
Animal-Assisted Therapy.-
Psychology has 16 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.-
Agricultural has 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Farm/Farm and Ranch Management.-
Equestrian/Equine Studies.-
Biologyhas 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.-
Sports Studies.-
Homeland security has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.-
Communication has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Communication, General.-
Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General.-
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.-
Visual and Performing artshas 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Digital Arts.-
Fine Arts and Art Studies, Other.-
Social sciencehas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Political Science and Government, General.-
Natural resources has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Environmental Science.-
Physical scienceshas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.-
History has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
History, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-
English has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-

Students

1,108 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 48:52 · Freshman retention 59.4%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (941)

White
567 · 60.3%
Black
187 · 19.9%
Unknown
83 · 8.8%
Hispanic
35 · 3.7%
International
26 · 2.8%
Two or more races
22 · 2.3%
Asian
10 · 1.1%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Lake Erie College in 2023

The student demographics at Lake Erie College for the year 2023 showcase a diverse and evolving academic environment. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 225, with a notable male representation of 68.4%. This high percentage indicates a potential trend where more males are inclined to pursue undergraduate studies at this institution. Meanwhile, the undergraduate seniors number 397, with a more balanced gender ratio of 53.4% male and 46.6% female, reflecting an increasing female presence in higher education.

For transfer students, there are 40 individuals, with males making up 57.5% of this group. This suggests that male transfer students are also prominent, though the overall numbers remain relatively low. Graduate students, totaling 168, have a female majority at 54.2%, which is a positive indication of gender balance in graduate programs.

In terms of ethnic diversity, the breakdown of students reveals a predominance of white students across all categories, particularly among freshmen and seniors. This trend is consistent with many institutions where white students often represent a significant portion of the population. However, the college's commitment to inclusivity is evident, as it likely seeks to attract a wider array of cultural backgrounds and perspectives, which is crucial in today’s globalized society.

Overall, Lake Erie College appears to be making strides toward a more balanced and diverse student body, yet challenges remain in achieving greater ethnic diversity, particularly among undergraduates. As institutions continue to address these issues, the importance of fostering an inclusive environment cannot be overstated.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Lake Erie College in 2023

The age composition of students at Lake Erie College reveals interesting insights into the demographics of the student body for the year 2023. The data indicates a significant concentration of students aged 18-19, with 201 male undergraduates and 128 female undergraduates, showcasing the college's appeal to traditional-aged college students. This age group accounts for approximately 61% of the total male students and 55% of the total female students, reflecting a robust engagement from those entering higher education directly after high school.

As students progress in age, there is a noticeable decline in numbers. For instance, the 20-21 age group still maintains a strong presence with 127 male undergraduates and 100 female undergraduates, but the figures drop significantly for those aged 22-24, where there are only 58 male undergraduates and 31 female undergraduates. This decline may suggest that students in this age bracket could be more likely to leave for job opportunities or to pursue graduate studies.

Interestingly, the graduate student demographic showcases a different pattern, particularly among males aged 25-29 who number 19, indicating an inclination for older students to pursue advanced studies. The data also highlights the presence of students aged 30 and above, albeit in smaller numbers. This suggests that Lake Erie College is not only catering to traditional students but is also accommodating non-traditional learners who may be returning to education later in life.

Overall, the age distribution reflects broader trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly attracting younger students while also evolving to meet the needs of older, returning students. This diversity can enrich the academic environment and foster a vibrant community of learners from various backgrounds and life experiences.

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.

Undergraduates2.8%

26 in 2025 · 3.1% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 3.1%2017: 2.8%2018: 2.8%2019: 3.5%2020: 4.1%2021: 3.7%2022: 4.0%2023: 3.8%2024: 3.9%2025: 2.8%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students6.6%

11 in 2025 · 4.4% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 4.4%2017: 4.9%2018: 4.1%2019: 1.3%2020: 0.4%2021: 1.6%2022: 1.5%2023: 3.0%2024: 6.1%2025: 6.6%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Lake Erie College

The data on international student enrollment at Lake Erie College reveals significant fluctuations over the years, reflecting broader trends in higher education. In the early years, international representation was minimal, with percentages below 1%. However, a noticeable increase began around 2012, where the proportion of international undergraduates surged to 2.24%, indicating a growing appeal of the college to global students.

By 2013, this trend continued, with international students accounting for 3.38% of the undergraduate population. The peak appears to have occurred in 2014, with 4.01% of undergraduates being international students, reflecting a robust interest in the college’s programs. Nevertheless, the subsequent years show a decline in both absolute numbers and percentages, particularly evident from 2018 onwards, where the percentages hovered around 2.83% to 4.08%.

The graduate student enrollment also presents a unique narrative. The proportion of international students in graduate programs peaked at 4.88% in 2017, showcasing the college's attractiveness for advanced studies. However, similar to undergraduate trends, the numbers for graduate international students fluctuated, with a notable decline in recent years.

These trends may be influenced by various factors, including changes in immigration policies, global events, and the evolving landscape of higher education. As institutions strive to enhance their diversity and global presence, Lake Erie College may need to reassess its international recruitment strategies to maintain and potentially increase its international student population in the upcoming years. The overall data underscores the importance of adaptability in attracting a diverse student body amidst shifting global dynamics.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$50,670

Undergraduate tuition
$37,634
Room and board
$13,036
Graduate tuition
$13,709
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 29% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 42%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$23.3M

Tuition and fees
$10.7M45.8%
Gifts and private grants
$5.8M24.8%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.7M15.8%
Government grants and contracts
$1.5M6.2%
Investment return
$1.2M5.2%
Sales and services of educational activities
$515K2.2%

Expenses$25.9M

Student services
$7.0M26.9%
Institutional support
$6.6M25.5%
Instruction
$5.7M22.0%
Academic support
$3.5M13.5%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.2M12.2%

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
$60,539peers $68,006
Professor
$62,756peers $78,041
Associate professor
$68,254peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$60,748peers $63,827
Instructor
$44,273peers $55,171

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Great Midwest Athletic Conference

Great Midwest Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division II with footballMENWOMEN
Football133-
Soccer7134
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)4843
Baseball53-
Lacrosse2823
Basketball2617
Wrestling29-
Softball-23
Volleyball-21
2024
NCAA Division II with footballMENWOMEN
Football143-
Soccer7033
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)6636
Baseball62-
Lacrosse3222
Basketball2313
Wrestling25-
Softball-23
Volleyball-21
Golf85
2023
NCAA Division II with footballMENWOMEN
Football135-
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)8142
Soccer5735
Lacrosse3324
Baseball52-
Basketball2113
Wrestling28-
Softball-23
Volleyball-20
Golf103

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools surrounding Lake Erie College:

  1. Case Western Reserve University - Ranked 53rd in the 2024 US News rankings, Case Western Reserve University is a comprehensive university known for its strong emphasis on research and innovation.

  2. Carnegie Mellon University - With an impressive rank of 24th, Carnegie Mellon is renowned for its programs in computer science, engineering, and the arts.

  3. Oberlin College - This liberal arts college ranks 51st and is celebrated for its commitment to liberal education and social justice.

  4. Denison University - Ranked 39th, Denison is a liberal arts college offering a rich educational experience with a focus on undergraduate studies.

  5. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor - This prestigious university ranks 21st overall and is known for its comprehensive academic programs and vibrant campus life.

These institutions offer diverse educational opportunities and are highly regarded in their respective fields.

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
35
Liquor referrals
31
Weapons referrals
4
Fondling
2
Aggravated assault
2
Motor vehicle theft
2

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Lake Erie College

The crime statistics from Lake Erie College over the past decade reveal a fluctuating trend in crime rates per 1,000 students. Starting from 2013, the average crime rate was quite high at 26.81 incidents per 1,000 students, which subsequently decreased to 18.05 in 2014. However, 2015 saw a significant spike, with the rate reaching 32.03, indicating a worrying trend that year.

In the following years, the college experienced a gradual decline in crime rates, with a notable low of 8.39 in 2023. This is a remarkable improvement compared to the peak years, suggesting effective measures have been implemented to enhance campus safety. Notably, the decrease in incidents like drug-related arrests and alcohol violations may reflect the college's initiatives to address substance abuse on campus.

The data also highlights the importance of addressing domestic violence and stalking, which remain critical issues in college settings. As crime rates fluctuate, it is crucial for the institution to maintain ongoing efforts in crime prevention and education programs.

Overall, while the trends indicate a positive movement towards a safer campus environment, continuous vigilance and proactive strategies are essential to sustain and further improve these outcomes. For calculating crime rates, you can refer to this resource: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Lake Erie College include Catherine Curtin (Actress known for Orange Is the New Black), Caroline L. Ransom (Egyptologist, first professionally trained American woman) and Valerie Curtin (Actress and screenwriter).

More alumni (7, by field)

Politics and law

Science and academia

  • Mary Elizabeth McCracken 1911–1945

    Medical missionary who worked in Shanghai

    Father: Josiah McCracken (University of Pennsylvania)

Arts and media

Sports

  • Anthony Novak 1994–

    Canadian professional soccer forward

  • Ryan Rua 1990–

    Former MLB outfielder for the Texas Rangers

  • Luke Raley 1994–

    MLB outfielder for the Seattle Mariners

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.