Muskingum University
Acceptance rate
81.8%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$31,701
$44,789 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,523
Student-faculty ratio 14:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
47.5%
4-year; 6-year rate 59.7%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Muskingum University, located in New Concord, Ohio, is a liberal arts institution known for its strong emphasis on personalized education and community engagement. Established in 1837, the university has a long-standing tradition of fostering critical thinking and ethical leadership among its students. One of the key features of Muskingum is its commitment to academic excellence, encapsulated in its motto, “The Best of Both Worlds.” This reflects the university's approach of combining a rigorous liberal arts curriculum with practical experiences, preparing students not only for careers but also for informed citizenship.
The campus of Muskingum University is not only picturesque but also equipped with modern facilities that enhance the learning experience. The library, for instance, offers extensive resources for research, while various laboratories and technology centers support hands-on learning across disciplines. Muskingum promotes a vibrant campus life, with numerous extracurricular activities, including athletics, arts, and community service. The university's commitment to student success is further evidenced by its dedicated faculty, who are not only educators but also mentors to students. Graduates of Muskingum University often find themselves well-prepared for the workforce, as they emerge with both academic knowledge and practical skills, leading to a strong track record of successful employment outcomes.
Analysis of Key Data Trends at Muskingum University
Muskingum University, a private institution, has experienced notable trends in tuition costs, student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates over the past decade. The tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has shown a consistent upward trajectory, increasing from approximately $23,662 in 2014 to $31,440 in 2024, representing a staggering rise of around 33% over this period. This trend is emblematic of broader national concerns regarding the rising cost of higher education, which can pose significant financial burdens on students and their families.
In terms of student enrollment, the university has witnessed a gradual decline in the number of undergraduate students, dropping from 1,738 in 2013 to 1,484 in 2023. This 14.6% decrease raises questions about the university's appeal and competitiveness in an increasingly crowded educational landscape. Concurrently, the graduate student population has also fluctuated, with a peak of 811 students in 2018, followed by a decrease to 633 by 2023, indicating potential challenges in retaining graduate students.
Graduation rates have shown improvement, particularly in the on-time graduation rate, which rose from 37.2% in 2013 to 41.9% in 2023. This positive trend suggests that the university has been enhancing its support systems for students, which may help improve retention and completion rates. However, the retention rate for undergraduate students has shown variability, with a notable drop from 75.7% in 2019 to approximately 67.8% in 2022, before stabilizing slightly in 2023. This inconsistency might reflect external factors affecting student satisfaction and engagement.
Overall, while Muskingum University has made strides in graduation rates, the rising tuition costs and declining student numbers present challenges that the institution must address to ensure long-term sustainability and success.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Rural, distant
- Nearest major city
- Columbus, about 70 mi
- Nearest international airport
- John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), about 60 mi
- Also known as
- Muskingum
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Presbyterian Church (USA)
- President
- Susan S. Hasseler (President)
- Phone
- 7408268211
- City
- New Concord, Ohio
- Address
- 10 College Drive, New Concord, OH 43762-1837
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 77.4%, women 84.6%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Muskingum University
The admission data from Muskingum University reflects notable trends and shifts in the university's enrollment and acceptance rates over the years. From 2009 to 2023, the percentage of male applicants accepted saw a decline, starting from approximately 73.3% in 2009 to a peak of about 84.1% in 2023. This suggests an increasing selectivity in the admission process, which may be indicative of a growing interest in the university or perhaps an effort to maintain or enhance academic standards.
On the other hand, the acceptance rate for female applicants has generally remained higher than that of their male counterparts, peaking at approximately 90.8% in 2022 and slightly decreasing to about 89.6% in 2023. This pattern could reflect broader societal trends in education, where female students are increasingly outperforming male students in academic settings.
The total number of enrollments also fluctuated throughout these years, with a notable rise in the number of students admitted in 2020, likely influenced by the unique circumstances and shifts caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The increase in deferred admissions in recent years points towards a strategic response by the university to accommodate students during uncertain times, reflecting flexibility in their admission policies.
Overall, Muskingum University’s admission data reveals a complex interplay between applicant demographics, acceptance rates, and broader educational trends, emphasizing the institution's adaptive strategies in an ever-changing academic landscape. The continuous adjustments made by the university in response to both internal and external factors highlight its commitment to fostering a diverse and academically robust student body.
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
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Health Specialty1 programs—
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 · 10% submitted SAT, 66% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Test Scores at Muskingum University
The admission test score data from Muskingum University over the years reveals significant trends that reflect broader shifts in educational metrics and applicant profiles. Examining the SAT scores, the 25th percentile scores for reading and math have fluctuated, with an observable decline in the lower boundary from 450 in 2007 to a recent 480 in 2023. This suggests that while the lower end of the score spectrum has varied, the overall pool of admitted students might be trending toward a more diverse range of academic abilities.
Moreover, the percentage of applicants who submitted their SAT scores has been decreasing, from 25% in 2007 to just 9% in 2023. This decline could indicate a growing trend among students to either opt for test-optional admissions or to rely on other aspects of their applications, such as personal statements or extracurricular achievements, which might resonate more with contemporary admissions philosophies.
ACT scores demonstrate similar trends, with the 25th percentile for composite scores showing minor fluctuations but remaining within a competitive range. The gradual decline in the number of students submitting these scores further emphasizes a shift in admissions strategies, aligning with national trends where many universities are moving towards more holistic review processes.
Overall, the data illustrates that Muskingum University is adapting to changing educational landscapes and applicant behaviors, reflecting a broader national trend towards inclusivity and a more comprehensive evaluation of potential students. This evolution may ultimately foster a more varied student body, enriching the academic and social environment on campus.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
2,539 applicants in 2025, 81.8% admitted
2,078 admitted 461 not admitted Yield 17.1%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Education, General · Master's66 (0% international)
- Occupational Therapy/Therapist · Master's26 (0% international)
- Management Information Systems, General · Master's9 (0% international)
- Informatics · Master's1 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Statistics from Muskingum University
The graduation statistics from Muskingum University for 2023 reveal intriguing insights into the distribution of degrees across various fields. Notably, programs in the health sciences show a robust performance, with significant numbers of graduates. For instance, the Registered Nursing program produced 30 bachelor graduates, alongside 36 from the broader Health Services category. This trend mirrors the growing demand for healthcare professionals, especially in the wake of the ongoing global health crises, which have underscored the importance of a strong healthcare workforce.
In contrast, fields such as Business Administration and Biology also contributed to the overall graduate numbers, albeit with fewer participants compared to health-related disciplines. The absence of international students in these programs suggests potential barriers to entry, possibly related to visa regulations or the competitive nature of these courses.
Interestingly, there is a complete lack of graduation data in fields such as Public Administration and Education, indicating either limited offerings in these areas or a strategic shift in the university’s focus. This may reflect broader trends in higher education, where institutions are prioritizing programs that align more closely with market demands and employment opportunities.
Overall, the data suggests that Muskingum University is effectively catering to the needs of the health sector, while other fields may require reassessment to enhance enrollment and graduation rates. As the job market continues to evolve, it will be crucial for educational institutions to remain agile and responsive to these changes.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | ||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | $43,731 | ||
| Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching. | $36,243 | ||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $36,243 | ||
| Music Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | $60,255 | ||
| Occupational Therapy/Therapist. | $68,333 | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $75,122 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | - | ||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $50,643 | ||
| Accounting. | $56,448 | ||
| Management Information Systems, General. | - | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $50,219 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $37,818 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Zoology/Animal Biology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | $30,172 | ||
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $30,172 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - | ||
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | - | ||
| Journalism. | - | ||
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | - | ||
| Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections and Criminal Justice, Other. | $44,622 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economics, General. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||
| Geology/Earth Science, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Information Technology. | - | ||
| Informatics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | ||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy and Religious Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Administration. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| International/Globalization Studies. | - |
Students
1,751 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 46:54 · Freshman retention 73.5%
- Continuing undergraduates 937
- First-year undergraduates 353
- Graduate students 228
- Transfers and others 233
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,523)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Composition at Muskingum University in 2023
In 2023, Muskingum University showcases a diverse and dynamic student body. The total enrollment figures reveal that there are 412 new undergraduate students, which reflects a balanced gender ratio with 50.5% male and 49.5% female students. This indicates a healthy gender diversity among the incoming class, which is crucial for fostering a collaborative and inclusive educational environment.
The continuing undergraduate students account for 929 individuals, with a notable female majority of 53.9%, suggesting that female students are thriving in their academic journeys at Muskingum. This trend is significant as it aligns with the broader national conversation about gender representation in higher education, where women are increasingly outpacing men in college enrollment and completion rates.
The transfer student population is relatively small at 95, with a striking 75.8% female representation. This disparity may point to the challenges faced by male transfer students, which could merit further investigation to understand the underlying factors influencing this trend.
Graduate students, numbering 633, show a significant gender gap, with only 16.4% being male. This points to a growing trend where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees, possibly reflecting shifting societal norms and a greater emphasis on education for women.
Overall, Muskingum University appears to be fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment, but the pronounced gender disparities in certain categories, particularly among transfer and graduate students, warrant attention. This data provides a foundation for understanding the university's demographic trends and guiding future initiatives aimed at achieving a more equitable representation across all student classifications.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Muskingum University
The age distribution of students at Muskingum University reveals intriguing insights into the demographics of the student body. A significant portion of the undergraduate population falls within the 18-19 age range, comprising approximately 47.2% of all male students and about 45.5% of female students. This trend is consistent with the typical college demographic, where most students enter directly after high school.
As we observe the next age bracket of 20-21, we note that while male representation slightly decreases to around 38.8%, female representation remains stable at approximately 49.6%. The data indicates a drop in the number of younger students as we progress into older age groups. For instance, students aged 22-24 account for only 9.5% for males and 15.7% for females, suggesting a potential gap in retention or a shift in enrollment patterns as students age.
Interestingly, the data shows that the university also accommodates non-traditional students, evident in the 25-29 age group, where the count of graduate females matches that of undergraduate females. This demographic trend reflects a broader national narrative where more individuals are pursuing higher education later in life, often balancing work and family commitments.
Overall, the data from Muskingum University illustrates a vibrant and diverse student age composition, underscoring the institution's role in catering to both traditional and non-traditional students. This diversity can enhance the educational experience as students of different ages and backgrounds bring various perspectives to the university community.
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.
20 in 2025 · 4.3% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.1% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Muskingum University
The data on international student enrollment at Muskingum University over the years reveals some noteworthy trends. The percentage of international undergraduate students has demonstrated fluctuations, with a peak of 4.57% in 2014 and a subsequent decline to just 0.94% by 2023. This significant drop could reflect broader challenges faced by many universities in the United States, including changing immigration policies and the global pandemic, which have impacted the mobility of international students.
On the graduate level, the data is more sparse, but it shows a consistent presence of international students, albeit at lower percentages, with a maximum of just 0.38% in 2005. The overall trend indicates that while Muskingum University has been able to attract a modest number of international students, the growth in this demographic has not been robust, particularly in recent years.
The decline in international student enrollment could have serious implications for the university, including reduced diversity on campus and potential financial impacts, as international students often pay higher tuition rates. Additionally, universities are increasingly recognizing the value of a diverse student body, which enriches the educational experience for all students.
To reverse this trend, Muskingum University may need to enhance its marketing efforts abroad, improve support services for international students, and create more inclusive environments that appeal to a broader range of students. Given current global trends and the competitive nature of higher education, addressing these issues will be crucial for the university's future.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$44,789
- Undergraduate tuition
- $31,701
- Room and board
- $13,088
- Graduate tuition
- $15,438
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 23% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 28%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$46.7M
Expenses$47.6M
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.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Ohio Athletic Conference
Ohio Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 119 | - |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 32 | 40 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 32 | 40 |
| Soccer | 35 | 23 |
| Lacrosse | 35 | 18 |
| Baseball | 47 | - |
| Basketball | 18 | 12 |
| Bowling | 22 | 7 |
| Cross Country | 12 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Volleyball | - | 20 |
| Other Sports | - | 20 |
| Golf | 10 | 8 |
| Wrestling | 10 | - |
| Archery | - | - |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 125 | - |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 38 | 33 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 32 | 33 |
| Baseball | 57 | - |
| Lacrosse | 34 | 16 |
| Soccer | 23 | 24 |
| Basketball | 19 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 26 |
| Volleyball | - | 23 |
| Bowling | 13 | 9 |
| Cross Country | 10 | 10 |
| Other Sports | - | 19 |
| Golf | 8 | 8 |
| Wrestling | 10 | - |
| Archery | - | - |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 134 | - |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 39 | 38 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 39 | 38 |
| Baseball | 55 | - |
| Lacrosse | 35 | 17 |
| Soccer | 26 | 23 |
| Other Sports | - | 41 |
| Basketball | 17 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Bowling | 15 | 8 |
| Golf | 13 | 8 |
| Cross Country | 10 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Wrestling | 14 | - |
| Tennis | - | 11 |
| Archery | - | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Denison UniversityGranville · 41.9 mi
Liberal Arts #31
-
Kenyon CollegeGambier · 43.6 mi
Liberal Arts #41
-
Ohio University-Main CampusAthens · 50.2 mi
U.S. News #202
-
College of WoosterWooster · 57.2 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
Ohio State University-Main CampusColumbus · 67.2 mi
U.S. News #44
-
Washington and Jefferson CollegeWashington · 80.0 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
Kent State University at KentKent · 82.1 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Robert Morris UniversityMoon Township · 88.3 mi
U.S. News #219
-
Oberlin CollegeOberlin · 93.0 mi
Liberal Arts #59
Data insights
Here are some notable schools around Muskingum University:
-
Denison University - Ranked 39th in the 2024 US News rankings, Denison University is a prestigious liberal arts college known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Kenyon College - Also ranked 39th, Kenyon College is another top-tier liberal arts institution, renowned for its rigorous academics and picturesque campus.
-
Ohio University-Main Campus - With a ranking of 178th, Ohio University is a comprehensive university that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, fostering a diverse and engaging learning environment.
-
The College of Wooster - Ranked 75th, The College of Wooster is known for its unique emphasis on independent study and research, providing students with a rich educational experience.
-
Ohio State University-Main Campus - A major public research university ranked 43rd, Ohio State is celebrated for its extensive academic offerings and vibrant student community.
-
Oberlin College - With a ranking of 51st, Oberlin College is distinguished for its commitment to the arts and social justice, providing a robust liberal arts education.
-
Carnegie Mellon University - Ranked 24th, Carnegie Mellon is a world-renowned research university known for its programs in technology, the arts, and business.
These institutions highlight the rich educational landscape surrounding Muskingum University, offering a variety of opportunities for students in the region.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities 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
Crime Trends at Muskingum University: A Reflective Analysis
The crime statistics at Muskingum University over the past decade reveal a fluctuating pattern that warrants attention. In 2013, the average crime rate was relatively low at 12.24 incidents per 1,000 students. However, there was a significant spike in 2015, where the rate surged to 69.24 incidents, highlighting a period of heightened criminal activity on campus.
This peak can perhaps be attributed to a combination of factors, including increased reporting or perhaps a rise in certain types of offenses such as drug-related arrests, which typically contribute to overall crime rates in university settings. Following this peak, there was a noticeable decline in crime rates, falling to 11.45 in 2016 and maintaining lower levels throughout the subsequent years, with a rate of 10.87 in 2022.
Interestingly, despite the fluctuations, the data indicates that the university has seen a general trend towards stabilization in crime rates over the last few years. The latest figures from 2023 show an average of 17.38 incidents per 1,000 students, suggesting a potential recovery or improvement in campus safety measures.
The nature of crimes reported, including domestic violence and drug-related arrests, reflects broader societal issues that universities often grapple with. As institutions strive to create safer environments, continuous monitoring and proactive measures are essential in addressing these challenges effectively.
The trends observed at Muskingum University align with national patterns in college crime rates, where drug and alcohol-related incidents frequently dominate reports. It is vital for university administrations to enhance support systems, educational programs, and community involvement to mitigate these issues effectively. For more information on crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: 'https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447'.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Muskingum University include John Glenn (Astronaut, Marine aviator and politician), Samuel Marinus Zwemer (Missionary nicknamed the Apostle to Islam) and Annie Glenn (Disability advocate and wife of John Glenn).
-
John Glenn 1921–2016
Astronaut, Marine aviator and politician
-
Samuel Marinus Zwemer 1867–1952
Missionary nicknamed the Apostle to Islam
-
Annie Glenn 1920–2020
Disability advocate and wife of John Glenn
-
Jon Gruden 1963–
Former NFL head coach and media personality
-
James M. Tunnell 1879–1957
US Senator from Delaware
-
Jack Hanna 1947–
Former director of the Columbus Zoo
-
George Glenn Cameron 1905–1979
Historian and philologist
-
Earl Ramage Lewis 1887–1956
Lawyer and U.S. Representative from Ohio
-
Donald C. Bruce 1921–1969
Indiana congressman, American Conservative Union founder
More alumni (4, by field)
Politics and law
-
Melville Clyde Kelly 1883–1935
Republican U.S. Representative from Pennsylvania and publisher
-
Robert T. Secrest 1904–1994
Democratic congressman from Ohio
-
Albert W. Sanborn 1853–1937
Wisconsin state legislator and lawyer
Business
-
Charles J. Pilliod, Jr. 1918–2016
Business executive and diplomat
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.