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U.S. News #184 Public, 4-year

Cheyney University of Pennsylvania

Cheyney, Pennsylvania · www.cheyney.edu

中文

U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027

#184

Out-of-state tuition

$18,870

In-state $10,904

Peer median $17,955

Undergraduates

617

Student-faculty ratio 15:1

Peer median 14 : 1

Graduation rate

8.3%

4-year; 6-year rate 14.9%

Peer median 26.9%

“Peers” are all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Cheyney University of Pennsylvania, established in 1837, holds the distinction of being the oldest historically Black university in the United States. Located in Cheyney, Pennsylvania, the university is known for its commitment to providing quality education and fostering a nurturing environment for its diverse student body. Cheyney University emphasizes the importance of leadership, service, and academic excellence, as reflected in its mission statement. The university's dedication to social justice and equity is evident in its programs and initiatives aimed at empowering students and promoting community engagement.

The campus culture at Cheyney University is vibrant, with a strong sense of community and belonging among students. Various student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs contribute to a well-rounded student life. The university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly in areas such as education, business, and the sciences, designed to prepare students for successful careers. Cheyney University also places a strong emphasis on personal development and mentorship, with faculty members who are dedicated to guiding students throughout their academic journey. Its commitment to producing well-rounded graduates is reflected in the success of its alumni, who have made significant contributions in various fields, including education, public service, and the arts.

Analysis of Key Data Points from Cheyney University of Pennsylvania

Cheyney University of Pennsylvania, as a public institution, has experienced significant fluctuations in its tuition fees and student enrollment over the years. One notable trend is the increase in tuition for in-state undergraduate students, which rose from $8,808 in 2014 to $10,904 in 2023, representing a cumulative increase of approximately 24%. This inflation in costs reflects a broader trend across many public universities, where rising operational expenses lead to higher tuition fees. For out-of-state undergraduates, tuition has soared from $13,294 in 2014 to $18,870 in 2023, marking an increase of around 42%. Such increases may deter prospective students, especially when combined with the overall decline in enrollment.

Enrollment data reveals a troubling decrease in student numbers, dropping from 1,224 undergraduates in 2013 to just 697 in 2023. This decline is particularly concerning for a university aiming to maintain a vibrant academic community. The drop in graduate students, which fell to zero in recent years, further underscores challenges in attracting and retaining students. This attrition might be linked to the rising costs of tuition, impacting the institution's appeal.

The university's graduation rates also tell a story of concern. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates peaked at 20.96% in 2023, a significant increase from previous years, indicating that some initiatives to improve student success may be taking effect. However, this rate is still low compared to national averages, suggesting that while some students are finding success, many are still struggling to complete their degrees in a timely manner.

Lastly, retention rates have shown some positive movement, fluctuating between 36.36% and 70.30% over the years, with a retention rate of 68.29% in 2023. This improvement may reflect efforts by the university to enhance student support systems. However, the ongoing challenges of affordability and student numbers remain critical areas that require strategic focus to ensure the sustainability and growth of the institution.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Rural, near a city
Nearest major city
Philadelphia, about 20 mi
Nearest international airport
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), about 15 mi
Cheyney, Pennsylvania
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Aaron Walton (President)
Phone
6103992275
City
Cheyney, Pennsylvania
Address
1837 University Circle, Cheyney, PA 19319-0200

Rankings & Admission

U.S. News Liberal Arts Colleges · last 10 years
#184Ranked #184 every year from 2027 to 2027

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's730 international (0.0%)
Top 9 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
20
Business Administration and Management, General
14
Psychology, General
13
Sociology, General
11
Communication, General
5
Special Education and Teaching, General
3
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
3
Early Childhood Education and Teaching
2
Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Facilities Management, General
2

U.S. studentsInternational

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from Cheyney University

The graduation data from Cheyney University reveals notable trends in student completions across various disciplines in 2023. Business Administration and Management stands out as the most popular program, with 16 graduates obtaining their bachelor's degree. This aligns with broader trends in higher education where business programs consistently attract a significant number of students due to strong employment prospects in the sector.

Interestingly, disciplines such as Sociology, Hospitality Management, and Liberal Arts also show respectable numbers, each with 9 graduates. These fields may appeal to students seeking broad, versatile skill sets that can be applied in various careers. The absence of international students graduating in these programs could indicate a need for Cheyney University to enhance its recruitment strategies to attract a more diverse student body, especially in popular fields.

On the other hand, the data reveals a concerning trend with zero graduates in master's and doctoral programs across all disciplines. This lack of advanced degree completions suggests potential barriers for students wishing to pursue further education, whether due to program availability, financial constraints, or lack of awareness of pathways to advanced degrees.

Moreover, the absence of international graduates highlights an area for improvement. As universities globally compete for international talent, Cheyney could benefit from initiatives aimed at attracting and supporting international students, which not only enrich the academic community but also enhance the university's global standing.

In summary, while Cheyney University showcases strong graduation numbers in certain undergraduate programs, it faces challenges in expanding its offerings for advanced degrees and attracting a diverse international student population. Addressing these areas could significantly contribute to the university's growth and reputation in the future.

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

Biologyhas 20 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Businesshas 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Business Administration and Management, General.-
Psychology has 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Psychology, General.-
Social sciencehas 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Sociology, General.$28,128
Communication has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Communication, General.-
Educationhas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Special Education and Teaching, General.-
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.-
Liberal arts has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Facilities Management, General.-

Students

617 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 34:66 · Freshman retention 68.5%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (617)

Black
542 · 87.8%
Hispanic
34 · 5.5%
Two or more races
27 · 4.4%
Asian
8 · 1.3%
White
4 · 0.6%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
2.1%
18–19
46.5%
20–21
33.9%
22–24
13.1%
25 and over
4.4%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Cheyney University of Pennsylvania

The demographic data from Cheyney University of Pennsylvania in 2023 reveals significant insights into the composition of its student body. A total of 696 undergraduate students are enrolled, with the majority being continuing students, followed by new freshmen and transfer students. The gender distribution indicates that females constitute a larger percentage across all categories, with female representation being particularly pronounced among transfer students, where they make up nearly 79.3%.

The racial breakdown, while not fully detailed in the provided data, suggests a diversity that warrants further exploration. However, the available numbers indicate that the white student population is notably minimal, suggesting an opportunity for the university to enhance its outreach and recruitment efforts among various racial and ethnic groups.

Moreover, the overall male representation is relatively low, particularly in the new freshmen category, where only 33.7% are male. This gender imbalance may reflect broader trends in higher education, where female enrollment often surpasses that of males.

As institutions across the United States seek to create more inclusive environments, the data from Cheyney University can serve as a reference point for understanding gender and racial dynamics within higher education. The university may benefit from implementing programs aimed at increasing male enrollment and promoting diversity, aligning with national trends and the evolving landscape of higher education.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Cheyney University of Pennsylvania

The age composition data from Cheyney University of Pennsylvania in 2023 reveals some interesting demographic trends among its student body. The largest age group represented is the traditional college-age cohort, specifically those aged 18-19, with a total of 329 students in this category, comprising 33% of the total student population. This aligns with the national trend of universities attracting younger students, typically fresh out of high school.

Conversely, the representation of non-traditional students appears limited, particularly in the older age brackets. For instance, only about 2% of students are aged 30 and above, indicating a potential area for growth in attracting adult learners or professionals seeking further education. This aligns with broader educational trends wherein many universities are starting to cater more to adult learners, offering flexible programs that accommodate their work and family commitments.

The gender composition also merits attention. There are significantly more female students than male students across almost all age categories, particularly in the 18-19 age range where the female population outnumbers males by more than double. This trend mirrors findings from various educational institutions across the United States, highlighting a growing female majority in higher education.

Overall, Cheyney University appears to host a predominantly young, female student body. However, in efforts to diversify and expand its demographic reach, the institution may want to consider strategies aimed at engaging older students and enhancing support systems for non-traditional learners. Addressing these aspects could enrich the educational environment and further the university's mission of inclusivity and access.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Undergraduates0.0%

0 in 2025 · 0.4% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.4%2017: 0.3%2018: 0.0%2019: 0.0%2020: 0.3%2021: 0.3%2022: 0.0%2023: 1.0%2024: 0.3%2025: 0.0%
2016Peer median 1.4%2025
Graduate students0.0%

0 in 2018 · 4.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 4.0%2017: 2.7%2018: 0.0%
2016Peer median 1.0%2018

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Cheyney University

The data on international student enrollment at Cheyney University of Pennsylvania reveals a concerning trend over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of international undergraduate students has fluctuated significantly, starting with 9 students in 2004 and peaking at 7 in 2023. However, the overall percentage of international undergraduates has seen a steep decline, dropping from 0.72% in 2004 to only 1.00% in 2023, indicating that despite the increase in total undergraduate enrollment, the proportion of international students remains alarmingly low.

In the graduate segment, the data is even more telling. The only recorded instances of international graduate students in the dataset show a maximum of only 4% in 2016, indicating a very limited appeal for Cheyney University within the international graduate student community. The absence of data for many years raises questions about the university's commitment to attracting international scholars.

This trend coincides with broader national patterns in higher education, where many institutions are struggling to maintain their international student populations due to geopolitical tensions and the COVID-19 pandemic, which has reshaped the landscape of global education. As universities across the United States strive to enhance their diversity and international presence, Cheyney University must take actionable steps to improve its attractiveness to international students. This could include developing targeted recruitment strategies, enhancing support services for international students, and promoting a more inclusive campus environment. Without these measures, the university risks falling further behind in the global education arena.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$29,886

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$18,870
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$10,904
Room and board
$11,016
Out-of-state tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $29,573 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Tuition rose 33% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose -2%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$40.3M

Government grants and contracts
$33.8M83.9%
Auxiliary enterprises
$6.5M16.2%
Gifts and private grants
$636K1.6%
Investment return
$346K0.9%
Sales and services of educational activities
$320K0.8%
Other
-$1.4M-3.4%

Expenses$47.7M

Institutional support
$13.6M28.4%
Auxiliary enterprises
$9.4M19.7%
Student services
$8.5M17.8%
Instruction
$7.5M15.7%
Academic support
$4.8M10.0%
Scholarships
$901K1.9%
Research
$50K0.1%
Public service
$5K0.0%
Other
$3.1M6.5%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

All faculty
$94,549peers $72,709
Professor
$128,779peers $91,112
Associate professor
$102,637peers $77,091
Assistant professor
$77,140peers $65,783
Instructor
$54,442peers $53,527

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
2025
IndependentMENWOMEN
Basketball1510
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)149
Volleyball-11
2024
IndependentMENWOMEN
Basketball1511
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)159
Volleyball-10
2023
IndependentMENWOMEN
Basketball1510
Volleyball-7

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities surrounding Cheyney University of Pennsylvania:

  1. University of Pennsylvania - Ranked 6th in the 2024 US News rankings, this prestigious Ivy League institution is known for its strong emphasis on research and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  2. Villanova University - With a rank of 67, Villanova is recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and its strong liberal arts curriculum, alongside professional programs in business, engineering, and law.

  3. Swarthmore College - This highly esteemed liberal arts college ranks 4th and is known for its rigorous academic standards and small class sizes, providing a personalized educational experience.

  4. Haverford College - Ranked 21st, Haverford is another distinguished liberal arts college that emphasizes academic integrity and social responsibility, fostering a strong sense of community among its students.

  5. Bryn Mawr College - With a rank of 30, Bryn Mawr is a women's liberal arts college that offers a robust academic program and is renowned for its commitment to empowering women through education.

  6. Drexel University - Ranked 98th, Drexel is known for its cooperative education program that integrates professional experience with academic study, providing students with valuable workplace skills.

These institutions contribute to a vibrant educational landscape in Pennsylvania, offering a variety of programs and opportunities for students.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.9 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Drug referrals
18
Liquor referrals
6
Weapons arrests
3
Domestic violence
3
Rape
2
Weapons referrals
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 Cheyney University of Pennsylvania

The crime statistics from Cheyney University of Pennsylvania present a noteworthy trend over the past decade. In 2013, the average number of offenses per 1,000 students was a concerning 47.20, which peaked in 2014 at 68.32. However, the subsequent years showed a gradual decline in crime rates, indicating potential improvements in campus safety and student conduct. By 2022, the crime rate had significantly dropped to just 4.98 incidents per 1,000 students, and further reduced to 3.44 in 2023.

This sharp decline is particularly striking and could reflect several factors, including enhanced security measures, educational programs on substance abuse prevention, and possibly a greater community engagement in addressing crime-related issues. The consistent decrease in serious offenses such as weapon arrests and drug-related incidents could also suggest a shift in student behavior or increased awareness and reporting mechanisms.

Interestingly, the data reveals a significant reduction in reported incidents of domestic violence and sexual offenses, indicating a potential cultural shift within the campus environment. These outcomes echo broader national trends wherein many universities are actively addressing crime and fostering safer educational spaces.

Nevertheless, while the decline in crime is promising, continuous vigilance is necessary to maintain this trend. It is essential for the university administration to remain proactive in their safety measures and support services to ensure that students feel secure and supported on campus. For further insights on crime rate calculations, refer to this link: 'https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447'.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Cheyney University of Pennsylvania include Ed Bradley (CBS News and 60 Minutes broadcast journalist), Eddie Holman (Singer known for "Hey There Lonely Girl") and Rebecca Cole (Second African-American woman to become a doctor in the US).

More alumni (7, by field)

Politics and law

  • Charlie Brown 1938–

    Democratic member of Indiana House of Representatives

  • Thaddeus Kirkland 1955–

    Former mayor of Chester, Pennsylvania

Arts and media

  • Jim Vance 1942–2017

    Washington, D.C. television news anchor

  • Khris Davis 1985–

    Actor starring in Big George Foreman

    Theater arts · Attended until 2009

  • Walter Livingston 1922–2011

    Architect, urban planner and civic activist

Sports

  • Wilbur Kirkland 1947–

    Former ABA professional basketball player

  • Andrew Fields 1957–

    Former professional basketball player and coach

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.