Lancaster Bible College
Acceptance rate
55.9%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$29,990
$42,211 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,793
Student-faculty ratio 19:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
59.2%
4-year; 6-year rate 66.9%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Lancaster Bible College (LBC) is a prominent institution located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, dedicated to providing a biblical and Christ-centered education. Established in 1933, LBC offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs that emphasize the integration of faith and learning. The college's mission is to prepare students for various ministry roles, fostering a strong commitment to serving God and the community. The institution's emphasis on biblical studies is complemented by its diverse array of programs, including education, counseling, business, and music, making it an appealing option for students with various vocational aspirations.
The campus culture at Lancaster Bible College is vibrant and engaging, promoting a strong sense of community among students. With a student-to-faculty ratio that encourages personalized attention, LBC prides itself on having a dedicated and experienced faculty who are committed to mentoring students both academically and spiritually. The college also boasts modern facilities that support a comprehensive educational experience, including state-of-the-art classrooms, a well-equipped library, and spaces for worship and community gatherings. Extracurricular activities, including sports teams and various student organizations, play a vital role in enhancing student life, allowing individuals to develop leadership skills and build lasting friendships. Overall, Lancaster Bible College stands out as an institution that not only emphasizes academic excellence but also nurtures spiritual growth and community engagement.
Analysis of Key Educational Metrics
The data from Lancaster Bible College presents several significant trends over the years, particularly in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention. One of the most striking aspects is the consistent increase in tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. From 2014 to 2024, tuition has escalated from $18,270 to a projected $29,990, marking an increase of approximately 64%. This trend raises concerns about the affordability of higher education and the potential impact on student enrollment and diversity.
Another critical metric is the graduation rate, which has demonstrated fluctuations throughout the years. For instance, the on-time graduation rate reached a low of 30.7% in 2014, but improved to nearly 49.5% in 2023. This indicates a positive trend in students' ability to complete their degrees in a timely manner, which is essential for both students' future career prospects and the institution's reputation.
Retention rates have also shown a commendable stability, hovering around 80% in recent years. High retention rates suggest that students are generally satisfied with their educational experience, which may correlate with the supportive community and resources available at the college. Maintaining high retention is crucial, as it not only aids in student success but also enhances the institution's overall enrollment stability.
Moreover, the gender ratio among undergraduates shows a notable shift, with a slight increase in the proportion of female students over the years. This shift towards a more balanced gender ratio could reflect broader societal changes and increasing access to higher education for women.
In summary, while tuition increases pose challenges for accessibility, improvements in graduation and retention rates highlight the college’s commitment to student success. Keeping an eye on these trends will be vital for understanding the evolving landscape of higher education and its implications for future students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- In Lancaster
- Nearest international airport
- Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), about 60 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Thomas Kiedis (President)
- Phone
- 7175697071
- City
- Lancaster, Pennsylvania
- Address
- 901 Eden Rd, Lancaster, PA 17601-5036
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 96.7%, women 95.5%.
Data insights
Analysis of Lancaster Bible College Admission Trends
The admission data for Lancaster Bible College over the years reveals significant fluctuations in acceptance rates, enrollment numbers, and the gender distribution of applicants. Notably, the male acceptance rate exhibited a dramatic decline from approximately 94.68% in 2012 to around 52.57% in 2013, indicating a tightening of admission standards during that period. Conversely, the female acceptance rate showed a more stable trend, with a low of 51.47% in 2013 and a high of 98.68% in 2022, suggesting that the institution may have been focusing on achieving a more balanced enrollment gender ratio.
The enrollment numbers also oscillated, peaking at 215 students in 2014 before gradually decreasing to 152 in 2022. This decline in enrollment may reflect broader trends in higher education, where many institutions are facing challenges in attracting prospective students amid rising tuition costs and changing job market demands.
Interestingly, the number of applicants denied admission fluctuated significantly, with a peak of 285 denials in 2013, which correlates with the lowest male acceptance rate. Such patterns indicate that the college's admissions strategy could be increasingly selective, possibly in response to institutional goals or shifts in the educational landscape.
Overall, Lancaster Bible College's admission trends highlight the dynamic nature of higher education institutions. As colleges strive to balance quality and diversity, monitoring these metrics is essential for understanding the evolving landscape of student enrollment and institutional priorities.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 17% submitted SAT, 1% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Scores at Lancaster Bible College
The admission data for Lancaster Bible College over the years reveals significant trends in standardized test score requirements, particularly for the SAT. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has fluctuated significantly, with peaks and troughs evident in various years. For instance, in 2013 and 2014, an impressive 96% and 94% of admitted students submitted SAT scores, respectively, indicating a strong reliance on standardized testing during these years. In contrast, only 40% of applicants submitted scores in 2023, raising questions about the evolving admissions landscape.
Moreover, the range of SAT reading and math scores has shown a gradual increase over the years, reflecting a possible shift in the caliber of students applying to the college. The 25th percentile and 75th percentile scores for SAT reading have risen from 460-590 in 2007 to 520-630 by 2023, highlighting a competitive admissions environment. Such trends may be indicative of broader changes in higher education admissions policies, where institutions increasingly emphasize holistic reviews or de-emphasize standardized test scores altogether.
These changes can also be linked to national conversations about the role of standardized testing in higher education, with many institutions moving towards test-optional policies in recent years. The data from Lancaster Bible College serves as a microcosm of these larger trends, showcasing how admissions strategies continue to evolve in response to shifting societal values and educational goals. As the college navigates these changes, it remains essential to consider how they impact the diversity and preparedness of incoming students.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 6 in 10
1,732 applicants in 2025, 55.9% admitted
968 admitted 764 not admitted Yield 33.7%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Pastoral Studies/Counseling · Master's40 (0% international)
- Divinity/Ministry · Master's25 (0% international)
- Mental Health Counseling/Counselor · Master's23 (0% international)
- Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other · Master's18 (0% international)
- Social Work · Master's9 (0% international)
- Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling · Master's7 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Programs at Lancaster Bible College
The data from Lancaster Bible College reveals significant trends in the graduation rates across various programs for the year 2023. Notably, the Business Administration and Management program stands out with 40 graduates at the bachelor's level, indicating a strong interest in business-related fields. This aligns with national trends, where business degrees often lead to robust employment opportunities, making them attractive to students.
In contrast, the theological programs appear to attract fewer graduates, with only 22 completing their master's in Pastoral Studies and 13 in Theological and Ministerial Studies. This could suggest a niche interest in these fields, which may not appeal to the broader student population compared to more versatile degrees like business. Interestingly, there were no reported international students graduating in these theological programs, which may reflect the institution's regional focus or the nature of the programs offered.
Moreover, the data highlights a growing emphasis on health-related fields, with 12 graduates in Mental Health Counseling and 3 in Clinical Pastoral Counseling. This growth is indicative of the increasing societal focus on mental health and wellness, a trend that has gained momentum in recent years, particularly post-pandemic.
Overall, the statistics suggest that while Lancaster Bible College maintains a diverse array of programs, the demand for practical and career-oriented degrees such as business administration and health services is on the rise, reflecting broader educational and employment trends in the current landscape.
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 | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bible/Biblical Studies. | $33,964-$45,734 | ||||
| Missions/Missionary Studies. | - | ||||
| Religious/Sacred Music. | - | ||||
| Divinity/Ministry. | $53,455 | ||||
| Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other. | $53,455 | ||||
| Pastoral Studies/Counseling. | $27,683 | ||||
| Youth Ministry. | $27,683 | ||||
| Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries, Other. | $27,683 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $50,053 | ||||
| Non-Profit/Public/Organizational Management. | $50,053 | ||||
| Organizational Leadership. | $50,053 | ||||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | - | ||||
| Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling. | $41,069 | ||||
| Clinical Pastoral Counseling/Patient Counseling. | $41,069 | ||||
| Mental Health Counseling/Counselor. | $41,069 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | - | ||||
| Social Work. | $37,687 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication and Media Studies, Other. | $31,650 | ||||
| Organizational Communication, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | $44,904 | ||||
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $44,904 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - | ||||
| Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Musical Theatre. | - | ||||
| Music, General. | - | ||||
| Music Performance, General. | - | ||||
| Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - | ||||
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | - |
Students
2,519 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 44:56 · Freshman retention 79.4%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,011
- First-year undergraduates 199
- Graduate students 726
- Transfers and others 583
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,793)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Lancaster Bible College in 2023
The student demographic data from Lancaster Bible College for 2023 reveals intriguing insights into the composition of its undergraduate and graduate populations. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 186, with a male-to-female ratio of approximately 53% to 47%. This slight male majority is a common trend observed in many colleges, particularly in certain fields of study.
For undergraduate continuing students, the enrollment is significantly higher at 979, where females constitute about 52% of the population, indicating a shift towards a more balanced gender representation. This trend highlights the increasing participation of women in higher education, reflecting broader societal changes.
Transfer students total 121, with a nearly equal male and female distribution, showcasing a welcoming environment for students transitioning from other institutions. Graduate students number 520, with a notable male majority of about 56%. This could suggest that certain graduate programs at the college may attract more males, perhaps in fields traditionally dominated by men.
The data on ethnic diversity within these groups provides a more nuanced view of the college’s demographic landscape. Although the specific numbers are not fully detailed, the presence of various ethnic groups, including White, Asian, Latinx, and Black students, indicates a commitment to inclusivity and diversity. Overall, Lancaster Bible College appears to be fostering a balanced and diverse student body, which is essential for enriching the educational experience and preparing students for a globalized world.
Age Demographics of Lancaster Bible College in 2023
The age distribution of students at Lancaster Bible College reveals a diverse and dynamic student body. The data indicates a significant concentration of younger students, particularly those aged 18-21, who account for approximately 40% of the total female and male student population combined. This trend aligns with the broader national pattern in higher education, where younger demographics tend to dominate enrollment figures, particularly in undergraduate programs.
Interestingly, while younger students form the majority, the presence of students aged 22-24 and older is noteworthy. Students aged 22-24 represent about 20% of the total student body, indicating that there is a considerable number of students who may be pursuing their education later than the traditional age. Moreover, those aged 30 and above, particularly in the 30-34 and 35-39 categories, account for approximately 12% of total enrollment. This suggests that Lancaster Bible College attracts non-traditional students who may be returning to education for career advancement or personal development.
The gender distribution also merits attention, with a higher number of undergraduate females compared to their male counterparts across most age categories. However, in the graduate programs, the numbers are more balanced, particularly in the 35-39 age group, where male enrollment is slightly higher. This trend reflects a growing recognition of the importance of advanced education among both genders.
Overall, the demographics demonstrate Lancaster Bible College's commitment to inclusivity, appealing to a wide range of age groups and backgrounds, which is essential for fostering a rich learning environment.
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.
0 in 2025 · 0.3% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.2% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Lancaster Bible College
The data on international student enrollment at Lancaster Bible College reveals significant fluctuations over the years, particularly in the undergraduate and graduate programs. Since 2004, the total number of undergraduate students has generally increased, peaking at 1,688 in 2019. However, the proportion of international students in the undergraduate population has dramatically declined from 0.94% in 2004 to just 0.06% by 2022. This indicates a troubling trend, suggesting that the college may not be attracting as many international students relative to its growing overall student body.
In the graduate program, the situation appears similarly concerning. Although the total enrollment fluctuated, the percentage of international students has remained low, with a peak of 8.15% in 2004, but dwindling to as low as 0.23% in recent years. These numbers highlight a potential challenge for the college in maintaining its appeal to global students, which could be influenced by a variety of factors including changes in immigration policies, competition from other institutions, or shifts in global education trends.
Overall, these trends reflect a need for Lancaster Bible College to reassess its strategies for attracting and retaining international students. Fostering a diverse student body can enhance the educational experience for all students, providing them with a broader perspective and preparing them for a globalized world. The college may benefit from targeted outreach, enhanced support services for international students, and partnerships with institutions abroad to reverse this decline and create a more inclusive academic environment.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$42,211
- Undergraduate tuition
- $29,990
- Room and board
- $12,221
- Graduate tuition
- $11,160
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 53% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 46%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$35.5M
Expenses$36.7M
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 · NCCAA · Other
Other: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 44 | 23 |
| Volleyball | 26 | 24 |
| Basketball | 31 | 11 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 18 | 22 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 18 | 22 |
| Baseball | 35 | - |
| Tennis | 10 | 9 |
| Cross Country | 9 | 10 |
| Softball | - | 15 |
| Field Hockey | - | 14 |
| Golf | 13 | - |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 46 | 27 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 25 | 23 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 25 | 23 |
| Basketball | 35 | 11 |
| Volleyball | 22 | 21 |
| Baseball | 38 | - |
| Cross Country | 10 | 9 |
| Softball | - | 15 |
| Field Hockey | - | 12 |
| Golf | 12 | - |
| Tennis | 6 | 6 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 46 | 28 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 26 | 18 |
| Basketball | 28 | 12 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 23 | 16 |
| Baseball | 38 | - |
| Volleyball | 22 | 13 |
| Tennis | 10 | 10 |
| Lacrosse | - | 14 |
| Cross Country | 9 | 4 |
| Field Hockey | - | 12 |
| Golf | 10 | - |
| Softball | - | 10 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Franklin and Marshall CollegeLancaster · 2.5 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
Dickinson CollegeCarlisle · 48.9 mi
Liberal Arts #54
-
Villanova UniversityVillanova · 50.2 mi
U.S. News #42
-
Swarthmore CollegeSwarthmore · 50.8 mi
Liberal Arts #3
-
Bryn Mawr CollegeBryn Mawr · 51.6 mi
Liberal Arts #31
-
Haverford CollegeHaverford · 52.2 mi
Liberal Arts #26
-
Gettysburg CollegeGettysburg · 52.9 mi
Liberal Arts #54
-
Johns Hopkins UniversityBaltimore · 54.5 mi
U.S. News #9
-
University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphia · 58.5 mi
U.S. News #7
Data insights
Here are some notable colleges and universities near Lancaster Bible College:
-
Franklin and Marshall College - Ranked 35th in the 2024 US News rankings, this liberal arts college is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
University of Delaware - With a ranking of 76, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, making it a popular choice for students.
-
Villanova University - Ranked 67th, Villanova is a well-respected institution known for its rigorous academics and commitment to community service.
-
Johns Hopkins University - This prestigious university is ranked 9th and is renowned for its research programs and strong emphasis on science and engineering.
-
Swarthmore College - Ranked 4th, this highly selective liberal arts college is celebrated for its academic excellence and beautiful campus.
-
Haverford College - With a ranking of 21, Haverford is known for its strong liberal arts curriculum and commitment to social justice.
-
Bryn Mawr College - This women's college, ranked 30th, is recognized for its academic rigor and supportive community.
These institutions offer a variety of programs and opportunities for students in the Lancaster area.
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
Analysis of Crime Rates at Lancaster Bible College
The crime statistics from Lancaster Bible College over the past decade reveal a fluctuating trend in campus safety, with a notable decline in reported incidents in recent years. The data indicates that from 2013 to 2015, the average number of crimes per 1,000 students saw a significant increase, peaking at 6.46 in 2015. This spike may reflect heightened awareness and reporting of criminal activity or an actual rise in incidents during that time.
From 2016 onward, however, the overall crime rate began to decline. By 2021, the reported incidents dropped dramatically to just 0.49 per 1,000 students, indicating a potential improvement in campus safety or effective preventive measures. The subsequent years have shown a slight increase but remain relatively low, with 2023 reporting an average of 1.84 incidents per 1,000 students.
Among the various types of offenses, the data shows that arrests related to drug use and alcohol were prominent in the early years, while violent crimes such as assault and domestic violence appear less frequently. The absence of any reported incidents of serious crimes like murder or rape further emphasizes the college's relatively safe environment.
These statistics align with broader trends observed in college campuses across the United States, where many institutions have made concerted efforts to improve safety and reduce crime through better campus security measures and awareness programs. Overall, while the data indicates fluctuations in crime rates at Lancaster Bible College, the recent decline suggests a positive trajectory towards enhanced campus safety. For further insights into crime rate calculations, refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
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.