Lincoln University
Acceptance rate
65.7%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$19,384
In-state $12,512
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
1,545
Student-faculty ratio 12:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
30.2%
4-year; 6-year rate 44.7%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Lincoln University, located in New Zealand, is renowned for its strong emphasis on agricultural and environmental sciences, making it a unique institution among universities. The university’s motto, "Find Your Place," reflects its commitment to providing a supportive and inclusive environment for students from diverse backgrounds. The picturesque campus, set against the backdrop of the Southern Alps, offers state-of-the-art facilities, including modern laboratories, research centers, and extensive agricultural fields, facilitating hands-on learning and research opportunities. The university is particularly noted for its sustainable practices and innovation in agriculture, attracting students who are passionate about making a positive impact on the environment.
In addition to its academic strengths, Lincoln University boasts a vibrant campus culture that encourages student engagement and community involvement. It offers a range of extracurricular activities, sports clubs, and student organizations, fostering a sense of belonging and teamwork among students. The university also prioritizes employability, providing career services that help students connect with potential employers and gain relevant experience through internships and job placements. Notably, many Lincoln graduates have gone on to achieve significant success in various fields, particularly in agriculture, environmental management, and business, reflecting the university's strong reputation in these sectors. With its focus on practical education, research excellence, and community engagement, Lincoln University continues to be a leading choice for students aspiring to make a difference in the world.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Lincoln University
The data from Lincoln University presents several noteworthy trends that reflect the changing landscape of higher education. One of the most significant observations is the steady increase in tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. Over the years, in-state tuition has risen from approximately $9,804 in 2014 to $12,512 in 2024, marking a substantial increase of nearly 28%. Similarly, out-of-state tuition has escalated from $15,084 to $19,384, an increase of over 28% as well. This trend raises concerns about the affordability of higher education, as rising costs can deter prospective students from enrolling, particularly those from lower-income backgrounds.
Moreover, the student population has experienced fluctuations, with undergraduate enrollment peaking at 2,122 in 2019 and then declining to 1,712 in 2023. This decrease could be indicative of broader trends in higher education, where enrollment numbers have been affected by demographic shifts, economic factors, and changing perceptions of the value of a college degree. It is essential for institutions to address these issues to sustain enrollment levels and maintain financial viability.
In terms of student retention, there has been a positive trend. The retention rate improved from around 67% in 2013 to nearly 79% in 2023. This increase suggests that the university has been successful in fostering an environment that encourages students to continue their studies. Improved retention rates often correlate with higher graduation rates, which is another vital metric. The graduation rate for on-time completion has shown some improvement, reaching about 30% in 2023, although this still leaves room for growth.
Lastly, the gender ratio among undergraduates has shown a slight shift, with female students consistently making up a larger proportion of the undergraduate population. This trend reflects broader societal changes in educational attainment among women, who have increasingly pursued higher education.
Overall, while Lincoln University demonstrates positive retention and graduation trends, the rising tuition costs and fluctuating enrollment figures present challenges that need strategic attention to ensure continued success in the evolving higher education landscape.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Lancaster, about 25 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), about 35 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Brenda Allen (President)
- Phone
- 4843658000
- Address
- 1570 Baltimore Pike, Lincoln University, PA 19352-0999
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 75.4%, women 86.2%.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Rates at Lincoln University
The admission data for Lincoln University over the years reveals intriguing trends in both male and female acceptance rates as well as overall enrollment statistics. Starting from 2009, the male admission rate was approximately 32.6%, while the female admission rate stood at about 36.9%. Over the years, there were fluctuations, notably a significant decline in acceptance rates for both genders around 2011, with male rates dropping to 23.2% and female rates to 28%.
Interestingly, 2014 marked an unusual spike in acceptance rates, with males at 59.7% and females at 62.3%, suggesting a potential shift in the university's admission strategies or a change in applicant demographics. This trend did not sustain, as the rates reverted to lower levels in subsequent years.
From 2016 onward, both acceptance rates saw a remarkable increase, where male acceptance peaked at nearly 89.3% in 2016 and female acceptance at 92.5%. However, this was accompanied by a substantial increase in enrollment numbers, indicating that the university might have been attempting to boost its student body size significantly during these years.
The year 2023 saw a slight increase in both male and female acceptance rates again, albeit with lower enrollment figures, suggesting a potential tightening in selectivity despite a larger applicant pool. Overall, these trends reflect Lincoln University's evolving admission policies and the broader shifts in higher education dynamics, where institutions are striving to balance selectivity with enrollment numbers amidst increasing competition.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 1% submitted SAT, 0% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Lincoln University's Admission Scores Over the Years
The data from Lincoln University reveals trends in the admission scores and the proportion of applicants submitting standardized test scores from 2007 to 2023. Notably, while the number of students submitting SAT scores has seen fluctuations, the acceptance rates remain relatively high, indicating continued interest in the university. For instance, in 2022, only 29% of admitted students submitted SAT scores, a significant drop compared to previous years, suggesting a shift in application strategies or the impact of test-optional policies.
In terms of scores, the 25th percentile and 75th percentile ranges for the SAT reading and math sections have shown a general upward trend, reflecting an increase in the academic preparedness of students over time. The increasing lower and upper bounds of the SAT scores suggest that while the overall applicant pool may be diversifying, the university is maintaining its standards for academic excellence.
Interestingly, the data shows that the ACT scores have not been included in the most recent years, which may point towards a growing trend of applicants opting for SAT over ACT, or possibly the university's policy changes regarding standardized testing. The fluctuations in the number of test-takers and the percentages suggest that Lincoln University is adapting to broader educational trends, including the national conversation around the relevance of standardized tests in college admissions.
Overall, the evolving landscape of admissions at Lincoln University reflects broader trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly considering a holistic view of applicants, moving beyond just numerical scores. The data highlights the necessity for prospective students to remain academically competitive while also showcasing a more comprehensive profile that includes extracurriculars and personal statements.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 7 in 10
5,248 applicants in 2025, 65.7% admitted
3,449 admitted 1,799 not admitted Yield 12.3%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Special Education and Teaching, Other · Master's14 (0% international)
- Finance, General · Master's14 (7% international)
- Human Services, General · Master's10 (0% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's9 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's5 (20% international)
- Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's3 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Lincoln University
The graduation data from Lincoln University reveals significant trends across various fields of study for the year 2023. Notably, programs in health and public safety are particularly prominent, with a combined total of 101 graduates from both associate and bachelor programs in areas such as Criminal Justice and Health Services. This trend reflects a growing societal focus on public health and safety, which has been amplified by recent global health crises and the increasing demand for qualified professionals in these sectors.
Interestingly, the data also indicates a notable absence of international students graduating from these programs, suggesting a potential area for recruitment efforts to diversify the student body and enhance the global perspective within these disciplines. In contrast, Business Administration and Management, while attracting fewer bachelor graduates, showed a robust presence in master's programs, indicating a trend where students pursue advanced degrees in response to the competitive job market.
Furthermore, the arts and humanities fields, such as Fine/Studio Arts and Philosophy, though having lower graduation numbers, illustrate a vital component of the university's academic offerings. These disciplines foster critical thinking and creativity, essential skills in today’s workforce, despite their lower enrollment figures.
Overall, the data underscores the importance of aligning academic offerings with workforce demands, particularly in high-need areas like health services and public safety. As Lincoln University continues to evolve, it may benefit from strategies that promote international student enrollment and enhance program diversity, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for a dynamic job market.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | $37,850 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | $40,772-$58,302 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $41,641 | ||
| Accounting. | - | ||
| Finance, General. | $56,353 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $36,515 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | $33,351 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $40,156 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | $78,335 | ||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | $66,553 | ||
| Education/Teaching of Individuals in Early Childhood Special Education Programs. | $66,553 | ||
| Special Education and Teaching, Other. | $66,553 | ||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $28,782 | ||
| Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | $41,565 | ||
| Sociology, General. | $31,769 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $34,308 | ||
| Information Technology. | $34,308 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physical Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||
| Forensic Chemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| African Studies. | - |
Students
1,670 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 36:64 · Freshman retention 73.4%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,064
- First-year undergraduates 421
- Graduate students 125
- Transfers and others 60
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,545)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Lincoln University 2023
The student demographic data from Lincoln University for 2023 reveals interesting insights into the composition of its student body. Among the undergraduate newcomers, there are 401 students, with a notable gender distribution of 32.4% male and 67.6% female. This pattern continues among undergraduate continuing students, where the total number is significantly higher at 1,251, showing a similar gender ratio of 35.5% male and 64.5% female.
The university also accommodates a small number of undergraduate transfer students, totaling 52, with 36.5% being male and 63.5% female. In contrast, the graduate student population, which consists of 112 students, shows a stark gender imbalance, with only 20.5% male and a dominant 79.5% female demographic.
These figures indicate a larger trend within higher education where female enrollment often surpasses that of males, particularly in graduate studies. This may reflect broader societal shifts toward higher educational attainment among women.
Additionally, the presence of underrepresented groups and international students is crucial for the university's diversity. However, the data on these aspects appears to be limited, suggesting an area for further exploration. The institution’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is essential in fostering an environment where all students can thrive academically and socially. Overall, the data highlights Lincoln University’s evolving student demographic landscape, emphasizing the importance of gender balance and diversity in higher education.
Analysis of Age Distribution Among Lincoln University Students in 2023
The age distribution of students at Lincoln University in 2023 presents an interesting landscape. The largest group of students falls within the 18-19 age range, comprising 30.6% of the total female students and 34.3% of the total male students. This aligns with trends observed in higher education institutions, where younger students often dominate enrollment figures, reflecting a shift towards immediate post-secondary education.
Interestingly, the 20-21 age bracket also accounts for a significant portion of the student body, with 28.3% of female students and 27.8% of male students. Together, these two age groups represent an overwhelming majority of the student population, indicating that Lincoln University continues to attract recent high school graduates.
As students progress into the 22-24 age range, there is a noticeable decline in the number of undergraduates, with a slight uptick in graduate enrollment for both genders. This could suggest that students are either transitioning to graduate studies or are opting for career paths after completing their undergraduate degrees.
The data also reveals a small but noteworthy representation of older students, particularly in the 40-49 and 50-64 age ranges. This demographic shift may reflect a growing trend of lifelong learning and the increasing accessibility of higher education for non-traditional students.
Overall, Lincoln University's age demographic reflects a diverse student body that includes both traditional and non-traditional students, highlighting the institution's role in providing educational opportunities for individuals at various stages of life. This balance may enhance the academic environment, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and experiences among students of different ages.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
33 in 2025 · 3.7% in 2016
2 in 2025 · 1.0% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Lincoln University
The data regarding international student enrollment at Lincoln University over the years reveals a significant downward trend in both undergraduate and graduate programs. From 2004 to 2023, the proportion of international students in undergraduate programs has dramatically decreased from 8.63% to 2.69%. This trend raises concerns about the university's appeal to foreign students, potentially reflecting broader challenges in the global education landscape.
Moreover, the graduate programs show an even starker decline, with international student representation falling from 1.47% in 2004 to just 0.89% in 2023. Such low percentages may indicate a lack of competitive offerings or the impact of external circumstances, such as travel restrictions and stringent visa regulations that have affected many institutions worldwide, particularly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
The declining numbers could also be attributed to increased competition from other universities that may offer more attractive programs or better support for international students. As the world becomes more interconnected, universities need to adapt and enhance their global strategies to attract a diverse student body.
In conclusion, Lincoln University faces significant challenges in maintaining its international enrollment. It may need to reassess its recruitment strategies and student support systems to boost its appeal to prospective international students and reverse this troubling trend.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$31,000
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $19,384
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $12,512
- Room and board
- $11,616
- Graduate tuition
- $18,942
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 18% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 31%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$69.8M
Expenses$72.7M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association · Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference
Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association: football, basketball, cross country
Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference: baseball
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 75 | 57 |
| Football | 99 | - |
| Baseball | 32 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 16 |
| Soccer | - | 19 |
| Softball | - | 16 |
| Volleyball | - | 13 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 77 | 59 |
| Football | 90 | - |
| Baseball | 33 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 17 |
| Soccer | - | 22 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Volleyball | - | 13 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 73 | 59 |
| Football | 86 | - |
| Baseball | 35 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 16 |
| Softball | - | 17 |
| Soccer | - | 16 |
| Volleyball | - | 10 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Franklin and Marshall CollegeLancaster · 26.6 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
Swarthmore CollegeSwarthmore · 31.1 mi
Liberal Arts #3
-
Villanova UniversityVillanova · 34.8 mi
U.S. News #42
-
Haverford CollegeHaverford · 35.7 mi
Liberal Arts #26
-
Bryn Mawr CollegeBryn Mawr · 35.9 mi
Liberal Arts #31
-
University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphia · 40.1 mi
U.S. News #7
-
Drexel UniversityPhiladelphia · 40.4 mi
U.S. News #80
-
Johns Hopkins UniversityBaltimore · 49.6 mi
U.S. News #9
-
Muhlenberg CollegeAllentown · 58.8 mi
Liberal Arts #62
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Lincoln University:
-
University of Delaware - Ranked 76th in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a wide array of programs and has a vibrant campus life.
-
Franklin and Marshall College - A highly regarded liberal arts college, it is ranked 35th in the nation. Known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education, Franklin and Marshall fosters a close-knit academic community.
-
Swarthmore College - With an impressive rank of 4th, Swarthmore is one of the top liberal arts colleges in the country, renowned for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to social responsibility.
-
University of Pennsylvania - A prestigious Ivy League institution, Penn is ranked 6th and offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines.
-
Villanova University - Ranked 67th, Villanova is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life, emphasizing a values-based education rooted in the Augustinian tradition.
These institutions provide excellent educational opportunities and are well-regarded in their respective fields.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public 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 Lincoln University
The crime statistics at Lincoln University from 2013 to 2023 reveal significant fluctuations in the average number of incidents per 1000 students. The data indicates a notable peak in 2018, with a rate of 63.46 incidents per 1000 students, which raises concerns about campus safety that year. This spike may correlate with broader societal issues related to crime, such as the ongoing discussions about the impact of drug abuse and violence on college campuses.
Interestingly, there has been a significant downward trend in crime rates from 2020 onward, culminating in a low of 10.78 incidents per 1000 students in 2021. This decline may be attributed to various factors, including enhanced security measures, community outreach programs, or the potential impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in reduced campus activity and gatherings.
Specifically, the data indicates that incidents related to gun arrests and drug-related offenses have been prevalent, underscoring the need for universities to address these issues proactively. The presence of domestic violence and stalking incidents also highlights critical areas for intervention and support within the university community.
As universities continue to evolve, it is essential for Lincoln University to maintain focus on crime prevention strategies and to foster a safe and supportive environment for all students. Continuous monitoring and analysis of crime trends will be vital in adapting to new challenges and ensuring the well-being of its campus community.
For more information on crime rate calculations, visit: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of Lincoln University include Kwame Nkrumah (First president of Ghana), Langston Hughes (Poet and leader of the Harlem Renaissance) and Nnamdi Azikiwe (First president of Nigeria).
-
Kwame Nkrumah 1909–1972
First president of Ghana
-
Langston Hughes 1901–1967
Poet and leader of the Harlem Renaissance
-
Nnamdi Azikiwe 1904–1996
First president of Nigeria
-
Saara Kuugongelwa 1967–
Speaker of Namibia's National Assembly, former Prime Minister
-
Cab Calloway 1907–1994
Jazz singer and bandleader at the Cotton Club
-
Thurgood Marshall 1908–1993
First African-American Supreme Court justice
-
Gil Scott-Heron 1949–2011
Jazz poet, singer, musician and author
-
Roscoe Lee Browne 1922–2007
Actor and director, narrator in Babe
-
Keorapetse Kgositsile 1938–2018
South African poet laureate and political activist
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.