University of Valley Forge
Acceptance rate
61.2%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$25,240
$36,990 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
517
Student-faculty ratio 12:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
32.9%
4-year; 6-year rate 42.1%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The University of Valley Forge (UVF) is a private Christian university located in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, known for its strong emphasis on faith-based education and community service. Established in 1939, UVF has developed a rich campus culture that encourages students to integrate their academic pursuits with their spiritual growth. The university's mission is encapsulated in its motto, "Transforming Lives Through Christ," which reflects its commitment to nurturing the whole person—intellectually, spiritually, and socially.
UVF offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with particular strengths in fields such as ministry, education, and business administration. The faculty at UVF is dedicated to providing a supportive learning environment, often characterized by small class sizes that foster close interactions between students and professors. This personalized approach enhances student engagement and academic success. Additionally, the university boasts modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, a well-equipped library, and athletic complexes that support a variety of sports. Student life at UVF is vibrant and dynamic, with numerous clubs, organizations, and events that promote fellowship and community engagement. The university's commitment to service is evident through various outreach programs, allowing students to apply their learning in real-world contexts while making a positive impact in their communities.
Analysis of Tuition, Enrollment, and Graduation Rates
The data from the University of Valley Forge reveals significant trends regarding tuition fees, student enrollment, and graduation rates over the years. One notable trend is the steady increase in tuition costs for both undergraduate and graduate programs. From 2014 to 2024, in-state undergraduate tuition rose from approximately $19,339 to $24,510, marking a substantial increase of around 27%. This increase in financial burden may contribute to the decline in student enrollment, which saw a drastic drop from 1,001 undergraduate students in 2013 to just 508 by 2023. This trend raises concerns about accessibility and affordability in higher education, especially for private institutions.
Additionally, graduation rates have fluctuated over the years, with the percentage of students graduating on time significantly declining from 62.67% in 2013 to 38.13% in 2023. This drop suggests that students are either struggling to complete their degrees or are being deterred from continuing their education altogether. The low graduation rates could be linked to the increasing tuition costs, which may pressure students financially, ultimately impacting their ability to complete their studies in a timely manner.
Retention rates also provide insight into student satisfaction and institutional support. The retention rate for undergraduate students fluctuated, peaking at 79.38% in 2022 and declining to 71.43% in 2023. This volatility may reflect the challenges students face, balancing financial pressures with academic demands. The student-to-faculty ratio has remained relatively stable, indicating a consistent level of academic support, yet it appears insufficient to counteract the declining enrollment and graduation rates.
Overall, the data indicates a concerning trend for the University of Valley Forge, where rising costs, declining enrollment, and fluctuating graduation rates highlight the need for institutional strategies to enhance student support and financial assistance.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Philadelphia, about 25 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), about 25 mi
- Also known as
- VFCC; UVF; Valley Forge
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Assemblies of God Church
- President
- David Kim (President)
- Phone
- 6109350450
- City
- Phoenixville, Pennsylvania
- Address
- 1401 Charlestown Road, Phoenixville, PA 19460-2373
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 59.7%, women 65.4%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at the University of Valley Forge
The admission data from the University of Valley Forge reveals a fascinating yet fluctuating landscape over the years. From 2010 to 2023, the male acceptance rates varied significantly, with a peak of 99.25% in 2011 and a low of 47.12% in 2018. This sharp decline in acceptance rates, particularly in 2018, could reflect a broader trend in higher education where institutions are becoming increasingly selective, possibly due to rising application numbers and a focus on academic excellence.
Female acceptance rates also demonstrate variability, reaching a high of 95.32% in 2016 and dropping to 46.64% in 2011. The consistent enrollment numbers, hovering around 100 to 200 students per year, suggest that while the university may be receiving a varying number of applications, they are maintaining a steady size for their incoming class.
Interestingly, the number of students denied admission has seen peaks, notably in 2018 when 195 applicants were denied. This might indicate an increased competition or a strategic decision by the university to enhance its overall student quality.
The trend toward deferring students also merits attention, particularly in 2015, where 279 students were deferred. This could imply the university's effort to manage enrollment more effectively amid fluctuating interest levels.
Overall, the data highlights the dynamic nature of college admissions, influenced by external factors such as applicant demographics, institutional goals, and broader educational trends. As the University of Valley Forge navigates these changes, it will be essential for them to adapt their strategies to attract and retain a diverse and capable student body.
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Scores at the University of Valley Forge
The admission data from the University of Valley Forge reveals interesting trends regarding standardized test scores over the years. Notably, the SAT reading and mathematics scores have shown variability, with the 25th percentile scores remaining stable around the 410 to 470 range, while the 75th percentile scores have fluctuated between 510 to 560. This indicates a consistent baseline for applicants while allowing for a diverse range of academic abilities among those admitted.
The percentage of students submitting SAT scores has also seen slight changes, peaking at 80% in 2012 and remaining lower in subsequent years, around 65%. This decline could reflect a broader trend in higher education where some institutions are moving towards test-optional policies, potentially allowing a more holistic review of applicants beyond standardized testing.
Furthermore, the overall number of students submitting their scores has been relatively stable, indicating a consistent interest among prospective students in demonstrating their academic capabilities. The data suggests that the University of Valley Forge maintains a competitive admissions process, while also adapting to shifts in standardized testing practices.
In the broader context of college admissions, these trends mirror national discussions on the relevance of standardized tests, especially as institutions seek to create diverse and inclusive learning environments. Overall, the University of Valley Forge appears to be navigating these changes while maintaining its academic standards and admission integrity.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 6 in 10
616 applicants in 2025, 61.2% admitted
377 admitted 239 not admitted Yield 27.9%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's15 (0% international)
- Organizational Leadership · Master's5 (0% international)
- Elementary Education and Teaching · Master's4 (0% international)
- Music Technology · Master's4 (0% international)
- Curriculum and Instruction · Master's2 (0% international)
- Theology/Theological Studies · Master's2 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from University of Valley Forge
The graduation data from the University of Valley Forge highlights several noteworthy trends across different programs. Notably, the fields of Theology and Business Administration appear to be the most prominent, with a significant number of graduates obtaining master’s degrees in these areas. Specifically, Theology programs produced a total of 10 graduates at the master's level, indicating a strong interest in religious studies and leadership within this domain. This aligns with the growing demand for spiritual leaders and professionals who can navigate the complexities of modern ministry.
Additionally, the data reveals a lack of diversity in the fields of study for international students, as most programs do not have any graduates from the international cohort. For example, while there are graduates in Business and Theology, international representation is notably absent, especially in master’s programs. This could reflect broader trends in the higher education landscape, where international students often gravitate towards more universally applicable fields such as Business or STEM.
Furthermore, the absence of graduates in areas such as Education and Communication underscores a potential gap in these disciplines. Given the increasing emphasis on education and communication in today's globalized world, it may be beneficial for the university to explore strategies to attract more students to these programs.
Overall, the data suggests a strong emphasis on Theology and related fields at the University of Valley Forge, while also highlighting areas where growth and diversification may be needed to meet the evolving demands of both the job market and student interests.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $44,845 | |||
| Organizational Leadership. | $44,845 | |||
| Accounting. | - | |||
| Organizational Behavior Studies. | - | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Missions/Missionary Studies. | - | |||
| Theology/Theological Studies. | $32,099 | |||
| Divinity/Ministry. | $32,099 | |||
| Pastoral Studies/Counseling. | - | |||
| Youth Ministry. | - | |||
| Theology and Religious Vocations, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Curriculum and Instruction. | - | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | |||
| English/Language Arts Teacher Education. | - | |||
| Music Teacher Education. | - | |||
| Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language/ESL Language Instructor. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | $35,117 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Music Performance, General. | - | |||
| Music Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice and Corrections, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
Students
589 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 50:50 · Freshman retention 78.5%
- Continuing undergraduates 328
- First-year undergraduates 109
- Graduate students 72
- Transfers and others 80
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (517)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at University of Valley Forge in 2023
The student demographics at the University of Valley Forge for the year 2023 reveal a diverse and intriguing landscape. Among undergraduate freshmen, there are 133 students, with a nearly balanced gender ratio of 50.4% male and 49.6% female. This gender parity reflects a broader trend in higher education where institutions are increasingly attracting equal numbers of male and female students.
In contrast, the undergraduate upperclassmen demographic shows a significant tilt towards female students, with 56% female and only 44% male. This shift may indicate various factors, such as retention rates or the types of programs offered that appeal more to female students. The undergraduate transfer students present a different picture, with a notable majority of 64.5% male students, suggesting a possible trend where male students are more likely to transfer after starting their college journey elsewhere.
Graduate students at the university number 75, with a slight majority of females at 53.3%. This is consistent with national trends in graduate education, where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees, often outnumbering their male counterparts.
However, the data also show some gaps in information, particularly regarding the breakdown of these demographics by race and ethnicity. The insights into the various racial compositions of these groups remain unavailable, leaving a critical aspect of student diversity unexamined. As institutions continue to grow and evolve, understanding these demographics will be essential for fostering an inclusive and supportive educational environment.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at University of Valley Forge
The age composition of students at the University of Valley Forge for 2023 presents an interesting demographic landscape. The majority of students fall within the 18-19 age bracket, which comprises 38.7% of the total male population and 56.9% of the total female population. This trend is consistent with national statistics indicating that traditional college age students, typically between 18 and 24, continue to dominate university enrollments.
Interestingly, the numbers begin to decline in the 20-21 age group, where the percentage of male students drops to 17% and female students to 21%. This decline may suggest a trend of students either taking gap years, transferring to different educational institutions, or entering the workforce earlier.
The data also shows a notable presence of non-traditional students, particularly in the 22-24 age range, with 17.5% of male and 18.4% of female students. This could reflect an increasing trend of adult learners returning to education, which has been observed nationally as more individuals seek to upskill or change careers in a rapidly evolving job market.
Furthermore, the presence of mature students aged 40 and above, while small, is significant in highlighting an inclusive educational environment that accommodates diverse age groups. With 5.5% of male and 10.7% of female students in this category, it suggests that the University of Valley Forge is fostering a culture of lifelong learning.
In conclusion, the University of Valley Forge's age distribution indicates a strong foundation of traditional younger students while also embracing a growing number of non-traditional and older students. This blend may enhance the educational experience by promoting diverse perspectives and fostering an inclusive academic community.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
22 in 2025 · 0.1% in 2016
1 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at the University of Valley Forge
The data regarding international student enrollment at the University of Valley Forge reveals significant fluctuations over the years, indicating changing trends in the institution's appeal to students from abroad. Starting from a low point in 2004, where international students comprised only 0.35% of the undergraduate population, there has been a notable increase in later years. By 2023, this percentage rose dramatically to 3.74%, reflecting a growing acceptance and attraction for international students.
This trend can be attributed to various factors, including the university's efforts to enhance its global outreach and the increasing importance of international education. The peak enrollment of international students in 2020 coincides with a broader trend observed in many U.S. universities, where institutions have made concerted efforts to attract a diverse student body. The rise in the number of international students, especially in recent years, could also be linked to the global movement towards educational exchange and the increasing recognition of the value of cross-cultural experiences.
It is noteworthy that the graduate program also started to see international enrollment, albeit at a lower percentage. The data shows an increase from 1.49% in 2017 to 2.67% in 2023. This suggests that while the university is making strides in attracting undergraduates from abroad, there remains potential for growth in graduate student enrollment.
Overall, the upward trajectory in international student numbers indicates that the University of Valley Forge is on a positive path towards fostering a more inclusive and diverse academic environment. As the world continues to globalize, universities that prioritize international student recruitment are likely to thrive in the competitive landscape of higher education.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$36,990
- Undergraduate tuition
- $25,240
- Room and board
- $11,750
- Graduate tuition
- $10,500
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 24% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 45%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$12.4M
Expenses$13.8M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · North Eastern Athletic Conference
North Eastern Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 23 | 13 |
| Baseball | 30 | - |
| Basketball | 17 | 7 |
| Volleyball | 14 | 9 |
| Cross Country | 8 | 7 |
| Softball | - | 13 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 9 | 3 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 27 | 13 |
| Baseball | 27 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 9 |
| Volleyball | 12 | 10 |
| Softball | - | 15 |
| Cross Country | 5 | 6 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 23 | 14 |
| Baseball | 33 | - |
| Basketball | 14 | 11 |
| Volleyball | 11 | 11 |
| Softball | - | 15 |
| Cross Country | 6 | 6 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Villanova UniversityVillanova · 12.3 mi
U.S. News #42
-
Bryn Mawr CollegeBryn Mawr · 13.8 mi
Liberal Arts #31
-
Haverford CollegeHaverford · 14.9 mi
Liberal Arts #26
-
Swarthmore CollegeSwarthmore · 17.9 mi
Liberal Arts #3
-
University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphia · 21.9 mi
U.S. News #7
-
Lehigh UniversityBethlehem · 34.9 mi
U.S. News #44
-
Franklin and Marshall CollegeLancaster · 41.1 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
Lafayette CollegeEaston · 43.9 mi
Liberal Arts #30
-
Princeton UniversityPrinceton · 49.5 mi
U.S. News #2
Data insights
Here are some notable universities around the University of Valley Forge:
-
Villanova University - Ranked 67th in the 2024 US News rankings, Villanova is a comprehensive university known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Swarthmore College - With an impressive rank of 4, Swarthmore is a highly regarded liberal arts college that emphasizes academic excellence and social responsibility.
-
Haverford College - Ranked 21st, Haverford is another prestigious liberal arts college, known for its rigorous academic standards and commitment to ethical learning.
-
Bryn Mawr College - This women’s liberal arts college is ranked 30th and is recognized for its strong academic programs and supportive community.
-
University of Pennsylvania - A top-tier research university, UPenn is ranked 6th and is renowned for its diverse academic offerings and distinguished faculty.
These institutions offer a variety of educational opportunities and are located in close proximity to the University of Valley Forge.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges 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
Trends in Campus Crime at the University of Valley Forge
The crime data from the University of Valley Forge reveals a significant fluctuation in campus safety over the years. Notably, the average number of crimes per 1,000 students peaked in 2015 at 19.66, indicating a concerning spike in incidents during that year. This was likely influenced by a rise in drug-related arrests, as the data suggests a pattern of increased illicit activity that year.
However, a positive trend emerged following 2015, with a notable decline in the average crime rate, particularly from 2016 to 2019, where the rates dropped to as low as 4.4 per 1,000 students in 2020. This decline could be attributed to improved campus security measures and awareness programs aimed at reducing crime.
Interestingly, 2021 saw an extraordinary drop to just 1.08 per 1,000 students, which could suggest a combination of effective crime prevention strategies and possibly lower student interactions during the pandemic. However, the figures rebounded in 2023, reaching 21.96 per 1,000 students, which raises concerns about safety on campus and potentially reflects wider societal trends in crime rates post-pandemic.
The data underscores the importance of continuous monitoring and proactive measures to ensure the safety of students, particularly as trends can shift dramatically. Comprehensive strategies that include educational programs, community engagement, and support services are essential to maintain and improve campus security. For further insights on calculating crime rates, refer to this resource: 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.