Citadel Military College of South Carolina
Acceptance rate
22.7%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$38,508
In-state $12,570
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
2,737
Student-faculty ratio 11:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
64.1%
4-year; 6-year rate 70.4%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The Citadel Military College of South Carolina, located in Charleston, is renowned for its rich history and commitment to developing principled leaders. Established in 1842, the college's mission is encapsulated in its motto, "Honor, Duty, and Respect," which resonates through its rigorous military discipline and academic programs. The Citadel is distinguished not only by its military training but also by its comprehensive education that emphasizes leadership, ethics, and civic responsibility. With a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, the college prepares its cadets for successful careers in various fields, including engineering, business, and the arts. The Citadel's emphasis on character development ensures that graduates are not only well-versed in their respective disciplines but also equipped with the moral compass necessary for effective leadership.
The campus itself is an iconic blend of historical significance and modern facilities. The impressive barracks, parade grounds, and classrooms reflect the institution's commitment to tradition while providing students with state-of-the-art resources. The Citadel fosters a vibrant campus culture marked by a strong sense of community, where cadets engage in various extracurricular activities, including athletics, clubs, and community service. The school boasts a successful athletic program, particularly known for its competitive football team and the spirited participation in the Southern Conference. With a stunning location in Charleston, cadets enjoy access to both the academic rigor of the college and the rich cultural heritage of one of America's oldest cities. The Citadel's strong alumni network, which includes numerous military leaders, politicians, and business executives, further enhances the college's reputation and provides valuable connections for current students entering the job market.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Citadel Military College
The data from Citadel Military College reveals several important trends, particularly concerning tuition, student retention, graduation rates, and gender ratios among students.
Firstly, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students has seen a steady increase from $10,838 in 2014 to $12,570 in 2023, representing a 16% rise over the nine-year period. For out-of-state students, tuition soared even higher, from $29,639 to $35,826, marking a significant increase of approximately 21%. These tuition hikes may pose financial barriers for prospective students and could potentially impact enrollment numbers in the coming years.
In terms of student retention, the college has maintained a relatively high retention rate, hovering around 84% to 87% from 2013 to 2023. However, there was a noticeable dip in 2017, with a retention rate of about 82.7%. This fluctuation suggests that the institution may need to focus on improving student satisfaction and support services to maintain or enhance this rate, as high retention is crucial for institutional success.
Graduation rates also present an interesting narrative. The percentage of undergraduate students graduating on time (within four years) has varied, peaking at around 66% in 2022, which is a positive indicator. However, the rates in earlier years were considerably lower, indicating that the college has made strides in supporting students to complete their degrees within the expected timeframe.
Lastly, the gender ratio among undergraduate students indicates a male-dominated environment, with men comprising approximately 85% of the undergraduate student body in 2023. This consistent trend over the years highlights a potential area for the college to explore in terms of diversity and inclusivity initiatives, as a more balanced gender representation could enrich the learning environment and broaden the perspectives within the college community.
Overall, while Citadel Military College shows positive trends in retention and graduation rates, the rising tuition costs and gender disparities are areas that warrant attention and strategic planning for future growth and inclusivity.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Midsize city
- Nearest major city
- In Charleston
- Nearest international airport
- Charleston International Airport (CHS), about 8 mi
- Also known as
- The Citadel
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- General Glenn M. Walters (President)
- Phone
- 8432253294
- City
- Charleston, South Carolina
- Address
- 171 Moultrie St, Charleston, SC 29409
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 74.9%, women 73.8%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Citadel Military College
The admission data for Citadel Military College of South Carolina reveals significant trends over the years, particularly in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Notably, the acceptance rate for male applicants has fluctuated, peaking at approximately 99% in 2023, while the female acceptance rate also reached a high of about 98%. This dramatic increase in acceptance rates in recent years suggests a strategic shift by the college, possibly aimed at increasing enrollment amidst changing demographics and a competitive educational landscape.
Enrollment numbers have generally remained stable, with a noticeable peak in 2017 when 734 students were admitted. However, the number of denials has shown considerable variation, particularly in 2012, where denials exceeded 1,000, indicating a more selective admission process during that period. The deferment numbers also warrant attention, especially in recent years, where a substantial amount of students have been deferred, which could be a strategy to manage class sizes effectively.
These trends may reflect broader national patterns in higher education, where colleges are adapting their admissions strategies to attract diverse applicants while responding to enrollment challenges. The consistent female acceptance rates indicate an emphasis on gender parity, which is crucial for modern educational institutions. Overall, Citadel's data showcases its efforts to balance selectivity with accessibility, ensuring that it remains an attractive option for prospective students in a competitive academic environment.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 7% submitted SAT, 10% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Scores at Citadel Military College
The admission data from Citadel Military College of South Carolina reveals a notable trend in standardized test scores and the number of applicants over the years. Since 2007, there has been a gradual increase in the required SAT reading and math scores for admitted students, peaking in 2023 with a range of 550 to 650. This indicates a shift towards a more competitive admissions landscape, likely reflecting a desire to maintain high academic standards.
Conversely, the number of students submitting SAT scores has decreased significantly. In 2007, approximately 82% of applicants submitted their SAT scores, while by 2023, this number plummeted to just 25%. This decline may suggest a broader national trend where fewer students are taking the SAT or perhaps a growing emphasis on holistic admissions processes that consider other aspects of a candidate's profile beyond standardized testing.
The changes in the scores, coupled with the declining submission rates, could also indicate a response to changing educational policies and societal attitudes towards standardized tests. Additionally, the fluctuating number of applicants could reflect broader demographic trends in higher education, including shifts in population and changes in student interests.
Overall, the data paints a complex picture of the evolving admissions environment at Citadel Military College, highlighting both rising standards and decreasing reliance on traditional testing metrics. As institutions continue to adapt to the changing educational landscape, it will be interesting to observe how these trends develop in the coming years.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 2 in 10
3,252 applicants in 2025, 22.7% admitted
739 admitted 2,513 not admitted Yield 90.9%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business/Commerce, General · Master's139 (0% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's38 (3% international)
- Psychology, General · Master's33 (3% international)
- Engineering/Industrial Management · Master's29 (0% international)
- Intelligence, General · Master's22 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's18 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Citadel Military College
The graduation data from Citadel Military College reveals significant insights into the academic focus of its programs for 2023. Notably, the Master's degree programs, particularly in areas like Business and Education Leadership, have seen a robust number of graduates, with 120 individuals completing their Master’s in Business and 32 in Engineering. This trend indicates a strong emphasis on leadership and management skills, crucial for today's dynamic job market.
Interestingly, the college has not produced any international graduates at the Bachelor's and Doctorate levels, which might highlight a potential area for growth in attracting international students. The presence of a single international student in the Bachelor’s program for Computer Science suggests that there is room for expansion in this field, especially given the global demand for IT professionals.
Moreover, while programs like Criminal Justice and Nursing have produced graduates, no associate degrees were awarded, which raises questions about the college's strategy regarding lower-level qualifications. The distribution of graduates across disciplines like Engineering, Psychology, and Business indicates a well-rounded educational offering but also points towards a possible need for diversification to include more niche areas of study that could attract a broader student demographic.
Overall, the data reflects Citadel's commitment to producing skilled graduates in critical fields, particularly in leadership roles. However, the college might benefit from re-evaluating its international recruitment strategies and expanding its offerings to cater to a wider range of academic interests to remain competitive in the evolving educational 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 | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $56,077-$85,683 | ||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - | ||
| Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management. | - | ||
| Accounting. | - | ||
| Finance, General. | $72,528 | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Engineering, General. | $65,435 | ||
| Computer Engineering, General. | - | ||
| Electrical and Electronics Engineering. | $76,369 | ||
| Mechanical Engineering. | $62,296 | ||
| Construction Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intelligence, General. | $45,974 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $43,881 | ||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $43,881 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $45,926 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $45,219 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $48,099 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering/Industrial Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $60,711 | ||
| Computer Science. | - | ||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | $46,853 | ||
| Military History. | $46,853 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $45,772 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $67,921 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foreign Languages and Literatures, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
Students
3,793 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 86:14 · Freshman retention 85.8%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,941
- First-year undergraduates 672
- Graduate students 1,056
- Transfers and others 124
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,737)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Citadel Military College of South Carolina in 2023
The data from Citadel Military College of South Carolina for the year 2023 reveals interesting insights into the composition of its student body. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 678, with a striking 85.4% of them being male. This significant male dominance is echoed in the undergraduate sophomores, where the male percentage is even higher at 86.5%, reflecting a traditional pattern seen in military colleges.
In contrast, the percentage of female students is notably lower across all undergraduate categories, with only 14.6% of freshmen and 13.5% of sophomores identifying as female. Meanwhile, among transfer students, the gender ratio is more balanced, with males making up 72.7% and females 27.3%. This suggests that while the institution maintains a robust male representation, there may be an increasing diversity of gender among transfer students.
For graduate students, the gender distribution becomes more equitable, with males constituting 52% and females 48%. This shift indicates a potential trend toward greater inclusivity at the graduate level, possibly reflecting broader societal changes regarding gender roles in higher education.
Moreover, the data indicates a predominance of white students in the undergraduate categories, particularly among freshmen and sophomores. However, the inclusion of minority groups and international students is less prominent, highlighting an area for potential growth and diversity initiatives within the college. Overall, these statistics point to a need for continued efforts to promote gender balance and a more diverse student body at Citadel Military College.
Commentary on the Age Distribution of Students at Citadel Military College
The age composition of students at Citadel Military College of South Carolina reveals a significant trend towards younger students, particularly those aged 18-21. Among the undergraduate male students, the overwhelming majority fall within the 18-19 age category, accounting for approximately 82% of all undergraduate males. This suggests that the institution primarily attracts traditional college-age students, which aligns with trends observed in many military colleges across the United States.
Interestingly, the data also shows that as students progress into graduate programs, the age distribution broadens significantly. For male graduate students aged 22-24, there is a notable increase in enrollment, indicating that older students often return for further education after gaining some years of experience. This pattern is also echoed among female graduate students, who demonstrate a similar trend, particularly in the 25-29 age group.
Furthermore, the representation of female students is relatively lower across most age categories compared to their male counterparts. For instance, in the 18-19 age bracket, only about 14% of the students are female. This gender disparity in military education is a consistent issue, reflecting broader societal trends regarding women's participation in military and defense-related fields.
Overall, the age and gender composition of students at Citadel Military College illustrates not only the institution's appeal to younger individuals but also highlights ongoing challenges in achieving gender parity within military education. As institutions strive to be more inclusive and diverse, it will be essential to monitor these trends and implement strategies that encourage greater participation from underrepresented groups.
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.
22 in 2025 · 1.1% in 2016
4 in 2025 · 0.2% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Citadel Military College
The data on international student enrollment at Citadel Military College of South Carolina reveals a declining trend over the years, particularly at the undergraduate level. In 2004, the percentage of international students among undergraduates was 2.37%, which gradually decreased to just 1.04% by 2023. This downward trajectory raises concerns about the college's ability to attract and retain international talent, a critical factor for enhancing diversity and global perspectives within academic environments.
At the graduate level, the situation is somewhat similar, with the proportion of international students fluctuating but ultimately remaining low, peaking at 2.13% in 2005 and dropping to 1.27% in 2023. The numbers suggest that while there was a brief period of slightly higher enrollment, the overall interest from international students has waned in recent years.
The decline of international students can be attributed to various factors, including changes in immigration policies, global economic conditions, and competition from other institutions that may offer more favorable conditions for international students. Furthermore, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on global education has also likely contributed to this trend.
Overall, Citadel Military College may need to reassess its strategies for attracting international students, as these individuals not only contribute to the diversity of the campus but also enrich the educational experience for all students. A renewed focus on international recruitment, support services for foreign students, and fostering a welcoming campus environment could help reverse this trend and enhance the college's global standing.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$48,213
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $38,508
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $12,570
- Room and board
- $9,705
- Graduate tuition
- $18,540
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 21% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 52%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$198M
Expenses$139M
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 · Southern Conference
Southern Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division I-FCS | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 107 | 66 |
| Football | 119 | - |
| Wrestling | 39 | - |
| Baseball | 38 | - |
| Soccer | - | 25 |
| Basketball | 21 | - |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Tennis | 15 | - |
| Golf | - | 7 |
| Rifle | - | 5 |
| NCAA Division I-FCS | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 107 | 64 |
| Football | 112 | - |
| Baseball | 35 | - |
| Wrestling | 31 | - |
| Soccer | - | 27 |
| Basketball | 16 | - |
| Tennis | 15 | - |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
| Rifle | 8 | 5 |
| Golf | - | 8 |
| NCAA Division I-FCS | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 113 | 70 |
| Football | 121 | - |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Wrestling | 33 | - |
| Soccer | - | 30 |
| Basketball | 17 | - |
| Tennis | 16 | - |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Golf | - | 7 |
| Rifle | - | 6 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of South Carolina-ColumbiaColumbia · 103.3 mi
U.S. News #121
-
University of North Carolina--WilmingtonWilmington · 155.4 mi
U.S. News #219
-
University of North Carolina at CharlotteCharlotte · 178.9 mi
U.S. News #169
-
Wofford CollegeSpartanburg · 187.5 mi
Liberal Arts #68
-
Davidson CollegeDavidson · 193.5 mi
Liberal Arts #16
-
University of North FloridaJacksonville · 196.9 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Furman UniversityGreenville · 204.6 mi
Liberal Arts #57
-
Clemson UniversityClemson · 210.3 mi
U.S. News #80
-
University of GeorgiaAthens · 212.7 mi
U.S. News #52
Data insights
Here are some notable colleges and universities near Citadel Military College of South Carolina:
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University of South Carolina-Columbia - Ranked 124 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
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University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - A prestigious institution ranked 22nd, known for its strong emphasis on research and a vibrant campus life.
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Duke University - This elite university is ranked 7th and is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and distinguished faculty.
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Davidson College - A top-ranked liberal arts college, Davidson is 16th in the nation and is known for its strong focus on undergraduate education and a tight-knit community.
-
Wake Forest University - Ranked 47th, this university offers a diverse range of programs and is recognized for its commitment to student engagement and community service.
-
Furman University - With a ranking of 46, Furman is a leading liberal arts college known for its beautiful campus and strong academic programs.
These institutions contribute to a rich educational landscape in the region, providing various opportunities for students.
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 Trends at Citadel Military College
The crime data from Citadel Military College in South Carolina reveals a fluctuating pattern over the years, highlighting both improvements and areas of concern. Between 2013 and 2022, the average number of crimes per 1,000 students showed significant variability, starting at 15.83 in 2013 and peaking at 11.06 in 2014 before experiencing a notable decline to just 4.68 in 2023.
The trends indicate that the institution has made some progress in reducing crime rates, particularly during the period from 2015 to 2019, where the average crime rate consistently remained below 6 per 1,000 students. However, a spike in 2020, with a rate of 7.80, suggests that external factors, possibly including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, may have influenced crime dynamics on campus.
In examining the specific types of offenses, there is a concerning increase in gun-related arrests, with a total of three recorded incidents in 2021. This trend emphasizes the need for ongoing vigilance and proactive measures to ensure campus safety, particularly concerning firearm-related incidents.
Moreover, the data reflects the importance of addressing substance abuse issues, as arrests related to drug and alcohol incidents contribute significantly to overall campus crime. Maintaining a safe environment is crucial for academic success and the well-being of students. As the college moves forward, continued analysis and strategic interventions will be essential in sustaining the downward trajectory of crime rates.
For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of Citadel Military College of South Carolina include Robert Jordan (Author of epic fantasy), Randolph Bresnik (NASA astronaut and retired Marine officer) and Pat Conroy (Novelist, author of The Prince of Tides).
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Robert Jordan 1948–2007
Author of epic fantasy
-
Randolph Bresnik 1967–
NASA astronaut and retired Marine officer
-
Pat Conroy 1945–2016
Novelist, author of The Prince of Tides
-
Fritz Hollings 1922–2019
Former South Carolina governor and U.S. Senator
-
Nancy Mace 1977–
US representative for South Carolina
-
Kenneth F. McKenzie, Jr. 1957–
Retired Marine general, former CENTCOM commander
-
Evander M. Law 1836–1920
Confederate general in the American Civil War
-
Gresham Barrett 1961–
Former U.S. representative from South Carolina
-
Johnson Hagood 1829–1898
Confederate general and Governor of South Carolina
See all 24 notable alumni of Citadel Military College of South Carolina →
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.