Lander University
Acceptance rate
81.3%
2025
Peer median 80.5%
Out-of-state tuition
$21,300
In-state $11,700
Peer median $17,955
Undergraduates
3,776
Student-faculty ratio 18:1
Peer median 14 : 1
Graduation rate
30.8%
4-year; 6-year rate 44.9%
Peer median 26.9%
“Peers” are all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Lander University, located in Greenwood, South Carolina, is a public institution known for its commitment to providing a high-quality education in a supportive and inclusive environment. The university was established in 1872 and has since evolved into a vibrant campus that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including liberal arts, business, education, and health sciences. One of the distinctive features of Lander University is its strong emphasis on student engagement and community service, which is reflected in its motto: "Excellence in Education, Service, and Leadership." This ethos encourages students not only to excel academically but also to contribute positively to society.
Lander University boasts a picturesque campus with state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, research laboratories, and recreational amenities. The university is dedicated to fostering a well-rounded student experience, providing various extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations that cater to diverse interests. Additionally, Lander has a strong athletics program, competing in NCAA Division II sports, which promotes teamwork and school spirit among students. The university also takes pride in its faculty, who are not only well-qualified but also deeply committed to mentoring students and enhancing their academic journey. With a focus on developing future leaders and responsible citizens, Lander University continues to cultivate an environment that prepares its graduates for successful careers and impactful lives.
Trends in Tuition, Enrollment, and Graduation Rates at Lander University
As a public institution, Lander University has seen notable trends in tuition and student demographics over recent years. The tuition for in-state undergraduate students has remained steady at $11,700 since 2018, while out-of-state students continue to pay $21,300. This stability in tuition, particularly during the pandemic, indicates the university's commitment to affordability amidst rising educational costs nationwide. However, the fluctuation in graduate tuition showcases a decrease in recent years for both in-state and out-of-state students, which could potentially attract more graduate enrollees.
Enrollment figures demonstrate a positive trajectory, especially in graduate programs, where student numbers have surged from 70 in 2015 to 605 in 2023. This significant increase in graduate enrollment is indicative of Lander University's growing reputation and the appeal of its advanced degree offerings. Conversely, undergraduate enrollment has seen minor fluctuations but remains relatively stable, suggesting an overall healthy interest in the university's undergraduate programs.
Graduation rates have also shown improvement, with timely graduation rates for undergraduates increasing from approximately 22% in 2013 to nearly 30% in 2023. The 150% graduation rate also reflects a positive trend, rising to approximately 49% in 2023. This progress in graduation metrics is critical as it speaks to the university's effectiveness in supporting student success and retention.
Overall, Lander University appears to be navigating the complexities of modern higher education effectively, balancing tuition rates, enhancing enrollment figures, and improving graduation outcomes, all of which are vital for institutional sustainability and student satisfaction.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Greenville, about 45 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), about 100 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Richard E. Cosentino (President)
- Phone
- 8643888000
- City
- Greenwood, South Carolina
- Address
- 320 Stanley Avenue, Greenwood, SC 29649-2099
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 80.5% · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 44.0%, women 42.8%.
Data insights
Commentary on Admission Trends at Lander University
The admission data from Lander University over the years reveals notable trends in both acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Beginning in 2009, the acceptance rates for male and female applicants were relatively high, with around 41% and 43% respectively. However, as time progressed, there was a marked increase in these rates, peaking in recent years where male acceptance rates reached approximately 67.5% and female rates about 67.4% in 2023.
This upward trend in acceptance rates may reflect a shift in the university's admissions strategy, potentially indicating a greater openness to a diverse applicant pool or a response to the competitive landscape of higher education. The increase in enrollment numbers, from 433 in 2009 to 842 in 2023, suggests that Lander University has successfully attracted more students, despite the fact that the number of applications has also fluctuated over the years.
Interestingly, the data shows that the number of students denied admission has also increased, with the highest figure recorded at 3,282 in 2019. This might indicate that while the university is accepting a higher percentage of applicants, the overall applicant pool has grown significantly, thus leading to a larger number of denials simply due to higher application volumes.
Moreover, the data highlights the number of deferred admissions, which reached a peak of 2,348 in 2021. This could suggest a strategic move by the university to manage enrollment numbers effectively amidst uncertainties brought on by global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
In conclusion, the admission trends at Lander University demonstrate a complex interplay between acceptance rates, enrollment figures, and applicant numbers, reflecting broader trends in the higher education landscape.
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
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
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 · 38% submitted SAT, 17% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in SAT and ACT Scores at Lander University
The data from Lander University reveals significant trends in the admissions landscape over the years, particularly concerning the submission of standardized test scores such as the SAT and ACT. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has seen a decline, dropping from 72% in 2007 to just 39% in 2023. This decline may reflect broader trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly adopting test-optional policies, allowing students to apply without standardized test scores.
Examining the score ranges, it is apparent that the 25th percentile and 75th percentile scores for the SAT reading and mathematics sections have shown variability over the years. For instance, in 2023, the 25th percentile for SAT reading is set at 480, while the 75th percentile is at 600, indicating a competitive environment for applicants. The scores suggest that students entering Lander University are generally performing well but also highlight the challenges faced by those at the lower end of the spectrum.
The ACT scores follow a similar pattern, showcasing the evolving landscape of college admissions. The overall trend suggests that while the university remains accessible to a diverse range of students, there is a push towards higher academic standards. As universities like Lander adapt to changing societal expectations and educational policies, the focus may shift towards holistic admissions processes that consider a broader array of student achievements beyond standardized test scores.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
4,565 applicants in 2025, 81.3% admitted
3,712 admitted 853 not admitted Yield 22.7%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's150 (3% international)
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other · Master's104 (1% international)
- Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's17 (0% international)
- Crisis/Emergency/Disaster Management · Master's11 (0% international)
- Montessori Teacher Education · Master's9 (0% international)
- Exercise Science and Kinesiology · Master's8 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Lander University
The graduation data from Lander University for 2023 reveals interesting insights into the distribution of degrees across various fields. Notably, the Registered Nursing program stands out with 110 graduates at the bachelor's level, highlighting the ongoing demand for healthcare professionals, especially in light of the global healthcare challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. This aligns with national trends indicating a significant increase in nursing graduates to meet workforce needs.
In the business sector, the presence of 101 master's graduates in Business Administration indicates a robust interest in advanced business education, which is crucial as organizations increasingly seek skilled leaders adept at navigating complex market dynamics. Additionally, the inclusion of international students in this program reflects a growing globalization of business education.
Education programs also demonstrate a strong output, with multiple categories like Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, and various branches of Teacher Education graduating significant numbers. This suggests a commitment to preparing future educators, which is vital to address the teacher shortages reported across the United States.
Moreover, the data indicates a lack of diversity in certain disciplines, particularly at the master's and doctorate levels, where many programs recorded zero graduates. This raises questions about accessibility and appeal in fields such as Environmental Science, Law, and various interdisciplinary studies. Addressing these gaps may require targeted outreach and support to enhance enrollment among underrepresented groups.
Overall, Lander University’s graduation data reflects critical areas of workforce demand while also hinting at potential growth areas necessary for educational development.
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 Administration and Management, General. | $43,719-$59,193 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | ||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $39,488 | ||
| Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching. | $39,488 | ||
| Montessori Teacher Education. | $39,488 | ||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $39,488 | ||
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other. | $39,488 | ||
| Art Teacher Education. | - | ||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Health Education and Promotion. | - | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $77,657 | ||
| Clinical Nurse Leader. | $77,657 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $30,500 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminology. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | $35,646 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $31,704 | ||
| Physical Fitness Technician. | $31,704 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Arts. | - | ||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | $32,638 | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $52,165 | ||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $37,036 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | $28,455 | ||
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crisis/Emergency/Disaster Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| International/Globalization Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
Students
4,378 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 33:67 · Freshman retention 69.6%
- Continuing undergraduates 2,253
- First-year undergraduates 842
- Graduate students 602
- Transfers and others 681
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,776)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Lander University in 2023
The student body at Lander University in 2023 reflects a diverse and predominantly female population. Among the undergraduate newcomers, approximately 32.7% are male, while females constitute 67.3%, indicating a significant gender imbalance favoring female students. This trend continues among the returning undergraduate students, with 31.8% male and 68.2% female enrollment. The transfer students have a slightly higher representation of males at 35.2% compared to females at 64.8%.
Graduate students show an even more pronounced gender disparity, with only 27.6% being male and 72.4% female. This pattern suggests a growing trend in higher education where female enrollment outnumbers male enrollment, which can be attributed to various societal factors, including shifting educational aspirations and career goals.
In terms of racial and ethnic composition, the majority of students are White, with significant proportions of Asian, Latino, and African American students among the undergraduate population. The data indicates a diverse array of cultural backgrounds, particularly among new students, which is essential for fostering an inclusive educational environment.
As institutions strive to create an equitable landscape, these figures may guide Lander University in furthering their outreach and support for underrepresented groups. The ongoing conversation surrounding gender and racial diversity in higher education remains crucial as universities adapt to the evolving societal dynamics. Overall, Lander University's student demographics highlight the importance of inclusivity and the need for continued focus on balancing gender and racial representation.
Age Composition of Lander University Students in 2023
The age distribution of students at Lander University in 2023 reveals intriguing insights into the demographic makeup of the institution. The largest group of students falls within the 18-19 age range, with a notable 960 female undergraduates and 425 male undergraduates. This highlights the university’s appeal to traditional-aged college students, particularly those entering higher education immediately after high school.
As we progress through the age brackets, we see a gradual decline in student numbers, especially among younger undergraduates. For instance, while the 20-21 age group maintains a significant presence with 841 female students, the male population in the same bracket is notably lower at 411. This disparity indicates a potential trend where female students may be more inclined to pursue their education immediately after high school compared to their male counterparts.
Interestingly, the 22-24 age group shows a blend of both undergraduate and graduate students, with a total of 451 female students and 253 male students. This suggests that Lander University attracts both traditional and non-traditional students who may be pursuing further education after their undergraduate degrees.
However, as age increases, the number of students notably declines, particularly among those aged 30 and above. This could reflect broader societal trends where older individuals may face more challenges in balancing education with personal and professional responsibilities.
Overall, the data presents a vibrant and youthful student body at Lander University, with a strong representation of young women pursuing undergraduate studies. This demographic composition is essential for understanding the university's educational strategies and community engagement efforts.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
87 in 2025 · 3.9% in 2016
15 in 2025 · 2.4% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Lander University
The data on international student enrollment at Lander University over the years reveals significant fluctuations and trends that merit discussion. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduate students rose from 1.63% to 2.61%, indicating a gradual but noticeable increase in the university's appeal to international applicants. However, this growth is somewhat overshadowed by a steep decline in the number of international undergraduate students in 2020 and 2021, which can be attributed to the global pandemic that affected educational institutions worldwide.
In contrast, the graduate student enrollment shows a more dynamic landscape, particularly in 2023, where the university reported 16 international graduate students, leading to a notable 2.64% of graduate students being international. This suggests that Lander University may be becoming increasingly attractive to graduate students, perhaps due to specialized programs or a growing reputation in certain academic fields.
It’s important to consider the broader context of higher education in the U.S., which has seen challenges in attracting international students due to factors like visa regulations, global competition, and the pandemic's impact. This data reflects a larger trend in which universities are striving to diversify their student bodies and enhance global engagement. As institutions rebound from the pandemic, there is potential for Lander University to capitalize on its increasing visibility and improve its international student recruitment strategies to foster a more diverse academic community in the coming years.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$33,400
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $21,300
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $11,700
- Room and board
- $12,100
- Graduate tuition
- $9,910
Peer median tuition + room and board $29,573 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 5% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 46%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$88.2M
Expenses$79.7M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Peach Belt Conference
Peach Belt Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 102 | 102 |
| Soccer | 55 | 33 |
| Lacrosse | 56 | 27 |
| Baseball | 78 | - |
| Other Sports | - | 54 |
| Wrestling | 47 | - |
| Basketball | 17 | 18 |
| Golf | 15 | 12 |
| Softball | - | 27 |
| Tennis | 15 | 11 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Field Hockey | - | 14 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 75 | 80 |
| Lacrosse | 60 | 31 |
| Soccer | 53 | 33 |
| Other Sports | - | 80 |
| Baseball | 73 | - |
| Wrestling | 47 | - |
| Basketball | 17 | 19 |
| Golf | 19 | 17 |
| Softball | - | 36 |
| Tennis | 17 | 10 |
| Field Hockey | - | 18 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Lacrosse | 54 | 30 |
| Other Sports | - | 73 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 31 | 39 |
| Soccer | 32 | 30 |
| Baseball | 45 | - |
| Wrestling | 45 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 20 |
| Softball | - | 31 |
| Golf | 14 | 14 |
| Tennis | 16 | 12 |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
| Field Hockey | - | 14 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Clemson UniversityClemson · 50.6 mi
U.S. News #80
-
Furman UniversityGreenville · 52.5 mi
Liberal Arts #57
-
Wofford CollegeSpartanburg · 54.1 mi
Liberal Arts #68
-
University of South Carolina-ColumbiaColumbia · 66.6 mi
U.S. News #121
-
University of GeorgiaAthens · 71.2 mi
U.S. News #52
-
University of North Carolina at CharlotteCharlotte · 111.7 mi
U.S. News #169
-
Davidson CollegeDavidson · 116.9 mi
Liberal Arts #16
-
Agnes Scott CollegeDecatur · 125.6 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
Emory UniversityAtlanta · 127.0 mi
U.S. News #23
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Lander University:
-
Clemson University - Ranked 86th in the 2024 US News rankings, Clemson University is a comprehensive university known for its strong emphasis on research and technology, particularly in engineering and agriculture.
-
Furman University - With a rank of 46, Furman University is a liberal arts college that offers a personalized education with a strong focus on undergraduate studies, fostering critical thinking and ethical leadership.
-
Wofford College - Ranked 59th, Wofford College is another liberal arts institution that emphasizes a well-rounded education and offers a variety of academic programs in a close-knit community.
-
University of South Carolina-Columbia - This comprehensive university ranks 124th and is known for its vibrant campus life and diverse academic offerings across various disciplines.
-
Emory University - Emory University, ranked 24th, is a prestigious research university in Atlanta, recognized for its rigorous academic programs and strong emphasis on liberal arts education.
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus - Ranking 33rd, Georgia Tech is well-known for its engineering programs and innovative research, making it a top choice for students interested in technology and applied sciences.
These institutions offer a range of educational opportunities and are highly regarded in their respective fields.
Peer median 4.9 · all 85 public 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
Analysis of Lander University Crime Data (2013-2023)
The crime statistics from Lander University over the past decade reveal a notable trend in campus safety. The average number of offenses per 1,000 students has generally declined from 43.62 in 2013 to 22.32 in 2023, indicating a significant improvement in safety on campus. This downward trend is encouraging, reflecting efforts by the university to enhance security measures and foster a safer environment for students.
Among the various types of offenses recorded, arrests related to gun possession have remained a consistent concern, although the numbers have fluctuated over the years. Drug-related arrests also constituted a considerable portion of the total offenses, which is a common issue across many college campuses. The reduction in alcohol-related arrests in recent years suggests that educational initiatives around responsible drinking may be having a positive impact.
Despite the overall decline in crime rates, there remains a need for vigilance, particularly in areas like domestic violence and theft, which, while not the predominant offenses, still require ongoing attention. Local and national discussions about safety on campus, especially in the wake of high-profile incidents at universities nationwide, underline the importance of maintaining a focus on student safety.
In conclusion, while Lander University has made strides in reducing crime rates, continuous efforts in prevention, education, and community engagement will be crucial in ensuring sustained safety and security for its students. For more information on calculating crime rates, please visit: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Lander University include Miriam Stevenson (Miss Universe 1954, first American winner), Wendy L. Queen (Chemist and materials scientist) and Louie Smothermon (Retired American soccer player and coach).
-
Miriam Stevenson 1933–
Miss Universe 1954, first American winner
-
Wendy L. Queen 1981–
Chemist and materials scientist
-
Louie Smothermon
Retired American soccer player and coach
-
Maria Gervais
Retired US Army lieutenant general
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.