Newberry College
Acceptance rate
89.8%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$31,100
$44,600 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
1,481
Student-faculty ratio 15:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
35.1%
4-year; 6-year rate 49.5%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Newberry College, located in Newberry, South Carolina, is a private liberal arts college known for its strong commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. Established in 1856, the college has a rich history and is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. With a picturesque campus that fosters a close-knit community, Newberry College offers a welcoming environment for students to thrive both academically and personally. The college's motto, "In Faith and Learning," reflects its dedication to integrating faith with a comprehensive liberal arts education, encouraging students to explore various disciplines while developing critical thinking and ethical reasoning skills.
The college features a diverse range of undergraduate programs, with particular strengths in fields such as business, education, and the sciences. Newberry College prides itself on its low student-to-faculty ratio, allowing for personalized attention and mentorship from dedicated faculty members. The campus is equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, science labs, and recreational spaces, which support both academic and extracurricular activities. Additionally, the college boasts a vibrant campus life, with numerous student organizations, clubs, and athletic programs that promote engagement and leadership. The commitment to student success is evident in the college's focus on career development, helping graduates to secure meaningful employment in their chosen fields. Overall, Newberry College stands out as a nurturing institution that prepares students for success in both life and career.
Analysis of Key Data Trends at Newberry College
Newberry College has shown significant trends in tuition costs, student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates over recent years. The tuition for in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has consistently increased from $23,800 in 2014 to $29,100 in 2023, marking a rise of approximately 22.3%. This steady hike in tuition reflects a broader trend across higher education institutions, where rising costs often lead to concerns about affordability and access for prospective students.
In terms of student enrollment, there has been a gradual increase in undergraduate students from 1,042 in 2013 to 1,296 in 2023. This growth could indicate a positive perception of the college’s offerings and a successful recruitment strategy, especially as the national trend has shown fluctuations in college enrollment rates in recent years, largely influenced by the pandemic.
Graduation rates have also exhibited improvement. The on-time graduation rate rose from 31.6% in 2013 to 37.7% in 2023. This upward trend may suggest enhancements in academic support services and student engagement initiatives that contribute to student success. However, the graduation rate still indicates that a significant portion of students struggles to complete their degrees in the standard timeframe.
Retention rates, which represent the percentage of students who continue their studies from one year to the next, have shown fluctuation but generally indicate a positive trend. The retention rate increased from 68.1% in 2013 to 73.8% in 2022, before slightly declining to 68.9% in 2023. This retention data points to the college's ability to maintain students' interest and commitment but also highlights the need for continuous improvement in student experience to prevent dropouts.
Overall, Newberry College's data reflects both challenges and successes in managing educational quality and affordability amidst a changing higher education landscape. Continued focus on student support and financial management will be crucial for sustaining these trends.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Columbia, about 45 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), about 70 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Evangelical Lutheran Church
- President
- David Harpool (Interim President)
- Phone
- 8032765010
- City
- Newberry, South Carolina
- Address
- 2100 College St, Newberry, SC 29108
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 63.0%, women 62.5%.
Data insights
Analysis of Newberry College Admission Trends
The admission data for Newberry College over the years reveals significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Notably, the acceptance rate for male students decreased dramatically from approximately 71% in 2009 to just about 27% in 2013, indicating a shift towards a more competitive admission process. This trend may reflect broader changes in higher education, where institutions are seeking to attract a higher caliber of applicants amidst increasing competition.
Interestingly, the female acceptance rate has also experienced fluctuations, though it has remained higher than that of male applicants in several years. This disparity raises questions about gender dynamics in college admissions and whether institutions are implementing strategies to balance enrollment.
The enrollment numbers tell a compelling story as well. After a peak in the number of students admitted in 2010, Newberry College saw a decline in enrollment figures, correlating with the tightening acceptance rates in subsequent years. The drastic increase in denial numbers, particularly in 2013, suggests that the college was either receiving a larger number of applications or was becoming more selective, possibly due to a shift in institutional goals or resources.
The data from 2023 shows a remarkable rebound, with the acceptance rates for males and females climbing back to approximately 76% and 75% respectively, alongside a notable increase in enrollment. This could signal a strategic pivot by Newberry College to broaden access and attract a diverse student body after years of stringent admission policies.
Overall, the trends indicate an evolving landscape in college admissions, shaped by external pressures and internal policies, reflecting a balancing act between selectivity and inclusivity.
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 Admissions Data at Newberry College
The admissions data from Newberry College over the years presents a revealing picture of changing applicant profiles and testing trends. Notably, the submission rates for standardized tests such as the SAT have seen a significant decline, dropping from a high of 86% in 2009 to just 22% in 2023. This trend mirrors a broader national movement away from standardized testing, as many colleges have adopted test-optional policies in light of ongoing discussions about equity and access in higher education.
Moreover, the scores of admitted students depict a fluctuating trend. For instance, the 25th percentile SAT reading scores have varied from 400 to 470, while the 75th percentile scores have shown slight improvements, indicating that while the pool of applicants may be becoming more diverse, the overall performance levels remain inconsistent. This inconsistency could reflect changing educational dynamics, where students may not be as prepared for standardized testing despite potential improvements in overall academic readiness.
The data also raises questions about the implications of these trends. With a sharp decline in test submissions, Newberry College may need to reassess its evaluation criteria to ensure that it continues to attract a qualified and diverse student body. As the landscape of college admissions evolves, it will be crucial for institutions to adapt to these changes, focusing on holistic review processes that consider a broader range of student achievements and potential.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
4,683 applicants in 2025, 89.8% admitted
4,205 admitted 478 not admitted Yield 10.3%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Organizational Leadership · Master's16 (0% international)
- Sport and Fitness Administration/Management · Master's14 (0% international)
- Corrections and Criminal Justice, Other · Master's1 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Program Trends at Newberry College
The data from Newberry College for the year 2023 reveals some notable trends in graduate programs, particularly in the fields of Business and Healthcare. The Business Administration and Management program stands out with 26 graduates, including 3 international students, indicating a strong interest in this field. This trend aligns with the current job market, where business skills are increasingly in demand, reflecting a growing emphasis on entrepreneurship and management capabilities in various sectors.
In the Healthcare sector, Registered Nursing graduates also represent a significant group, with 15 graduates, including 1 international student. The ongoing global health challenges have heightened the demand for qualified healthcare professionals, making this program particularly relevant. Interestingly, there were no graduates reported in several specialized pre-health tracks, such as Pre-Medicine and Pre-Dentistry, suggesting a potential area for growth and recruitment.
Moreover, the Psychology program, with 19 graduates and 2 international students, indicates a robust interest in mental health, a field that has gained prominence in recent years, particularly in light of the global mental health crisis exacerbated by the pandemic.
On the other hand, programs like Computer and Information Sciences, despite their critical role in today's technology-driven world, reported no graduates. This gap highlights the need for educational institutions to adapt their offerings to meet the demands of a rapidly changing job market.
Overall, Newberry College's data reflects broader societal trends towards business education and healthcare, while also emphasizing the necessity for continuous program development to align with evolving career landscapes.
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. | $42,442 | ||
| Organizational Leadership. | $42,442 | ||
| Accounting. | - | ||
| Digital Marketing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | - | ||
| Respiratory Therapy Technician/Assistant. | $88,193 | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $77,094 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $25,914 | ||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $25,914 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $42,055 | ||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $42,055 | ||
| Music Teacher Education. | $44,451 | ||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | $44,451 | ||
| Social Studies Teacher Education. | $44,451 | ||
| Education, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice and Corrections, General. | $39,295 | ||
| Corrections and Criminal Justice, Other. | $39,295 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | - | ||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | ||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | ||
| Music Performance, General. | - | ||
| Music Theory and Composition. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| International Relations and Affairs. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
Students
1,536 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 49:51 · Freshman retention 69.2%
- Continuing undergraduates 964
- First-year undergraduates 424
- Graduate students 55
- Transfers and others 93
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,481)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Newberry College in 2023
The demographic data from Newberry College for the year 2023 reflects a diverse student body, with notable variations in gender and racial composition across different classifications. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 415 students, with a male representation of 57.3% and females at 42.7%. This indicates a slight male predominance in the incoming class, which is a trend seen in many colleges across the United States.
When examining the continuing undergraduate students, the total rises to 787, maintaining a similar gender ratio with 54.9% males and 45.1% females. This consistency suggests that the college may have a stable environment that attracts male students, although it is essential to consider the broader implications of gender disparities in higher education.
Interestingly, the transfer students show a different trend, with 90 students, where females slightly outnumber males, with 53.3% females compared to 46.7% males. This shift may reflect a growing trend of female students seeking educational opportunities at different institutions.
The graduate program, with only 16 students, shows a predominance of males at 56.3%. However, the small sample size limits the generalizability of this finding.
Furthermore, the racial breakdown indicates a majority of white students across all categories, with 159 white freshmen and 328 continuing students. The representation of other ethnic groups is notably lower, which is a common challenge for many institutions striving for diversity.
Overall, while Newberry College has a healthy enrollment, there remains a need for ongoing efforts to enhance diversity and gender equity within its student population, particularly in attracting underrepresented groups.
Age Distribution at Newberry College: A Closer Look
The age composition of students at Newberry College reveals interesting insights into the demographic structure of the institution. A significant portion of the student body falls within the 18-21 age range, with nearly 80% of undergraduate males and females being aged 18-21. This trend aligns with national statistics, where the majority of college students are typically in their late teens to early twenties, reflecting the traditional college-going age group.
As we delve deeper, the data indicates a noticeable drop in enrollment as age increases. For instance, students aged 22-24 comprise a smaller segment, with only 154 total students, and those aged 25-29, 30-34, and beyond see even fewer enrollments. This trend might suggest that the institution attracts primarily younger students who are transitioning directly from high school to higher education, which is a common pattern among colleges, particularly those focused on undergraduate programs.
Moreover, the representation of graduate students is relatively low, particularly among males, indicating either a preference for undergraduate studies or potential barriers that discourage older students from pursuing graduate education. This could be reflective of broader societal trends where individuals may prioritize entering the workforce sooner or have familial responsibilities that limit their educational pursuits.
In conclusion, Newberry College's student age data highlights the prevalence of younger students in higher education, while also pointing towards a need for further exploration into the factors affecting the enrollment of older students. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for institutions aiming to create inclusive educational environments that cater to a diverse student body.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
37 in 2025 · 4.0% in 2016
2 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2022
Data insights
International Student Trends at Newberry College
The data on international students at Newberry College reveals a notable increase in the number of undergraduate international students over the years. Starting from just 8 international students in 2004, this figure has grown to 102 by 2022, reflecting a significant upward trend. The proportion of international students within the undergraduate population has also seen a remarkable rise, reaching 8.25% in 2022, up from a mere 1.07% in 2004. This trend highlights Newberry College's growing appeal to students from diverse backgrounds, potentially influenced by global events and a rising interest in studying abroad.
Interestingly, the data for graduate students is sparse, with only a few figures available, indicating 5 international students in 2022 and 16 in 2023. However, the absence of consistent data for graduate enrollment might suggest that international graduate recruitment at Newberry College is still in the early stages compared to its undergraduate counterpart.
These trends are crucial, especially in the context of the ongoing global discussions regarding higher education accessibility and diversity. The increase in international students can enhance the cultural richness of the campus environment and provide local students with a broader perspective. As institutions like Newberry College continue to cultivate their international student populations, they may also become more competitive in the higher education landscape, responding effectively to the rising demand for global education opportunities.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$44,600
- Undergraduate tuition
- $31,100
- Room and board
- $13,500
- Graduate tuition
- $6,000
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 27% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 41%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$39.0M
Expenses$42.9M
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 · South Atlantic Conference
South Atlantic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 205 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 88 | 83 |
| Lacrosse | 84 | 35 |
| Other Sports | - | 86 |
| Soccer | 46 | 32 |
| Basketball | 33 | 24 |
| Wrestling | 41 | 15 |
| Baseball | 53 | - |
| Softball | - | 30 |
| Field Hockey | - | 28 |
| Golf | 12 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 21 |
| Tennis | 10 | 10 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 223 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 111 | 89 |
| Lacrosse | 81 | 37 |
| Soccer | 46 | 33 |
| Other Sports | - | 59 |
| Baseball | 57 | - |
| Basketball | 33 | 20 |
| Wrestling | 44 | - |
| Softball | - | 31 |
| Field Hockey | - | 29 |
| Tennis | 10 | 12 |
| Volleyball | - | 21 |
| Golf | 9 | 10 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 219 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 103 | 78 |
| Lacrosse | 79 | 39 |
| Volleyball | - | 100 |
| Soccer | 46 | 34 |
| Baseball | 54 | - |
| Basketball | 26 | 20 |
| Wrestling | 45 | - |
| Field Hockey | - | 31 |
| Softball | - | 28 |
| Other Sports | 27 | - |
| Golf | 12 | 9 |
| Tennis | 10 | 8 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of South Carolina-ColumbiaColumbia · 39.3 mi
U.S. News #121
-
Wofford CollegeSpartanburg · 49.8 mi
Liberal Arts #68
-
Furman UniversityGreenville · 64.2 mi
Liberal Arts #57
-
Clemson UniversityClemson · 74.4 mi
U.S. News #80
-
University of North Carolina at CharlotteCharlotte · 86.7 mi
U.S. News #169
-
Davidson CollegeDavidson · 94.7 mi
Liberal Arts #16
-
University of GeorgiaAthens · 102.9 mi
U.S. News #52
-
Wake Forest UniversityWinston-Salem · 148.5 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Mercer UniversityMacon · 154.2 mi
U.S. News #148
Data insights
Here are some notable colleges and universities near Newberry College:
-
Clemson University - Ranked 86th in the 2024 US News rankings, Clemson University is a comprehensive university known for its strong engineering and business programs.
-
Furman University - With a ranking of 46, Furman University is a highly regarded liberal arts college that emphasizes a strong undergraduate education and student engagement.
-
Wofford College - Ranked 59th, Wofford College is a private liberal arts college that offers a personalized education and a commitment to student development.
-
Davidson College - This prestigious liberal arts institution ranks 16th and is known for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus life.
-
University of South Carolina-Columbia - As a comprehensive university ranked 124th, it offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, along with a vibrant campus culture.
-
Emory University - Ranked 24th, Emory is a private research university in Atlanta, known for its strong programs in health, business, and law.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities in the region, each with its unique strengths and campus environments.
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
Analysis of Crime Rates at Newberry College
The crime data from Newberry College over the past decade reveals a significant trend of decreasing crime rates, particularly when measured per 1,000 students. In 2013, the college had a notably high crime rate of 36.66 incidents per 1,000 students, which has steadily declined to just 8.38 by 2023. This downward trajectory is encouraging, suggesting improvements in campus safety measures and community engagement.
Notably, the most severe offenses, such as gun-related arrests and assaults, have shown fluctuations but generally reflect a reduction in occurrences over the years. For example, the number of gun-related arrests has decreased significantly, with no reported incidents in recent years. This aligns with national conversations on campus safety and the importance of preventive measures, such as awareness programs and proper reporting mechanisms.
The data also highlights a concerning issue in substance-related offenses, such as drug and alcohol arrests, which have seen mixed results. The college must continue to focus on education and support systems to address these issues, ensuring that students are aware of the consequences of substance abuse.
Overall, the significant reduction in crime rates at Newberry College is a positive development, reflecting the institution's commitment to providing a safe learning environment. Continuous efforts in safety policies and community outreach will be crucial in maintaining and further improving these trends. For more details on crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Newberry College include Cody Garbrandt (Mixed martial artist, former UFC Bantamweight Champion), Lee Atwater (Republican strategist; former RNC chairman) and Corey Anderson (Mixed martial artist, PFL light heavyweight champion).
-
Cody Garbrandt 1991–
Mixed martial artist, former UFC Bantamweight Champion
-
Lee Atwater 1951–1991
Republican strategist; former RNC chairman
-
Corey Anderson 1989–
Mixed martial artist, PFL light heavyweight champion
-
Coleman Livingston Blease 1868–1942
Governor of South Carolina and US senator
-
Butler B. Hare 1875–1967
U.S. Representative from South Carolina
-
Paul Marie 1995–
French footballer, San Jose Earthquakes right-back
-
Aegir Steinarsson 1991–
Icelandic basketball player
-
Frederick H. Dominick 1877–1960
US Representative from South Carolina, 1917 to 1933
-
James Butler Hare 1918–1966
U.S. representative from South Carolina
More alumni (7, by field)
Politics and law
-
Asbury Francis Lever 1875–1940
U.S. representative from South Carolina
Sports
-
Debola Ogunseye 1988–
Nigerian former footballer
-
Ron Parker 1987–
Former NFL safety
-
Alana McLaughlin 1983–
Former Army Special Forces member and MMA fighter
-
Corey Washington 1991–
Former NFL wide receiver
-
Billy Rhiel 1900–1946
Major League Baseball infielder
-
Brandon Bostick 1989–
Former NFL tight end
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
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.