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U.S. News #158 Private nonprofit, 4-year

Presbyterian College

Clinton, South Carolina · www.presby.edu

中文

U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027

#158

Acceptance rate

68.4%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$44,910

$58,489 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

853

Student-faculty ratio 11:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

52.6%

4-year; 6-year rate 59.6%

Peer median 45.1%

“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Presbyterian College, located in Clinton, South Carolina, is a distinguished liberal arts college known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life. Founded in 1880, the college has a deep-rooted tradition of fostering intellectual growth and personal development among its students. The campus is characterized by its picturesque setting, featuring historic buildings and beautiful green spaces that create an inviting atmosphere for both study and social interaction. The college's motto, "While we live, we serve," reflects its commitment to community service and the development of responsible citizens who are dedicated to making a positive impact in the world.

Academically, Presbyterian College offers a diverse array of majors and minors across various disciplines, including liberal arts, sciences, business, and education. The faculty is known for their dedication to teaching and mentoring students, with a low student-to-faculty ratio that allows for personalized attention and support. The college emphasizes experiential learning, providing students with opportunities for internships, research projects, and study abroad programs. Additionally, Presbyterian College has a strong athletic program, competing in NCAA Division I sports, which fosters school spirit and camaraderie among students. With a focus on holistic education, the college not only prepares students for successful careers but also instills in them a sense of purpose and commitment to lifelong learning and service.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Presbyterian College

Presbyterian College has shown notable trends in its tuition fees, graduation rates, and student retention rates over recent years. The tuition for undergraduate students has consistently increased from $33,650 in 2014 to $41,900 in 2023, reflecting a significant rise of approximately 24%. This upward trend in tuition costs is a common theme in higher education across the United States, often attributing to increased operational costs and investments in campus facilities and resources.

In terms of graduation rates, there has been a concerning decline in the timely graduation rate of undergraduate students, dropping from around 61% in 2014 to approximately 53% in 2023. This decrease indicates potential issues in student support or academic performance, which might be exacerbated by rising tuition costs and the associated financial burdens on students. The 150% graduation rate, while slightly more stable, also reflects a downward trend, signaling the need for improved academic advising and support services to help students meet their educational goals.

Student retention is another critical metric that has fluctuated significantly. The retention rate fell from about 86% in 2013 to approximately 68% in 2023. This decline could be indicative of students facing challenges in their academic or social integration into college life, potentially influenced by rising costs and shifting demographics in student populations.

Overall, these trends highlight the importance of addressing the rising costs of education alongside improving student support systems to enhance retention and graduation rates. The interplay between financial pressures and student success remains a crucial area for Presbyterian College to focus on as it aims to provide a supportive and enriching educational environment.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Distant town
Nearest major city
Greenville, about 40 mi
Nearest international airport
Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), about 70 mi
Clinton, South Carolina
Also known as
PC
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Presbyterian Church (USA)
President
Anita Olson Gustafson, Ph.D. (President)
Phone
8648332820
City
Clinton, South Carolina
Address
503 South Broad Street, Clinton, SC 29325

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
65.3%
Women
70.9%

In 2020: men 74.2%, women 76.8%.

U.S. News Liberal Arts Colleges · last 10 years
#158Ranked #158 every year from 2027 to 2027

Data insights

Trends in Admissions at Presbyterian College

The admissions data from Presbyterian College reveals several notable trends over the years. From 2009 to 2023, the overall admission rates for both male and female applicants have shown fluctuations, reflecting the evolving competitive landscape of higher education. For instance, the acceptance rate for male applicants dropped significantly from approximately 65% in 2009 to around 56% in 2023, while the acceptance rate for female applicants also decreased from about 72% to 63% in the same period.
Despite these declines in acceptance rates, the enrollment numbers have remained relatively stable, with the college admitting as many as 364 students in 2010 and as few as 226 in 2022. This suggests that while the college may be becoming more selective, it is still able to maintain a consistent student body size through strategic admissions practices.
The number of applicants denied admission has seen a dramatic increase, particularly noticeable in 2023, when over 1,352 students were rejected. This growing number of denials could indicate a rising interest in the college, potentially influenced by its reputation or academic offerings.
Moreover, the data reveals that the number of applicants deferring their admission has also fluctuated, peaking in 2014 and 2016, which may be a response to external factors such as economic conditions or changes in societal norms regarding college attendance.
In summary, Presbyterian College is navigating a complex admissions environment characterized by increasing selectivity and fluctuating applicant interests, reflecting broader trends in the higher education sector.

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

Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition

Health Specialty2 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 · 31% submitted SAT, 18% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total980–1200Peer median 1220
ACT composite21–26
SAT Reading
500–620
600700800
SAT Math
480–580
600700800
ACT composite
21–26
253036

Data insights

Trends in Admission Test Scores at Presbyterian College

The data from Presbyterian College reveals significant trends in both the submission rates of standardized test scores and the corresponding score ranges over the years. From 2007 to 2023, there has been a noticeable decline in the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores, dropping from a high of 96% to just 20% in 2023. This trend aligns with the broader movement among colleges and universities across the United States, many of which have adopted test-optional policies in response to a growing belief that standardized tests may not fully capture a student's potential.

In terms of the score ranges, the data indicates fluctuations in the 25th percentile and 75th percentile scores for both SAT and ACT. The SAT reading and math scores saw a slight decline in the lower range over the years, while the upper range remained relatively stable, suggesting that while fewer students are submitting scores, those who do tend to be on the higher end of the performance spectrum. This could imply that the college is attracting a more academically competitive applicant pool, despite the overall decline in test submissions.

Moreover, the 2020-2023 period is particularly noteworthy as it coincides with the global pandemic, which has prompted many institutions to reassess the role of standardized testing in admissions. As colleges continue to adapt to these changes, it will be crucial for Presbyterian College to maintain its commitment to evaluating applicants holistically, ensuring that all students have equitable opportunities to succeed. Overall, the patterns observed in this data reflect broader shifts in educational assessment and admissions practices that may shape the future landscape of higher education.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 7 in 10

3,297 applicants in 2025, 68.4% admitted

2,254 admitted 1,043 not admitted Yield 11.6%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's14711 international (7.5%)
Master's310 international (0.0%)
Doctoral480 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
39
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
23
Psychology, General
19
History, General
12
English Language and Literature, General
10
Political Science and Government, General
10
Sociology, General
9
Early Childhood Education and Teaching
5
Chemistry, General
5
Biochemistry
3

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Physician Assistant · Master's31 (0% international)
  • Pharmacy · Doctoral29 (0% international)
  • Occupational Therapy/Therapist · Doctoral19 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from Presbyterian College

The graduation data from Presbyterian College in 2023 reflects a varied distribution of degree completions across different fields. Notably, the most significant number of bachelor's degrees was awarded in Psychology, with 45 graduates, followed closely by Business Administration, which saw 42 graduates. This trend may highlight the growing interest in mental health and business management, possibly influenced by contemporary societal needs and employment trends.

Interestingly, the data reveals a lack of diversity in the fields of master's and doctoral degrees, with the majority concentrated in Pharmacy and Physician Assistant programs, indicating a strong emphasis on health-related professions. Pharmacy had 41 doctoral graduates, while the Physician Assistant program produced 33 master's graduates. This focus aligns with broader trends in higher education, where health-related fields are increasingly prioritized due to their critical role in addressing public health challenges.

Moreover, the presence of international students in these programs, albeit limited, suggests an international perspective in these disciplines. For example, there was one international student graduating with a master's in Pharmacy, hinting at the program's appeal beyond domestic borders.

On the other hand, several disciplines, particularly in the arts and humanities, did not see any graduates this year. This could reflect shifting priorities in student enrollment and job market demands, where traditional liberal arts majors may be struggling to attract students amidst a focus on more vocationally aligned degrees.

Overall, this data serves as an insightful snapshot of current educational trends and the evolving landscape of higher education priorities at Presbyterian College.

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

Health professionshas 79 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Physician Assistant.$117,180
Pharmacy.$117,178
Occupational Therapy/Therapist.-
Businesshas 42 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Business Administration and Management, General.$50,344
Business/Managerial Economics.-
Biologyhas 26 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$44,433
Biochemistry.-
Psychology has 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.$37,651
Social sciencehas 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.-
History has 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
History, General.$41,509
English has 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
English Language and Literature, General.-
Physical scienceshas 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Chemistry, General.-
Physics, General.-
Physics, Other.-
Educationhas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.-
Philosophy has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Philosophy and Religious Studies, General.-
Religion/Religious Studies.-
Computer and information sciencehas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Computer Science.-
Foreign languages has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Spanish Language and Literature.-

Students

1,095 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 50:50 · Freshman retention 79.5%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (853)

White
510 · 59.8%
Black
148 · 17.4%
Hispanic
85 · 10.0%
Two or more races
57 · 6.7%
International
41 · 4.8%
Asian
9 · 1.1%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
1.1%
18–19
51.2%
20–21
40.1%
22–24
7.3%
25 and over
0.4%

Graduate students

Under 22
8.3%
22–24
55.8%
25–29
25.2%
30–34
4.1%
35 and over
0.4%

Data insights

Student Demographics at Presbyterian College in 2023

In 2023, Presbyterian College presents a diverse student body with distinctly varying gender ratios across different categories. The undergraduate newcomers comprise 269 students, with a male representation of 54.6% and females making up 45.4%. This indicates a slight male predominance among fresh entrants, which is a positive aspect for gender diversity in the undergraduate cohort.

On the other hand, the undergraduate continuing students show a shift, with 574 individuals where females outnumber males at a ratio of 52.3% to 47.7%. This trend reflects a growing trend in higher education where female students are increasingly pursuing and completing their undergraduate studies.

The transfer student group is notably smaller, with only 34 students, and similarly displays a male majority at 55.9%. This small number could suggest that transfer pathways may not be as robust or appealing for students at this institution compared to the traditional undergraduate routes.

Graduate students at Presbyterian College consist of 244 individuals, where a significant 79.9% are female. This figure is noteworthy and aligns with broader trends in graduate education, where women are often achieving higher enrollment rates than men. Such a disparity could be indicative of shifting societal norms and increased encouragement for women to pursue advanced degrees.

Lastly, the overall ethnic diversity within each category is vital for fostering an inclusive educational environment, although specific data on this aspect is lacking for the year. The college's demographic distribution reflects a landscape that is continually evolving, with implications for both academic programming and campus culture. As institutions like Presbyterian College adapt to these changes, they play a crucial role in shaping future generations of leaders.

Age Composition of Students at Presbyterian College in 2023

The age distribution data of students at Presbyterian College in 2023 reveals significant trends in the demographics of both undergraduate and graduate populations. The most notable observation is the predominance of younger students, particularly in the 18-19 age bracket. This group consists of 204 male undergraduates and 195 female undergraduates, accounting for approximately 37.7% of the total male student body and about 34.6% of the total female student body, indicating a strong influx of traditional-aged students.

The 20-21 age category also displays a robust representation with 190 male and 196 female undergraduates, further solidifying the college's appeal to younger demographics. Interestingly, the number of graduate students is relatively low compared to undergraduates, with only a handful of males and females in the 22-24 age range, which might suggest that the institution primarily attracts students who are entering higher education directly after completing their undergraduate studies.

Moreover, the data shows a concerning trend as the numbers dwindle significantly in older age groups, particularly for those aged 25 and above, where graduate male and female students are notably few. This could reflect broader societal trends where older adults are less likely to pursue traditional graduate studies, possibly due to career commitments or financial constraints.

In conclusion, Presbyterian College's age composition highlights a youthful student body that may contribute to a vibrant campus culture, while also raising questions about the inclusivity of older students in higher education. As educational institutions adapt to changing demographics, it is crucial to consider strategies that encourage participation from a more diverse age range.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Undergraduates4.8%

41 in 2025 · 5.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 5.0%2017: 8.1%2018: 7.9%2019: 6.6%2020: 4.6%2021: 2.9%2022: 3.3%2023: 3.9%2024: 4.8%2025: 4.8%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025
Graduate students0.4%

1 in 2025 · 0.3% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.3%2017: 0.3%2018: 0.4%2019: 0.4%2020: 0.4%2021: 0.4%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.4%2024: 0.0%2025: 0.4%
2016Peer median 1.0%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Trends at Presbyterian College

The data from Presbyterian College reveals a notable evolution in the enrollment of international students over the years. Initially, in 2004, the undergraduate international student population was minimal, comprising only 0.08% of the total undergraduate enrollment. However, by 2023, this figure had significantly increased to 3.87%, indicating a growing interest and recruitment of international students.

The peak enrollment of international undergraduates occurred in 2017, when 8.09% of the undergraduate body was composed of international students. This trend highlights the college’s efforts to enhance its global presence and diversity on campus. The fluctuations observed in the subsequent years could be attributed to various factors, including changing immigration policies, global events, and the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected international student mobility.

In regard to graduate students, the data presents a less consistent picture, with a peak of 1.0% in 2013 and a decline in the following years. The relatively low percentage of international graduate students, which hovered around 0.32% to 0.64% in recent years, suggests that the college may need to implement targeted strategies to attract more graduate-level international scholars.

Overall, while the increase in undergraduate international enrollment is commendable, the college should prioritize enhancing its appeal to graduate students from abroad. This could foster a richer academic environment and contribute to the institution's global stature. The ongoing trends call for strategic planning to ensure sustained growth in international student enrollment, which is vital in today’s interconnected educational landscape.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$58,489

Undergraduate tuition
$44,910
Room and board
$13,579
Graduate tuition
$58,290
Tuition and room and board over time

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 39%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$46.0M

Tuition and fees
$19.3M42.0%
Investment return
$10.7M23.2%
Auxiliary enterprises
$10.5M22.9%
Gifts and private grants
$4.2M9.1%
Government grants and contracts
$230K0.5%
Other
$1.1M2.3%

Expenses$48.4M

Instruction
$15.2M31.3%
Student services
$15.0M31.0%
Auxiliary enterprises
$7.8M16.1%
Institutional support
$7.7M15.8%
Academic support
$2.8M5.8%

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.

All faculty
$74,162peers $65,931
Professor
$74,287peers $77,501
Associate professor
$74,019peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$74,146peers $61,725

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Pioneer Football League · Big South Conference

Pioneer Football League: football

Big South Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
Other MENWOMEN
Football138-
Soccer3727
Wrestling2529
Baseball42-
Basketball1414
Gymnastics-28
Lacrosse-24
Softball-20
Volleyball-20
Other Sports-20
Cross Country118
Tennis79
Golf87
2024
OtherMENWOMEN
Football103-
Soccer2625
Baseball40-
Wrestling2118
Basketball1314
Gymnastics-22
Lacrosse-22
Softball-20
Cross Country109
Golf106
Tennis78
Volleyball-15
Other Sports-14
2023
OtherMENWOMEN
Football134-
Soccer3227
Wrestling2614
Baseball36-
Basketball1515
Lacrosse-24
Gymnastics-22
Softball-21
Tennis127
Cross Country98
Volleyball-17
Golf97
Other Sports-12

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable colleges and universities near Presbyterian College:

  1. Wofford College - Ranked 59th in the 2024 US News rankings, Wofford College is a private liberal arts college known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.

  2. Furman University - With a rank of 46, Furman University is a private liberal arts university that emphasizes a rigorous curriculum and offers a picturesque campus in South Carolina.

  3. Clemson University - As a public research university ranked 86th, Clemson University is renowned for its engineering, business, and agricultural programs, along with a spirited athletic culture.

  4. Davidson College - Ranked 16th, Davidson College is a prestigious liberal arts college that is known for its commitment to academic excellence and strong community values.

  5. Emory University - With a rank of 24, Emory University is a leading research institution located in Atlanta, Georgia, known for its healthcare programs and vibrant campus life.

  6. Georgia Institute of Technology - Ranked 33rd, Georgia Tech is a prominent public research university known for its engineering and technology programs, attracting students from around the globe.

These institutions provide a range of educational opportunities and are well-regarded in their respective fields.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Drug referrals
53
Liquor referrals
37
Burglary
14
Liquor arrests
8
Aggravated assault
7
Rape
5

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Crime Trends at Presbyterian College: A Decline in Rates

Over the past decade, Presbyterian College has experienced a notable decline in crime rates, which is a positive trend for the campus community. In 2013, the average crime rate per 1,000 students was a concerning 47.90, reflecting a challenging environment for safety. However, as we move towards 2023, this figure has dramatically decreased to just 20.02, representing a significant improvement and a 58% reduction in crime rates.

Particularly striking is the decline in serious incidents such as gun-related arrests, which were reported in earlier years but have since reached a low point in recent data. The absence of such arrests in the latest years indicates a shift towards a safer campus atmosphere. Other categories, including drug and alcohol-related offenses, have also seen a downward trend, reinforcing the college's commitment to fostering a secure educational environment.

The year 2022 marked a substantial low in crime, with an average of only 10.56 per 1,000 students, suggesting effective measures and programs implemented by the college to promote safety and well-being among students. This positive trend aligns with national movements towards enhancing campus security and student support systems.

The ongoing efforts by the administration, campus police, and student organizations to address these issues should be commended. As the college community continues to prioritize safety, it is essential to maintain vigilance and commitment towards reducing crime further and ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for all students. For those interested in understanding how these crime rates are calculated, further details can be found at the following link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.

Notable Alumni

All 24

Notable alumni of Presbyterian College include Tim Scott (US senator from South Carolina), Ralph Norman (U.S. Representative for South Carolina's 5th district) and Emelia Brobbey (Ghanaian actress, TV presenter and film producer).

See all 24 notable alumni of Presbyterian College →

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.