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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Voorhees College

Denmark, South Carolina · www.voorhees.edu

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Tuition per year

$12,630

$19,975 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

440

Student-faculty ratio 13:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

32.7%

4-year; 6-year rate 36.0%

Peer median 45.1%

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

About

Voorhees University, located in Denmark, South Carolina, is a historically black university that was established in 1897. This institution is known for its commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment for its students. The university's mission emphasizes academic excellence, character development, and social responsibility, which are reflected in its motto, "Enter to Learn; Depart to Serve." This captures the essence of the university's dedication to not only educating students but also preparing them to contribute positively to their communities after graduation.

The campus of Voorhees University is characterized by its rich history and vibrant culture, where students from diverse backgrounds come together to learn and grow. The university offers a variety of undergraduate programs, focusing on liberal arts, business administration, and social sciences, among other fields. Its academic programs are designed to promote critical thinking and practical skills, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped for the job market. In addition to academics, Voorhees University encourages student involvement in extracurricular activities, including athletics, arts, and community service, which enrich the overall student experience. The supportive faculty and staff play a crucial role in guiding students through their educational journeys, contributing to a nurturing environment that fosters both personal and academic growth.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Voorhees University

The data from Voorhees University reveals significant trends in tuition costs, student retention, graduation rates, and gender ratios among undergraduates. Over the years, the tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has remained stable at $12,630 since 2016, with the exception of a noticeable increase in graduate tuition to $11,120 in 2023. This stagnation in undergraduate tuition may suggest a strategic move to attract more students amid rising education costs nationally, though it doesn't address the overall financial strain many families face.

Retention rates have seen a promising upward trend, climbing from approximately 46% in 2013 to nearly 65% in 2023. This increase indicates a growing sense of satisfaction among students, which is essential for enhancing the university's reputation and attracting new enrollments. The improvement in retention rates can also correlate with better support systems or academic resources being put in place.

Graduation rates, while fluctuating, have shown a positive trajectory as well. The on-time graduation rate rose from about 11% in 2013 to 31.6% in 2023. This growth suggests that the university may be enhancing its academic programs or providing more substantial support to help students navigate their educational pathways successfully. However, there is still considerable room for improvement to align with national averages.

Finally, the gender ratio among undergraduates has fluctuated, with women consistently outnumbering men, reaching a ratio of approximately 55% to 44% in 2023. This trend aligns with broader patterns observed in higher education, where female enrollment often surpasses male enrollment.

Together, these metrics paint a picture of a university striving for improvement in various areas critical to student success and institutional stability.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Rural, remote
Nearest major city
Columbia, about 50 mi
Nearest international airport
Charleston International Airport (CHS), about 70 mi
Denmark, South Carolina
Also known as
VU
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Protestant Episcopal
President
Dr. Ronnie Hopkins (President/CEO)
Phone
80378010511051
City
Denmark, South Carolina
Address
1897 Voorhees Road, Denmark, SC 29042

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's780 international (0.0%)
Master's270 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration
16
Business Administration and Management, General
16
Child Development
10
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management
10
Computer and Information Sciences, General
8
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
5
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General
4
Sociology, General
3
Psychology, General
2
Crisis/Emergency/Disaster Management
2

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Curriculum and Instruction · Master's27 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Voorhees University

The graduation data from Voorhees University for the year 2023 reveals some intriguing trends across various disciplines. Notably, the highest number of bachelor's degrees awarded was in Biology, with a total of 12 graduates. This aligns with the increasing interest in life sciences, especially as the global focus on health and biological research intensifies post-pandemic.

In contrast, we see a lack of international students graduating with bachelor's degrees, indicating a potential area for growth in attracting non-domestic students to these programs. While there are no master's or doctoral graduates reported in any discipline, eight master's degrees were conferred in Curriculum and Instruction, underscoring the importance of education and teacher training in the contemporary landscape. This could be reflective of the ongoing educator shortages observed in various regions, which has been a prominent discussion in educational policy.

Interestingly, fields such as Computer and Information Sciences and Environmental Science show no graduates at all, which raises questions about the university's offerings in these critical and rapidly evolving areas. Given the current job market demands for technology and environmental expertise, it may be beneficial for the institution to reassess and possibly rejuvenate these programs to attract more students and better prepare them for the workforce.

Overall, the graduation data indicates a strong performance in certain areas while also highlighting significant gaps, particularly regarding international student participation and advanced degrees. This insight could help guide future recruitment strategies and curriculum development at Voorhees University.

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

Educationhas 27 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Curriculum and Instruction.-
Homeland security has 18 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.-
Crisis/Emergency/Disaster Management.-
Businesshas 16 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$39,884
Parks, recreation, leisure has 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.-
Human science has 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Child Development.-
Computer and information sciencehas 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Biologyhas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General.-
Social sciencehas 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Sociology, General.-
Psychology has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.-
Health professionshas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Public Health, General.-
Theology has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Theology/Theological Studies.-

Students

578 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 53:47 · Freshman retention 56.3%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (440)

Black
384 · 87.3%
International
35 · 8.0%
White
18 · 4.1%
Hispanic
2 · 0.5%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
2.0%
18–19
40.0%
20–21
29.3%
22–24
16.8%
25 and over
11.8%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.7%
22–24
7.2%
25–29
15.9%
30–34
14.5%
35 and over
61.6%

Data insights

Student Demographics at Voorhees University in 2023

The student demographic data from Voorhees University for the year 2023 reveals a diverse and evolving landscape. The undergraduate freshmen exhibit a near gender balance, with approximately 49.6% male and 50.4% female students, indicating a healthy gender ratio that encourages inclusivity. This is a promising sign for the university, as it aligns with broader trends in higher education where institutions are increasingly striving for gender parity.

In contrast, the data for undergraduate juniors and transfer students shows a noticeable tilt towards female students, with 57.2% of juniors and 57.9% of transfer students being female. This trend is reflective of a growing recognition of the importance of higher education for women and may highlight the university's efforts in attracting and retaining female students.

The graduate student demographic, however, presents a stark contrast, with only 11.8% male representation, indicating a significant gender disparity. This raises questions about the barriers that may be affecting male enrollment in graduate programs and suggests a need for targeted outreach and support to balance this ratio.

Additionally, while detailed breakdowns of student demographics by race are not fully available, the overall numbers suggest an opportunity for the university to enhance its diversity initiatives. As higher education institutions across the nation focus on expanding inclusivity, Voorhees University must address these disparities to ensure that all student populations are represented and supported. Overall, these insights into the student composition can guide future policies aimed at fostering a more equitable educational environment.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Voorhees University

The student age distribution at Voorhees University in 2023 reveals intriguing trends regarding the demographic makeup of the student body. A significant proportion of students fall within the younger age brackets, particularly those aged 18-19, who constitute approximately 39.5% of the total male enrollment and 27.7% of the total female enrollment. This suggests a strong influx of fresh undergraduates, likely reflecting the university’s appeal to recent high school graduates.

As we observe the age cohort of 20-21, male students account for 14.9% while female students represent 27.3% of the total female population. This indicates a noteworthy gender disparity within this age group, which may point to broader trends in higher education where female students often outnumber male students.

Interestingly, the data reveals a gradual decline in enrollment among older age brackets, with only 11.1% of students aged 25-29, and a mere 3.5% of students aged 30-34. This trend may correspond to societal shifts, where younger individuals are more inclined to pursue higher education immediately after high school, while older adults may face barriers such as work commitments or family responsibilities.

Moreover, the presence of graduate students is minimal, with only a handful in their late twenties and thirties. This could reflect a focus on undergraduate education at Voorhees, or it may suggest that graduate programs are less emphasized or available.

Overall, the age composition at Voorhees University indicates a youthful and dynamic student body, which is essential for fostering a vibrant academic environment. As the university continues to adapt to the changing educational landscape, understanding these demographic trends will be vital for future recruitment and retention strategies.

International Students

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

Undergraduates8.0%

35 in 2025 · 1.2% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.2%2017: 0.7%2018: 0.4%2019: 1.0%2020: 1.6%2021: 1.9%2022: 2.0%2023: 6.8%2024: 8.3%2025: 8.0%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025
Graduate students0.0%

0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2023

0% 5% 10% 2023: 0.0%2024: 0.0%2025: 0.0%
2023Peer median 1.0%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Trends at Voorhees University

The data on international students at Voorhees University reveals significant fluctuations over the years, particularly in the undergraduate segment. In 2006, the proportion of international students was a mere 0.56%, but this number has seen a remarkable increase by 2023, where the percentage surged to 6.77%, indicating a growing appeal of the university to international students. The highest number recorded was in 2023, with 32 international undergraduates, suggesting potential improvements in the university's global outreach and recruitment strategies.

However, the total undergraduate population has fluctuated significantly, with a peak of 752 in 2011, followed by a decline down to 368 in 2021 before rebounding to 473 in 2023. This inconsistency in total enrollment could be attributed to various factors, including changes in admission policies, competition from other institutions, or external circumstances like the COVID-19 pandemic.

In stark contrast, data for graduate students remains sparse, with only one recorded year showing a total number of 34 students in 2023, but without specific data on the international student percentage. This lack of data may indicate a need for increased focus on graduate-level international recruitment, as it often represents a significant portion of many universities' international student body.

Overall, the upward trend in the undergraduate international student population is encouraging, but the university may benefit from strategies to stabilize total enrollment and enhance its graduate program's visibility to continue attracting diverse talent.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$19,975

Undergraduate tuition
$12,630
Room and board
$7,345
Graduate tuition
$11,120
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 0% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose -0%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$36.2M

Government grants and contracts
$23.9M66.0%
Tuition and fees
$4.5M12.4%
Auxiliary enterprises
$2.4M6.7%
Gifts and private grants
$2.0M5.4%
Investment return
$1.2M3.2%
Other
$2.3M6.2%

Expenses$36.1M

Instruction
$20.5M56.8%
Institutional support
$7.5M20.9%
Auxiliary enterprises
$2.5M7.0%
Student services
$2.2M6.2%
Academic support
$1.3M3.6%
Other
$2.0M5.5%

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
$48,671peers $65,931
Professor
$62,638peers $77,501
Associate professor
$53,888peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$45,008peers $61,725
Instructor
$41,937peers $53,914

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Other · Gulf Coast Athletic Conference

Gulf Coast Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division I MENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)9134
Baseball45-
Basketball2019
Softball-10
2024
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)5838
Basketball1820
Baseball27-
Softball-10
2023
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)6629
Basketball2019
Baseball32-
Softball-13

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some noteworthy universities surrounding Voorhees University:

  1. University of South Carolina-Columbia - Ranked 124 in the 2024 US News, this comprehensive university is known for its diverse programs and vibrant campus life.

  2. Clemson University - With a rank of 86, Clemson is a prestigious comprehensive university that offers a strong emphasis on research and has a beautiful campus situated in South Carolina.

  3. Furman University - This liberal arts college ranks 46th and is celebrated for its rigorous academic programs and picturesque campus.

  4. Emory University - A top-ranked comprehensive university at 24th place, Emory is renowned for its academic excellence and research initiatives.

  5. Davidson College - As a highly respected liberal arts college ranked 16th, Davidson is known for its commitment to liberal arts education and strong community values.

These institutions offer a range of academic opportunities in various fields and are valuable options for prospective students in the region.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Data at Voorhees University

The crime statistics at Voorhees University over the past decade reveal a significant decline in incidents. Starting from a high of 50.62 per 1000 students in 2013, there has been a remarkable downward trend, culminating in 0.00 per 1000 students in 2022 and 2023. This decline is indicative of enhanced safety measures and a commitment to creating a secure campus environment.

In particular, the data highlights the types of arrests made, with gun-related arrests being a notable concern in earlier years. However, the absence of such incidents in the most recent years suggests effective interventions have been put in place. The transition from higher rates of drug and alcohol-related arrests to a more stable environment speaks volumes about the university's ongoing efforts to promote student well-being and responsibility.

The decrease in crime rates can also be attributed to broader national trends in decreasing campus crime, alongside community engagement initiatives and increased security presence. With the current rates nearing zero, it is essential for the university to maintain vigilance and continue fostering a culture of accountability and support among students.

This positive trajectory not only contributes to a better college experience but also enhances the institution's reputation for safety, which is a critical factor for prospective students and their families. A continued focus on prevention and education will be vital in sustaining this trend.

For more information on crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Methodology.

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.