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Public, 4-year

Winthrop University

Rock Hill, South Carolina · www.winthrop.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

79.3%

2025

Peer median 85.8%

Out-of-state tuition

$28,676

In-state $14,678

Peer median $18,658

Undergraduates

3,969

Student-faculty ratio 13:1

Peer median 16 : 1

Graduation rate

48.4%

4-year; 6-year rate 60.9%

Peer median 29.5%

“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Winthrop University, located in Rock Hill, South Carolina, is a public university recognized for its commitment to providing a comprehensive educational experience while fostering a vibrant campus culture. Founded in 1886, Winthrop has developed a reputation for excellence in liberal arts education, offering a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. The university's mission emphasizes the importance of personal and professional growth, underscored by its motto, "Veritas et Sapientia," which translates to "Truth and Wisdom." This guiding principle reflects the university's dedication to nurturing critical thinking and ethical decision-making among its students.

The campus life at Winthrop University is rich and engaging, with numerous opportunities for student involvement in clubs, organizations, and athletic programs. The university is home to a strong Division I athletics program, where students can participate in various sports, including basketball, soccer, and track and field, fostering school spirit and community engagement. Winthrop's picturesque campus features modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, research laboratories, and recreational spaces, all designed to enhance the learning experience. Moreover, the university boasts a dedicated faculty committed to student success, with a low student-to-faculty ratio that allows for personalized attention and mentorship. As a result, Winthrop University prepares its graduates to excel in their careers, as evidenced by strong employment rates among alumni across various fields.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Winthrop University

Winthrop University has shown noteworthy trends in several critical areas over the past decade. One of the most significant changes is in graduation rates. The on-time graduation rate has increased from approximately 34% in 2013 to nearly 46% in 2023. This upward trajectory suggests that the university has likely implemented effective strategies to enhance student success and retention, which is further supported by a rise in the 150% graduation rate from about 54% to 61%. Such improvements can be attributed to enhanced academic support and advising services, which help students navigate their educational paths more effectively.

Additionally, the student retention rate has experienced a decline, dropping from approximately 73% in 2013 to around 67% in 2023. This decline may raise concerns about student satisfaction and engagement, particularly in light of rising tuition costs. For instance, in-state undergraduate tuition has steadily increased from about $13,670 in 2014 to approximately $15,956 in 2024. This escalation in financial burden could be a contributing factor to the decreasing retention, as students may be facing challenges in financing their education.

Moreover, the student-to-faculty ratio has worsened, decreasing from 15:1 in 2013 to 12:1 in 2023. While a lower ratio can suggest improved access to faculty, it may also indicate fewer faculty members available to support students as enrollment numbers fluctuate.

Overall, while Winthrop University has made commendable progress in graduation rates, the challenges related to retention and financial pressures necessitate strategic interventions to ensure student retention and satisfaction in the coming years.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Small city
Nearest major city
Charlotte, about 20 mi
Nearest international airport
Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), about 20 mi
Rock Hill, South Carolina
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Dr. Edward A. Serna (President)
Phone
8033232211
City
Rock Hill, South Carolina
Address
701 Oakland Ave, Rock Hill, SC 29733

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
76.2%
Women
80.7%

In 2020: men 65.6%, women 70.1%.

Data insights

Analysis of Winthrop University's Admission Trends

The admission data for Winthrop University reveals significant trends over the years. Notably, the acceptance rates for male and female applicants have fluctuated from 2009 to 2023. For instance, the male acceptance rate started at approximately 67.4% in 2009, peaking at about 70.7% in 2023, which indicates a gradual increase in accessibility for male applicants. Conversely, the female acceptance rate showed a more varied trend, initially at 70.7% in 2009 and reaching a low of 63.5% in 2021, before slightly improving to 69.4% in 2023.
The enrollment numbers have also experienced fluctuations, with a notable decline from 1,183 in 2009 to just 709 in 2023. This sharp decrease in enrollment could be attributed to various external factors, including changing demographics, economic conditions, or shifts in student preferences toward other institutions. The number of denied applicants has also risen considerably, peaking at 2,418 in 2021, which could point to increased competition and a more selective admission process.
Additionally, the number of deferred admissions has shown a consistent increase, particularly in recent years, reflecting a potential strategy by the university to manage enrollments amidst fluctuating demand. The overall trends suggest that while Winthrop University has become slightly more accessible to male applicants, the dynamics for female applicants and overall enrollment indicate a complex challenge that the university must navigate moving forward. As higher education continues to evolve, institutions like Winthrop will need to adapt their strategies to attract and retain students effectively.

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

Business School#345▲25 Computer Science#396▼35
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—

Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition

Fine Arts#176

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, 14% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total1010–1220Peer median 1080
ACT composite20–27
SAT Reading
520–630
600700800
SAT Math
490–590
600700800
ACT composite
20–27
253036

Data insights

Analysis of Winthrop University's Admission Scores and Trends

The data from Winthrop University reveals significant trends in SAT scores and admission statistics over the years. From 2007 to 2023, there is a noticeable decline in the percentage of students submitting SAT scores as part of their application process. For instance, in 2007, 76% of admitted students submitted SAT scores, but by 2023, this figure dropped to just 36%. This trend reflects a broader movement in higher education where more institutions are adopting test-optional policies, thereby reducing the emphasis on standardized testing.

In terms of SAT score ranges, the 25th percentile and 75th percentile scores show fluctuations, with the lower bound starting at 480 in 2007 and rising to 510 by 2022. The upper bound also saw an increase from 590 to 625 during the same period. This indicates that while the overall number of students submitting scores is decreasing, those who do submit are achieving higher scores, suggesting an increasingly competitive applicant pool among those who still choose to submit their SAT scores.

Moreover, the total number of SAT submissions decreased significantly from 772 in 2007 to only 255 in 2023, highlighting a potential shift in applicant demographics or priorities. This decline might pose challenges for the university in maintaining diverse applicant profiles and ensuring a well-rounded student body.

Overall, the data reflects a changing landscape in college admissions, where the reliance on standardized test scores is diminishing, yet the performance of those who do submit scores is improving. This evolution may lead to new strategies for recruitment and admissions at Winthrop University and similar institutions across the country.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 8 in 10

7,552 applicants in 2025, 79.3% admitted

5,985 admitted 1,567 not admitted Yield 15.0%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's74422 international (3.0%)
Master's2924 international (1.4%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
128
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
63
Psychology, General
55
Education, General
51
Exercise Science and Kinesiology
34
Design and Applied Arts, Other
30
Social Work
27
English Language and Literature, General
27
Political Science and Government, General
20
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management
20

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Social Work · Master's106 (0% international)
  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's48 (6% international)
  • Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services · Master's20 (0% international)
  • Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's14 (0% international)
  • Human Nutrition · Master's13 (8% international)
  • Sport and Fitness Administration/Management · Master's12 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Winthrop University

The graduation data from Winthrop University for 2023 reveals several noteworthy trends across different fields of study. Notably, the highest number of master's degree graduates is in Public Administration, with 127 individuals completing their studies, indicating a strong interest in leadership within public sectors. This trend reflects a growing demand for skilled professionals in government and non-profit organizations, especially in the wake of recent challenges faced by these sectors.

In terms of bachelor's degrees, Psychology stands out with 75 graduates, highlighting the ongoing popularity and relevance of mental health and well-being in contemporary society. With increasing awareness about mental health issues, the need for qualified professionals in this area is likely to remain high, suggesting robust job prospects for these graduates.

Another interesting observation is the presence of international students in the graduation statistics, particularly in the master’s program for Business Administration, where 27 international students graduated. This indicates a diverse and inclusive educational environment that attracts global talent, which is increasingly vital in our interconnected world.

Furthermore, the fields of Education, including various specializations, collectively demonstrate the essential role of educators in shaping future generations. The consistent output of graduates in these programs underscores the critical need for qualified educators, especially given the recent emphasis on educational reform and innovative teaching methodologies.

Overall, this data not only reflects the academic strengths of Winthrop University but also provides insights into emerging career fields and societal needs, suggesting that graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of a dynamic job market.

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

Businesshas 186 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$50,902-$77,133
E-Commerce/Electronic Commerce.$50,902-$77,133
Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other.-
Educationhas 168 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Education, General.$40,967
Educational Leadership and Administration, General.-
Educational/Instructional Technology.$54,559
Special Education and Teaching, General.$49,455
Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services.$46,857
Elementary Education and Teaching.$43,790-$46,313
Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching.$43,790-$46,313
Secondary Education and Teaching.$43,790-$46,313
Teacher Education, Multiple Levels.$43,790-$46,313
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.$43,790-$46,313
Music Teacher Education.$44,895
Social Studies Teacher Education.$44,895
Public administrationhas 133 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Social Work.$36,128-$52,101
Visual and Performing artshas 102 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Dance, General.$35,763
Design and Visual Communications, General.$39,751
Interior Design.$39,751
Design and Applied Arts, Other.$39,751
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.$29,040
Art/Art Studies, General.$31,083
Art History, Criticism and Conservation.$31,083
Music, General.-
Conducting.-
Fine and Studio Arts Management.$44,040
Psychology has 67 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$32,680
School Psychology.$64,414
Biologyhas 66 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$34,784
Parks, recreation, leisure has 66 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.$32,658
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.$32,658
Social sciencehas 41 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Economics, General.-
Political Science and Government, General.$35,015
Sociology, General.$37,547
Human science has 37 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Human Nutrition.-
Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services, Other.$35,860
English has 32 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.$23,075
Communication has 32 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mass Communication/Media Studies.$41,822
Public Relations/Image Management.$45,574
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 20 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Data Science, General.-
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.-
Computer and information sciencehas 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Web Page, Digital/Multimedia and Information Resources Design.-
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.-
Physical scienceshas 16 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.$50,344
History has 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
History, General.$32,588
Natural resources has 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Environmental Studies.-
Environmental Science.-
Foreign languages has 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Foreign Languages and Literatures, General.-
Health professionshas 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Athletic Training/Trainer.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-
Liberal arts has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.-
Philosophy has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Philosophy and Religious Studies, Other.-

Students

4,894 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 36:64 · Freshman retention 73.6%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,969)

White
2,004 · 50.5%
Black
1,206 · 30.4%
Hispanic
368 · 9.3%
Two or more races
218 · 5.5%
Asian
88 · 2.2%
International
71 · 1.8%
Unknown
2 · 0.1%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Winthrop University in 2023

The student demographic data from Winthrop University for the year 2023 highlights some interesting trends in the composition of the student body. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 709 students, with a significant majority being female, accounting for 67% of this group. This trend of a higher female representation continues across other categories, with undergraduate juniors showing a similar 66.9% female ratio, while graduate students exhibit an even more pronounced female dominance at 80.5%.

In terms of racial and ethnic diversity, it is evident that the university is making strides, although the specifics of the breakdown for the year 2023 are not fully detailed. However, the data indicates that the largest demographic among freshmen is white students, comprising 31.3% of that subgroup. The trends in participation from other ethnicities, such as Asian and Latinx students, remain crucial for understanding the evolving multicultural landscape of the university.

The male representation across the student body is notably lower, particularly among graduate students, where only 19.5% are male. This could be reflective of broader societal trends where women are increasingly pursuing higher education degrees at a greater rate than men. The data suggests that Winthrop University is fostering an inclusive educational environment, but continued efforts might be necessary to enhance male enrollment and support students from diverse ethnic backgrounds. Overall, the figures indicate a vibrant and growing academic community that values diversity and inclusion.

Analysis of Student Age Distribution at Winthrop University

The age distribution of students at Winthrop University reveals a diverse demographic, with a significant concentration of younger students. The largest age group is comprised of those aged 18-19, accounting for approximately 42% of the total female student population and around 30% of total male students. This trend reflects a common pattern in higher education, where recent high school graduates predominantly enroll in undergraduate programs.

Notably, the 20-21 age group follows closely, showcasing a robust enrollment of both male and female students. This could indicate that many students are continuing directly from high school to college, as well as potentially suggesting a trend toward increased retention rates.

As we move into the 22-24 age bracket, the numbers still remain relatively strong, although the participation of graduate students begins to rise. Interestingly, the 25-29 age group shows a shift, with a higher number of female graduate students compared to their male counterparts. This aligns with broader societal trends where women are becoming more prevalent in graduate education, reflecting advancements in gender equality and access to higher education.

The presence of older students, particularly in the 30-34 and 35-39 age groups, signifies that higher education is increasingly viewed as a lifelong pursuit, where individuals return to school for career advancement or personal growth. This trend underscores the importance of flexible educational programs that accommodate non-traditional students.

Overall, Winthrop University's age demographic showcases a vibrant academic community that embraces both traditional and non-traditional students, indicative of modern educational trends and the evolving landscape of higher learning.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Undergraduates1.8%

71 in 2025 · 2.2% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 2.2%2017: 1.6%2018: 1.4%2019: 1.4%2020: 1.4%2021: 1.1%2022: 0.9%2023: 1.2%2024: 1.6%2025: 1.8%
2016Peer median 1.7%2025
Graduate students1.6%

15 in 2025 · 4.3% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 4.3%2017: 7.5%2018: 6.2%2019: 4.8%2020: 3.5%2021: 3.2%2022: 2.8%2023: 1.1%2024: 2.1%2025: 1.6%
2016Peer median 3.1%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Winthrop University

The data on international student enrollment at Winthrop University reveals a notable trend over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of international undergraduate students has fluctuated, with a peak in 2013 when the percentage reached 3.46%. However, this figure has since declined significantly, culminating in just 1.18% in 2023. This decline may reflect broader national trends in international student enrollment, particularly influenced by factors such as visa regulations, global political climates, and the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted international education pathways.

Graduate enrollment trends present a similar narrative, with a peak graduate student percentage of 7.47% in 2017, followed by a decrease to only 1.13% in 2023. The decrease in both undergraduate and graduate international student populations raises concerns about the university's diversity and the potential impact on its academic environment.

Moreover, the overall drop in total student enrollment at Winthrop University, from 5161 in 2004 to 3741 in 2023, indicates a shrinking student body that may further exacerbate this issue. Universities often benefit from the diverse perspectives that international students bring, and their declining numbers could hinder the university's ability to foster a globally-minded community.

In conclusion, the data highlights a significant trend of declining international student enrollment at Winthrop University. Addressing this decline may require strategic initiatives to enhance the university's attractiveness to international students, including improved support services, outreach programs, and collaboration with international partners.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$39,748

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$28,676
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$14,678
Room and board
$11,072
Graduate tuition
$30,780
Out-of-state tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 4% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 29%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$146M

Government grants and contracts
$74.4M50.9%
Tuition and fees
$30.9M21.2%
Auxiliary enterprises
$15.1M10.3%
Gifts and private grants
$4.9M3.4%
Sales and services of educational activities
$2.4M1.6%
Investment return
$1.6M1.1%
Other
$16.8M11.5%

Expenses$150M

Instruction
$37.3M24.8%
Student services
$19.7M13.1%
Auxiliary enterprises
$14.2M9.5%
Institutional support
$12.9M8.6%
Public service
$11.1M7.4%
Scholarships
$9.6M6.4%
Academic support
$8.3M5.5%
Research
$2.8M1.9%
Other
$34.2M22.8%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

All faculty
$80,455peers $80,690
Professor
$94,200peers $98,841
Associate professor
$80,777peers $84,060
Assistant professor
$73,230peers $74,446
Instructor
$58,364peers $58,934

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Big South Conference

Big South Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division I without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)11282
Soccer3030
Baseball50-
Basketball1617
Lacrosse-31
Softball-23
Volleyball-20
Golf811
2024
NCAA Division I without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)9478
Soccer3427
Baseball41-
Lacrosse-33
Basketball1615
Softball-23
Volleyball-21
Golf910
2023
NCAA Division I without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)4648
Soccer3628
Lacrosse-39
Baseball38-
Basketball1515
Softball-25
Volleyball-18
Golf97

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools near Winthrop University:

  1. Duke University - Ranked 7th in the 2024 US News rankings, Duke is a prestigious private research university located in Durham, North Carolina. Known for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life, Duke offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees.

  2. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - With a ranking of 22, this public research university is recognized for its strong academic programs and commitment to public service. It is the oldest public university in the United States and offers a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  3. Wake Forest University - Ranked 47th, Wake Forest is a private university that emphasizes a liberal arts education. Its small class sizes and focus on student engagement make it a unique option for those seeking a personalized educational experience.

  4. Clemson University - This public research university ranks 86th and is known for its strong engineering and business programs. Located in Clemson, South Carolina, it provides a vibrant campus life with numerous extracurricular activities.

  5. Furman University - Ranked 46th, Furman is a private liberal arts college in Greenville, South Carolina. It offers a beautiful campus and a strong emphasis on undergraduate education, fostering a close-knit community.

These institutions offer a variety of programs and experiences, making them excellent choices for students in the region.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
74
Drug referrals
72
Drug arrests
54
Liquor arrests
25
Stalking
21
Dating violence
16

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

Data insights

Analysis of Campus Crime Rates at Winthrop University

The crime data at Winthrop University from 2013 to 2023 reveals significant fluctuations in the average crime rates per 1,000 students. In 2013, the campus experienced a notably high rate of 17.21 incidents per 1,000 students, which drastically fell to just 7.37 in 2014. This decrease suggests effective measures might have been implemented to improve campus safety. However, subsequent years show a somewhat erratic pattern, with rates rising and falling without a clear trend.

By 2019, the crime rate had reached a low of 6.23, indicating a relatively safe environment for students. Yet, the figures began to increase again, peaking at 11.33 in 2022. The latest data from 2023 shows a slight decrease to 11.21. Notably, the data indicates occurrences of gun arrests and drug-related offenses, which are critical concerns for campus safety.

These statistics are vital for prospective students and parents assessing the safety of university life. While Winthrop University has shown periods of improvement, the recent uptick in crime rates highlights the ongoing necessity for vigilance and continued investment in campus security measures. It is also important for universities to foster a culture of safety, promoting awareness and encouraging students to report incidents. For further insights on crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.

Notable Alumni

All 24

Notable alumni of Winthrop University include Andie MacDowell (Actress and former model), Shanola Hampton (Actress known for Shameless) and Marco Reda (Canadian former soccer player and coach).

See all 24 notable alumni of Winthrop University →

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.