Cumberland University
Acceptance rate
67.3%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$27,840
$40,640 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
2,745
Student-faculty ratio 19:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
30.2%
4-year; 6-year rate 41.9%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Cumberland University, located in Lebanon, Tennessee, is a private university that boasts a rich history since its founding in 1842. One of its standout features is its commitment to providing a well-rounded liberal arts education that emphasizes both academic excellence and character development. The university's motto, "The Best in Education," reflects its dedication to fostering an environment where students can thrive academically and personally. The campus culture is vibrant, with numerous student organizations, clubs, and activities that encourage involvement and community engagement, making it a welcoming place for students from diverse backgrounds.
In terms of academic offerings, Cumberland University provides a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including business, education, health sciences, and the arts. The faculty is composed of experienced professionals and dedicated educators who prioritize student success and engagement in the learning process. The campus features modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas that support both academic pursuits and extracurricular activities. Additionally, Cumberland has a strong emphasis on athletics, with various sports teams that promote teamwork, discipline, and school spirit. The combination of a supportive learning environment, comprehensive academic programs, and a commitment to personal growth makes Cumberland University an excellent choice for students seeking a holistic educational experience.
Analysis of Key Trends at Cumberland University
Cumberland University, a private institution, has exhibited notable trends in several key areas such as tuition costs, enrollment figures, graduation rates, and student retention.
Over the years, tuition has consistently increased for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. From 2014 to 2024, the tuition for undergraduates rose from $20,200 to $27,840, reflecting an increase of 37.1%. Graduate tuition also saw a significant rise, moving from $5,400 to $8,280 in the same period. This upward trend in tuition may pose challenges for affordability and accessibility, particularly for low-income students, as higher education costs continue to outpace inflation.
Enrollment statistics reveal a positive growth trajectory in student numbers, particularly at the undergraduate level. From 2013 to 2023, undergraduate enrollment increased from 1,240 to 2,311, marking a 86.3% increase. This growth is indicative of the university's appeal and possibly its expanding programs, which may attract more students. However, the graduate student population has shown fluctuations, which could suggest varying demand for graduate-level programs.
Graduation rates have demonstrated a significant improvement over the last decade. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates increased from approximately 18.2% in 2013 to nearly 39.9% by 2023. This reflects positively on the university’s academic support systems and student engagement strategies, which are crucial for improving student outcomes and institutional reputation.
Retention rates have shown some volatility, peaking at 70.2% in 2016 before declining to 58.9% in 2023. This decline in retention may warrant further investigation into student satisfaction and support services, as maintaining a stable retention rate is essential for fostering a conducive learning environment and ensuring financial stability for the institution.
Overall, while Cumberland University is witnessing growth in enrollment and improvements in graduation rates, the rising tuition costs and fluctuating retention rates highlight areas that require strategic attention to maintain its upward trajectory.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Town near a city
- Nearest major city
- Nashville, about 25 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Nashville International Airport (BNA), about 20 mi
- Also known as
- CU
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Paul C. Stumb (President)
- Phone
- 61544425621222
- Address
- 1 Cumberland Square, Lebanon, TN 37087
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 59.6%, women 62.1%.
Data insights
Analysis of Cumberland University Admission Trends
Cumberland University has exhibited notable fluctuations in its admission rates and enrollment figures over the years, reflecting broader trends in higher education. The data reveals a significant decrease in acceptance rates, particularly for male applicants, from approximately 62% in 2009 to around 68% in 2023. This decline indicates a more competitive admission process, which could be attributed to various factors including increased applicant pools and a strategic focus on enhancing the institution's academic profile.
The female acceptance rates have also seen variations, although they remained consistently lower than their male counterparts in earlier years, narrowing the gap in recent admissions. For example, in 2009, the female acceptance rate was about 55%, while by 2023, it improved to approximately 65%. This shift may indicate a concerted effort by the university to encourage female enrollment, aligning with national trends promoting gender equity in education.
Enrollment numbers peaked in 2018 with 562 students, but there was a significant increase in 2023, with 629 students admitted. Meanwhile, the number of denied applicants has also risen dramatically, with over 1,100 denials in 2020, underscoring the growing competitiveness of the admissions landscape.
Overall, these trends highlight Cumberland University’s evolving admissions landscape, mirroring national patterns of increasing selectivity and changing demographics within higher education. As institutions increasingly compete for top talent, it will be interesting to see how Cumberland adapts its strategies in the coming years to maintain its appeal among prospective students.
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
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
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
Analysis of Cumberland University's Admission Scores Over the Years
Cumberland University’s admission data reveals significant trends in standardized test scores and submission rates from 2007 to 2023. The data shows fluctuations in both SAT and ACT scores, reflecting a broader national trend where students are increasingly achieving higher scores over time. For instance, the SAT reading scores exhibited a notable increase, with the 25th percentile rising from 410 in 2007 to a consistent 440 in recent years, indicating an upward trend in the academic preparedness of incoming students.
The number of students submitting SAT scores has also varied, with a peak of 49 submissions in 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023, which represents a continual engagement with standardized testing. Interestingly, the percentage of applicants submitting their SAT scores remained relatively low, hovering around 7% in the last few years. This suggests a potential shift in the admissions strategy, possibly moving towards a more holistic review process that considers factors beyond test scores.
Furthermore, it is crucial to note the broader context of college admissions in the United States, where many institutions are re-evaluating the necessity of standardized testing due to its controversial nature and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The data from Cumberland University may indicate a response to these changing dynamics in higher education, reflecting a growing trend of test-optional policies among colleges and universities nationwide, which aim to create a more inclusive admissions process.
Overall, the trends observed in Cumberland University's admission data highlight the evolving landscape of college admissions, emphasizing the importance of adapting to both student performance and broader societal changes in education.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 7 in 10
2,495 applicants in 2025, 67.3% admitted
1,680 admitted 815 not admitted Yield 40.5%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Information Technology Project Management · Master's153 (100% international)
- Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other · Master's34 (26% international)
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas, Other · Master's24 (0% international)
- Public Administration · Master's24 (0% international)
- Education, General · Master's8 (0% international)
- Sport and Fitness Administration/Management · Master's7 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Cumberland University
The graduation data from Cumberland University for 2023 reveals some noteworthy trends across various fields of study. One of the most significant observations is the dominance of the Business Administration category, which collectively shows a substantial output, particularly in master's degrees. For instance, there were 45 graduates in Business Administration, Management, and Operations, along with 45 in General Business Administration, indicating the institution's strong emphasis on business education.
In the healthcare sector, Registered Nursing stands out with 61 graduates earning a bachelor's degree, reflecting the ongoing demand for healthcare professionals in the United States. This aligns with national trends where nursing is consistently highlighted as a critical field due to an aging population and increasing healthcare needs.
Moreover, the data indicates a noticeable lack of international students graduating from several programs, particularly at the bachelor’s and master’s levels. For example, the absence of international graduates in fields like Psychology and Criminal Justice suggests a potential area for growth in attracting a more diverse student body.
Interestingly, the Education sector also has a robust representation, with various specializations contributing to the total, although fewer international students are enrolled. This could signal both a challenge and an opportunity for Cumberland University to enhance its recruitment strategies in these fields.
Overall, the data showcases Cumberland University's strength in business and healthcare programs while highlighting areas for potential expansion in international student enrollment and diverse program offerings.
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 | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | - | |||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $44,951-$61,899 | |||
| Project Management. | $44,951-$61,899 | |||
| Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other. | $44,951-$61,899 | |||
| Accounting. | $51,651 | |||
| Management Science. | - | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Information Technology. | - | |||
| Information Technology Project Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $22,298 | |||
| General Studies. | $22,298 | |||
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other. | $22,298 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | |||
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | - | |||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | |||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | - | |||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | $50,461 | |||
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas, Other. | $50,461 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | - | |||
| Athletic Training/Trainer. | - | |||
| Nursing Education. | $87,190 | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $76,305 | |||
| Nursing Administration. | $76,305 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $41,746-$43,537 | |||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $41,746-$43,537 | |||
| Sports Studies. | $41,746-$43,537 | |||
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, Other. | $41,746-$43,537 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Biomedical Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Biochemistry. | - | |||
| Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | - | |||
| Corrections and Criminal Justice, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Administration. | $98,505 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $35,376 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | |||
| Creative Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Musical Theatre. | - | |||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | |||
| Music, General. | - | |||
| Music Performance, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering/Industrial Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
Students
3,457 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 42:58 · Freshman retention 59.5%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,247
- First-year undergraduates 675
- Graduate students 712
- Transfers and others 823
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,745)
Data insights
Student Demographics at Cumberland University in 2023
The student demographics at Cumberland University reflect a diverse and growing academic community in 2023. The total enrollment includes 630 undergraduate freshmen, 1,180 undergraduate upperclassmen, 124 undergraduate transfer students, and 277 graduate students, highlighting a robust undergraduate presence. Notably, the gender distribution shows a majority of female students across most categories, with undergraduates having 52.5% females among freshmen and an even higher percentage of 61% among upperclassmen. This trend indicates a significant female presence in higher education, aligning with national trends where women are increasingly enrolling in colleges and universities.
The ethnic composition of the student body reveals a predominantly white demographic, especially among undergraduates. For instance, 238 out of 630 freshmen identify as white, comprising a substantial portion of that group. However, there are also representations from other ethnic groups, suggesting a commitment to fostering an inclusive environment. The diversity seen in the graduate population, where 43.7% of students are male, shows a slight shift toward a more balanced gender representation in advanced studies.
This data indicates Cumberland University is not only growing in numbers but also in diversity, which is crucial for enriching the educational experience. As society increasingly values inclusivity, universities like Cumberland will benefit from promoting diverse student backgrounds, fostering a more dynamic and innovative learning atmosphere. Additionally, the data could inform future recruitment strategies to ensure a balanced representation across all demographics.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Cumberland University in 2023
The age distribution of students at Cumberland University in 2023 reveals significant trends in both undergraduate and graduate populations. Notably, the largest group of students falls within the 18-19 age range, with 375 male undergraduates and 549 female undergraduates, accounting for a substantial portion of the total student body. This indicates a strong influx of traditional college-age students, which is common in many universities across the United States.
As we analyze the data further, it is evident that the number of students begins to decline in older age brackets. For instance, only 180 students aged 22-24 are enrolled, and the numbers continue to decrease in subsequent age groups, with just 35 students aged 25-29 and 31 students aged 30-34. This trend highlights a critical aspect of higher education: the challenge of retaining older students who may have competing responsibilities such as careers or family obligations.
Interestingly, the data also shows a slight presence of graduate students, particularly in the 22-24 age range, with 51 male and 39 female graduate students. However, as age increases, the number of graduate students remains relatively low, suggesting that Cumberland University predominantly attracts younger students for both undergraduate and graduate programs.
Overall, the age demographic at Cumberland University reflects broader trends in higher education, where younger students constitute the majority. This observation is crucial for the institution as it shapes recruitment strategies and support services aimed at enhancing student retention and success. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, understanding these demographic patterns will be vital for addressing the diverse needs of the student population.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
144 in 2025 · 3.7% in 2016
447 in 2025 · 4.9% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Cumberland University
The data on international student enrollment at Cumberland University reveals interesting trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the total number of undergraduate students has increased significantly, growing from 921 to 2,311. This growth in overall enrollment reflects the university's expanding appeal and potential enhancements in its educational offerings.
However, when examining the number of international undergraduate students, there are fluctuations. The percentage of international students in the undergraduate program peaked at 4.79% in 2005 but has seen a gradual decline in subsequent years, with a noticeable increase to 4.20% in 2023. This suggests that while the total student body has grown, the proportion of international students has not consistently kept pace.
In contrast, graduate student enrollment shows a more dynamic change. The percentage of international students in graduate programs rose significantly, reaching as high as 8.14% in 2021, indicating a growing interest among international students in advanced studies at Cumberland. The increase in the number of international graduate students could be attributed to factors such as the university's reputation, available programs, or support services for international learners.
Overall, while Cumberland University has made strides in attracting a diverse student body, the university may need to implement targeted strategies to maintain and enhance the proportion of international students in both undergraduate and graduate programs. With the increasing globalization of education, fostering an inclusive environment for international students could play a vital role in the university's future growth and success.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$40,640
- Undergraduate tuition
- $27,840
- Room and board
- $12,800
- Graduate tuition
- $8,280
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 31% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 79%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$39.9M
Expenses$34.1M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Mid-South Conference
Mid-South Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 75 | - |
| Soccer | 27 | 22 |
| Volleyball | 16 | 22 |
| Baseball | 36 | - |
| Basketball | 19 | 15 |
| Wrestling | 33 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 13 | 10 |
| Bowling | 13 | 10 |
| Tennis | 11 | 11 |
| Golf | 12 | 8 |
| Cross Country | 10 | 9 |
| Softball | - | 18 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 66 | - |
| Baseball | 51 | - |
| Soccer | 26 | 23 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 20 | 17 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 17 | 18 |
| Wrestling | 35 | - |
| Basketball | 20 | 14 |
| Volleyball | 15 | 18 |
| Golf | 12 | 8 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Bowling | 10 | 10 |
| Cross Country | 12 | 7 |
| Tennis | 10 | 7 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 67 | - |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 36 | 25 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 36 | 25 |
| Soccer | 24 | 27 |
| Baseball | 45 | - |
| Volleyball | 15 | 20 |
| Basketball | 17 | 15 |
| Wrestling | 28 | - |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Cross Country | 11 | 9 |
| Bowling | 13 | 7 |
| Tennis | 11 | 8 |
| Golf | 9 | 7 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Belmont UniversityNashville · 28.1 mi
U.S. News #208
-
Vanderbilt UniversityNashville · 28.4 mi
U.S. News #16
-
Lipscomb UniversityNashville · 28.8 mi
U.S. News #250
-
Tennessee Technological UniversityCookeville · 44.4 mi
U.S. News #299
-
The University of the SouthSewanee · 72.3 mi
Liberal Arts #49
-
University of Alabama--HuntsvilleHuntsville · 104.0 mi
U.S. News #262
-
Centre CollegeDanville · 130.2 mi
Liberal Arts #54
-
The University of Tennessee-KnoxvilleKnoxville · 133.7 mi
U.S. News #109
-
University of LouisvilleLouisville · 142.2 mi
U.S. News #179
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Cumberland University:
-
Vanderbilt University - Ranked 18th in the 2024 US News rankings, Vanderbilt is a prestigious research university located in Nashville, Tennessee. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields.
-
Belmont University - With a ranking of 236, Belmont University is also located in Nashville and is known for its programs in music, business, and health sciences. It emphasizes a strong liberal arts education.
-
University of Tennessee-Knoxville - Ranked 105th, this university is part of the University of Tennessee system and offers a broad array of undergraduate and graduate programs. It is known for its research initiatives and vibrant campus life.
-
University of Alabama at Birmingham - Ranked 142nd, UAB is recognized for its medical and health sciences programs. It is a leading institution for research and community service.
-
University of Kentucky - With a ranking of 159, the University of Kentucky offers a diverse selection of programs and is renowned for its research contributions and athletic programs.
These institutions provide a variety of academic opportunities and are within reach of Cumberland University, enriching the educational landscape of the area.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at Cumberland University
The crime data from Cumberland University over the past decade reveals a significant downward trend in reported incidents on campus. Starting with an average crime rate of 16.35 per 1,000 students in 2013, the data shows a notable decline, reaching a mere 0.00 in 2023. This decline can be interpreted as a positive sign for campus safety and may reflect increased efforts in crime prevention and student awareness initiatives.
The most striking observation is the drop in serious offenses, particularly violent crimes such as armed arrests and drug-related offenses. For instance, the university recorded a peak in armed arrests in 2013, but this number gradually diminished, indicating a possible decrease in such activities or improved law enforcement strategies. By 2023, the absence of recorded incidents suggests that the university has successfully created a safer environment for its students.
It is also worth noting the impact of broader societal trends on campus safety. As crime rates in the United States have fluctuated, Cumberland University appears to have bucked the trend, enhancing its reputation as a secure institution. This positive trajectory may not only attract prospective students but also contribute to higher retention rates among current students.
In conclusion, the substantial reduction in crime rates at Cumberland University over the years is commendable. The university's commitment to safety, alongside effective crime prevention measures, has fostered a more secure learning environment. For further information on crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of Cumberland University include John Bell (Tennessee politician, 1860 presidential candidate), Thomas Gore (One of Oklahoma's first two US senators) and James B. McCreary (Governor of Kentucky).
-
John Bell 1796–1869
Tennessee politician, 1860 presidential candidate
-
Thomas Gore 1870–1949
One of Oklahoma's first two US senators
-
James B. McCreary 1838–1918
Governor of Kentucky
-
John Burgess 1844–1931
Political scientist who founded Columbia's political science graduate school
-
Cave Johnson 1793–1866
12th US Postmaster General and Tennessee congressman
-
James Allred 1899–1959
33rd Governor of Texas and federal judge
-
LeRoy Collins 1909–1991
33rd governor of Florida
-
Bert H. Miller 1879–1949
Idaho Democratic politician, judge and lawyer
-
John Duncan 1919–1988
Tennessee congressman and attorney
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.