Skip to content
Private nonprofit, 4-year

Freed-Hardeman University

Henderson, Tennessee · www.fhu.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

59.7%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$25,620

$34,360 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

1,873

Student-faculty ratio 10:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

58.0%

4-year; 6-year rate 69.8%

Peer median 44.6%

“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Freed-Hardeman University (FHU) is a prestigious private Christian university located in Henderson, Tennessee. Founded in 1869, the university is affiliated with the Churches of Christ and is committed to providing a holistic education that integrates faith and learning. FHU’s mission emphasizes the importance of academic excellence, spiritual growth, and community service, which is reflected in its diverse range of programs and the inclusive environment it fosters. The university offers over 70 undergraduate programs and several graduate degrees, catering to a wide array of academic interests, including business, education, health sciences, and liberal arts.

The campus of Freed-Hardeman is characterized by its vibrant community and strong emphasis on student life. Students are encouraged to participate in various extracurricular activities, including athletics, clubs, and service projects, which promote personal development and leadership skills. The university is also known for its state-of-the-art facilities, such as the Brown-Kopel Business Center and the FHU Wellness Center, which enhance the educational experience. Additionally, Freed-Hardeman has a rich tradition of athletics, competing in the NAIA, and emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balanced lifestyle through sports and fitness. With a strong commitment to its Christian mission, FHU prepares its graduates not only for professional success but also for meaningful contributions to society.

Analysis of Key Trends in Education Data

Freed-Hardeman University, a private institution, has demonstrated notable trends in tuition, student retention, and graduation rates over recent years. The tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has seen a steady increase, rising from $20,468 in 2014 to $25,000 in 2024 for in-state students, which represents a 22% increase over the decade. This escalation in tuition costs is reflective of broader trends in higher education, where rising expenses often burden students and families, prompting discussions around student debt and affordability.

In parallel, student retention rates have shown a significant improvement, climbing from approximately 71.35% in 2013 to an impressive 92.41% in 2023. This improvement suggests that the university has successfully enhanced its support systems and community engagement, which is crucial for student success. High retention rates are often indicative of student satisfaction and institutional effectiveness, making it a vital metric for prospective students.

Graduation rates also reflect positive momentum. The percentage of students graduating on time has increased from around 39.30% in 2013 to 58.24% in 2023. This upward trend in graduation rates showcases the university's commitment to academic success and its capacity to effectively guide students through to completion of their degrees. The improvement in graduation rates is essential not only for the institution's reputation but also for the long-term career prospects of its graduates.

Overall, while tuition costs continue to rise, Freed-Hardeman University has made significant strides in improving student retention and graduation rates, showcasing its dedication to fostering an environment conducive to student success. These metrics are critical as they reflect the institution's ability to provide a quality education amidst the challenges posed by increasing educational costs.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Distant town
Nearest major city
Memphis, about 80 mi
Nearest international airport
Frederick W. Smith International Airport (MEM), about 80 mi
Henderson, Tennessee
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Churches of Christ
President
David Shannon (President)
Phone
8003483481
City
Henderson, Tennessee
Address
158 E Main St, Henderson, TN 38340-2399

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
60.5%
Women
59.2%

In 2020: men 93.8%, women 85.2%.

Data insights

Commentary on Admission Trends at Freed-Hardeman University

The admission data for Freed-Hardeman University showcases intriguing trends over the years. Notably, the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants fluctuate significantly, reflecting broader patterns in higher education admissions across the United States. For instance, the exceptional acceptance rates in 2010, where male applicants had a remarkable 99.4% acceptance rate and female applicants 99.6%, indicate a year of unprecedented openness, likely influenced by strategic enrollment goals or demographic shifts.
However, the data also reveals a concerning trend in recent years, particularly in 2021, where the male acceptance rate dropped to approximately 80.8%, while the female acceptance rate was slightly lower at around 80.9%. This decline in acceptance rates may suggest a more competitive environment, possibly due to an increase in applications or a decrease in available spots.
Moreover, the number of enrolled students and those denied admission fluctuates, with the highest denial rate observed in 2013, when 569 applicants were turned away. This raises questions about the university's admission strategies and its ability to maintain a balanced and diverse student body.
Lastly, the deferment rates also merit attention, with substantial numbers of admitted students choosing to delay their enrollment in several years. This could reflect changing priorities among prospective students, possibly influenced by external factors such as economic conditions or health crises, similar to trends observed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Overall, the data indicates a complex landscape of admissions that reflects both institutional policies and the external environment, warranting ongoing analysis and adaptation by Freed-Hardeman University.

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 11% submitted SAT, 90% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total952–1087Peer median 1158
ACT composite19–26
SAT Reading
481–549
600700800
SAT Math
471–538
600700800
ACT composite
19–26
253036

Data insights

Trends in Admission Scores and Test Submission Rates at Freed-Hardeman University

The data from Freed-Hardeman University reveals interesting trends in the admission scores and the proportion of students submitting standardized test scores over the years 2007 to 2023. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has generally decreased, from 14% in 2007 to only 6% in 2023. This decline could indicate a growing trend towards test-optional policies, which many universities have adopted in recent years to increase accessibility and diversify their student bodies.

In terms of performance, the SAT reading and mathematics scores have shown fluctuations, with the 25th percentile scores varying across the years. For instance, the 25th percentile SAT reading score started at 500 in 2007 but saw a drop to 485 in 2022 before rising again to 530 in 2023. This variation might reflect the changing standards of admission or the different cohorts of students applying each year.

Moreover, the 75th percentile scores for both SAT and ACT demonstrate a more stable range, indicating that while fewer students are submitting scores, those who do tend to have relatively competitive scores. For instance, the 75th percentile SAT mathematics score peaked at 690 in 2019, suggesting that a smaller pool of high-achieving students is applying.

Overall, these trends highlight the evolving landscape of college admissions, where universities may be looking beyond standardized test scores to evaluate potential candidates. As more institutions move towards flexible admission criteria, it will be essential to monitor how these changes impact the diversity and academic performance of incoming classes.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 6 in 10

1,302 applicants in 2025, 59.7% admitted

777 admitted 525 not admitted Yield 36.4%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate220 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's3621 international (0.3%)
Master's840 international (0.0%)
Doctoral240 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
31
Accounting
24
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General
22
Bible/Biblical Studies
22
Photography
21
Marketing/Marketing Management, General
20
Psychology, General
19
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
18
Business Administration and Management, General
13
Finance, General
11

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's34 (0% international)
  • Counseling Psychology · Master's17 (0% international)
  • Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Doctoral16 (0% international)
  • Secondary Education and Teaching · Master's10 (0% international)
  • Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services · Master's7 (0% international)
  • Applied Behavior Analysis · Doctoral4 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Freed-Hardeman University

The graduation data from Freed-Hardeman University reveals some intriguing insights into the trends in higher education across different programs. Notably, the Registered Nursing program stands out with 37 graduates, including one international student. This aligns with the national trend of increasing demand for healthcare professionals, particularly in nursing, as healthcare systems continue to expand in response to an aging population.

In contrast, programs such as Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education, as well as Psychology, show significantly lower graduation numbers, with only 16 and 14 graduates respectively. This discrepancy may reflect the competitive nature of these fields, or possibly a shift in student interest towards more lucrative career paths in healthcare and technology.

Interestingly, there are no graduates reported for master’s programs across the majority of categories, indicating a potential gap in advanced education opportunities or a lack of demand for such degrees in specific fields. The absence of reported doctoral graduates further highlights this trend, suggesting that Freed-Hardeman University may need to evaluate its offerings to attract students interested in pursuing higher academic qualifications.

Another noteworthy point is the absence of associate degree graduates in most programs, with only General Studies reporting 20 graduates. This may indicate a shift in focus towards bachelor's degrees, as students aim for more advanced qualifications right from the start of their college education.

Overall, the data reflects ongoing trends in education where healthcare remains a priority, while other fields may need to adapt to changing job market demands to encourage higher graduation rates.

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 110 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Business Administration and Management, General.$45,008-$61,873
Accounting.$60,965
Finance, General.-
Financial Planning and Services.-
Business Statistics.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Educationhas 66 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Curriculum and Instruction.-
Educational Leadership and Administration, General.-
Special Education and Teaching, General.-
Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.$42,093
Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching.$42,093
Secondary Education and Teaching.$42,093
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.$42,093
Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language/ESL Language Instructor.$56,083
Visual and Performing artshas 53 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Graphic Design.-
Game and Interactive Media Design.-
Technical Theatre/Theatre Design and Technology.-
Acting.-
Photography.-
Art/Art Studies, General.-
Music, General.-
Health professionshas 44 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Communication Sciences and Disorders, General.-
Health/Health Care Administration/Management.-
Physical Therapy Assistant.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$70,910
Psychology has 40 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.-
Counseling Psychology.$49,109
Applied Behavior Analysis.$49,109
Theology has 32 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Bible/Biblical Studies.$49,974
Missions/Missionary Studies.-
Divinity/Ministry.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 30 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General.-
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.-
Computer and information sciencehas 21 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Information Technology.-
Computer Science.-
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.-
Biologyhas 18 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Liberal arts has 15 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
General Studies.-
Communication has 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.-
Public Relations/Image Management.$37,392
English has 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
English Language and Literature, General.-
Public administrationhas 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Social Work.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.-
Human science has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences, General.-
Social sciencehas 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Political Science and Government, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Mathematics, General.-
Foreign languages has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Spanish Language and Literature.-
Physical scienceshas 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Chemistry, General.-
Homeland security has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.-
History has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
History, General.-

Students

2,306 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 46:54 · Freshman retention 85.9%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,873)

White
1,589 · 84.8%
Unknown
106 · 5.7%
Black
103 · 5.5%
Two or more races
42 · 2.2%
Asian
26 · 1.4%
Hispanic
2 · 0.1%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Freed-Hardeman University in 2023

The student body at Freed-Hardeman University in 2023 showcases a diverse demographic landscape. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 331 students, with a slight female majority at 52%. Continuing undergraduate students number 994, where women again outnumber men, this time by a more pronounced margin of 56.6%. This trend of higher female enrollment is significant as it reflects broader trends in higher education, where women increasingly outnumber men in many universities across the United States.

Transfer students, though fewer in number at 59, present a different dynamic with a male majority at 59.3%. This could indicate that men are more likely to transfer to institutions like Freed-Hardeman, either due to personal or academic reasons. The graduate student population consists of 480 individuals, with a notably high percentage of female students at 62.9%. This could suggest that women are pursuing advanced degrees at a higher rate, aligning with national trends of increased female representation in graduate education.

The racial and ethnic breakdown of the student body further reflects the university's commitment to diversity, although detailed statistics were not fully provided. The majority of students across all categories appear to be White, consistent with many institutions in the region.

Overall, Freed-Hardeman University demonstrates a balanced approach to gender representation, particularly in its undergraduate and graduate programs. However, the dynamics within specific categories like transfer students warrant further investigation to understand the factors influencing these enrollment patterns.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Freed-Hardeman University

The age distribution of students at Freed-Hardeman University reveals interesting trends across various age groups. The largest segment of the student body falls within the 18-19 age range, with 279 male undergraduates and 352 female undergraduates, making up a significant portion of the overall student population. This trend aligns with national statistics that show a substantial number of college students entering directly after high school, indicating that the university attracts a youthful demographic.

As students progress in age, the numbers begin to decrease significantly, particularly in the 22-24 age bracket, where there are 107 male undergraduates and 88 female undergraduates. This drop-off may reflect the challenges faced by students in balancing academic responsibilities with work or family commitments, which often leads to a decline in enrollment among older students.

Furthermore, the data shows a small but notable presence of graduate students, particularly in the 25-29 and 30-34 age ranges, with 32 males and 38 females in the 25-29 group. This suggests that Freed-Hardeman University is also appealing to those looking to further their education later in life, which is becoming increasingly common in today’s workforce.

The representation of students aged 40 and above is minimal, indicating a potential area for growth. Universities nationwide are recognizing the value of lifelong learning and the importance of catering to non-traditional students. Freed-Hardeman could benefit from strategies aimed at attracting and supporting older students, thereby diversifying its student body and enhancing its educational offerings. Overall, the current age composition emphasizes the university's strength in attracting young scholars while also highlighting opportunities for growth within the adult education sector.

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.

Undergraduates0.0%

0 in 2025 · 2.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 2.0%2017: 1.2%2018: 2.2%2019: 1.6%2020: 0.8%2021: 0.6%2022: 1.4%2023: 2.0%2024: 0.0%2025: 0.0%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students0.0%

0 in 2025 · 1.1% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.1%2017: 1.0%2018: 1.0%2019: 0.4%2020: 0.4%2021: 0.2%2022: 0.6%2023: 1.5%2024: 0.0%2025: 0.0%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Freed-Hardeman University

The data on international student enrollment at Freed-Hardeman University reveals a fluctuating trend over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduate students has seen a general increase, peaking at 2.84% in 2008 before experiencing a significant decline in subsequent years, reaching a low of 0.58% in 2021. This decline coincides with global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted international travel and education, ultimately affecting student mobility and enrollment figures.

The graduate student statistics present a similar narrative, with a modest rise in the percentage of international students. Despite some years with a notable increase, such as in 2010 when the percentage reached 2.45%, the overall trend indicates instability. The highest proportion of international graduate students was recorded at 2.45% in 2010, but subsequent years have shown disappointing numbers, particularly during the pandemic years.

Freed-Hardeman University’s international student enrollment has faced challenges not only due to external factors like global crises but also internal institutional policies and market competition. As universities worldwide adapt to the changing landscape of higher education, including the shift towards online learning and the growing number of universities offering competitive international programs, Freed-Hardeman University must strategize effectively to attract and retain international students.

The increasing global emphasis on diversity within educational institutions highlights the importance of international perspectives. Therefore, enhancing global outreach and support services for international students could play a crucial role in revitalizing enrollment figures in the coming years.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$34,360

Undergraduate tuition
$25,620
Room and board
$8,740
Graduate tuition
$11,970
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 19% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 15%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$60.2M

Tuition and fees
$17.5M29.2%
Gifts and private grants
$17.1M28.5%
Investment return
$12.1M20.2%
Auxiliary enterprises
$10.5M17.4%
Sales and services of educational activities
$2.5M4.2%
Government grants and contracts
$339K0.6%

Expenses$40.9M

Instruction
$15.4M37.6%
Institutional support
$8.4M20.5%
Auxiliary enterprises
$7.9M19.2%
Student services
$7.1M17.3%
Academic support
$2.2M5.4%

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.

All faculty
$65,579peers $68,006
Professor
$76,617peers $78,041
Associate professor
$68,188peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$60,339peers $63,827
Instructor
$57,192peers $55,171

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Mid-South Conference

Mid-South Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division I MENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)5224
Soccer4328
Baseball65-
Basketball2228
Softball-27
Volleyball-27
Golf1210
Tennis128
2024
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Soccer3633
Baseball56-
Basketball1730
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)2417
Softball-28
Golf1312
Tennis169
Volleyball-22
2023
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Baseball74-
Soccer4232
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)2923
Basketball2328
Softball-29
Tennis1613
Volleyball-26
Golf1311

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools near Freed-Hardeman University:

  1. Vanderbilt University - Ranked 18th in the 2024 US News rankings, Vanderbilt is a prestigious private research university located in Nashville, Tennessee. It is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.

  2. Rhodes College - A highly regarded liberal arts college, Rhodes College is ranked 56th in the nation. It is located in Memphis, Tennessee, and is recognized for its rigorous academics and beautiful campus.

  3. University of Mississippi - Also known as Ole Miss, this university ranks 163rd and is known for its rich history, vibrant student life, and strong commitment to research and education.

  4. University of Alabama at Birmingham - With a rank of 142, UAB is known for its medical and health programs, as well as a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate studies.

  5. Washington University in St. Louis - This university is ranked 24th nationally and is known for its strong emphasis on research, particularly in the fields of medicine, law, and business.

These institutions provide a range of opportunities for students seeking quality education in various fields.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
11
Aggravated assault
2
Motor vehicle theft
2
Drug referrals
2
Stalking
2
Weapons referrals
1

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

Data insights

Trends in Campus Crime Rates at Freed-Hardeman University

The crime statistics from Freed-Hardeman University reveal a notable decline in crime rates over the past decade. Starting from a high of 4.20 incidents per 1,000 students in 2013, the average has significantly decreased to just 0.09 incidents per 1,000 students by 2023. This represents a dramatic drop of approximately 98.9% in crime rates, suggesting that the university has successfully implemented effective safety measures and community programs.

The data indicates that the most frequently reported crimes have historically included firearm arrests, drug-related offenses, and alcohol-related incidents. However, the sharp decline in the number of crimes reported in recent years, particularly from 2020 onwards, suggests a significant improvement in campus safety and student behavior. It's noteworthy that in 2021, 2022, and 2023, the crime rate fell to an all-time low of 0.09 incidents per 1,000 students, indicating a successful reduction in criminal activities.

This decline could be attributed to various factors, including enhanced campus security, increased awareness and prevention programs, and a culture promoting responsible behavior among students. The university's commitment to maintaining a safe environment for its students is commendable and reflects a broader trend in higher education institutions prioritizing campus safety.

Overall, these statistics highlight the positive changes in crime rates at Freed-Hardeman University, reinforcing the importance of continuous efforts to sustain and further improve campus security. For more information on how crime rates are calculated, you can refer to this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Freed-Hardeman University include Todd Farmer (Horror screenwriter and actor), Dianne Odell (Tennessee woman who lived most of her life in an iron lung) and Carl Ray Russell (Former North Carolina legislator and professor).

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.