Le Moyne-Owen College
Acceptance rate
99.2%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$12,076
$18,176 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
659
Student-faculty ratio 10:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
8.2%
4-year; 6-year rate 19.9%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Le Moyne-Owen College, located in Memphis, Tennessee, is a distinguished institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and community service. Established in 1968, it is one of the oldest historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the region. The college offers a liberal arts education with a strong emphasis on social justice, leadership, and personal responsibility, reflecting its mission to empower students to make a positive impact in their communities. The campus environment fosters a sense of belonging and inclusivity, encouraging students to engage in various cultural and social activities that enrich their educational experience.
The college boasts a dedicated faculty who are not only committed to teaching but also to mentoring students and supporting their academic pursuits. With small class sizes, students benefit from personalized attention and guidance, which enhances their learning experience. Le Moyne-Owen College offers a range of undergraduate programs, with notable strengths in business administration, social sciences, and education. The college also emphasizes the importance of extracurricular involvement, providing numerous opportunities for students to participate in sports, clubs, and organizations. This vibrant campus life, coupled with a strong network of alumni who are leaders in various fields, contributes to the college's reputation as a nurturing ground for future professionals equipped to thrive in a diverse and dynamic world.
Analysis of Key Data Points at Le Moyne-Owen College
Over the years, Le Moyne-Owen College has experienced significant changes in various key metrics. One notable aspect is the tuition rates. From 2014 to 2024, the in-state and out-of-state undergraduate tuition has steadily increased from $10,680 to $12,076, reflecting a 13.1% increase. This upward trend in tuition may impact accessibility for prospective students, especially in the context of rising student debt levels nationally.
The student enrollment figures paint a concerning picture. From a peak of 1,078 undergraduate students in 2013, the numbers have drastically declined to just 609 by 2023. This represents a staggering 43.5% decrease in undergraduate enrollment over the past decade. Such a decline may indicate challenges in attracting and retaining students, possibly due to financial factors or shifts in the perception of the college's value.
In terms of graduation rates, the data reveals a persistently low percentage of students graduating on time. For instance, in 2023, only 3.4% of students graduated within 100% of the expected time, with a slightly improved 15.2% achieving graduation within 150% of the time frame. These figures highlight potential issues in student support, resources, and overall institutional effectiveness in fostering student success.
Retention rates, however, show a more favorable trend. The retention rate for the most recent year, 2023, stands at 63.1%, a significant increase from 50% in 2013. This positive development suggests that while enrollment may be declining, the college is successfully retaining a greater percentage of its students once they are enrolled.
Together, these data points illustrate a complex landscape at Le Moyne-Owen College, where rising tuition and declining enrollment challenge the institution, while improved retention rates signal some success in student engagement and satisfaction.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- In Memphis
- Nearest international airport
- Frederick W. Smith International Airport (MEM), about 6 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Multiple Protestant Denomination
- President
- Christopher Davis (President)
- Phone
- 9014351000
- Address
- 807 Walker Ave, Memphis, TN 38126-6595
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 81.3%, women 79.9%.
Data insights
Trends in Admissions and Enrollment at Le Moyne-Owen College
The admissions data from Le Moyne-Owen College reveals a dynamic landscape over the years, showcasing fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Notably, the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants demonstrate significant variability, with male acceptance rates peaking at 100% in 2016, 2017, and 2018. This anomaly suggests an unusual year where demand may have outstripped supply, leading to a unique situation where all applicants were admitted.
In contrast, the years preceding and following this period exhibited lower acceptance rates, indicating a more competitive environment. For instance, the acceptance rate for males in 2013 was only about 21%, while females had a comparable rate of approximately 25%. These figures suggest that the college experienced challenges in balancing the number of applicants and available spots, impacting the overall enrollment numbers.
The total enrollment also reflects these fluctuations, with a peak of 301 students in 2011, followed by a decline in subsequent years. The rejection numbers also present a concerning trend, particularly in 2010 when the college denied 262 applications, which may indicate a growing interest in the institution but limited capacity to accommodate students.
Overall, the data underscores the importance of understanding the competitive nature of college admissions and the various factors influencing both acceptance rates and enrollment figures. As institutions continue to navigate changing demographics and educational demands, these statistics provide valuable insights into the evolving landscape of higher education.
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 Admission Test Scores at Le Moyne-Owen College
The admission statistics for Le Moyne-Owen College over the years reflect a significant shift in the number of students submitting standardized test scores, particularly the ACT and SAT. In the earlier years, such as 2007 to 2014, there was a consistently high percentage of applicants submitting ACT scores, peaking at 100% in several years. This indicates a strong reliance on ACT scores for admissions during that period. However, the trend changed drastically from 2015 onward, with a significant decrease in the number of students submitting SAT scores, reflecting a strategic shift in admissions criteria or perhaps a broader trend in standardized testing attitudes.
The SAT scores show a gradual increase in the range of scores, with the 25th percentile and 75th percentile indicating a more competitive applicant pool in recent years. For instance, from 2020 to 2023, the SAT score ranges suggest that students are achieving higher scores, which may correlate with an increase in academic preparedness. This trend is particularly important as institutions nationwide are re-evaluating the weight of standardized tests in the admissions process, often leading to test-optional policies.
Furthermore, the percentage of applicants submitting scores has fluctuated, with a notable drop in recent years. This could reflect a growing number of institutions adopting test-optional policies, encouraging applicants to focus on other aspects of their application, such as personal statements or extracurricular activities. As colleges navigate these changes, it will be crucial to monitor how these shifts impact student demographics and academic success at Le Moyne-Owen College and similar institutions.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 10 in 10
259 applicants in 2025, 99.2% admitted
257 admitted 2 not admitted Yield 51.8%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Programs at Le Moyne-Owen College
The data from Le Moyne-Owen College for 2023 reveals notable trends in graduate program completions. The most significant number of graduates came from the Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies program, with 32 students earning their bachelor’s degree. This reflects a growing interest in interdisciplinary approaches, which are increasingly valued in the job market for their versatility and adaptability.
In the realm of Criminal Justice, both the Law Enforcement Administration and Safety Studies programs produced a combined total of 28 graduates. This highlights the importance of public safety and criminal justice education, especially as discussions around law enforcement reform and social justice continue to dominate news cycles. The absence of international students in these programs suggests a potential area for growth, as international perspectives can enrich discussions and learning experiences.
Interestingly, the Business Administration program produced 18 graduates, indicating a steady interest in traditional business education despite the rise of tech-driven fields. Notably, the Computer Science and Information Technology programs had a very limited output, with only a few graduates. This might suggest a need for colleges to better align their curricula with industry demands, particularly as technology continues to evolve rapidly.
Moreover, the data shows a lack of graduates in several fields such as Education and Social Work, which may point to challenges in attracting students to these vital sectors, especially in a time when the demand for educators and social workers is high. Overall, Le Moyne-Owen College's graduation figures reflect broader educational and societal trends, highlighting areas of strength as well as opportunities for growth and improvement.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $57,574 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Information Technology. | - | ||
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - |
Students
659 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 39:61 · Freshman retention 47.2%
- Continuing undergraduates 328
- First-year undergraduates 126
- Transfers and others 205
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (659)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Le Moyne-Owen College (2023)
In 2023, Le Moyne-Owen College presents a diverse student body that reflects significant gender disparities across different classifications. Among the undergraduate newcomers, the male to female ratio indicates that 43.8% are male and 56.2% are female, suggesting a welcoming environment for female students. However, as students progress to the upper-class level, the trend shifts dramatically; only 33.5% of upper-class students are male, while a striking 66.5% are female, indicating a growing female predominance in the college.
The transfer students mirror this trend, with 33.3% males and 66.7% females. This pattern raises questions about the factors contributing to the increasing enrollment of female students, which could be influenced by broader societal shifts towards women's education and empowerment. Interestingly, the data also reveals a very small number of graduate students, with only four enrolled in this category, all of whom are female.
In terms of racial and ethnic diversity, the representation of different groups among undergraduates is minimal, particularly among white and international students, reflecting broader trends in college demographics. As the education system continues to adapt to the needs of a diverse population, ongoing efforts to attract a more varied student body could enhance the college's academic community. Overall, while Le Moyne-Owen College exhibits a strong female representation, there remains a need for increased diversity and support for male students and various ethnic backgrounds to foster a more inclusive environment.
Analysis of Student Age Distribution at Le Moyne-Owen College in 2023
The age distribution of students at Le Moyne-Owen College in 2023 reveals interesting insights into the demographics of its undergraduate and graduate populations. Notably, the majority of undergraduate students fall within the 18-21 age range, with 68 males and 89 females aged 18-19, and 52 males and 72 females aged 20-21. This trend suggests a significant presence of traditional college-age students, which is common in many institutions across the United States.
As students progress into the 22-24 age range, the number of male undergraduates declines slightly to 44, while female undergraduates increase to 82. This shift may indicate that females are more likely to continue their studies after the typical college years, reflecting broader trends in higher education where female enrollment has been steadily increasing compared to males.
For students aged 25 and above, there is a noticeable drop in male enrollment, with only 21 males aged 25-29 and further decreases in older age brackets. In contrast, female enrollment remains relatively steady, suggesting that women are more inclined to pursue education later in life. This trend aligns with national statistics showing that adult learners, particularly women, are increasingly returning to education for career advancement or personal fulfillment.
Overall, the data illustrates a youthful undergraduate body with a notable gender disparity, particularly in older age groups, where females outnumber males. This demographic dynamic is crucial for colleges to consider in their program offerings and support services. Understanding these trends can assist in fostering a more inclusive and supportive educational environment for all students.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
29 in 2025 · 0.8% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Le Moyne-Owen College
The data for Le Moyne-Owen College reveals a fluctuating trend in the enrollment of international undergraduate students over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of international students has seen various ups and downs, with the highest enrollment of 15 students recorded in 2004 and the lowest only 2 students in 2007.
The percentage of international students among the total undergraduate population has remained relatively low, peaking at 2.30% in 2023. This indicates a persistent challenge for the college in attracting a significant number of international students compared to the overall student body. The fluctuations may be attributed to various factors, including changes in global travel policies, economic conditions, and the institution's outreach efforts in international markets.
Interestingly, the data shows a gradual resurgence in international student enrollment in recent years, particularly from 2021 to 2023, where there was a notable increase in both the absolute number and percentage of international students. This could reflect a growing interest in the college, possibly influenced by the increasing recognition of the value of diverse educational environments, especially in the wake of the pandemic that has altered many students' perspectives on studying abroad.
Overall, while Le Moyne-Owen College has made strides in increasing its international enrollment, it still has considerable room for growth. As the global education landscape continues to evolve, it will be essential for the college to enhance its international recruitment strategies to foster a more diverse student body.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$18,176
- Undergraduate tuition
- $12,076
- Room and board
- $6,100
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 13% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 3%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$18.7M
Expenses$20.9M
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.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference
Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Basketball | 16 | 14 |
| Baseball | 28 | - |
| Volleyball | 9 | 14 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 10 | 10 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 10 | 10 |
| Softball | - | 18 |
| Cross Country | 7 | 6 |
| Tennis | 8 | 1 |
| Golf | 5 | - |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 26 | 26 |
| Basketball | 16 | 20 |
| Baseball | 28 | - |
| Tennis | 8 | 6 |
| Softball | - | 13 |
| Volleyball | - | 13 |
| Golf | 6 | - |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Basketball | 16 | 20 |
| Baseball | 28 | - |
| Cross Country | 12 | 10 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 7 | 9 |
| Tennis | 8 | 6 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 7 | 7 |
| Softball | - | 13 |
| Volleyball | - | 13 |
| Golf | 6 | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Rhodes CollegeMemphis · 3.5 mi
Liberal Arts #49
-
University of MemphisMemphis · 5.4 mi
U.S. News #288
-
University of MississippiUniversity · 59.2 mi
U.S. News #179
-
Harding UniversitySearcy · 96.0 mi
U.S. News #276
-
Mississippi State UniversityMississippi State · 135.1 mi
U.S. News #208
-
Hendrix CollegeConway · 136.2 mi
Liberal Arts #100
-
Southern Illinois University-CarbondaleCarbondale · 185.0 mi
U.S. News #288
-
The University of AlabamaTuscaloosa · 193.9 mi
U.S. News #156
-
Lipscomb UniversityNashville · 194.1 mi
U.S. News #250
Data insights
Here are some notable schools around Le Moyne-Owen College:
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Rhodes College - Ranked 56th in the 2024 US News rankings, Rhodes College is a prestigious liberal arts college known for its rigorous academic programs and beautiful campus in Memphis, Tennessee.
-
University of Memphis - With a ranking of 269, the University of Memphis offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is an integral part of the educational landscape in the region.
-
University of Mississippi - Ranked 163rd, the University of Mississippi, also known as Ole Miss, is a major public research university located in Oxford, Mississippi, known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.
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Vanderbilt University - A highly esteemed university ranked 18th, Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee, is renowned for its academic excellence and research contributions across various fields.
-
The University of the South - With a ranking of 51, this liberal arts university, located in Sewanee, Tennessee, is known for its picturesque campus and strong academic programs.
These institutions offer a variety of educational opportunities and contribute significantly to the academic community surrounding Le Moyne-Owen College.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at Le Moyne-Owen College
The crime statistics at Le Moyne-Owen College present a notable trend over the years from 2013 to 2023. Initially, the average crime rate per 1,000 students was significantly higher, peaking at 12.92 in 2015. This indicates a concerning environment for students during those years, particularly with respect to gun-related arrests, drug arrests, and assaults, which typically contribute to higher crime rates in academic institutions.
However, a noticeable decline can be observed from 2016 onwards, with the crime rate dropping to as low as 0.00 in both 2020 and 2021. This drop could be attributed to various factors, including enhanced campus security measures, community outreach programs, or the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in reduced on-campus activities. The subsequent years show a minor increase, with a recorded rate of 3.28 in 2023, suggesting that while the environment remains relatively safe, vigilance and continued efforts are necessary to sustain this trend.
The data indicates that the majority of incidents reported in earlier years were related to gun arrests, which is a significant concern in the broader context of gun violence in the United States. As trends in crime can be influenced by societal changes and institutional policies, it’s crucial for colleges like Le Moyne-Owen to maintain proactive measures to ensure student safety and well-being.
For more information on crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Le Moyne-Owen College include Ida B. Wells (Journalist, civil rights leader and NAACP co-founder), Marion Barry (Mayor of the District of Columbia) and David Porter (Songwriter, Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee).
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Ida B. Wells 1862–1931
Journalist, civil rights leader and NAACP co-founder
-
Marion Barry 1936–2014
Mayor of the District of Columbia
-
David Porter 1941–
Songwriter, Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee
-
W. W. Herenton 1940–
First elected African-American mayor of Memphis
-
Benjamin Hooks 1925–2010
Civil rights leader, former NAACP executive director
-
Betty Hill 1876–1960
Civil rights and women's rights activist
-
Joe Kelly 1954–
Author known for books on fathering
-
Azzam Shawwa 1963–
Palestinian economist, former Palestine Monetary Authority governor
-
Mordecai Wyatt Johnson 1890–1976
First African-American president of Howard University
More alumni (2, by field)
Politics and law
-
Lois DeBerry 1945–2013
Tennessee House member and Speaker Pro Tempore
-
Larry Miller 1954–
Member of the Tennessee House of Representatives
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
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.