Tusculum University
Acceptance rate
72.2%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$29,250
$40,250 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
940
Student-faculty ratio 18:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
26.9%
4-year; 6-year rate 34.0%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Tusculum University, located in Greeneville, Tennessee, is the oldest college in Tennessee, founded in 1794. This liberal arts institution is renowned for its commitment to providing a holistic educational experience, integrating the development of critical thinking skills with a strong emphasis on community service and civic engagement. Tusculum's campus, enriched by its historical significance, is beautifully set against the backdrop of the Appalachian Mountains, offering students a serene and inspiring environment conducive to learning and personal growth.
One of the distinguishing features of Tusculum University is its student-centered approach to education. The university promotes small class sizes, which fosters close relationships between students and faculty, allowing for personalized mentoring and guidance. This supportive academic environment is complemented by a diverse range of programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees in various fields such as business, education, and the arts. The university also emphasizes experiential learning, offering students opportunities to engage in internships, service-learning projects, and study abroad programs. Tusculum's commitment to athletics is evident through its vibrant sports culture, with various teams competing in NCAA Division II, further enhancing the overall student experience through teamwork and school spirit. With a strong focus on developing well-rounded individuals, Tusculum University prepares its graduates not only for successful careers but also for meaningful contributions to society.
Trends in Tuition, Enrollment, and Graduation Rates at Tusculum University
Tusculum University has experienced notable trends in tuition fees, student enrollment, and graduation rates over the years. The tuition for in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has steadily increased from $22,250 in 2014 to approximately $28,500 in 2024, marking a significant rise of around 28%. This increase in tuition can place a heavier financial burden on students and their families, especially in the context of rising living costs.
In parallel, the student enrollment figures indicate a concerning downward trend. The number of undergraduate students has decreased from 1,980 in 2013 to just 1,111 in 2023, representing a decline of over 44%. This sharp drop raises questions about the university's appeal and its ability to attract and retain students, potentially driven by factors such as increasing tuition costs, competition from other institutions, or shifts in demographics and educational preferences.
Graduation rates present a mixed picture. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates showed fluctuations, reaching a peak of 31.4% in 2022, before slightly declining to about 29.6% in 2023. This data highlights the need for the university to address factors affecting student success and timely graduation, such as academic support, counseling services, and financial aid.
The retention rate, which measures the percentage of students who continue their studies at the same institution, has also experienced variability. It peaked at approximately 68% in 2017 and has since hovered around the mid-50% range in recent years. This suggests that while some students are satisfied with their education at Tusculum, a significant number are choosing to transfer or leave before completing their degrees.
In conclusion, Tusculum University faces challenges related to rising tuition costs, declining enrollment numbers, and fluctuating graduation rates. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the institution's long-term sustainability and reputation in the higher education landscape.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Knoxville, about 70 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), about 120 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Presbyterian Church (USA)
- President
- Dr. Scott Hummel (President)
- Phone
- 4236367300
- City
- Greeneville, Tennessee
- Address
- 60 Shiloh Road, Greeneville, TN 37743
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 68.2%, women 75.6%.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Rates and Enrollment at Tusculum University
Analyzing the admission rates and enrollment data from Tusculum University over the years reveals some interesting trends. The data indicates a significant fluctuation in the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants. For instance, in 2009, the acceptance rate for males was approximately 70.6%, while it rose to around 87.5% in 2018 before dropping to about 75.2% in 2022.
This pattern suggests that Tusculum University has experienced varying levels of competitiveness in its admissions process. The increase in enrollment numbers from 283 in 2009 to a peak of 409 in 2011 could be attributed to a growing interest in the university, potentially influenced by factors such as academic programs, campus facilities, or outreach efforts. However, the subsequent years show a decline in enrollment, with numbers dropping back to 146 in 2023, indicating that the university may need to reassess its recruitment strategies.
Moreover, the gender disparity in acceptance rates is noteworthy. Female applicants consistently had higher acceptance rates compared to their male counterparts, peaking at approximately 90.1% in 2023. This trend could reflect the university’s commitment to promoting gender diversity within its student body.
Overall, the data presents a complex picture of Tusculum University's admissions landscape. It highlights the need for ongoing evaluation and adaptation in response to changing demographics, educational trends, and societal expectations in higher education. As universities across the nation navigate similar challenges, Tusculum’s experience could serve as a valuable case study in fostering a balanced and inclusive academic environment.
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 Tusculum University's Admission Test Scores Over the Years
Tusculum University has shown a notable trend in standardized test scores and submission rates over the years. Analyzing the SAT scores, we see a gradual fluctuation in both the number of submissions and the scores themselves. For instance, in 2007, 42% of admitted students submitted their SAT scores, with reading scores ranging between 410 and 530. However, by 2023, this percentage had dropped to a mere 15%, indicating a significant decline in the number of students submitting their scores.
The shifts in score ranges reflect broader trends in college admissions, where many institutions are moving towards a test-optional policy. This trend has allowed a more diverse range of applicants to be evaluated based on a holistic approach rather than solely on standardized test performance. For example, while the 25th percentile SAT reading score in 2023 remained consistent with previous years, the overall decline in submission rates may suggest that students feel less pressure to present these scores in their applications.
Moreover, the ACT scores show a similar pattern, with a slight increase in the range of scores over the years. The university's acceptance of both SAT and ACT scores provides flexibility, yet the decreasing number of submissions raises questions about the shifting perception of standardized testing's value in college admissions.
In conclusion, Tusculum University’s data reflects a broader trend in higher education where standardized tests are becoming less central to admissions processes. This could lead to a more inclusive and varied student body, aligning with current educational philosophies that prioritize diverse qualifications and experiences.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 7 in 10
1,660 applicants in 2025, 72.2% admitted
1,198 admitted 462 not admitted Yield 16.4%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Education, General · Master's43 (2% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's36 (19% international)
- Sport and Fitness Administration/Management · Master's24 (0% international)
- Human Resources Development · Master's14 (0% international)
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other · Master's4 (0% international)
- Family Practice Nurse/Nursing · Master's1 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Tusculum University for 2023
The graduation data from Tusculum University in 2023 highlights several noteworthy trends in various academic disciplines. Notably, the Master’s degrees in Education, Business Administration, and Sports Management appear to be the most significant areas of graduate output, with 49, 38, and 13 graduates respectively. This trend is indicative of the growing demand for advanced qualifications in fields that lead to professional development and career advancement, especially in education and business sectors.
Moreover, the data reveals a limited number of international students graduating in these programs, with only 6 international graduates in Business Administration and 4 in Exercise Science. This could suggest a potential area for improvement in attracting international talent, particularly in programs that are increasingly important in global job markets.
Interestingly, while the university offers a diverse range of disciplines, including Environmental Science and Psychology, the absence of graduates in certain undergraduate categories indicates either a lack of enrollment or a need for curriculum enhancement. For instance, the low number of graduates in the social sciences may reflect broader trends in student interest or job market opportunities, which have increasingly leaned towards STEM fields.
Furthermore, the data shows that there are no associate degree graduates reported, which raises questions about the university's offerings at this level. This could imply a strategic focus on higher degree programs or a need to bolster the foundation-level programs to cater to a broader demographic.
Overall, Tusculum University’s graduation statistics for 2023 reflect both strengths and areas for growth, particularly in diversifying its international student body and expanding its offerings at the associate degree level to enhance enrollment and graduation rates across all disciplines.
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 Administration and Management, General. | $50,588-$61,311 | |||
| Human Resources Development. | $58,291 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | $41,139-$48,149 | |||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | |||
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $48,967 | |||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $48,967 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | $37,313 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $38,747 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Visual and Performing Arts, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Family Practice Nurse/Nursing. | $69,109-$100,484 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
Students
1,103 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 52:48 · Freshman retention 62.9%
- Continuing undergraduates 514
- First-year undergraduates 203
- Graduate students 163
- Transfers and others 223
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (940)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Composition at Tusculum University in 2023
The student demographic data from Tusculum University in 2023 reveals a diverse and dynamic student body. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 141 students, with a notable male representation of 62.4% compared to 37.6% female. This significant male majority may reflect broader trends in higher education where certain fields attract more male students, particularly in STEM disciplines.
In contrast, the undergraduate sophomores have an almost balanced gender ratio, with 48.7% male and 51.3% female, suggesting a shift towards gender parity as students progress through their academic journey. This could indicate that older students have a wider array of academic interests, leading to a more balanced demographic.
Among the undergraduate transfer students, there are 52 students, with 57.7% being male. This indicates that transfer students may also exhibit a slight male dominance, which could be influenced by the specific programs they are transferring into.
Graduate students total 192, with a significant female majority at 58.9%. This trend aligns with national statistics showing that women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees, particularly in education, health, and social sciences.
The data also points to the presence of diverse ethnic backgrounds among students, although specific figures for racial and ethnic compositions are not fully detailed. Emphasizing inclusivity and diversity within campus life is crucial for fostering an enriching educational environment.
Overall, Tusculum University appears to be making strides in promoting diversity and gender balance across various academic levels, which is essential for preparing students for the increasingly globalized workforce.
Analysis of Student Age Distribution at Tusculum University
The age distribution of students at Tusculum University reveals interesting trends regarding the demographic composition of the student body. The data indicates a predominance of younger students, particularly those under 18 and in the 18-19 age range, with a notable representation of undergraduates. Specifically, students under 18 comprise approximately 41.2% of the total male population and 54.8% of the total female population, highlighting the university's appeal to traditional college-age students.
As we move into slightly older demographics, the percentage of male undergraduates begins to decline, particularly in the 22-24 age range, where the numbers drop significantly to 28.3%. This trend continues with students aged 25-29 and older, suggesting that Tusculum may attract a younger audience while older students might seek other institutions or educational formats, such as online learning.
Interestingly, the graduate student population remains small but consistent, especially in the 22-24 age bracket where the presence of male graduate students reaches 33. This might reflect the university's efforts to provide advanced education options for those who have recently completed their undergraduate studies.
Furthermore, the relatively low participation rates of students aged 30 and above indicate potential barriers for non-traditional students, which could be a focal point for the university to enhance its inclusivity and resource offerings. Overall, while Tusculum University excels at attracting younger students, there is an opportunity to better engage with older demographics and graduate students.
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.
44 in 2025 · 2.7% in 2016
1 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Data at Tusculum University
The data regarding international students at Tusculum University reveals significant trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international students among undergraduate enrollment has shown a notable increase, particularly in recent years. In 2004, international students made up only 2.72% of the undergraduate population, whereas by 2023, this percentage had surged to 7.11%. This increase reflects a growing recognition of the importance of diversity and global perspectives within the university environment.
However, the graduate student data presents a more complex picture. While there were fluctuations in the number of international graduate students, the available data shows that the percentage remained relatively low, with a peak of 1.93% in 2021. This suggests that while undergraduate recruitment is increasingly internationalized, graduate programs may be lagging behind in attracting international talent, which could indicate barriers such as program availability or insufficient outreach.
Moreover, the total number of students has declined over the years, hinting at broader challenges the institution might be facing, such as competition among universities for attracting students both domestically and internationally. This decline could affect the university's resources and overall campus experience, impacting both domestic and international students.
In conclusion, Tusculum University has made strides in bolstering its undergraduate international student population, signaling a positive trend towards inclusivity. However, the graduate programs require enhanced strategies to attract more international students, ensuring a well-rounded educational environment that benefits all students.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$40,250
- Undergraduate tuition
- $29,250
- Room and board
- $11,000
- Graduate tuition
- $15,675
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 29% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 29%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$25.8M
Expenses$31.6M
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 NCAA · South Atlantic Conference
South Atlantic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 149 | - |
| Soccer | 40 | 37 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 41 | 25 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 41 | 24 |
| Lacrosse | 36 | 25 |
| Baseball | 57 | - |
| Basketball | 26 | 20 |
| Volleyball | 16 | 26 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Golf | 15 | 7 |
| Tennis | 13 | 8 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Cross Country | 7 | 7 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 162 | - |
| Lacrosse | 46 | 26 |
| Basketball | 37 | 27 |
| Soccer | 29 | 32 |
| Baseball | 59 | - |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 37 | 22 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 37 | 22 |
| Volleyball | 23 | 29 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 27 |
| Tennis | 14 | 8 |
| Golf | 15 | 6 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Cross Country | 8 | 9 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 157 | - |
| Soccer | 36 | 37 |
| Basketball | 34 | 28 |
| Lacrosse | 36 | 20 |
| Baseball | 54 | - |
| Volleyball | 21 | 32 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 32 | 13 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 32 | 13 |
| Tennis | 15 | 11 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 26 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Golf | 15 | 5 |
| Cross Country | 11 | 7 |
| Bowling | - | 7 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
The University of Tennessee-KnoxvilleKnoxville · 66.8 mi
U.S. News #109
-
Furman UniversityGreenville · 88.1 mi
Liberal Arts #57
-
Wofford CollegeSpartanburg · 95.8 mi
Liberal Arts #68
-
Clemson UniversityClemson · 103.2 mi
U.S. News #80
-
Davidson CollegeDavidson · 117.0 mi
Liberal Arts #16
-
Berea CollegeBerea · 128.5 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
University of North Carolina at CharlotteCharlotte · 128.6 mi
U.S. News #169
-
Wake Forest UniversityWinston-Salem · 138.6 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State UniversityBlacksburg · 148.6 mi
U.S. News #52
Data insights
Here are some notable institutions surrounding Tusculum University:
-
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville - Ranked 105 in the US News 2024 rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its strong research programs and diverse academic offerings.
-
Clemson University - With a rank of 86, Clemson is recognized for its emphasis on science and technology, offering a vibrant campus life and numerous extracurricular activities.
-
Wake Forest University - This prestigious institution is ranked 47th and is well-regarded for its liberal arts education and strong emphasis on ethics and leadership.
-
Davidson College - A highly esteemed liberal arts college ranked 16th, Davidson is known for its rigorous academics and commitment to the development of the whole person.
-
Furman University - This liberal arts university ranks 46th and is noted for its beautiful campus and strong academic programs, especially in the humanities and sciences.
-
University of Georgia - Ranked 47th, this comprehensive university is one of the oldest public universities in the United States, known for its research initiatives and vibrant student life.
These institutions offer a variety of academic opportunities and are well-regarded in their respective fields.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities 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
Trends in Campus Crime Rates at Tusculum University
The crime statistics at Tusculum University over the past decade reveal a notable decline in crime rates, particularly in recent years. In 2013, the average number of offenses per 1,000 students was a concerning 27.29, which has since decreased significantly to just 8.14 in 2023. This trend is encouraging, suggesting improvements in campus safety and possibly more effective crime prevention measures.
In examining the types of offenses, gun-related arrests have consistently been low, indicating that the campus environment is relatively secure from such violent crimes. Drug and alcohol arrests also appear to be on a downward trajectory, with the rate of drug-related arrests dropping from 11.39 in 2014 to only 6.01 in 2021. This decline could be reflective of increased awareness and educational programs targeting substance abuse among students.
Moreover, the overall environment on campus seems to promote safety, which is essential for fostering an academic atmosphere conducive to learning. Nevertheless, while these statistics are promising, it remains crucial for the university administration to continue focusing on safety and community-building initiatives to sustain this positive trend.
The steady decrease in crime rates at Tusculum University highlights the effectiveness of proactive measures and the importance of maintaining a safe environment for students. Continuous monitoring and engagement with the student community will be vital to ensure that these improvements are not only maintained but also built upon in the years to come.
For further understanding of crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Tusculum University include Park Overall (Actress, best known as Laverne in Empty Nest), James D. Black (39th Governor of Kentucky) and Vincent Boreing (U.S. Representative from Kentucky and judge).
-
Park Overall 1957–
Actress, best known as Laverne in Empty Nest
-
James D. Black 1849–1938
39th Governor of Kentucky
-
Vincent Boreing 1839–1903
U.S. Representative from Kentucky and judge
-
William Coleman Anderson 1853–1902
US representative from Tennessee
-
William McFarland 1821–1900
US representative from Tennessee
-
Pryor Lea 1794–1879
Tennessee congressman and railroad entrepreneur
-
Richard Kollmar 1910–1971
Actor and Broadway producer
-
Jared Allman 1984–
American actor
-
Steve Crane 1972–
English former professional footballer
More alumni (7, by field)
Politics and law
-
Oscar Lovette 1871–1934
U.S. representative from Tennessee and lawyer
-
John Henry Wilson 1846–1923
U.S. Representative from Kentucky
-
Thomas Gray Hull 1926–2008
US district judge, Eastern District of Tennessee
-
Oliver Perry Temple 1820–1907
Tennessee attorney, judge and author
-
Alfred E. Jackson 1807–1889
Confederate States Army brigadier general
-
George Caldwell Taylor 1885–1952
Federal judge, Eastern District of Tennessee
Science and academia
-
Cho Gyeong-chul 1929–2010
South Korean astronomer who worked at NASA
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.