East Texas Baptist University
Acceptance rate
57.8%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$30,680
$41,636 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,634
Student-faculty ratio 14:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
35.5%
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
East Texas Baptist University (ETBU) is a private Christian university located in Marshall, Texas. Established in 1917, ETBU offers a nurturing and faith-centered environment where students can pursue academic excellence and personal growth. The university's mission is to provide a quality education grounded in the Baptist faith, emphasizing the development of the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. The campus culture is vibrant and supportive, encouraging students to engage in community service, spiritual development, and leadership opportunities.
ETBU boasts a diverse range of academic programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees in areas such as business, education, nursing, and the liberal arts. The faculty comprises dedicated professionals who are committed to student success and mentoring. The university maintains a strong emphasis on student involvement through various extracurricular activities, including athletics, music, and student organizations. The beautiful campus features modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, recreational spaces, and a welcoming chapel, fostering a holistic educational experience. With a strong focus on character development and community engagement, East Texas Baptist University prepares its graduates to become responsible leaders and passionate contributors to society.
Analysis of Key Metrics at East Texas Baptist University
East Texas Baptist University, a private institution, has shown notable trends in tuition rates, graduation rates, and student retention over recent years. One of the most striking observations is the consistent increase in tuition fees. From 2014 to 2024, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students rose from $22,590 to $30,050, representing a staggering increase of over 33%. This trend mirrors a broader national pattern where tuition costs at private universities continue to escalate, raising concerns about accessibility and affordability for prospective students.
Graduation rates have also exhibited variation during this period. For instance, the on-time graduation rate for undergraduates fluctuated, peaking at approximately 37.35% in 2022 before dropping to 27.27% in 2023. This decline raises questions about student support services and retention strategies at the university, as higher tuition costs may contribute to financial stress, impacting students' ability to complete their degrees in a timely manner.
Retention rates, however, show a more promising trajectory. The retention rate for undergraduate students has seen an upward trend, increasing from around 52% in 2013 to approximately 66% in 2023. This improvement suggests that the institution may be enhancing its support systems to keep students engaged and enrolled, despite the challenges posed by rising tuition costs.
Furthermore, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained relatively stable over the years, indicating a consistent level of personalized attention available to students. This is crucial as smaller class sizes often correlate with better academic outcomes and higher satisfaction among students.
In summary, while East Texas Baptist University faces challenges related to increasing tuition and fluctuating graduation rates, the positive trend in student retention highlights the institution's commitment to supporting its students. Balancing these dynamics will be essential for the university to maintain its appeal and effectiveness in fostering student success.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Dallas, about 140 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), about 160 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Baptist
- President
- J. Blair Blackburn (President)
- Phone
- 9039357963
- Address
- One Tiger Drive, Marshall, TX 75670-1498
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 59.9%, women 59.0%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at East Texas Baptist University
The admission data from East Texas Baptist University (ETBU) reveals intriguing trends in acceptance rates and enrollment over the years. Notably, the acceptance rate for male applicants peaked at approximately 91% in 2021, while female acceptance rates demonstrated a consistent rise, reaching around 93.7% during the same year. This suggests a significant increase in the university's willingness to enroll students, possibly in response to broader demographic shifts or an effort to foster diversity on campus.
The total enrollment figures also reflect a dynamic approach to attracting students, with the highest enrollment recorded at 424 in 2018, despite a concurrent high number of denials (840). In contrast, the years following 2020 show a marked decrease in the number of denials, suggesting a shift in admissions strategy that may focus on increasing yield and reducing the number of applicants who are turned away.
Moreover, the fluctuation in deferred admissions indicates that ETBU may be adapting its policies to accommodate students facing uncertainties, perhaps related to the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As universities across the nation grapple with evolving enrollment challenges, ETBU's data serves as a microcosm of the broader higher education landscape, where institutions are increasingly prioritizing student retention and support.
In conclusion, the data from ETBU highlights the university's adaptive strategies in managing admissions, which may reflect both internal goals and external pressures, ultimately shaping the future of student demographics and institutional performance.
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
Trends in Admission Test Scores at East Texas Baptist University
The data from East Texas Baptist University over the years reveals notable trends in admission test scores and submission rates. From 2007 to 2014, there was a relatively stable number of students submitting SAT scores, with proportions ranging from 55% to 67%. However, a significant decline is observed post-2015, where the percentage of students submitting scores dropped sharply to 33% in 2016, and continued to hover around the low 40s until 2023. This trend may indicate a growing acceptance of alternative evaluation methods for admissions or a shift in applicant demographics.
In terms of scoring, the SAT reading scores have shown a positive trajectory from 400-500 in 2007 to a peak of 490-570 in 2018. This upward trend suggests that while fewer students are submitting their scores, those who do are achieving higher results. The consistent range of 460-560 for the last several years indicates a leveling off of scores, which may reflect a more selective applicant pool or changes in preparatory resources available to students.
The apparent decline in submission rates could also reflect a broader national trend where applicants are increasingly opting out of standardized testing due to an evolving perspective on college admissions. Many institutions are moving towards a more holistic review process, valuing diverse experiences and academic achievements beyond test scores. This shift aligns with recent discussions in the educational landscape, emphasizing equity and access in higher education.
Overall, while East Texas Baptist University has seen fluctuations in both participation and performance in standardized tests, the increasing scores of those who submit indicates a commitment to maintaining academic standards amidst changing admission practices.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 6 in 10
1,759 applicants in 2025, 57.8% admitted
1,016 admitted 743 not admitted Yield 34.8%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's21 (0% international)
- Exercise Science and Kinesiology · Master's10 (0% international)
- Counseling Psychology · Master's9 (0% international)
- Communication Management and Strategic Communications · Master's8 (0% international)
- Religion/Religious Studies · Master's7 (0% international)
- Education, General · Master's6 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at East Texas Baptist University
The graduation data from East Texas Baptist University for 2023 reveals significant insights into the distribution of degrees awarded across various fields, particularly in the health sciences and business disciplines. Notably, the Registered Nursing program stands out with a total of 45 bachelor's degrees conferred, marking it as the most popular major among graduates this year. This trend aligns with the growing demand for healthcare professionals, especially in light of the ongoing challenges in the healthcare sector exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In contrast, the Business/Commerce program awarded 23 bachelor's degrees, with an additional 2 conferred to international students, indicating a healthy interest in business education. The absence of master's or doctoral degrees in this area suggests that students are currently focusing on undergraduate education before pursuing advanced degrees.
The data also highlights a lack of diversity in graduate programs, particularly at the master’s and doctoral levels, where only one discipline—Entrepreneurship—recorded 16 master’s degrees. This concentration in entrepreneurship may reflect the current economic climate where innovation and startups are prioritized.
Overall, the data from East Texas Baptist University indicates a strong inclination towards health-related fields, consistent with national trends, while also showcasing opportunities for growth in graduate programs, particularly in business and interdisciplinary studies. This could prompt university administrators to consider expanding their offerings to meet the evolving interests of students and the demands of the job market.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | - | ||
| Athletic Training/Trainer. | - | ||
| Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology/Technologist. | - | ||
| Rehabilitation Science. | - | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $74,928 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | $35,328 | ||
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $35,328 | ||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $35,328 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | $36,265 | ||
| Curriculum and Instruction. | - | ||
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | - | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $45,803 | ||
| English/Language Arts Teacher Education. | $48,245 | ||
| Mathematics Teacher Education. | $48,245 | ||
| Music Teacher Education. | $48,245 | ||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | $48,245 | ||
| Social Studies Teacher Education. | $48,245 | ||
| History Teacher Education. | $48,245 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Behavioral Sciences. | - | ||
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | $38,887 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Religious/Sacred Music. | - | ||
| Theology/Theological Studies. | - | ||
| Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other. | - | ||
| Pastoral Studies/Counseling. | - | ||
| Religious Institution Administration and Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - | ||
| Developmental and Child Psychology. | - | ||
| Counseling Psychology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - | ||
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | - | ||
| Sports Communication. | - | ||
| Communication Management and Strategic Communications. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Religion/Religious Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Arts. | - | ||
| Design and Visual Communications, General. | - | ||
| Musical Theatre. | - | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sociology, General. | - |
Students
1,813 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 47:53 · Freshman retention 70.8%
- Continuing undergraduates 873
- First-year undergraduates 350
- Graduate students 179
- Transfers and others 411
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,634)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at East Texas Baptist University 2023
The student demographics at East Texas Baptist University for the year 2023 reveal a diverse and balanced community, particularly in terms of gender distribution among various student categories. The undergraduate freshmen constitute a significant portion of the student body with a total of 391 students, where approximately 51.2% are male and 48.8% female, indicating a nearly equal representation. This trend continues with undergraduate juniors, who present a slightly larger cohort of 828 students, with a higher percentage of females (52.8%) compared to males (47.2%).
Transfer students show a similar gender balance, with 52.4% male and 47.6% female. The graduate student population is also fairly balanced with 49.5% male and 50.5% female, demonstrating that the university maintains gender equity across all levels of study.
In terms of ethnic diversity, while specific numbers for underclassmen and graduate students were not provided, the available data for undergraduate freshmen indicates that 246 of them are white, which is about 62.9% of this group, followed by minority representations that reflect a growing diversity on campus. This inclusivity aligns with broader trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly recognizing the importance of diversity as a key factor for fostering a rich educational environment.
Overall, East Texas Baptist University reflects a commendable effort toward maintaining gender balance and increasing ethnic diversity within its student body, positioning itself as a welcoming institution for a variety of backgrounds and experiences.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at East Texas Baptist University
The age distribution of students at East Texas Baptist University reveals interesting trends in both undergraduate and graduate enrollments. A significant portion of the student body falls under the age of 18 and between 18-19, with 84 male undergraduates and 325 male students in the 18-19 age group. This suggests a strong influx of traditional-age students, likely fresh out of high school.
The data shows a noticeable decline in male undergraduate enrollment as age increases, particularly in the 22-24 bracket, where only 56 males are enrolled. This trend continues across older age groups, which may reflect the challenges of continuing education for older students or a shift in demographic preferences as students age.
On the female side, there is a more balanced representation among the undergraduate population, especially in the 18-19 and 20-21 age groups, where the numbers are quite comparable to their male counterparts. However, as we move into the 22-24 age group, the female enrollment drops to 36, indicating potential barriers for women in pursuing higher education later in life, or perhaps a preference for starting families or careers earlier.
The graduate population shows a different trend, with a higher presence of female students in the 30-34 age bracket. This could suggest that women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees after gaining some work experience, reflecting broader societal shifts toward lifelong learning and professional development.
Overall, the composition of East Texas Baptist University's student body illustrates the challenges and opportunities present in higher education today, highlighting the importance of understanding demographic trends in shaping institutional policies and support systems for diverse student populations.
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.
16 in 2025 · 1.1% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 6.7% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at East Texas Baptist University
The data on international student enrollment at East Texas Baptist University reveals some interesting trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of undergraduate international students has shown fluctuations, with a notable peak of 22 students in 2012, while the proportion of international students in the undergraduate population has generally remained low, peaking at 1.85% in 2012 before declining in subsequent years.
The graduate student enrollment presents a more complex picture, with a gradual increase in total enrollment over the years. In 2015, for example, the university had 68 graduate students, with 3 of them being international, marking a 4.41% representation. This percentage reflects a growing interest in graduate programs, albeit still modest in scale.
As of 2023, the university hosts 192 graduate students, with 6 international students, translating to approximately 3.13%. This upward trend in total graduate enrollment suggests that East Texas Baptist University is becoming increasingly attractive to a diverse student body, although the proportion of international students remains relatively low compared to national averages at other institutions.
Overall, East Texas Baptist University seems to be on a path of gradual improvement in attracting international students, particularly at the graduate level. However, to enhance its global presence, the university may need to implement more targeted recruitment strategies and support systems for international students, as many other universities have done successfully in recent years. This could potentially increase both the quantity and percentage of international students, enriching the cultural diversity on campus.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$41,636
- Undergraduate tuition
- $30,680
- Room and board
- $10,956
- Graduate tuition
- $7,980
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 27% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 27%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$40.3M
Expenses$43.0M
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 · American Southwest Conference
American Southwest Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 167 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 62 | 45 |
| Soccer | 35 | 30 |
| Basketball | 34 | 28 |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Tennis | 15 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 23 |
| Golf | 10 | 10 |
| Gymnastics | - | 20 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 18 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 148 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 51 | 22 |
| Soccer | 34 | 31 |
| Basketball | 30 | 31 |
| Baseball | 45 | - |
| Softball | - | 30 |
| Tennis | 13 | 10 |
| Volleyball | - | 22 |
| Gymnastics | - | 20 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Golf | 10 | 4 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 142 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 50 | 28 |
| Basketball | 31 | 32 |
| Soccer | 30 | 33 |
| Baseball | 53 | - |
| Softball | - | 28 |
| Tennis | 13 | 12 |
| Gymnastics | - | 22 |
| Volleyball | - | 22 |
| Golf | 13 | 8 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 16 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
The University of Texas at DallasRichardson · 141.1 mi
U.S. News #121
-
Southern Methodist UniversityDallas · 141.4 mi
U.S. News #85
-
University of Texas-ArlingtonArlington · 159.8 mi
U.S. News #236
-
University of North TexasDenton · 167.2 mi
U.S. News #208
-
Texas Christian UniversityFort Worth · 174.3 mi
U.S. News #90
-
Baylor UniversityWaco · 175.3 mi
U.S. News #90
-
Texas A & M University-College StationCollege Station · 176.9 mi
U.S. News #59
-
University of St. Thomas (TX)Houston · 204.0 mi
U.S. News #202
-
University of HoustonHouston · 204.3 mi
U.S. News #137
Data insights
Here are some notable universities surrounding East Texas Baptist University:
-
The University of Texas at Dallas - Ranked 115 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its strong emphasis on research and innovation.
-
Southern Methodist University - With a rank of 89, SMU offers a diverse range of programs and is recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and leadership.
-
Texas Christian University - Ranked 98th, TCU is a private university that emphasizes a holistic approach to education, combining strong academics with a supportive community.
-
Baylor University - This university, ranked 93rd, is known for its strong Christian values and a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Rice University - A prestigious university ranked 17th, Rice is renowned for its rigorous academics and a vibrant campus culture.
-
The University of Texas at Austin - As one of the leading public universities in the nation, UT Austin is ranked 32nd and offers a vast array of programs and research opportunities.
These institutions provide a variety of academic offerings and are well-regarded in their respective fields, making them excellent choices for students in the region.
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
Analysis of Crime Rates at East Texas Baptist University
The crime statistics from East Texas Baptist University over the last decade reflect a notable trend in campus safety. In 2013, the rate of crimes per 1000 students was 18.91, which has fluctuated over the years, peaking in 2014 at 23.74. However, a significant decline is observed in recent years, with the crime rate dropping to as low as 3.32 in 2022 and slightly increasing to 4.40 in 2023.
This decrease can be indicative of improved safety measures, increased campus security, or a shift in student behavior. Interestingly, the most reported offenses in this period were related to drug use and alcohol-related incidents, which are common challenges on college campuses nationwide. The reduction in crime rates could be a reflection of effective prevention programs or heightened awareness among students regarding the consequences of such behaviors.
The data also reveals that violent crimes, such as assault and domestic violence, have remained relatively low, which is a positive sign for the university community. The trend of decreasing crime rates aligns with broader national trends in college campus safety, as many institutions have adopted stricter policies and programs aimed at reducing crime.
As students and parents evaluate campus safety, these statistics provide critical insights. Continued efforts to enhance safety and promote a healthy campus environment will be essential in maintaining this downward trend. For anyone interested in understanding the calculation of crime rates on campuses, more detailed information can be found here.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of East Texas Baptist University include Josiah Gilbert Holland (Novelist, poet and editor), John Dowdy (U.S. Representative from Texas, retired under bribery indictment) and Jack Hyles (Independent Baptist pastor in Hammond, Indiana).
-
Josiah Gilbert Holland 1819–1881
Novelist, poet and editor
-
John Dowdy 1912–1995
U.S. Representative from Texas, retired under bribery indictment
-
Jack Hyles 1926–2001
Independent Baptist pastor in Hammond, Indiana
-
Sam B. Hall 1924–1994
US federal judge, lawyer and politician
-
Cameron McCasland 1981–
Filmmaker, animator and producer
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.