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U.S. News #317 Private nonprofit, 4-year

Emory & Henry College

Emory, Virginia · www.emoryhenry.edu

中文

U.S. News National 2027

#317

Acceptance rate

83.7%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$39,000

$53,648 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

1,083

Student-faculty ratio 12:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

48.6%

4-year; 6-year rate 57.7%

Peer median 44.6%

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

About

Emory & Henry University, located in Emory, Virginia, is a distinguished liberal arts institution known for its commitment to holistic education and community engagement. Established in 1836, it is one of the oldest colleges in Virginia and has a rich history that reflects its dedication to academic excellence and moral development. The university's guiding principle is encapsulated in its motto, “To be, rather than to seem.” This philosophy emphasizes authenticity and integrity, encouraging students to develop their true potential both academically and personally.

The campus is beautifully situated in the scenic Appalachian Mountains, providing a serene environment conducive to learning and personal growth. Emory & Henry offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with notable strengths in fields such as health sciences, business administration, and education. The university fosters a strong sense of community and encourages students to engage in various extracurricular activities, including athletics, music, and volunteer work, which enrich their campus experience. With a focus on experiential learning, the university also promotes internships and community service, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the workforce and civic life. Emory & Henry University truly embodies the spirit of a liberal arts education, preparing students to become thoughtful leaders and active citizens in an ever-changing world.

Analysis of Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention

Emory & Henry College, a private institution, has shown a notable increase in tuition costs over the years. From 2014 to 2024, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students rose from $28,966 to $35,280, representing an increase of approximately 22%. This trend mirrors nationwide concerns about rising college costs, which can deter prospective students from attending, especially those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.

In conjunction with rising tuition, the graduation rates for undergraduate students also present a mixed picture. The percentage of students graduating on time increased significantly from approximately 15.4% in 2013 to about 45.6% in 2023. This improvement suggests that the college may be implementing effective measures to support student success and retention. However, the 150% graduation rate, while still a point of concern, also shows a relatively stable trend, indicating that many students still take longer than expected to complete their degrees.

Student retention rates have fluctuated but generally hovered around 70% to 76% over the years. The dip to 67.4% in 2023 could raise red flags regarding student satisfaction and institutional support. Retention is crucial, as it directly impacts graduation rates and reflects the overall experience students have at the institution.

Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio remained relatively stable, ranging from 10 to 12 students per faculty member. This ratio is advantageous as it may foster a more personalized educational experience, allowing for better academic support and mentorship.

In summary, while Emory & Henry College has made strides in graduation rates, the ongoing increase in tuition and recent decline in retention rates merit further examination to ensure that students receive the quality education and support necessary for their success.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Rural, near a city
Nearest major city
Winston-Salem, about 100 mi
Nearest international airport
Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO), about 120 mi
Emory, Virginia
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
United Methodist
President
A. Louise Fincher (President)
Phone
2769444121
City
Emory, Virginia
Address
30461 Garnand Drive, Emory, VA 24327-0947

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
80.5%
Women
85.8%

In 2020: men 71.1%, women 74.6%.

U.S. News National Universities · last 10 years
#317Ranked #317 every year from 2027 to 2027

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Emory & Henry University

The admission data from Emory & Henry University reveals noteworthy trends over the years, particularly in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. From 2009 to 2023, the acceptance rate for male applicants showed a significant increase, rising from approximately 67% to nearly 95%, indicating a shift towards a more inclusive admission policy. Similarly, the female acceptance rate also demonstrated an upward trend, climbing from about 78% to just under 98%. This indicates that the university is likely becoming more accessible to a broader range of applicants.
Enrollment numbers fluctuated throughout the years, peaking in 2023 with 347 new students. The substantial increase in enrollment in recent years could be reflective of the university's efforts to enhance its appeal, possibly through improved programs, facilities, or marketing strategies. The significant drop in denial numbers in 2023, which fell to just 72, may also suggest that the university is actively seeking to boost its student population by accepting a larger proportion of applicants.
Additionally, the deferral rates have been consistently high, particularly in 2021 when over 1,100 students were deferred. This could indicate a strategic approach by the university to manage its admissions process more effectively, allowing for a thorough review of applications without outright rejection.
In conclusion, Emory & Henry University's evolving admission statistics reflect a proactive stance towards increasing enrollment and diversifying its student body, aligning with broader trends in higher education where institutions aim to attract a wider array of applicants amidst growing competition.

School and Program Rankings

U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking

Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition

Health Specialty1 programs—

Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 10% submitted SAT, 11% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total1051–1223Peer median 1158
ACT composite20–26
SAT Reading
548–640
600700800
SAT Math
503–583
600700800
ACT composite
20–26
253036

Data insights

Analysis of Emory & Henry University's Admission Data Over the Years

The admission data from Emory & Henry University reveals several trends in standardized test scores and submission rates between 2007 and 2023. Notably, the percentage of admitted students submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, reaching a peak of 83% in 2016, while dropping to 63% in the most recent years (2021-2023). This decline in submission rates may reflect a broader trend in higher education as many institutions move towards test-optional policies, allowing students to apply without standardized test scores.

The SAT reading and math scores for the 25th and 75th percentiles demonstrate a gradual decline in the lower range, with scores starting from 470 in 2007 to a low of 430 in 2014, before stabilizing around the 490 mark in recent years. The upper range has shown a slight upward trend, with the 75th percentile score increasing from 590 in 2007 to 600 in 2019, indicating that while overall applicant scores may be decreasing, the higher-performing students are maintaining or improving their scores.

Interestingly, the ACT scores have also shown variability, although specific data is less detailed in the available records. Overall, the patterns may suggest that while the quality of students applying to Emory & Henry may be maintaining a level of excellence, the overall reliance on standardized testing is changing, possibly influenced by larger trends in the educational landscape regarding access and equity. This shift towards a more holistic review process could provide opportunities for a diverse range of applicants, moving beyond mere test scores as the primary criteria for admission.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 8 in 10

2,569 applicants in 2025, 83.7% admitted

2,149 admitted 420 not admitted Yield 11.9%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's2640 international (0.0%)
Master's510 international (0.0%)
Doctoral600 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
35
Exercise Science and Kinesiology
30
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management
25
Psychology, General
19
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
14
Equestrian/Equine Studies
13
Accounting
12
Mass Communication/Media Studies
12
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
12
Environmental Science
10

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Occupational Therapy/Therapist · Doctoral32 (0% international)
  • Physician Assistant · Master's28 (0% international)
  • Physical Therapy/Therapist · Doctoral28 (0% international)
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other · Master's9 (0% international)
  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's7 (0% international)
  • Mental Health Counseling/Counselor · Master's6 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Emory & Henry University

The graduation data from Emory & Henry University for 2023 reveals significant trends in various fields of study. Notably, the medical and health-related programs, specifically in Physical Therapy and Physician Assistant studies, show a robust output. While there are no bachelor's graduates in Physical Therapy, there is a notable presence of 32 doctorate graduates, indicating a strong interest in advanced clinical education in this area. This is reflective of the increasing demand for healthcare professionals, especially in specialized fields, as the healthcare sector continues to expand.

In the realm of business, the Bachelor in Business Administration has a total of 31 graduates, showcasing the program's appeal and the importance of business education in today's economy. Surprisingly, there are no international students graduating from this program, which may suggest a potential area for growth in attracting global talent.

On the other hand, fields like Creative Writing, Library and Information Science, and History show no recorded graduates, which may raise questions about student interest and program viability. This could indicate a need for curriculum reevaluation or enhanced marketing strategies to attract students to these disciplines.

Moreover, the absence of international students in most programs reflects broader trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly focusing on domestic student populations due to various geopolitical factors and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. This highlights the importance of developing inclusive strategies to diversify student demographics in higher education institutions.

Overall, the data points towards a concentrated effort in health and business fields, while also indicating potential gaps in less popular areas. As the job market continues to evolve, it will be crucial for Emory & Henry University to adapt its offerings to meet emerging needs and attract a diverse student body.

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

Health professionshas 108 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Physician Assistant.$114,527
Mental Health Counseling/Counselor.-
Occupational Therapy/Therapist.$71,386-$76,344
Physical Therapy/Therapist.$71,386-$76,344
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 64 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General.$40,415
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.$40,415
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.$40,415
Physical Fitness Technician.$40,415
Businesshas 54 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Business Administration and Management, General.-
Accounting.-
Psychology has 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.-
Educationhas 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Education, General.-
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other.-
Art Teacher Education.$42,106
Music Teacher Education.$42,106
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.$42,106
Social Studies Teacher Education.$42,106
Social sciencehas 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Economics, General.-
Economics, Other.-
Geography.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
Political Science and Government, Other.-
Sociology, General.-
Natural resources has 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Environmental Studies.-
Environmental Science.-
Agricultural has 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Equestrian/Equine Studies.-
Communication has 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Mass Communication/Media Studies.-
Biologyhas 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Visual and Performing artshas 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Graphic Design.-
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Musical Theatre.-
Fine/Studio Arts, General.-
Music Performance, General.-
Public administrationhas 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Community Organization and Advocacy.-
Cultural has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Spanish and Iberian Studies.-
History has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
History, General.-
Physical scienceshas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Chemistry, General.-
Physics, General.-
Liberal arts has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
General Studies.-
Engineeringhas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Engineering Science.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Mathematics, General.-
Philosophy has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Philosophy.-
Religion/Religious Studies.-
English has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
English Language and Literature, General.-
Creative Writing.-

Students

1,311 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 44:56 · Freshman retention 66.3%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,083)

White
682 · 63.0%
Unknown
146 · 13.5%
Black
119 · 11.0%
Two or more races
47 · 4.3%
International
37 · 3.4%
Hispanic
35 · 3.2%
Asian
11 · 1.0%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
2.4%
18–19
43.3%
20–21
41.3%
22–24
9.4%
25 and over
3.6%

Graduate students

Under 22
7.0%
22–24
53.5%
25–29
28.5%
30–34
5.3%
35 and over
5.7%

Data insights

Student Demographics at Emory & Henry University 2023

In 2023, Emory & Henry University showcased a diverse student population across various classifications, reflecting a blend of backgrounds and academic pursuits. The undergraduate new students comprised 347 individuals, with a balanced gender ratio of 49% male and 51% female, indicating a slight female majority. This trend mirrors a growing national pattern in higher education where female enrollment has been on the rise.

The undergraduate continuing students showed a slightly higher enrollment of 664, with 47.6% male and 52.4% female, maintaining the trend of female representation in academia. However, the undergraduate transfer students presented a different scenario, with a significant male majority of 65.2%. This could suggest that male students are more likely to transfer from other institutions, possibly in search of programs that better fit their academic or career goals.

Graduate students numbered 276, with a notable female majority of 69.6%. This statistic is particularly significant, as it highlights the increasing participation of women in graduate-level education, a trend observed nationwide where women now earn a larger share of advanced degrees compared to men.

Despite the overall increase in diversity, the data reveals a majority of White students across all classifications, with the undergraduate new students having 252 White individuals out of 347. This highlights the ongoing challenge of achieving greater racial and ethnic diversity within the student body, a common concern for many institutions of higher learning today. Overall, Emory & Henry University's demographic data underscores both progress in gender representation and the need for continued efforts to enhance diversity across all student populations.

Analysis of Age Distribution at Emory & Henry University

The age distribution data from Emory & Henry University reveals interesting insights into the demographic composition of its student body in 2023. The majority of undergraduate students are concentrated in the 18-19 and 20-21 age brackets, with 278 male and 299 female undergraduates aged 18-19. This suggests that the university attracts a significant number of traditional-age college students, typically enrolling right after high school.

As we look at the 20-21 age range, there is a notable representation of both genders, with 182 male and 197 female undergraduates. The slight increase in female undergraduates in this category indicates a growing trend that aligns with national statistics, where women are increasingly enrolling in higher education at higher rates than men.

The data also highlights a sharp decline in the number of students as age increases, particularly in the 25-29 age group and beyond. The presence of only a few students aged 30 and older reflects the challenges faced by non-traditional students in pursuing higher education, which can include financial burdens and family responsibilities.

Interestingly, the university also accommodates graduate students, with a significant number aged 22-24. This age group is critical for graduate programs, as many students often pursue further education shortly after completing their undergraduate degrees.

Overall, the age distribution at Emory & Henry University underscores the institution's appeal to a younger demographic while also highlighting the necessity for programs and support systems that cater to older and non-traditional students seeking further education.

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.

Undergraduates3.4%

37 in 2025 · 0.2% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.2%2017: 1.3%2018: 0.4%2019: 0.7%2020: 0.5%2021: 0.2%2022: 1.1%2023: 1.0%2024: 3.4%2025: 3.4%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students0.9%

2 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 0.0%2018: 0.0%2019: 0.4%2020: 0.4%2021: 0.0%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.0%2024: 1.2%2025: 0.9%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Emory & Henry University

The data on international student enrollment at Emory & Henry University reveals several noteworthy trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of international undergraduate students has fluctuated, with a gradual increase in their percentage among the total undergraduate population. For instance, while only 0.34% of undergraduates were international students in 2004, this figure reached 1.02% by 2023. This slow but steady growth indicates a growing acceptance of international diversity within the student body, which is crucial for enriching the educational experience.

However, the numbers also show significant volatility. For example, the peak percentage of 1.5% in 2014 was followed by a drop to just 0.20% in 2016. Such fluctuations may reflect broader economic or geopolitical factors influencing international student mobility, such as visa regulations or global events like the COVID-19 pandemic.

On the graduate side, the data is more limited but suggests an even lower representation of international students, with percentages around 2.33% in 2012 before dropping significantly in subsequent years. This highlights potential challenges in attracting graduate students from abroad, which could be addressed by enhancing recruitment strategies or offering more appealing programs.

Overall, the trends suggest Emory & Henry University is on a path to gradually increasing international student representation, but the institution must remain vigilant and proactive to sustain and enhance this growth in the face of an ever-changing global landscape.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$53,648

Undergraduate tuition
$39,000
Room and board
$14,648
Graduate tuition
$31,680
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 26% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 39%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$56.9M

Tuition and fees
$17.3M30.4%
Investment return
$14.2M25.0%
Auxiliary enterprises
$13.5M23.7%
Gifts and private grants
$9.9M17.4%
Government grants and contracts
$1.3M2.3%
Other
$721K1.3%

Expenses$58.0M

Instruction
$22.6M39.0%
Institutional support
$10.8M18.6%
Student services
$10.7M18.4%
Auxiliary enterprises
$8.2M14.2%
Academic support
$5.3M9.1%
Research
$380K0.7%

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
$69,423peers $68,006
Professor
$77,253peers $78,041
Associate professor
$78,237peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$64,345peers $63,827
Instructor
$52,594peers $55,171
Lecturer
$73,803peers $59,832

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · South Atlantic Conference

South Atlantic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division II with footballMENWOMEN
Football127-
Track and Field (Outdoor)4428
Soccer3232
Baseball52-
Lacrosse2228
Basketball2715
Wrestling1515
Swimming1215
Softball-25
Other Sports-23
Volleyball-22
Golf137
Tennis710
Equestrian--
2024
NCAA Division II with footballMENWOMEN
Football124-
Soccer3431
Track and Field (Outdoor)3826
Baseball53-
Basketball2714
Wrestling1518
Swimming1516
Softball-29
Volleyball-22
Tennis109
Golf116
Lacrosse-17
Other Sports-14
Equestrian--
2023
NCAA Division II with footballMENWOMEN
Football114-
Baseball65-
Soccer3229
Track and Field (Outdoor)3125
Basketball2914
Swimming1712
Wrestling1910
Tennis1513
Softball-23
Golf96
Volleyball-12
Equestrian--

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities surrounding Emory & Henry University:

  1. Duke University - Ranked 7th in the US News 2024 rankings, Duke is a prestigious research university located in Durham, North Carolina. Known for its strong academic programs, it offers a vibrant campus life and is renowned for its research contributions.

  2. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - With a ranking of 22, this university is one of the oldest public universities in the United States. It is recognized for its commitment to research and public service, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  3. Washington and Lee University - This liberal arts university ranks 21st and is known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education and a unique honor system. The university is situated in Lexington, Virginia, and combines a rich history with a forward-looking curriculum.

  4. Davidson College - Ranked 16th, Davidson is a highly selective liberal arts college in North Carolina. It is known for its rigorous academic standards and commitment to the liberal arts, fostering a close-knit community focused on intellectual growth.

  5. University of Tennessee-Knoxville - This university ranks 105th and offers a wide array of programs and a vibrant campus atmosphere. It is known for its research initiatives and strong community engagement.

These institutions provide various educational opportunities and are esteemed in their respective fields, making them excellent choices for prospective students in the region.

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
70
Drug referrals
27
Rape
15
Stalking
9
Fondling
5
Burglary
4

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

Data insights

Analyzing Campus Crime Trends at Emory & Henry University

The crime statistics from Emory & Henry University over the years reveal a fluctuating pattern of incidents per 1,000 students. Notably, the year 2020 saw a significant spike in criminal activity, with an average rate of 27.71 per 1,000 students. This could potentially be linked to the broader societal disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which may have impacted student behavior and safety on campus.

Interestingly, the following years witnessed a decline in crime rates, with 2021 recording the lowest rate of 10.24 per 1,000 students. This decrease is encouraging and may indicate improved safety measures or a shift in student behavior. However, the data shows a resurgence in 2022, with a crime rate of 20.26, suggesting that the university must remain vigilant and proactive in addressing safety concerns.

The types of crimes reported include serious offenses such as domestic violence and sexual assault, which are critical issues on college campuses nationwide. It is essential for universities to implement comprehensive prevention programs and support systems to combat these serious offenses and foster a safe environment for all students.

In conclusion, while the overall trend in crime rates at Emory & Henry University shows variability, attention must be paid to the underlying factors influencing these statistics. Continuous efforts to enhance campus safety and promote a culture of respect are paramount in ensuring the well-being of the student body. For further understanding of crime rates calculation, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

All 24

Notable alumni of Emory & Henry College include B. B. Comer (33rd governor of Alabama), Morgan Griffith (U.S. representative from Virginia) and Toni Atkins (Former California Senate president pro tempore).

See all 24 notable alumni of Emory & Henry College →

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.