Emory & Henry College
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
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- United Methodist
- President
- A. Louise Fincher (President)
- Phone
- 2769444121
- Address
- 30461 Garnand Drive, Emory, VA 24327-0947
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 71.1%, women 74.6%.
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
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)
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
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - | |||
| Accounting. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economics, General. | - | |||
| Economics, Other. | - | |||
| Geography. | - | |||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |||
| Political Science and Government, Other. | - | |||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - | |||
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Equestrian/Equine Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | - | |||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |||
| Musical Theatre. | - | |||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | |||
| Music Performance, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community Organization and Advocacy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish and Iberian Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | |||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - | |||
| Religion/Religious Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | |||
| Creative Writing. | - |
Students
1,311 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 44:56 · Freshman retention 66.3%
- Continuing undergraduates 771
- First-year undergraduates 256
- Graduate students 228
- Transfers and others 56
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,083)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
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.
37 in 2025 · 0.2% in 2016
2 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
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
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
Expenses$58.0M
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 · South Atlantic Conference
South Atlantic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 127 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 44 | 28 |
| Soccer | 32 | 32 |
| Baseball | 52 | - |
| Lacrosse | 22 | 28 |
| Basketball | 27 | 15 |
| Wrestling | 15 | 15 |
| Swimming | 12 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| Other Sports | - | 23 |
| Volleyball | - | 22 |
| Golf | 13 | 7 |
| Tennis | 7 | 10 |
| Equestrian | - | - |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 124 | - |
| Soccer | 34 | 31 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 38 | 26 |
| Baseball | 53 | - |
| Basketball | 27 | 14 |
| Wrestling | 15 | 18 |
| Swimming | 15 | 16 |
| Softball | - | 29 |
| Volleyball | - | 22 |
| Tennis | 10 | 9 |
| Golf | 11 | 6 |
| Lacrosse | - | 17 |
| Other Sports | - | 14 |
| Equestrian | - | - |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 114 | - |
| Baseball | 65 | - |
| Soccer | 32 | 29 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 31 | 25 |
| Basketball | 29 | 14 |
| Swimming | 17 | 12 |
| Wrestling | 19 | 10 |
| Tennis | 15 | 13 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Golf | 9 | 6 |
| Volleyball | - | 12 |
| Equestrian | - | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State UniversityBlacksburg · 83.7 mi
U.S. News #52
-
Wake Forest UniversityWinston-Salem · 96.9 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Davidson CollegeDavidson · 103.7 mi
Liberal Arts #16
-
University of North Carolina at CharlotteCharlotte · 118.5 mi
U.S. News #169
-
University of North Carolina at GreensboroGreensboro · 122.4 mi
U.S. News #208
-
North Carolina A&T State UniversityGreensboro · 124.1 mi
U.S. News #219
-
Wofford CollegeSpartanburg · 125.4 mi
Liberal Arts #68
-
The University of Tennessee-KnoxvilleKnoxville · 129.7 mi
U.S. News #109
-
Furman UniversityGreenville · 132.2 mi
Liberal Arts #57
Data insights
Here are some notable universities surrounding Emory & Henry University:
-
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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
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 24Notable 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).
-
B. B. Comer 1848–1927
33rd governor of Alabama
-
Morgan Griffith 1958–
U.S. representative from Virginia
-
Toni Atkins 1962–
Former California Senate president pro tempore
-
Fred Allison 1882–1974
Physicist who developed the Allison magneto-optic method
-
George C. Peery 1873–1952
52nd Governor of Virginia
-
Henry Carter Stuart 1855–1933
Businessman and politician from Virginia
-
Henry DeLamar Clayton 1827–1889
Alabama attorney, politician, judge and college president
-
Ariosto A. Wiley 1848–1908
U.S. Representative from Alabama
-
William E. Jones 1824–1864
Confederate Army cavalry general
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.