Randolph-Macon College
U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027
#85
Up 11 from 2026
Acceptance rate
86.6%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$49,466
$64,006 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
1,643
Student-faculty ratio 11:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
67.9%
4-year; 6-year rate 74.0%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Randolph-Macon College, located in Ashland, Virginia, is a distinguished liberal arts college with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1830. Known for its commitment to academic excellence, the college emphasizes a well-rounded education that fosters critical thinking, creativity, and leadership. The campus is characterized by its picturesque setting, featuring beautiful historic buildings and modern facilities that create a vibrant learning environment. The college’s motto, "Via, Veritas, Vita" translates to "The Way, The Truth, The Life," reflecting its dedication to developing well-informed, ethical leaders prepared to make meaningful contributions to society.
The college offers a wide range of programs, with notable strengths in the fields of business, education, and the sciences. Randolph-Macon College prides itself on small class sizes, allowing for personalized attention from highly qualified faculty members who are dedicated to student success. The campus culture is rich with opportunities for student engagement, including numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic programs, which promote a sense of community and student involvement. Additionally, the college encourages students to participate in internships and research opportunities, which greatly enhance their employability upon graduation. The strong network of alumni provides current students with valuable connections and career resources, further supporting their professional development and success after leaving the college.
Analysis of Tuition Trends and Student Outcomes at Randolph-Macon College
Over the past decade, Randolph-Macon College has experienced a notable rise in tuition fees, with in-state and out-of-state undergraduate tuition increasing from $34,850 in 2014 to $48,002 in 2024. This represents a substantial growth of approximately 38% over ten years. As tuition continues to escalate, it raises concerns regarding the affordability of higher education, particularly for middle-income families. The rising costs of education are a growing topic in national discourse, with many institutions grappling with how to balance financial sustainability and access for students.
In conjunction with tuition increases, the college has seen fluctuations in student enrollment. The number of undergraduate students rose from 1,312 in 2013 to a peak of 1,554 in 2021, but has since declined to 1,490 in 2023. This trend may reflect broader patterns in higher education, as many colleges face challenges in attracting and retaining students, particularly in a competitive landscape where online education and alternative pathways are becoming more prevalent.
Retention rates have shown a positive trajectory, with a significant increase observed from 77.37% in 2014 to 87.47% in 2021. However, this rate has stabilized around 81% in recent years. A higher retention rate is crucial as it indicates student satisfaction and institutional effectiveness in supporting students through their academic journeys.
Graduation rates have also seen improvement, particularly in the on-time graduation rate, which stood at 63.09% in 2022 and slightly decreased to 60.57% in 2023. This indicates that while more students are persisting in their studies, the challenge remains to ensure they graduate within a timely manner, especially in light of increasing financial burdens.
In summary, Randolph-Macon College is navigating a complex landscape characterized by rising tuition, variable enrollment numbers, and improving retention and graduation rates. As the institution continues to adapt, its strategies to enhance affordability and student success will be critical to maintaining its appeal and ensuring that it meets the needs of future students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Richmond, about 15 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Richmond International Airport (RIC), about 20 mi
- Also known as
- Randolph-Macon
- Academic calendar
- 4-1-4
- Religious affiliation
- United Methodist
- President
- Michael E. Hill (President)
- Phone
- 8047527200
- Address
- 204 Henry St, Ashland, VA 23005-5505
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 67.5%, women 74.0%.
Best #85, lowest #107, latest #85 over the last ten years.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Randolph-Macon College
The admission data for Randolph-Macon College reveals notable trends over the years, particularly concerning acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Starting from 2009, the male acceptance rate fluctuated significantly, peaking at approximately 81.79% in 2022 and then slightly declining to about 85.19% in 2023. Similarly, the female acceptance rate also saw a gradual increase, reaching around 85.70% in 2023.
These trends suggest that the college has become more inclusive over time, likely reflecting broader shifts in higher education towards accommodating a diverse student body. The increase in acceptance rates, particularly in recent years, may indicate a strategic decision by the college to expand its enrollment capacity amid growing competition among institutions for students.
The enrollment numbers have shown variability, with the highest count reaching 441 students in 2021, while the numbers in recent years have remained robust, indicating a healthy interest in the college despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The consistent number of denied applicants, paired with the fluctuating deferral rates, suggests a careful selection process that could be aimed at maintaining academic standards while also responding to the evolving educational landscape.
Overall, Randolph-Macon College appears to be adapting to current trends in college admissions, emphasizing inclusivity and maintaining a steady enrollment strategy. As it moves forward, the college may need to continue balancing these factors with its institutional goals and the changing demographics of prospective students.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 26% submitted SAT, 2% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Randolph-Macon College Admission Trends
The admission data from Randolph-Macon College over the years presents an interesting narrative regarding the academic preparedness of incoming students, as evidenced by both SAT and ACT scores. Notably, the number of students submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, with a significant drop in the most recent year, where only 45% of admitted students submitted their scores. This trend may reflect a broader shift in college admissions practices, where test-optional policies have gained traction, encouraging students to apply without the pressure of standardized testing.
Moreover, the score ranges for critical sections like reading and math have shown an upward trend, particularly from 2008 to 2023, indicating that the college is attracting students with increasingly competitive scores. In 2023, the 25th percentile marks for reading and math have reached 520, while the 75th percentile scores have risen to 630, suggesting that the institution is maintaining a high academic standard for its admitted students.
The number of students submitting ACT scores also highlights a consistent interest, though the overall percentages indicate fluctuating engagement. The admissions data reflects a broader trend in higher education where institutions are increasingly balancing academic metrics with a holistic view of student qualifications.
In conclusion, Randolph-Macon College's admission data illustrates a significant evolution in both the applicant pool and the institution's standards, underscoring the changing landscape of college admissions in the United States. The decline in test submissions and the rise in score ranges may indicate a more diverse and academically prepared student body, adapting to new norms in higher education.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
3,242 applicants in 2025, 86.6% admitted
2,808 admitted 434 not admitted Yield 18.9%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Physician Assistant · Master's22 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Randolph-Macon College
The graduation data from Randolph-Macon College in 2023 reveals significant insights into the academic trends and preferences among students. Notably, the Business/Commerce programs lead the number of bachelor's degrees awarded, with 63 graduates, highlighting the enduring appeal of business education in a competitive job market. This trend aligns with the increasing demand for business-oriented skills among employers, especially in the wake of the economic recovery post-pandemic.
Biology and Registered Nursing also show strong enrollment, with 39 and 36 graduates respectively, indicating a robust interest in health-related fields. This is particularly relevant given the heightened focus on healthcare due to the global health crisis, as well as ongoing shortages in nursing professionals. The lack of master's or doctoral graduates in these fields suggests that many students are entering the workforce directly after their undergraduate studies.
Furthermore, the data indicates a limited representation of international students, particularly in bachelor's programs, with only a few graduates in disciplines such as Computer Science and Sociology. This may reflect broader trends in U.S. higher education, where international student enrollment has fluctuated due to various factors, including visa regulations and global mobility constraints.
Interestingly, programs like Psychology, Engineering, and the Arts have lower graduation numbers, suggesting either limited student interest or possible challenges in program offerings. The absence of graduates in education-related fields could signal a potential gap in workforce preparation for teaching professions, which are essential for future societal development.
Overall, these trends not only mirror national educational patterns but also pose questions about future program development and recruitment strategies to 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $53,691 | ||
| Accounting. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physician Assistant. | - | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $35,948 | ||
| Neuroscience. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminology. | - | ||
| Economics, General. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $51,830 | ||
| Sociology, General. | - | ||
| Sociology and Anthropology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $31,012 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $53,416 | ||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | $47,801 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering, General. | - | ||
| Engineering Physics/Applied Physics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asian Studies/Civilization. | - | ||
| Women's Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | ||
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | ||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | ||
| Music, General. | - | ||
| Fine and Studio Arts Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| German Language and Literature. | - | ||
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - | ||
| Hispanic and Latin American Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, General. | - | ||
| Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, General. | - | ||
| Ancient/Classical Greek Language and Literature. | - | ||
| Latin Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | ||
| Writing, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classical, Ancient Mediterranean, and Near Eastern Studies and Archaeology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - | ||
| Religion/Religious Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | $30,510 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - | ||
| Applied Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
Students
1,687 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 47:53 · Freshman retention 83.7%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,039
- First-year undergraduates 532
- Graduate students 44
- Transfers and others 72
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,643)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Demographic Insights at Randolph-Macon College in 2023
The student body at Randolph-Macon College in 2023 showcases a diverse and dynamic educational environment. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 415 students, with females representing 55.2% and males making up 44.8%. This slightly higher female enrollment reflects a growing trend observed in many higher education institutions, where female students increasingly outnumber their male counterparts.
For the undergraduate juniors, the total population is 1,017, with a gender distribution closely mirroring that of the freshmen, where females account for 55.1% and males for 44.9%. The consistent gender ratios suggest a stable environment that likely encourages student retention and satisfaction among both genders.
Interestingly, the transfer students total only 44, but the gender ratio shifts significantly, with males constituting 59.1% and females 40.9%. This could indicate that male students may be more likely to transfer into the college, possibly due to specific academic programs or institutional supports appealing to them.
In addition to gender dynamics, understanding racial and ethnic diversity is crucial for fostering an inclusive campus culture. While specific data on racial breakdowns are not fully available, the presence of various ethnic groups enriches the educational experience, preparing students for a globalized society. Overall, Randolph-Macon College appears to be cultivating a vibrant community, reflecting broader demographic trends in higher education today.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Randolph-Macon College
The age distribution of students at Randolph-Macon College reveals some interesting trends that reflect broader patterns seen in higher education. A notable concentration of students falls within the 18-19 and 20-21 age brackets, which collectively account for a significant majority of the undergraduate population. Specifically, 289 male and 358 female students aged 18-19, as well as 305 male and 394 female students aged 20-21, indicate that the college attracts a large number of traditional-aged students, which is typical for undergraduate institutions.
In contrast, there is a sharp decline in enrollment for older age groups, particularly those aged 22-24, with only 71 male and 37 female students. This trend suggests that many students are completing their degrees within the typical four-year timeframe, thus limiting the number of older undergraduates. Furthermore, the representation of students aged 25 and above is minimal, with only 4 males and 5 females in the 25-29 category, and even fewer in the subsequent age groups.
This age distribution raises questions about the accessibility of higher education for non-traditional students. Nationally, there has been a push for colleges to cater to a more diverse age range, especially as adult learners increasingly seek to further their education. The predominance of younger students at Randolph-Macon may reflect the institution's focus on traditional undergraduate experiences while potentially overlooking the needs of older learners who could benefit from flexible programs. As the landscape of education continues to evolve, it will be crucial for institutions like Randolph-Macon to consider strategies that accommodate a wider range of ages and experiences in their student body.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
17 in 2025 · 2.2% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2024
Data insights
International Student Trends at Randolph-Macon College
The data from Randolph-Macon College reveals a noteworthy trend in the enrollment of international students over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the total number of undergraduate students has shown a gradual increase, growing from 1,118 in 2004 to 1,490 in 2023. Correspondingly, the number of international students has fluctuated, with a marked peak of 39 international students recorded in both 2019 and 2022, translating to 2.62% and 2.60% of the total undergraduate population, respectively.
While the percentage of international students in the undergraduate cohort has generally remained low, with figures mostly hovering around 1.5% to 2.6%, it is significant to note the increasing interest from international students towards higher education in the U.S. This trend mirrors a broader national phenomenon where U.S. colleges and universities see a steady influx of international students seeking quality education and diverse academic environments.
However, the absence of graduate student data in this timeframe is a limitation that prevents a comprehensive analysis of the overall international student landscape at Randolph-Macon College. The fluctuations in undergraduate international student numbers could be reflective of global events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly impacted international travel and education.
Overall, the data highlights the importance of fostering an inclusive environment for international students, as they contribute to the cultural and academic diversity of the campus community. In light of ongoing global challenges, colleges must continue to adapt their strategies to attract and support international students, ensuring that they feel welcomed and valued in their academic pursuits.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$64,006
- Undergraduate tuition
- $49,466
- Room and board
- $14,540
- Graduate tuition
- $47,780
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 32% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 34%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$72.7M
Expenses$65.6M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Other · Old Dominion Athletic Conference
Old Dominion Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 142 | - |
| Lacrosse | 51 | 30 |
| Soccer | 36 | 31 |
| Baseball | 52 | - |
| Swimming | 30 | 21 |
| Volleyball | 21 | 19 |
| Basketball | 15 | 17 |
| Field Hockey | - | 27 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Tennis | 13 | 9 |
| Golf | 11 | 8 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 133 | - |
| Lacrosse | 55 | 31 |
| Soccer | 40 | 33 |
| Baseball | 50 | - |
| Swimming | 19 | 19 |
| Volleyball | 19 | 18 |
| Basketball | 18 | 13 |
| Field Hockey | - | 27 |
| Softball | - | 27 |
| Tennis | 8 | 13 |
| Golf | 10 | 7 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 125 | - |
| Soccer | 36 | 36 |
| Lacrosse | 44 | 27 |
| Baseball | 46 | - |
| Swimming | 16 | 18 |
| Volleyball | 19 | 15 |
| Basketball | 17 | 16 |
| Field Hockey | - | 23 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Tennis | 9 | 12 |
| Golf | 12 | 6 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of RichmondUniversity of Richmond · 13.1 mi
Liberal Arts #21
-
Virginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmond · 14.6 mi
U.S. News #156
-
College of William and MaryWilliamsburg · 54.2 mi
U.S. News #52
-
University of Virginia-Main CampusCharlottesville · 59.0 mi
U.S. News #26
-
George Mason UniversityFairfax · 74.6 mi
U.S. News #121
-
Marymount UniversityArlington · 81.4 mi
U.S. News #276
-
George Washington UniversityWashington · 82.1 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Georgetown UniversityWashington · 82.3 mi
U.S. News #23
-
Gallaudet UniversityWashington · 83.5 mi
U.S. News #179
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Randolph-Macon College:
-
University of Richmond - Ranked 25th in the 2024 US News rankings, this liberal arts university is known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education and a beautiful campus.
-
William & Mary - With a ranking of 53, this prestigious public research university offers a rich history and a commitment to academic excellence, making it one of the oldest institutions in the United States.
-
University of Virginia-Main Campus - Ranked 24th, this prestigious public university is recognized for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Georgetown University - This highly esteemed institution ranks 22nd and is renowned for its strong programs in international relations, law, and business.
-
George Washington University - With a ranking of 67, this university is located in the heart of the nation's capital, offering students unique opportunities for internships and engagement with political and civic life.
These schools are excellent choices for higher education and are well-regarded for their academic programs and campus communities.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Crime Trends at Randolph-Macon College: A Closer Look
The data from Randolph-Macon College presents an intriguing narrative regarding campus crime and conduct violations over the past decade. Notably, there has been a significant downward trend in the overall crime rate per 1,000 students from 2013 to 2022. In 2013, the average rate was a concerning 43.90 incidents per 1,000 students, but this has steadily declined to 15.86 incidents in 2022. This decline indicates that the college has potentially implemented more effective safety measures and educational programs aimed at reducing crime and enhancing student well-being.
Drilling down into specific types of offenses, we see that incidents of drug-related arrests and alcohol-related arrests fluctuate over the years. For instance, while the data shows a higher incidence of alcohol-related arrests in certain years, there appears to be a general decrease in the overall crime rate, suggesting that students may be becoming more aware of the consequences of such actions.
However, the uptick in crime rates in 2023, where the average climbed back to 26.85, raises concerns and suggests that this issue may not be fully resolved. The college community will need to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing these challenges to ensure a safe and conducive learning environment.
Overall, while the trend is encouraging, it is essential for the college administration and students alike to continue fostering a culture of safety and responsibility on campus. For those interested in understanding how these crime rates are calculated, more information can be found here.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of Randolph-Macon College include Pearl S. Buck (Writer, author of The Good Earth, Nobel Prize winner), Blanche Lincoln (Former U.S. senator from Arkansas) and William Alphonso Murrill (Botanist and mycologist).
-
Pearl S. Buck 1892–1973
Writer, author of The Good Earth, Nobel Prize winner
-
Blanche Lincoln 1960–
Former U.S. senator from Arkansas
-
William Alphonso Murrill 1869–1957
Botanist and mycologist
-
Randy Forbes 1952–
Former U.S. representative from Virginia
-
Claude A. Swanson 1862–1939
Virginia Senator and Secretary of the Navy under FDR
-
Hugh Scott 1900–1994
Politician, lawyer and district attorney
-
Dorian Leigh 1917–2008
Model, one of the first supermodels
-
Thomas Jordan Jarvis 1836–1915
44th Governor of North Carolina
-
John Letcher 1813–1884
34th Governor of Virginia during the Civil War
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.