The University of Virginia’s College at Wise
U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027
#160
Acceptance rate
28.5%
2025
Peer median 80.5%
Out-of-state tuition
$28,010
In-state $11,780
Peer median $17,955
Undergraduates
2,142
Student-faculty ratio 14:1
Peer median 14 : 1
Graduation rate
27.3%
4-year; 6-year rate 41.8%
Peer median 26.9%
“Peers” are all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The University of Virginia's College at Wise, often referred to as UVA Wise, is a distinguished institution located in Wise, Virginia. It is part of the prestigious University of Virginia system and offers a unique blend of a liberal arts education with a strong emphasis on community engagement and personal development. One of the defining characteristics of UVA Wise is its commitment to small class sizes, which fosters close relationships between students and faculty. This personalized attention enhances the learning experience and allows students to thrive academically and socially in a supportive environment.
UVA Wise boasts a vibrant campus culture that emphasizes student involvement and leadership. The college encourages students to participate in various extracurricular activities, including clubs, organizations, and athletic programs. The campus is home to a range of facilities, including modern classrooms, a well-equipped library, and recreational areas that support both academic pursuits and leisure activities. The college’s strong focus on community service and social responsibility is reflected in its motto, "Learning, Leadership, Service," which resonates through its programs and initiatives. Graduates from UVA Wise are well-regarded for their readiness to enter the workforce, and many find successful careers in diverse fields, thanks to the college's robust career services and internship opportunities. Overall, the University of Virginia's College at Wise is dedicated to providing a comprehensive educational experience that prepares students for future success while fostering a sense of community and civic responsibility.
Analysis of Key Data Points at University of Virginia's College at Wise
The University of Virginia's College at Wise has witnessed significant trends in several key metrics over the years, particularly in tuition, student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates.
Firstly, tuition for in-state undergraduates has steadily increased from $8,509 in 2014 to $11,656 in 2024, reflecting a 37% rise over the decade. For out-of-state students, the tuition escalated from $23,565 to $32,540, marking an impressive increase of approximately 38% within the same timeframe. This upward trend in tuition costs is alarming, particularly for prospective students who may find it increasingly challenging to afford higher education, potentially leading to a decrease in enrollment or increased student debt.
Correspondingly, student enrollment has shown a declining trend, dropping from 2,420 in 2013 to 1,704 in 2023. This 30% reduction raises concerns about the institution's attractiveness and could be linked to rising tuition fees and possibly less favorable retention strategies. The retention rate also tells a noteworthy story; despite fluctuations, it ended at 69.7% in 2023, showing some recovery after a low of 60% in 2022. This indicates that while some students remain, the college may struggle to retain a significant portion of its student body, which can impact its overall reputation and funding.
Lastly, graduation rates have fluctuated but showed a promising uptick in 2023, with 30.8% of students graduating on time, compared to 25.7% in the previous year. This improvement could signal enhancements in academic support and student services, which may positively influence both retention and enrollment in the future.
In summary, while the University of Virginia's College at Wise is grappling with rising tuition and declining enrollment, recent improvements in graduation and retention rates offer a glimpse of hope. The institution must continue to focus on making education affordable and improving student experiences to reverse negative trends and attract future students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Knoxville, about 100 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), about 150 mi
- Also known as
- UVA Wise
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Donna Price Henry (Chancellor)
- Phone
- 2763280100
- Address
- 1 College Avenue, Wise, VA 24293-4400
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 80.5% · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 56.9%, women 61.8%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at University of Virginia's College at Wise
The admission data from the University of Virginia's College at Wise reveals significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment numbers over the years. Examining the trends from 2009 to 2023, it is evident that the college has experienced a noticeable decline in male acceptance rates, dropping from approximately 73% in 2009 to about 71% in 2023. Conversely, female acceptance rates have also seen variability, with an initial high rate of around 79% in 2009, peaking at 86% in 2021, and then settling at approximately 80% in 2023.
The overall enrollment figures reflect these changes, with the highest enrollment of 425 students in 2009, gradually decreasing to 251 students in 2023. This decline in enrollment might be attributed to various factors, including demographic shifts, changes in college admission policies, and the competitive landscape among institutions.
Moreover, the data indicates that the number of applicants who were denied admission peaked in 2020, coinciding with the global pandemic, which may have influenced many students’ decision-making processes regarding their higher education choices. The deferment rates also highlight the uncertainty faced by students during this period, with notable numbers deferring their admission.
In conclusion, the University of Virginia's College at Wise has navigated through ups and downs in admission rates and enrollment figures over the years. Understanding these trends is crucial for prospective students and the institution alike, as they reflect broader educational and societal dynamics at play.
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
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
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, 8% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Test Scores at University of Virginia's College at Wise
The data from the University of Virginia's College at Wise over the years shows a notable trend in the submission rates and scores of standardized tests. From 2007 to 2023, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has seen a significant decline, dropping from 87% in 2007 to just 20% in 2023. This decrease raises questions about the evolving landscape of college admissions and the increasing acceptance of alternative assessment methods.
In terms of scores, the range for the SAT reading and math sections has shown variability over the years, with the 25th percentile starting scores fluctuating between 410 and 500, while the 75th percentile ending scores have reached up to 630 in recent years. This indicates an overall improvement in the academic preparedness of those who are admitted, despite the lower submission rates.
Moreover, the ACT scores also reflect a similar trend, with a gradual increase in both the 25th and 75th percentile scores. This upward trajectory suggests that while fewer students are submitting standardized test scores, those who do are generally performing better.
The shift in admissions practices can be attributed to a growing recognition of holistic review processes, allowing colleges to consider a wider range of student achievements beyond test scores. As higher education institutions adapt to these changes, it will be interesting to observe how they maintain academic standards while also increasing access and diversity in their student bodies. The data from UVA's College at Wise serves as a valuable case study in this ongoing transformation within the college admissions landscape.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 3 in 10
6,581 applicants in 2025, 28.5% admitted
1,878 admitted 4,703 not admitted Yield 15.1%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Education, General · Master's25 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at University of Virginia's College at Wise
The graduation data from the University of Virginia's College at Wise for 2023 reveals notable trends in various disciplines. The Liberal Arts and Sciences program stands out with the highest number of graduates, totaling 66. This indicates a robust interest in interdisciplinary studies, which may reflect a broader societal trend towards valuing a well-rounded education in today's complex world.
Social Sciences follows as the second most popular area, with 44 graduates. The significance of this field is increasingly recognized, especially in light of current global events that highlight the need for understanding societal dynamics and human behavior. The strong showing in Social Sciences suggests that students are keen to engage with pressing social issues, such as inequality and cultural diversity.
On the other hand, programs in Business and Registered Nursing also produced respectable graduate numbers, at 32 and 20 respectively. These figures indicate a solid pipeline of professionals entering two critical sectors: healthcare and business. However, it is concerning to note that Computer Science and Software Engineering, fields that are pivotal in driving technological advancement, had significantly lower graduation rates, with only 8 and none respectively. This suggests a potential gap in workforce readiness in technology, which could have long-term implications for innovation and economic growth.
Interestingly, international student enrollment seems to be non-existent across all programs, which raises questions about the college's appeal to a global audience. As educational institutions increasingly compete for international talent, this could be an area for future growth. Overall, the data reveals both strengths and areas for improvement in the academic offerings and student engagement at the college.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $72,352 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | - | ||
| Management Information Systems, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | $41,102 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biological and Physical Sciences. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Software Engineering. | - |
Students
2,167 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 38:62 · Freshman retention 71.6%
- Continuing undergraduates 720
- First-year undergraduates 282
- Graduate students 25
- Transfers and others 1,140
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,142)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at the University of Virginia's College at Wise
The student demographic data from the University of Virginia's College at Wise for 2023 reveals a diverse composition across various categories of students. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 251, with a slight majority of females at 53%, indicating a healthy gender balance. The retention of students can be observed in the 652 undergraduate continuing students, who also reflect a similar gender distribution with 51.4% females.
Interestingly, the proportion of male students among undergraduate transfer students is significantly higher at 61.1%, suggesting that these students may have different motivations or backgrounds compared to their peers. The data also highlights a total of 711 non-degree students, who are predominantly female at 72.4%. This gender disparity invites further exploration into the programs or support systems that may attract female students in this category.
In terms of racial demographics, while specific breakdowns for the continuing students and non-degree students are unavailable, the freshmen class showcases a majority of white students, followed by other racial groups, indicating a need for continuous efforts towards inclusivity and diversity in recruitment. This aligns with nationwide trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly focusing on diversifying their student bodies to better reflect society.
Overall, the data from the University of Virginia's College at Wise underscores the importance of monitoring demographic trends to enhance student support and retention strategies, ensuring that all students feel represented and valued in their academic environment.
Analysis of Student Age Distribution at University of Virginia's College at Wise
The age distribution of students at the University of Virginia's College at Wise presents a diverse picture of the student body. Notably, the majority of undergraduates fall within the 18-21 age range, with 194 male and 269 female students aged 18-19, as well as 219 male and 209 female students aged 20-21. This indicates a vibrant influx of fresh, younger students, which is typical for many universities, reflecting the traditional path of students transitioning directly from high school to college.
Interestingly, as the age brackets increase, the number of students tends to decrease, particularly in the 22-24 age range where there are 99 male and 87 female undergraduates. This trend continues into the older age groups, with only 51 males and 92 females aged 25-29, highlighting a potential gap in enrollment for students who may be pursuing their education later in life.
Furthermore, the data shows a significant representation of students aged 40-49, particularly among females, with 143 enrolled in this age category. This could suggest that the university is catering to non-traditional students looking to further their education or change careers, which aligns with broader trends in higher education where adult learners are increasingly seeking degrees.
The representation of students over the age of 65 remains minimal, with only 4 males and 10 females. This could indicate that older individuals may find it challenging to return to college or may prefer alternative forms of education.
Overall, the student age composition at the University of Virginia's College at Wise illustrates a strong base of young undergraduates while also acknowledging the presence of older students, which may foster a rich, intergenerational learning environment.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at the University of Virginia's College at Wise
The data on international student enrollment at the University of Virginia's College at Wise reveals a fluctuating trend over the years, specifically from 2004 to 2022. Initially, in 2004, the institution had 16 international undergraduate students, which constituted approximately 0.94% of the total undergraduate population. However, this percentage saw a significant decrease in subsequent years, reaching a low of 0.04% in 2014, with only one international student enrolled.
This decline could be attributed to various factors, including changes in immigration policies, global economic conditions, and the overall competitiveness of U.S. higher education institutions in attracting international students. Notably, the data does not include graduate student figures, which may indicate a potential area for growth.
Interestingly, there was a slight resurgence in international student enrollment in the years leading up to 2019, with the percentage reaching 0.68% in that year. However, the subsequent years show a consistent low, with 11 international students representing 0.61% of the undergraduate population in 2022.
The challenges faced by institutions in attracting international students are evident, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has significantly impacted global mobility. As universities navigate these challenges, it will be crucial for the University of Virginia's College at Wise to develop strategies to enhance its appeal to prospective international students to foster a more diverse academic environment moving forward.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$40,826
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $28,010
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $11,780
- Room and board
- $12,816
- Graduate tuition
- $8,352
Peer median tuition + room and board $29,573 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 10% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 25%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$90.7M
Expenses$65.5M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 85 public baccalaureate colleges 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 | 88 | - |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 35 | 31 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 35 | 31 |
| Baseball | 53 | - |
| Basketball | 19 | 15 |
| Cross Country | 15 | 13 |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| Lacrosse | - | 24 |
| Tennis | 13 | 10 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Golf | 9 | 6 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 108 | - |
| Baseball | 57 | - |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 29 | 20 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 29 | 20 |
| Basketball | 21 | 15 |
| Lacrosse | - | 29 |
| Softball | - | 27 |
| Tennis | 12 | 10 |
| Cross Country | 11 | 8 |
| Golf | 9 | 6 |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 113 | - |
| Baseball | 51 | - |
| Basketball | 17 | 15 |
| Cross Country | 16 | 10 |
| Lacrosse | - | 24 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Tennis | 8 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Golf | 6 | 8 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 2 | 1 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
The University of Tennessee-KnoxvilleKnoxville · 103.5 mi
U.S. News #109
-
Berea CollegeBerea · 104.0 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State UniversityBlacksburg · 119.1 mi
U.S. News #52
-
University of KentuckyLexington · 129.7 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Centre CollegeDanville · 130.6 mi
Liberal Arts #54
-
Wake Forest UniversityWinston-Salem · 139.2 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Davidson CollegeDavidson · 139.5 mi
Liberal Arts #16
-
Furman UniversityGreenville · 141.5 mi
Liberal Arts #57
-
Wofford CollegeSpartanburg · 143.3 mi
Liberal Arts #68
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near the University of Virginia's College at Wise:
-
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville - Ranked 105 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of programs and is known for its strong research initiatives.
-
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University - With a rank of 47, Virginia Tech is recognized for its engineering and technology programs, as well as its vibrant campus life.
-
University of Kentucky - Ranked 159, this comprehensive university is known for its diverse academic offerings and strong community engagement.
-
Clemson University - This comprehensive university ranks 86 and is well-regarded for its engineering, business, and agriculture programs.
-
Davidson College - A highly ranked liberal arts college at 16, Davidson emphasizes a rigorous academic experience with a strong commitment to honor and integrity.
-
Wake Forest University - Ranked 47, Wake Forest is renowned for its liberal arts education and strong emphasis on the development of the whole person.
-
Washington and Lee University - This liberal arts university ranks 21 and is known for its rigorous academics and beautiful campus.
These institutions offer a variety of programs and experiences that complement the education provided at the University of Virginia's College at Wise.
Peer median 4.9 · all 85 public 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
Analysis of Crime Rates at University of Virginia's College at Wise
The crime data from the University of Virginia's College at Wise reflects a notable trend over the years, with fluctuations in the crime rate per 1,000 students. The data indicates a peak in 2017, with a rate of 21.07 incidents per 1,000 students, which is significantly higher than the rates in surrounding years. This spike may raise concerns about campus safety and the effectiveness of security measures during that period.
In subsequent years, there appears to be a downward trend, particularly from 2018 to 2021, where the crime rate dropped to as low as 4.41 incidents per 1,000 students. Such a decrease could indicate improved safety protocols and intervention strategies by the campus administration. However, the rates saw a slight increase again in 2023, climbing to 8.92 incidents per 1,000 students. This resurgence might suggest the need for a continued focus on crime prevention, especially in light of recent national conversations regarding campus safety and mental health.
When examining specific categories of crime, the data reveals various incidents including drug and alcohol arrests, domestic violence, and theft. The absence of serious violent crimes such as murder or rape in the provided data is a somewhat positive sign, but the presence of other crimes highlights ongoing challenges that the campus must address.
Overall, while the college has made strides in reducing crime rates, it is crucial to remain vigilant and proactive in fostering a safe environment for students. Continuous evaluation of crime prevention strategies and community engagement will be essential in maintaining and improving campus safety. For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, more information can be found at this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of The University of Virginia’s College at Wise include Boogie2988 (YouTuber known for video game rants), Hakeem Abdul-Saboor (Bobsledder at the 2018 Winter Olympics) and Jerry Kilgore (Former Attorney General of Virginia).
-
Boogie2988 1974–
YouTuber known for video game rants
-
Hakeem Abdul-Saboor 1987–
Bobsledder at the 2018 Winter Olympics
-
Jerry Kilgore 1961–
Former Attorney General of Virginia
-
Terry Kilgore 1961–
Virginia House of Delegates member and attorney
-
Bud Phillips 1950–
Virginia House of Delegates member for 11 terms
Recent News at The University of Virginia’s College at Wise
Summarized daily from the school's official news. Click "Source" for the original story.
-
The University of Virginia's College at Wise Chancellor Donna Henry presented outgoing UVA Rector Robert Hardie with the Samuel R. Crockett Award for supporting the relationship between UVA and UVA Wise.
Source: news.virginia.edu
No updates on this topic in this month.
Related News
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.