Davis & Elkins College
Acceptance rate
94.3%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$31,820
$42,645 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
661
Student-faculty ratio 10:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
37.4%
4-year; 6-year rate 50.5%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Davis & Elkins College, located in Elkins, West Virginia, is a private liberal arts college that embodies a rich tradition of academic excellence and community engagement. Established in 1904, the college offers a diverse range of undergraduate programs across disciplines such as business, education, and the arts, fostering a well-rounded education that prepares students for various career paths. The college's commitment to experiential learning is evident through its robust internship programs and community service initiatives, which allow students to gain practical experience while contributing positively to society.
The campus itself is known for its picturesque setting, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, providing a serene environment conducive to both study and recreation. The college promotes a vibrant campus culture with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs, encouraging a well-balanced student life. The college's motto, "To Know, To Love, To Serve," reflects its dedication to fostering a sense of responsibility and service among its students. With a dedicated faculty who prioritize personalized education and mentorship, Davis & Elkins College aims to cultivate not only academic success but also personal growth and ethical leadership among its graduates.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Davis & Elkins College
Davis & Elkins College, a private institution, has displayed interesting trends in several key metrics over the years. One of the most notable aspects is the increase in tuition costs for undergraduate students. Since 2014, the tuition has risen significantly from $24,992 to $31,270 in 2024, reflecting a consistent annual increase. This trend is concerning for prospective students and their families, as rising tuition often correlates with escalating student debt and financial strain.
In terms of enrollment, the college has seen a decline in the number of undergraduate students from 874 in 2014 to just 650 in 2023. This drop of approximately 26% raises questions about the institution's attractiveness and competitiveness in the current educational landscape. Factors influencing this decline could include the rising cost of attendance, shifts in student preferences, or increased competition from other institutions.
Moreover, the graduation rates present a mixed picture. The on-time graduation rate has fluctuated but demonstrates an upward trend, rising from 29.1% in 2014 to 42.7% in 2023. This improvement, though still relatively low, may indicate enhancements in academic support and student engagement strategies, potentially contributing to better retention rates, which have also shown improvement.
Gender distribution among undergraduates has remained relatively stable, with a slight predominance of female students, maintaining a ratio close to 59% female to 41% male over the years.
In summary, while Davis & Elkins College has made strides in improving graduation rates and retention, it faces challenges with rising tuition and declining enrollment. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the institution's future sustainability and reputation in higher education.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Remote town
- Nearest major city
- Pittsburgh, about 100 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), about 110 mi
- Also known as
- Davis and Elkins College, D&E College, D&E
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Presbyterian Church (USA)
- President
- Chris A. Wood (President)
- Phone
- 3046371900
- City
- Elkins, West Virginia
- Address
- 100 Campus Dr, Elkins, WV 26241-3996
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 39.4%, women 40.0%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Davis & Elkins College
The admission statistics for Davis & Elkins College over the years reveal notable fluctuations in both male and female acceptance rates, as well as changes in the overall enrollment figures. Starting from 2009, the male acceptance rate was at an impressive 83.43%, which indicates a relatively open admission policy at that time. However, this trend began to decline significantly, reaching a low of 31.34% by 2019. This sharp decrease may reflect a broader trend in higher education where more students are applying, leading to increased competition.
On the other hand, the female acceptance rate has shown less volatility but still experienced a downward trend, dropping from 78.31% in 2009 to 40.32% in 2019, before seeing a slight recovery in the following years. This disparity in acceptance rates raises questions about gender-based admission policies and could indicate shifts in the college’s strategic focus in attracting a diverse student body.
Moreover, the number of students enrolled fluctuated throughout the years, peaking at 256 in 2011, but subsequently declining to just 160 by 2021. This decline in enrollment, coupled with the increasing number of denied applicants, suggests that the institution may be facing challenges in maintaining its student population amid rising selectivity.
The data also shows a significant number of deferred admissions, particularly in the earlier years, which may indicate that the college is attempting to manage its enrollment numbers through this process. Overall, these trends reflect the changing landscape of college admissions, where institutions must balance selectivity with the need to attract and retain students in an increasingly competitive environment.
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Scores at Davis & Elkins College
The admission statistics for Davis & Elkins College over the years reveal significant trends and shifts in both the number of standardized test submissions and the resulting scores. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, reaching a peak of 58% in 2020-2022. This trend may reflect a broader national movement where students increasingly recognize the importance of standardized testing in college admissions, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw many institutions temporarily waive testing requirements.
Examining the score ranges, there is a consistent upward trend in the 25th to 75th percentile scores for both SAT and ACT. For instance, the SAT reading and math scores have shown an increase, with the middle 50% of admitted students achieving between 450-575 in recent years. This upward movement suggests that Davis & Elkins College is attracting a more academically prepared student body, which aligns with the growing emphasis on academic performance in college admissions.
Moreover, the ACT scores also reflect a similar positive trajectory, indicating an overall improvement in student preparedness. It is noteworthy that while the number of submissions increased, the college maintained a balanced acceptance rate, which is vital for sustaining diversity in the student body.
Overall, the data suggests that Davis & Elkins College is evolving in its admission strategies, adapting to changes in applicant behavior and national trends. As standardized testing continues to play a crucial role in college admissions, the college's focus on academic preparedness is likely to enhance the quality of its incoming classes.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
705 applicants in 2025, 94.3% admitted
665 admitted 40 not admitted Yield 24.8%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Davis & Elkins College
The graduation data from Davis & Elkins College for 2023 reveals some interesting trends across various fields of study. Notably, the Business Administration and Management program stands out with a significant number of graduates, marking a total of 34 students, which indicates a robust interest in business-related fields. This aligns with the growing demand for skilled professionals in the business sector, particularly in the aftermath of economic shifts caused by the pandemic.
In the health-related disciplines, Registered Nursing produced 17 graduates, reflecting the ongoing need for healthcare professionals. This is especially pertinent given the heightened focus on health and wellness in recent years, driven by global health crises. The emphasis on nursing education can be seen as a response to both the aging population and the critical care demands of health systems.
Additionally, the data indicates that education remains a vital area, with several programs yielding graduates, including Elementary Education and Teaching. This trend indicates a commitment to preparing future educators, which is essential for societal development.
Interestingly, the data shows minimal representation of international students in several fields, highlighting an area for potential growth. The inclusion of more diverse perspectives through international enrollment can enrich the academic environment and better prepare graduates for a globalized workforce.
Overall, the information from Davis & Elkins College points to a balanced focus on business, health, and education, while also suggesting opportunities to enhance diversity within the student body. As the job market continues to evolve, these programs are well-positioned to meet the emerging demands for skilled professionals.
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 | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Community Health and Preventive Medicine. | - | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $62,379 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $48,071 | ||
| Accounting. | - | ||
| Finance, General. | - | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - | ||
| Hospitality and Recreation Marketing Operations. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Facilities Management, General. | - | ||
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - | ||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $33,248 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | ||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | ||
| Education/Teaching of Individuals with Autism. | - | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | ||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminology. | - | ||
| Economics, General. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial and Product Design. | - | ||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | ||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - | ||
| Environmental/Natural Resources Management and Policy, General. | - | ||
| Forest Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | - |
Students
661 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 43:57 · Freshman retention 65.2%
- Continuing undergraduates 454
- First-year undergraduates 165
- Transfers and others 42
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (661)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Diversity and Gender Representation at Davis & Elkins College in 2023
The student demographic data from Davis & Elkins College in 2023 reveals significant insights into the composition of its undergraduate and graduate population. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 180, where the gender distribution shows a higher presence of female students, with girls making up 56.7% of the cohort compared to 43.3% of boys. This trend continues among the undergraduate juniors, who total 422, with women constituting 59.7% of the group, indicating a consistent inclination towards a more female-dominant environment in terms of enrollment.
The transfer student population is notably smaller, with only 42 students, and again, women hold a larger share at 64.3%. Such gender disparities in student populations may reflect broader societal trends in higher education, where female enrollment has been steadily increasing over the years, often outpacing male enrollment in various institutions across the United States.
Moreover, the diversity among students, particularly concerning racial and ethnic backgrounds, is an essential aspect of the college's demographic profile. Among the freshmen, 110 students identify as White, alongside representation from other ethnic groups. However, data for the juniors and transfer students regarding their racial breakdown is not available, which limits comprehensive analysis.
This focus on gender and diversity is crucial for colleges as they strive to create inclusive environments that reflect the demographics of the broader society. As educational institutions continue to navigate these changes, understanding the implications of their student composition is vital for fostering an equitable academic atmosphere.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Davis & Elkins College in 2023
The age distribution of students at Davis & Elkins College in 2023 reveals a predominance of younger individuals, particularly those aged 18-21. This demographic accounts for the largest segment of the student body, with 109 male and 164 female undergraduates aged 18-19, and 99 male and 128 female undergraduates aged 20-21. Collectively, these two groups make up approximately 69% of the total enrolled students, highlighting the college's appeal to traditional-age students entering higher education.
Interestingly, there is a noticeable decline in enrollment for students aged 22 and older. The groups aged 22-24, 25-29, and 30-34 have significantly fewer students, with only 39, 6, and 3 male students, respectively. This trend is reflective of broader patterns observed in higher education, where younger students often dominate undergraduate programs.
Moreover, the absence of male graduate students suggests that the college may have limited graduate offerings or that the institution is primarily focused on undergraduate education. The total number of female students remains consistently higher across all age brackets, which might indicate ongoing trends in gender enrollment in higher education, where female students increasingly outnumber their male counterparts.
Overall, the age composition data points to a youthful demographic at Davis & Elkins College, reinforcing the notion that the institution primarily serves traditional college-age students while also reflecting broader societal trends in student enrollment patterns. This data could encourage the college to explore strategies to attract older and graduate students, thereby diversifying its academic community.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
96 in 2025 · 10.7% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Davis & Elkins College
The data on international student enrollment at Davis & Elkins College reveals significant trends over the years, particularly in the undergraduate sector. From 2006 to 2023, the number of international undergraduates has seen fluctuations, with a notable increase starting around 2012. In that year, the percentage of international students surged to 9.57%, indicating a growing interest from overseas students in the college. This upward trend peaked in 2015, with a record 14.54% of the undergraduate population being international students.
However, this growth was not consistent. The numbers began to decline after 2015, with the percentage dropping to 3.39% by 2021. Such fluctuations could be attributed to various factors, including changes in immigration policies, global events like the COVID-19 pandemic, and shifts in international student preferences. The decline during the pandemic period is particularly noteworthy, as many institutions faced similar challenges, leading to decreased enrollment.
Interestingly, the data shows a modest recovery in the percentage of international students by 2023, reaching 7.69%. This suggests that while challenges remain, there is a potential resurgence in interest from international students as conditions improve globally.
In contrast, there is a lack of data for graduate programs, making it challenging to analyze trends in that sector. Overall, these insights underline the importance of monitoring international enrollment trends, as they reflect broader global dynamics and the competitive landscape of higher education.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$42,645
- Undergraduate tuition
- $31,820
- Room and board
- $10,825
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 16% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 17%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$29.6M
Expenses$24.7M
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 · Mountain East Conference
Mountain East Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 55 | 41 |
| Soccer | 56 | 31 |
| Lacrosse | 37 | 31 |
| Basketball | 37 | 20 |
| Baseball | 38 | - |
| Softball | - | 32 |
| Swimming | 9 | 17 |
| Tennis | 12 | 8 |
| Golf | 14 | 5 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Wrestling | 14 | - |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 52 | 54 |
| Soccer | 46 | 35 |
| Lacrosse | 38 | 27 |
| Basketball | 30 | 17 |
| Baseball | 41 | - |
| Swimming | 14 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Tennis | 10 | 10 |
| Wrestling | 20 | - |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Golf | 9 | 6 |
| Other Sports | - | 7 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 58 | 50 |
| Soccer | 42 | 33 |
| Lacrosse | 31 | 22 |
| Basketball | 22 | 18 |
| Swimming | 19 | 17 |
| Softball | - | 28 |
| Baseball | 22 | - |
| Wrestling | 22 | - |
| Volleyball | - | 21 |
| Golf | 11 | 6 |
| Tennis | 10 | 6 |
| Other Sports | - | 16 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
West Virginia UniversityMorgantown · 48.9 mi
U.S. News #227
-
James Madison UniversityHarrisonburg · 62.8 mi
U.S. News #137
-
Washington and Lee UniversityLexington · 81.9 mi
Liberal Arts #12
-
Virginia Military InstituteLexington · 81.9 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
Washington and Jefferson CollegeWashington · 88.2 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
Shenandoah UniversityWinchester · 92.1 mi
U.S. News #288
-
University of Virginia-Main CampusCharlottesville · 95.4 mi
U.S. News #26
-
Duquesne UniversityPittsburgh · 104.3 mi
U.S. News #156
-
Carnegie Mellon UniversityPittsburgh · 104.6 mi
U.S. News #14
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Davis & Elkins College:
-
West Virginia University - Ranked 216 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a diverse range of programs and is well-known for its research initiatives.
-
James Madison University - With a ranking of 124, this comprehensive university emphasizes a student-centered approach to learning and has a strong reputation for its business and education programs.
-
Washington and Lee University - This highly regarded liberal arts college ranks 21st. It is known for its rigorous academics, particularly in the fields of law and business.
-
Virginia Military Institute - Ranking 63, this liberal arts institution focuses on military education and leadership development, providing a unique experience for its cadets.
-
University of Virginia-Main Campus - A prestigious institution ranked 24th, known for its strong liberal arts education and vibrant campus life.
-
Carnegie Mellon University - Also ranked 24th, this comprehensive university is renowned for its programs in technology, arts, and business.
-
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University - Known as Virginia Tech, this comprehensive school ranks 47th and is celebrated for its engineering and technology programs.
-
Georgetown University - A highly esteemed institution, ranked 22nd, known for its strong programs in international relations and law.
These institutions offer a variety of academic programs and opportunities for students in the region.
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
Analysis of Crime Data at Davis & Elkins College
The crime data from Davis & Elkins College over the years shows significant fluctuations in the number of incidents per 1,000 students. Notably, the year 2016 exhibited the highest crime rate at 27.89 incidents per 1,000 students, which raises concerns about campus safety during that period. This spike might be attributed to various factors, including social dynamics or external influences affecting student behavior.
In contrast, the years 2021 and 2022 recorded considerably lower rates, with 9.76 and 13.31 incidents per 1,000 students respectively. This decline could indicate improved safety measures or heightened awareness and prevention efforts regarding campus crime. However, the data for 2023 shows a rise to 16.92 incidents per 1,000 students, suggesting that the college may need to reassess its strategies to maintain a secure environment for students.
Among the specific types of incidents, firearms-related arrests and drug-related offenses appear to be significant contributors to the overall crime rates. The persistent issue of drug arrests emphasizes the ongoing challenge colleges face in addressing substance use among students.
Understanding these trends is crucial for the college administration as they develop policies and programs aimed at enhancing student safety and wellbeing. A comprehensive approach that includes education, prevention, and community engagement can help mitigate these issues. For more on calculating crime rates, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Davis & Elkins College include Richard K. Sutherland (US Army lieutenant general, MacArthur's chief of staff), Press Maravich (College and professional basketball coach) and Kaia Kater (Canadian singer-songwriter and banjo player).
-
Richard K. Sutherland 1893–1966
US Army lieutenant general, MacArthur's chief of staff
-
Press Maravich 1915–1987
College and professional basketball coach
-
Kaia Kater 1993–
Canadian singer-songwriter and banjo player
-
Bill Nuttall 1948–
Soccer player, coach, broadcaster and executive
-
Tex Irvin 1906–1978
NFL tackle for the New York Giants
-
Tobi Stoner 1984–
Former MLB pitcher
-
Glenn Davis 2000–
Soccer sportscaster for Houston Dynamo FC
-
Ron Fragale 1950–2024
West Virginia House of Delegates member
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.