Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies
Acceptance rate
87.5%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$7,500
$16,242 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
3,465
Student-faculty ratio 28:1
Peer median 13 : 1
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Central Methodist University (CMU), particularly its College of Graduate and Extended Studies, is renowned for its commitment to providing quality education that is both accessible and relevant to the modern workforce. Located in Fayette, Missouri, CMU is affiliated with the United Methodist Church, which enriches its educational philosophy with a strong emphasis on ethical leadership, community service, and personal integrity. The university offers a diverse array of graduate programs aimed at accommodating the busy lives of working professionals, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to advance their careers while balancing other responsibilities.
The College of Graduate and Extended Studies prides itself on its robust online learning platform, which allows students from various geographical locations to participate in high-quality educational experiences. The faculty comprises experienced professionals who bring real-world insights into the classroom, enhancing the learning experience through practical applications of theory. CMU's dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment is evident in its vibrant campus culture, which encourages collaboration and networking among students. Furthermore, the university is committed to student success, offering various resources and support services, including academic advising and career counseling, to ensure graduates are well-prepared for their future careers. Overall, Central Methodist University stands out for its educational excellence and holistic approach to student development.
Analysis of Key Trends in Tuition, Enrollment, and Gender Ratio
The tuition costs at Central Methodist University have shown a fluctuating trend over the years, with notable increases observed since 2014. Particularly, the in-state tuition for undergraduate students rose from $6,255 in 2014 to $6,960 in 2023, marking an increase of approximately 11.3%. This increase mirrors a broader national trend of rising tuition fees, which have outpaced inflation and raised concerns about accessibility to higher education. Interestingly, the graduate tuition has experienced less volatility, remaining relatively stable, which may suggest that the institution is prioritizing affordability for undergraduate education.
Enrollment figures also reveal significant shifts, as the number of undergraduate students decreased from 4,321 in 2013 to 2,808 in 2023. This decline of around 35% raises questions about the university's recruitment strategies and market competitiveness. The drop in student numbers could be attributed to various factors, including demographic changes, economic conditions, or institutional reputation.
Gender ratios among students reflect a consistent pattern, with female students comprising the majority in both undergraduate and graduate programs. In 2023, female undergraduates represented approximately 71.2% of the population, while female graduates accounted for about 73.6%. This trend aligns with national statistics that show women increasingly outnumber men in higher education settings, highlighting the importance of addressing gender disparities in enrollment and retention strategies.
Overall, the combination of rising tuition costs, declining enrollment, and shifting gender demographics presents both challenges and opportunities for Central Methodist University. Addressing these trends through strategic initiatives could enhance the institution's appeal and sustainability in the competitive landscape of higher education.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Rural, distant
- Nearest major city
- Kansas City, about 100 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Kansas City International Airport (MCI), about 110 mi
- Also known as
- CMU - CGES
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- United Methodist
- President
- Dr. Roger Drake (President)
- Phone
- 6602483391
- Address
- 411 Central Methodist Square, Fayette, MO 65248-1198
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 100.0%, women 100.0%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Central Methodist University
The admission statistics from Central Methodist University over the years reveal some intriguing trends regarding gender admission rates and overall enrollment. Notably, the male admission rate peaked at 100% in several years, such as 2018, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023, indicating a highly selective environment for male applicants during those periods. In stark contrast, the female admission rate has shown considerable variability, starting from a high of 71.43% in 2016 and dropping to as low as 20% in 2019.
The enrollment figures reflect a modest cohort size, with the highest recorded enrollment being just seven students in 2023. This raises questions about the university's recruitment and retention strategies, especially given the small number of applications leading to such high admission rates. A pattern emerges where the number of students denied admission was relatively high in the early years, suggesting a more competitive admission process before it transitioned to a more accommodating framework.
Furthermore, the absence of denial data in more recent years may indicate a shift in the university's admissions approach, possibly reflecting broader trends in higher education where institutions are increasingly focused on attracting students amid declining enrollments nationally. This trend highlights the need for universities like Central Methodist to adapt their strategies to ensure they remain appealing and accessible to prospective students while maintaining academic standards. Overall, the data suggest a significant shift in admission strategies and outcomes, warranting further investigation into the implications for the university's academic integrity and future enrollment goals.
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 · 0% submitted SAT, 2% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Data Trends at Central Methodist University
The admission data from Central Methodist University over the years reveals a significant absence of detailed performance metrics regarding standardized test scores. Specifically, the lack of reported figures for SAT and ACT scores indicates a potential shift in the university's admission strategies, possibly moving towards a more holistic review process that may prioritize other aspects of applicant profiles over standardized testing.
In recent years, many universities have begun to adopt test-optional policies, reflecting a broader trend in higher education aimed at increasing diversity and accessibility. This approach can help in attracting a wider range of students who may have historically been disadvantaged by standardized testing methods. The absence of data for the percentage of applicants submitting their scores further complicates the analysis, suggesting that either the data was not collected or the university is intentionally focusing on other evaluative criteria.
Furthermore, the educational landscape is continually evolving, influenced by societal changes and the ongoing discussions about the efficacy of standardized tests. The pandemic has accelerated these changes, with numerous institutions reassessing their requirements to accommodate students facing unprecedented challenges. As Central Methodist University navigates these trends, it will be interesting to observe how they adapt their admission policies and whether they provide clearer insights into the profiles of admitted students in the coming years. This will not only enhance transparency but also assist prospective students in understanding what the university values most in their admissions process.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
409 applicants in 2025, 87.5% admitted
358 admitted 51 not admitted Yield 80.7%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Counseling Psychology · Master's31 (0% international)
- Education, General · Master's25 (0% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's19 (0% international)
- Mathematics, General · Master's19 (0% international)
- Business/Commerce, General · Master's11 (0% international)
- Computer/Information Technology Services Administration and Management, Other · Master's7 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Trends at Central Methodist University
The data from Central Methodist University reveals significant trends in the graduation rates across various disciplines in 2023. Notably, the health-related fields dominate the list, with Registered Nursing leading at 101 graduates, showcasing the ongoing demand for healthcare professionals. Given the recent global health crises, this trend is expected to continue as the need for qualified nurses and healthcare workers remains critical.
Education also features prominently, with various education-related programs producing a total of 74 graduates in Elementary Education and 37 in Early Childhood Education. This reflects a steady commitment to nurturing future generations, which is paramount for societal growth. However, it's interesting to note the absence of international students in these programs, indicating a possible barrier to attracting foreign talent in the educational sector.
In contrast, the business sector exhibited a moderate output with 35 graduates in General Business, and only 5 in Management Science. This could suggest a saturation in the market or a shift in student interests towards more specialized fields like healthcare and education.
The presence of computer science and technology graduates appears limited, with only 9 graduates in Computer Science and 3 in Computer and Information Sciences. This is concerning in the context of increasing digital transformation across industries, hinting at a potential gap in skills that could affect the job market.
Overall, while health and education remain strongholds at Central Methodist University, there is an evident need to diversify and encourage growth in other fields, particularly in technology and business, to better prepare graduates for a rapidly changing labor market.
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 | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | $41,660 | |||
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | - | |||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | $35,537 | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $33,387 | |||
| Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching. | $33,387 | |||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $33,387 | |||
| Music Teacher Education. | $37,456 | |||
| Social Science Teacher Education. | $37,456 | |||
| Education, Other. | $27,331 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | $40,793 | |||
| Occupational Therapist Assistant. | - | |||
| Athletic Training/Trainer. | - | |||
| Health Professions Education. | $74,061 | |||
| Nursing Education. | $74,061 | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $79,387-$92,764 | |||
| Clinical Nurse Leader. | $79,387-$92,764 | |||
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing, Other. | $79,387-$92,764 | |||
| Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $50,056 | |||
| Accounting. | $47,738 | |||
| Management Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $40,080 | |||
| Counseling Psychology. | $47,050 | |||
| Applied Behavior Analysis. | $47,050 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Computer Science. | - | |||
| Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications. | - | |||
| Computer/Information Technology Services Administration and Management, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Child Care and Support Services Management. | $36,752 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | $35,874 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $41,440 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | |||
| Professional, Technical, Business, and Scientific Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $39,963 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $37,882 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Facilities Management, General. | - |
Students
3,802 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 45:55 · Freshman retention 52.9%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,272
- First-year undergraduates 57
- Graduate students 337
- Transfers and others 2,136
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,465)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Central Methodist University (2023)
In 2023, Central Methodist University showcases a diverse student body with a notable gender distribution. The most striking observation is the high percentage of female students, particularly among undergraduate freshmen, where 100% of the cohort is female, reflecting a significant trend in higher education where more women are enrolling than men.
For undergraduate juniors, the gender ratio slightly favors females, with 79.4% women and 20.6% men, indicating a continued presence of women in academic pursuits. The undergraduate transfer students also reflect a similar trend, with women making up 78% of the group. This trend is echoed in the graduate student population, where 73.6% are women, suggesting that female students are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees.
The data also indicates a substantial representation of white students across all categories, particularly in the undergraduate junior group, where 921 of the 1093 students are white. However, there is a commendable presence of diversity, with students from various backgrounds represented among the undergraduate transfers and graduates.
Furthermore, the overall student population indicates a healthy mix of new and continuing students, with a significant number of continuing students at 1,093. The robust number of students, along with the diverse representation, positions Central Methodist University as an inclusive institution that supports a rich educational environment. As the university continues to adapt to changing demographics, ongoing efforts to enhance diversity and support for all students will be crucial for its future success.
Analysis of Student Age Distribution at Central Methodist University
The data from Central Methodist University reveals a diverse age distribution among its students for the year 2023. Notably, the largest cohort is comprised of students under 18, with 1,051 individuals, highlighting the institution's appeal to younger learners. This trend may reflect a broader societal shift where more high school students are pursuing college credits early or enrolling in dual-degree programs.
As we examine the age groups, students aged 22-24 show significant representation, with a total of 413 students, indicating that many are transitioning from undergraduate to graduate studies. This age range often represents a pivotal time for students as they finalize their educational paths and prepare to enter the workforce.
Interestingly, the data indicates a decline in participation from students aged 30 and above. For instance, those aged 30-34 and 35-39 comprise smaller numbers with 221 and 179 students, respectively. This may suggest that adult learners face more considerable barriers to returning to school, such as work and family commitments, particularly in today's economy where job security is a prevalent concern.
Moreover, the gender distribution reflects a notable trend: the total number of female students exceeds that of male students across all age groups, particularly in the younger categories. This may mirror national trends in higher education, where female enrollment has been steadily increasing.
The data indicates that Central Methodist University serves a wide range of ages, suggesting its role in fostering educational opportunities for diverse demographics. This inclusivity is vital for the institution as it adapts to the changing landscape of higher education, responding to the needs of both traditional and non-traditional students.
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.
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.8% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Central Methodist University
The data reflecting international student enrollment at Central Methodist University over the years reveals interesting trends. For undergraduate students, there has been a noticeable increase in the total number of students, from 1,281 in 2005 to 2,808 in 2023. However, the proportion of international students has remained relatively low, peaking at 0.28% in 2023, indicating that while total enrollment has increased, international students still represent a small fraction of the undergraduate population.
On the graduate side, the total number of graduate students also shows a gradual increase, albeit with fluctuations. In 2005, there were 67 graduate students, and this number rose to 337 by 2023. The percentage of international students in graduate programs has varied, with a notable increase in 2015, reaching 1.63% of the total graduate population. However, the representation has generally been modest, with the highest recorded percentage being 1.57% in 2020.
These trends reflect broader patterns in higher education, where many institutions are seeing growth in overall enrollment but struggling to attract a significant number of international students. Factors such as visa regulations, economic conditions, and global events like the COVID-19 pandemic may have influenced these dynamics. As universities increasingly recognize the value of diverse student bodies, Central Methodist University may need to implement strategies to enhance its appeal to international students, ensuring a more inclusive academic environment.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$16,242
- Undergraduate tuition
- $7,500
- Room and board
- $8,742
- Graduate tuition
- $7,425
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 4% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 99%.
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 · EADA
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of Missouri-ColumbiaColumbia · 23.8 mi
U.S. News #95
-
Missouri University of Science and TechnologyRolla · 96.2 mi
U.S. News #191
-
University of Missouri--Kansas CityKansas City · 102.0 mi
U.S. News #250
-
Principia CollegeElsah · 126.1 mi
Liberal Arts #74
-
University of Missouri--St. LouisSaint Louis · 131.2 mi
U.S. News #276
-
Washington University in St LouisSt. Louis · 132.3 mi
U.S. News #16
-
Saint Louis UniversitySaint Louis · 136.5 mi
U.S. News #100
-
University of KansasLawrence · 138.1 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Knox CollegeGalesburg · 174.0 mi
Liberal Arts #85
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies:
-
University of Missouri-Columbia - Ranked 124th in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, making it a prominent institution in Missouri.
-
Washington University in St Louis - With a ranking of 24, this prestigious university is well-known for its research programs and academic excellence. It offers a diverse array of degree options in various fields.
-
Saint Louis University - Ranked 105th, this comprehensive university is recognized for its strong emphasis on research and community engagement, providing a robust educational experience for its students.
-
University of Kansas - This comprehensive university is ranked 151st and is known for its commitment to research, innovation, and a vibrant campus life.
-
University of Missouri-St Louis - With a ranking of 260, this university offers a variety of programs and is known for its community-focused approach to education.
-
Iowa State University - Ranked 115th, this university is renowned for its engineering and agricultural programs, providing students with a solid foundation for their careers.
These institutions contribute to a rich academic environment in the region, offering numerous opportunities for collaboration and learning.
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
Analysis of Crime Rates at Central Methodist University
The crime statistics from Central Methodist University over the years reveal varying trends that merit discussion. In 2013, the university experienced a notably high crime rate, with 7.06 incidents per 1,000 students, primarily driven by gun-related arrests. This figure sharply declined in the subsequent years, reaching a low of 1.14 in 2014, reflecting perhaps a successful effort in crime prevention or changes in campus policies.
However, the data indicates fluctuations, with crime rates spiking again in 2016 and 2018, where they registered 6.20 and 6.75 per 1,000 students, respectively. This suggests that while the university has made strides in reducing crime, certain years have posed challenges that led to increased incidents, potentially due to external factors influencing campus safety, such as societal events or changes in student behavior.
By 2021, the crime rate was recorded at 5.31, indicating a resurgence in incidents, particularly in domestic violence and drug-related arrests, which are critical issues on campuses across the nation. The latest figures from 2023 show a crime rate of 6.30, highlighting ongoing concerns about safety, particularly regarding gun-related offenses.
This data underlines the importance of continuous vigilance and the need for effective crime prevention strategies on campus. As colleges and universities strive to provide a safe environment for their students, they must also adapt to changing circumstances that may impact crime rates. For a deeper understanding of how crime rates are calculated, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
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.