Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte
Acceptance rate
79.9%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$41,982
$56,782 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
1,184
Student-faculty ratio 14:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
34.4%
4-year; 6-year rate 41.2%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte is a branch of the renowned Johnson & Wales University, which is well-known for its career-focused education and innovative curriculum. Located in Charlotte, North Carolina, this campus offers a vibrant learning environment that is enriched by the city's dynamic culture and business landscape. The university specializes in various programs, particularly in hospitality, culinary arts, and business, equipping students with practical skills and experiences that are essential for their future careers. The strong emphasis on experiential learning allows students to engage with industry professionals and gain hands-on experience through internships and co-op programs, significantly enhancing their employability upon graduation.
The campus is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, kitchens, and laboratories that support the university's culinary and business programs. The welcoming and inclusive atmosphere fosters student engagement and collaboration, encouraging a sense of community among the diverse student body. Furthermore, Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte has a strong commitment to student success, providing ample resources such as academic advising, career services, and extracurricular activities that contribute to a well-rounded educational experience. With its focus on practical learning and professional development, the university prepares its graduates to excel in their chosen fields, many of whom have gone on to achieve notable success in the hospitality and business sectors.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte
Over the years, Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte has exhibited notable trends in tuition costs, student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates. A significant aspect is the steady increase in tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. From 2014 to 2024, tuition for in-state students rose from $27,156 to $39,992, representing a staggering increase of approximately 47%. This trend reflects a broader national issue of rising college costs, which continues to put a financial strain on students and families.
Concurrently, the student enrollment numbers have seen a sharp decline. From 2014's 2,325 undergraduates, the number fell to just 1,140 in 2023, indicating a decrease of over 50%. This decline raises concerns about the university's appeal and the factors driving prospective students away, such as tuition costs or competition from other institutions.
Moreover, the graduation rates have been fluctuating, with the on-time graduation rate showing some improvement from 39.8% in 2014 to 44.5% in 2023. However, the rates remain low compared to national averages, suggesting that while some students may be completing their degrees on time, many still struggle to do so within the expected timeframe.
Lastly, retention rates have also seen a downward trend, dropping from about 73% in 2013 to approximately 63.7% in 2023. This decline indicates that a significant number of students are not returning for their second year, which may further contribute to the decreasing enrollment figures.
In summary, while tuition costs have escalated, the university faces challenges with declining enrollment and retention rates, coupled with fluctuating graduation statistics. Addressing these issues will be crucial for improving the university's overall standing and ensuring long-term sustainability.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- In Charlotte
- Nearest international airport
- Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), about 5 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Richard G. Mathieu, Ph.D. (President, Charlotte Campus)
- Phone
- 8665982427
- City
- Charlotte, North Carolina
- Address
- Academic Center, 801 West Trade Street, Charlotte, NC 28202
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 79.7%, women 87.5%.
Data insights
Trends in Admissions at Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte
The admissions data for Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte reveals significant trends over the years, highlighting both the challenges and successes in attracting students. From 2009 to 2023, the acceptance rates for male applicants have shown an overall upward trajectory, climbing from approximately 58.7% to about 68.0%. This indicates that the institution has become slightly more accessible to male students over time. In contrast, the acceptance rates for female applicants peaked at 87.1% in 2018 but have since seen a decline to approximately 75.7% in 2023. This fluctuation may reflect various factors, including changes in application numbers or shifts in institutional priorities.
The enrollment numbers also reveal interesting patterns, with the highest enrollment recorded at 733 in 2011, followed by a gradual decline in subsequent years, reaching a low of 392 in 2023. This decline in enrollment may be influenced by broader trends in higher education, including demographic shifts and increased competition among universities, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has reshaped student preferences and priorities.
Moreover, the number of applicants denied admission has generally decreased, suggesting a potential strategic focus on attracting a more targeted, committed applicant pool. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte will need to adapt its strategies to maintain its appeal and ensure sustainable enrollment numbers moving forward.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 10% submitted SAT, 6% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Admissions Data at Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte
The admissions data from Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte reveals some interesting trends, particularly in the most recent year, 2023. The reported SAT reading scores for the 25th percentile start at 450, while the 75th percentile ends at 562. This range indicates that there is a moderate level of academic performance among admitted students, which reflects the university's commitment to a diverse student body with varying academic strengths.
With only 11% of admitted students submitting SAT scores, it highlights a broader trend in higher education where institutions are increasingly adopting test-optional policies. This shift allows universities to focus on a more holistic review process, considering various aspects of a student's application beyond standardized test scores, such as extracurricular activities, personal statements, and letters of recommendation.
Moreover, the lack of data for the previous years suggests a potential inconsistency in score reporting or a shift in how admissions data is collected and presented. This absence of longitudinal data makes it challenging to analyze trends over time effectively. As universities adapt to changing educational landscapes and student needs, it is crucial for institutions like Johnson & Wales University to maintain transparency in their admissions processes and provide comprehensive data to prospective students.
In summary, the 2023 data reflects a significant shift towards inclusivity in college admissions, emphasizing a more holistic approach while still maintaining certain academic standards for incoming students. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte and similar institutions adapt their strategies to attract a diverse and talented student body.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
4,105 applicants in 2025, 79.9% admitted
3,279 admitted 826 not admitted Yield 13.7%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte
The graduation data from Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte reveals several noteworthy trends in the degrees conferred across various programs. A significant observation is the dominance of bachelor's degrees, particularly in fields related to business and management. For instance, the highest number of graduates in the bachelor category is from Foodservice Systems Administration/Management, with 36 graduates, showcasing the university's strength in hospitality and food service education.
Interestingly, while the bachelor’s programs are robust, the absence of any master's or doctorate graduates indicates a concentration on undergraduate education in these fields. This trend may reflect the university's strategic focus on preparing students for immediate entry into the workforce, especially in sectors like hospitality, where practical experience is often valued over advanced degrees.
Additionally, the data highlights the presence of international students, albeit in limited numbers, with only one international graduate in the bachelor's programs of Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Facilities Management and Culinary Arts. This suggests potential for growth in international student enrollment in these programs, which could enhance the diversity and global perspective within the student body.
Furthermore, the data shows a lack of graduates in health-related fields, which contrasts with the growing demand for healthcare professionals. This gap could represent an opportunity for the university to expand its offerings in health sciences, particularly in response to the increasing emphasis on public health and healthcare education in contemporary discussions.
Overall, the graduation data presents a clear picture of Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte’s academic focus and potential avenues for growth, particularly in enhancing international student representation and expanding health-related programs.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baking and Pastry Arts/Baker/Pastry Chef. | $36,999-$45,406 | ||
| Culinary Arts/Chef Training. | $36,999-$45,406 | ||
| Culinary Science/Culinology. | $36,999-$45,406 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foods, Nutrition, and Wellness Studies, General. | $42,057 | ||
| Foodservice Systems Administration/Management. | $42,057 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $47,732-$70,124 | ||
| Accounting and Finance. | $56,753 | ||
| Small Business Administration/Management. | $39,293 | ||
| Hospitality Administration/Management, General. | $48,497 | ||
| Hotel/Motel Administration/Management. | $48,497 | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $47,057 | ||
| Fashion Merchandising. | $40,011 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Facilities Management, General. | $44,141 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | $36,547 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | $42,268 | ||
| Public Health, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $40,287 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - |
Students
1,184 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 35:65 · Freshman retention 71.5%
- Continuing undergraduates 697
- First-year undergraduates 448
- Transfers and others 39
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,184)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte
The student demographic data from Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte for 2023 presents an interesting landscape of diversity, gender representation, and enrollment status among students. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 392, with a significant majority of 65.8% identifying as female, compared to 34.2% male. This trend is echoed in the undergraduate juniors, where the gender distribution is similarly skewed, with 66.3% of the 703 students being female.
Undergraduate transfer students, while fewer in number at 45, also show a predominance of female students at 64.4%. These statistics highlight a consistent pattern across various undergraduate categories, indicating a growing trend of female enrollment in higher education institutions. This aligns with national trends where women are increasingly pursuing higher education at greater rates compared to men.
The breakdown of the student population by race is also noteworthy. Although specific numbers for the undergraduate juniors and transfer students are not fully available, the data for freshmen reveals a diverse student body, with 143 white students, 97 Asian students, and 82 Latinx students, among others. This diversity is crucial for fostering an inclusive educational environment, preparing students for a globalized workforce.
Overall, the gender dynamics and racial diversity at Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte reflect broader societal trends in higher education, where institutions are becoming more inclusive and representative of the populations they serve. This shift not only enriches the academic experience but also contributes to a more equitable society.
Age Composition of Students at Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte in 2023
The age composition of students at Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte for 2023 reveals some insightful trends regarding the demographics of the student body. A substantial majority of students fall within the traditional college age range, specifically between 18-21 years old, which is typical for many universities. In the 18-19 age bracket, there are 193 male undergraduates and a notable 394 female undergraduates, indicating a strong female presence in this age group, representing approximately 67% of total students.
As students progress in age, the numbers begin to dwindle significantly. The 20-21 age group follows a similar trend, with 118 male and 241 female undergraduates, continuing the pattern of a higher female population. However, in the older age brackets, such as 22-24 and beyond, the number of students decreases markedly, highlighting a less diverse age range among the undergraduate population.
Interestingly, the data indicates a complete absence of graduate students across all age categories, which may suggest a need for the university to attract older students or those looking to pursue advanced degrees. The overall student body shows a strong female representation, particularly in the younger age groups, which aligns with national trends observed in higher education where women increasingly outnumber men in college enrollment.
The age distribution could also reflect broader societal patterns, such as delayed entry into higher education for some individuals, as well as the increasing number of adult learners seeking education later in life. This demographic analysis is crucial for the university as it strategizes on recruitment, retention, and the development of programs tailored to diverse age groups.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
13 in 2025 · 0.9% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte
The data reflects a significant evolution in the enrollment of international students at Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte from 2005 to 2023. Initially, in 2005, the international student population was minimal, with only one student representing 0.10% of the total undergraduate enrollment. However, there was a notable increase in subsequent years, peaking in 2009 when 38 international students were enrolled, constituting 1.56% of the undergraduate body.
Despite this growth, the following years saw fluctuations in both total enrollment and the number of international students. For instance, the percentage of international students in the undergraduate population fluctuated but generally remained below 2%, with the highest percentage recorded in 2012 at 1.81%. The data also indicates a decline in overall undergraduate enrollment, particularly post-2015, likely influenced by various factors, including changing immigration policies and global events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
In 2023, the international student enrollment slightly increased to 16 students, resulting in 1.40% of the total undergraduate population. This suggests a potential stabilization or a gradual recovery of international interest in the university. As many universities in the U.S. face challenges in attracting international students, Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte's ability to maintain a consistent international presence, albeit modest, is commendable. The trends highlight the importance of strategic recruitment efforts to enhance diversity and global engagement within the university community.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$56,782
- Undergraduate tuition
- $41,982
- Room and board
- $14,800
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 44% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 23%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$33.3M
Expenses$44.5M
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
Other: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 28 | 30 |
| Basketball | 20 | 14 |
| Tennis | 14 | 13 |
| Cross Country | 11 | 9 |
| Softball | - | 14 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | - | 14 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Golf | 6 | 4 |
| USCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 25 | 20 |
| Basketball | 15 | 15 |
| Tennis | 13 | 10 |
| Cross Country | 11 | 11 |
| Golf | 13 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | - | 12 |
| USCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 25 | 20 |
| Basketball | 16 | 13 |
| Tennis | 11 | 9 |
| Golf | 13 | 5 |
| Cross Country | 9 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | - | 4 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of North Carolina at CharlotteCharlotte · 8.4 mi
U.S. News #169
-
Davidson CollegeDavidson · 18.4 mi
Liberal Arts #16
-
Wofford CollegeSpartanburg · 64.1 mi
Liberal Arts #68
-
Wake Forest UniversityWinston-Salem · 70.0 mi
U.S. News #34
-
University of North Carolina at GreensboroGreensboro · 82.1 mi
U.S. News #208
-
North Carolina A&T State UniversityGreensboro · 83.8 mi
U.S. News #219
-
University of South Carolina-ColumbiaColumbia · 86.0 mi
U.S. News #121
-
Furman UniversityGreenville · 92.4 mi
Liberal Arts #57
-
Elon UniversityElon · 96.7 mi
U.S. News #100
Data insights
Here are some notable schools located near Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte:
-
University of North Carolina at Charlotte - Ranked 178 in the 2024 US News rankings, this public research university offers a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its strong emphasis on research and community engagement.
-
Davidson College - A highly prestigious liberal arts college ranked 16th, Davidson is known for its rigorous academic programs, small class sizes, and strong commitment to developing leadership skills among its students.
-
Wake Forest University - This private university is ranked 47th and offers a unique blend of liberal arts and professional education, emphasizing a close-knit community and strong faculty-student relationships.
-
Duke University - A top-tier research university ranked 7th, Duke is renowned for its outstanding faculty, research opportunities, and vibrant campus life.
-
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Ranked 22nd, this public university is one of the oldest in the nation and is celebrated for its strong academic programs, vibrant student life, and commitment to public service.
These institutions are known for their academic excellence and diverse programs, making the Charlotte area an attractive place for higher education.
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 Trends at Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte
The crime statistics at Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte reveal a notable trend over the past decade. In 2013, the crime rate was relatively high at 17.24 incidents per 1,000 students, which peaked in 2017 with a rate of 30.18. This spike could be attributed to various factors, including campus culture, community dynamics, or perhaps heightened reporting during that period.
However, the data also shows a significant decline in crime rates in recent years. By 2023, the crime rate had dropped to 8.77 incidents per 1,000 students, the lowest recorded in the dataset. This downward trend suggests that the university may have implemented effective safety measures or programs aimed at reducing crime, thereby fostering a safer campus environment.
Among the specific types of crime, the number of arrests related to gun possession appears to be a concern, even though it has been reported consistently as zero on campus. This indicates a potential area for further investigation, as gun-related issues often have far-reaching implications for campus safety.
Furthermore, as society increasingly focuses on mental health and wellness, it is essential for educational institutions to address underlying issues that may contribute to crime, such as substance abuse and domestic violence. Overall, while the university's crime rates show improvement, continued vigilance and proactive measures are vital to maintaining this positive trend.
For detailed calculations of crime rates, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
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.