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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Milligan University

Milligan, Tennessee · www.milligan.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

72.3%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$40,450

$49,350 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

865

Student-faculty ratio 10:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

57.7%

4-year; 6-year rate 63.4%

Peer median 44.6%

“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Milligan University, located in the picturesque Appalachian region of Tennessee, is a private Christian liberal arts institution known for its strong commitment to academic excellence and spiritual development. Established in 1866, the university fosters a vibrant campus culture centered on faith, learning, and community service. The university's motto, "In Christ, we are one," reflects its mission to nurture students in a holistic manner, encouraging them to integrate their faith with their academic pursuits. This commitment to a Christian worldview not only shapes the curriculum but also influences student life, creating a supportive and inclusive environment that emphasizes moral values, service to others, and personal growth.

The university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong emphasis on liberal arts education. Students can choose from various fields, including business, education, health sciences, and the humanities, all while benefiting from a low student-to-faculty ratio that ensures personalized attention and mentorship. Milligan's faculty members are dedicated educators who are not only experts in their respective fields but also actively engage in the spiritual and academic growth of their students. The campus features modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational amenities, promoting a well-rounded student experience. Additionally, Milligan University boasts a rich tradition of athletics, with numerous opportunities for students to participate in various sports, fostering teamwork and school spirit. Through its rigorous academic programs, supportive community, and emphasis on character development, Milligan University prepares students to thrive in their careers and make meaningful contributions to society.

Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention

The data from Milligan University reveals significant trends in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention over recent years. Tuition for in-state undergraduate students has steadily increased from $29,830 in 2016 to $39,350 in 2024, reflecting a 32% rise. This trend mirrors a national pattern where higher education costs continue to escalate, putting financial pressure on students and families. The increase in tuition is not only applicable to undergraduates but also affects graduate students, with their tuition rising similarly.

On the academic performance front, the graduation rates show a more mixed picture. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates saw an increase from 52.1% in 2016 to 60.8% in 2023, indicating improvements in student outcomes. However, the rates fluctuated somewhat in between, suggesting that while the overall trend is positive, there are still challenges to address. The 150% graduation rate also showcased a notable rise, reflective of better support systems and resources for students as they navigate their academic journeys.

Furthermore, student retention rates demonstrate an interesting dynamic, with rates peaking at 82.3% in 2021 but declining to 72.6% in 2023. This decline could indicate challenges in maintaining student engagement or satisfaction, possibly exacerbated by the rising tuition costs. Ensuring that students remain satisfied with their educational experience is crucial for universities, particularly as financial burdens increase.

In summary, while Milligan University has made strides in graduation rates, the rising tuition and recent dip in retention rates highlight critical areas for attention. Addressing these issues will be essential for sustaining student success and satisfaction in the increasingly competitive landscape of higher education.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Suburb of a midsize city
Nearest major city
Knoxville, about 100 mi
Nearest international airport
Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), about 110 mi
Milligan, Tennessee
Also known as
Milligan
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Christian Churches and Churches of Christ
President
Dr. Stephen Waers (President)
Phone
4234618700
City
Milligan, Tennessee
Address
1 Blowers Blvd., Milligan, TN 37682

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
71.9%
Women
72.5%

In 2020: men 99.2%, women 98.7%.

Data insights

Analysis of Milligan University Admission Trends

The admission data for Milligan University over the years reveals significant trends that reflect both the university's evolving reputation and the competitive landscape of higher education. From 2016 to 2023, the overall admission rates for both male and female students have shown considerable fluctuations. For instance, the male admission rate peaked at approximately 99.2% in 2020, while the female rate was nearly identical at 98.7%, indicating a highly inclusive admission policy during that period.
Conversely, the year 2018 marked a stark decline in the male admission rate to about 48.2%, suggesting a more rigorous selection process that year. This aligns with broader trends in higher education where institutions often adjust their admission strategies based on application numbers, institutional goals, and demographic shifts.
Enrollment numbers have also varied, with the highest recorded enrollment of 226 students in 2020. Notably, the number of applicants denied admission has fluctuated significantly, peaking at 341 in 2022, indicating an increase in competition among applicants. This could reflect a growing interest in Milligan University, potentially driven by its academic programs or campus culture.
The deferment figures reveal a substantial number of students choosing to delay their enrollment, particularly notable in recent years, reflecting perhaps a desire for students to take a gap year or reassess their choices amid uncertainties, such as those brought on by the global pandemic.
Overall, Milligan University appears to be navigating through the complexities of modern admissions with a responsive approach, adapting to changing applicant behaviors while striving to maintain a welcoming academic environment.

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

Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition

Health Specialty1 programs—

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 · 12% submitted SAT, 59% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total1133–1268Peer median 1158
ACT composite22–27
SAT Reading
573–650
600700800
SAT Math
560–618
600700800
ACT composite
22–27
253036

Data insights

Trends in Admission Scores at Milligan University

The data reflecting admission scores at Milligan University over the years reveals significant trends that merit discussion. From 2016 onwards, the university has consistently reported the SAT and ACT scores of admitted students, showcasing a gradual increase in the scores, particularly in the SAT reading and math sections. For instance, by 2023, the 25th percentile SAT reading score was recorded at 493, while the 75th percentile reached 590, indicating an upward trajectory in student performance.

Moreover, the percentage of students submitting their SAT and ACT scores has fluctuated. Notably, 34% of admitted students submitted SAT scores in 2018, which later dropped to 17% in both 2022 and 2023. This decline raises questions about the growing trend of test-optional admissions policies across many universities, which may influence prospective students' decisions regarding standardized tests.

The data also suggests a competitive admissions landscape, as the higher scores indicate a more academically prepared applicant pool. This trend aligns with national observations where colleges are increasingly receiving applications from students with stronger academic backgrounds. Furthermore, the SAT and ACT scores serve as critical metrics for assessing student readiness for college-level coursework.

In conclusion, the evolving admission score data from Milligan University underscores the institution's commitment to maintaining high academic standards while adapting to broader shifts in college admissions. The decline in score submissions may reflect a transitional phase in higher education, characterized by a reevaluation of standardized testing's role in admissions processes.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 7 in 10

1,079 applicants in 2025, 72.3% admitted

780 admitted 299 not admitted Yield 27.6%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's15921 international (13.2%)
Master's1408 international (5.7%)
Doctoral110 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
32
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
16
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General
15
Psychology, General
10
Mechanical Engineering
9
Early Childhood Education and Teaching
6
Social Work
5
Electrical and Electronics Engineering
5
Graphic Design
5
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
5

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Occupational Therapy/Therapist · Master's28 (0% international)
  • Physician Assistant · Master's25 (0% international)
  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's21 (19% international)
  • Education, General · Master's20 (5% international)
  • Divinity/Ministry · Master's14 (14% international)
  • Mental Health Counseling/Counselor · Master's13 (8% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduate Data at Milligan University

The graduate statistics from Milligan University for 2023 reveal notable trends and insights across various disciplines. One of the standout areas is the field of health and medical studies. In this category, a substantial number of master's degrees were awarded, particularly in Occupational Therapy and Physician Assistant programs, with 33 and 26 graduates respectively. This reflects a growing demand for healthcare professionals, which is consistent with recent reports indicating a nationwide shortage in these fields.

In the realm of education, the data shows a clear emphasis on graduate programs, with significant numbers graduating in areas such as Educational Leadership and Administration. This trend aligns with the increasing focus on educational reform and leadership development in response to evolving educational needs.

The business sector also demonstrates a healthy output, particularly with 17 master's graduates in Business Administration, which is crucial as businesses increasingly seek skilled leaders to navigate a complex and competitive landscape.

Interestingly, the international student representation in these programs remains limited, particularly at the bachelor and master levels, suggesting potential barriers or underrepresentation that could affect diversity within these fields.

Lastly, the data indicates a lack of graduates in the arts and humanities at the master's level, suggesting a possible decline in interest or investment in these areas. This is concerning given the critical role that the arts play in cultural development and societal well-being. Overall, these statistics provide a snapshot of Milligan University's academic landscape, highlighting both strengths and areas for potential growth and focus.

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

Health professionshas 82 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Physician Assistant.$103,813
Mental Health Counseling/Counselor.-
Occupational Therapy/Therapist.$63,408
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$86,252
Businesshas 57 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Business Administration and Management, General.$44,222-$65,945
Accounting.-
Educationhas 38 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Education, General.$49,767
Educational Leadership and Administration, General.-
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.$42,857
Music Teacher Education.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 30 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General.-
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.-
Theology has 29 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Missions/Missionary Studies.-
Worship Ministry.-
Theology/Theological Studies.$37,825
Divinity/Ministry.$37,825
Youth Ministry.-
Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries, Other.-
Theology and Religious Vocations, Other.-
Engineeringhas 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Electrical and Electronics Engineering.-
Mechanical Engineering.-
Psychology has 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.-
Visual and Performing artshas 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Graphic Design.-
Musical Theatre.-
Art/Art Studies, General.-
Music, General.-
Social sciencehas 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Economics, General.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
Computer and information sciencehas 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Computer Science.-
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.-
Biologyhas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Public administrationhas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Social Work.-
Communication has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Journalism, Other.-
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Mathematics, General.-
Homeland security has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Criminal Justice and Corrections, General.-
English has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
English Language and Literature, General.-
Physical scienceshas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Chemistry, General.-
Liberal arts has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Humanities/Humanistic Studies.-

Students

1,240 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 50:50 · Freshman retention 81.5%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (865)

White
623 · 72.0%
International
84 · 9.7%
Black
44 · 5.1%
Two or more races
43 · 5.0%
Hispanic
38 · 4.4%
Unknown
18 · 2.1%
Asian
11 · 1.3%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Milligan University (2023)

The student body at Milligan University in 2023 showcases a diverse demographic landscape, particularly with respect to gender distribution and racial composition. Among the new undergraduate students, there is a near-equal gender ratio, with males constituting 49.1% and females 50.9%. This balance reflects an ongoing trend in higher education where gender parity is increasingly being achieved, particularly at the undergraduate level.

In contrast, the data for upperclassmen indicates a perfect gender balance, where both males and females make up 50% of the population. This suggests that the university has successfully maintained gender equity throughout students' academic journeys. However, the demographic distribution shifts noticeably among transfer students, where males account for 64.2% and females only 35.8%. This disparity might indicate challenges that female students face in transferring or suggest a trend in male students opting for transfer pathways more frequently.

Graduate students present another interesting aspect of the demographic profile, with females significantly outnumbering males, comprising 61.1% of this group. This shift towards a female majority in graduate studies is reflective of broader societal trends where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees, often outpacing their male counterparts in enrollment figures.

Moreover, the racial breakdown of students, although not detailed in the data provided, is crucial in understanding the university's commitment to diversity and inclusion. As higher education institutions face increasing scrutiny regarding their diversity policies, it is imperative for Milligan University to foster an inclusive environment that reflects the diverse backgrounds of its student population. Overall, the data from 2023 indicates positive trends towards gender balance and highlights areas for further exploration regarding racial diversity and equity in student experiences.

Age Composition of Milligan University Students in 2023

The age composition of students at Milligan University in 2023 reflects a diverse and vibrant academic community. Notably, the largest segment of the student population falls within the 18-19 age range, with a total of 314 students, comprising 167 male undergraduates and 147 female undergraduates. This indicates a strong influx of traditional college-aged students, which is typical for many higher education institutions.

Students aged 20-21 also represent a significant group, accounting for approximately 33% of the total student body. This suggests that the university successfully retains students as they progress through their studies, fostering a supportive academic environment.

Interestingly, the data reveal a noticeable increase in the number of graduate students within the 22-24 age bracket, particularly among females, with 116 female graduates. This trend may reflect a growing interest in advanced studies, potentially driven by the increasing demand for higher qualifications in the job market.

The presence of older students, particularly those aged 25-34, indicates that Milligan University attracts non-traditional students as well. This demographic diversity enriches the learning experience, as students bring varied perspectives and life experiences to the classroom.

In conclusion, Milligan University's age composition showcases a balanced blend of traditional and non-traditional students. This diversity not only enhances the academic experience but also prepares all students for a dynamic workforce that values various backgrounds and experiences.

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.

Undergraduates9.7%

84 in 2025 · 3.0% in 2016

0% 7.5% 15% 2016: 3.0%2017: 3.6%2018: 4.5%2019: 4.7%2020: 6.0%2021: 6.2%2022: 7.4%2023: 6.8%2024: 8.2%2025: 9.7%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students4.0%

15 in 2025 · 4.3% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 4.3%2017: 3.2%2018: 3.8%2019: 3.0%2020: 2.3%2021: 3.8%2022: 4.6%2023: 3.1%2024: 4.6%2025: 4.0%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Milligan University

The data reveals intriguing trends in international student enrollment at Milligan University from 2016 to 2023. Over this period, the number of undergraduate students fluctuated, with a peak of 941 in 2021, while the total number of graduate students exhibited a more stable trend.

For undergraduates, the percentage of international students has generally increased, reaching a high of 7.35% in 2022. This growth in the proportion of international students suggests that Milligan University has been successful in attracting a more diverse student body, which is crucial for enhancing the academic environment and fostering global perspectives on campus. However, the numbers have slightly declined in 2023, with a notable drop in total undergraduates, indicating potential challenges in maintaining this trend.

Regarding graduate students, the percentage of international students has remained relatively low compared to undergraduates, peaking at 4.56% in 2022 before dropping to 3.14% in 2023. This suggests that while there is interest in graduate programs, the university may need to implement strategies to attract more international applicants at this level.

Overall, the data underscores the importance of international student recruitment for universities in the U.S., especially given the increasing competition within the global education market. As institutions navigate post-pandemic recovery, the ability to maintain or grow international enrollment will be vital for fostering a rich academic community and securing financial stability.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$49,350

Undergraduate tuition
$40,450
Room and board
$8,900
Graduate tuition
$8,358
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 36% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 37%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$41.8M

Tuition and fees
$17.5M41.8%
Investment return
$8.6M20.7%
Gifts and private grants
$8.1M19.3%
Auxiliary enterprises
$5.7M13.7%
Government grants and contracts
$217K0.5%
Other
$1.6M3.9%

Expenses$32.4M

Instruction
$11.7M36.0%
Student services
$7.5M23.0%
Institutional support
$7.4M22.8%
Auxiliary enterprises
$4.0M12.5%
Academic support
$1.5M4.6%
Other
$362K1.1%

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.

All faculty
$62,602peers $68,006
Professor
$66,310peers $78,041
Associate professor
$65,645peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$60,859peers $63,827
Instructor
$34,920peers $55,171

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Appalachian Athletic Conference

Appalachian Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division II MENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)8060
Soccer5349
Other Sports3347
Baseball77-
Swimming3423
Basketball3024
Bowling2015
Softball-22
Tennis1210
Golf99
Volleyball-15
2024
NAIA Division IIMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)8056
Soccer4937
Other Sports2555
Baseball75-
Basketball3323
Swimming3222
Bowling1913
Tennis1510
Golf1110
Softball-20
Volleyball-17
2023
NAIA Division IIMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)7650
Baseball78-
Soccer4326
Basketball3224
Swimming2420
Other Sports2021
Softball-27
Tennis1411
Golf1110
Bowling116
Volleyball-16

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near Milligan University:

  1. Davidson College - Ranked 16th in the 2024 US News rankings, Davidson College is known for its rigorous academics and commitment to a liberal arts education. It offers a close-knit community and a strong emphasis on ethical leadership.

  2. Wake Forest University - With a ranking of 47, Wake Forest University is recognized for its vibrant campus life and strong academic programs. It combines the academic rigor of a research university with the personal attention of a liberal arts college.

  3. University of Tennessee-Knoxville - Ranked 105th, this university is known for its diverse range of programs and vibrant campus community. It offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate degrees, making it a significant educational hub in Tennessee.

  4. Clemson University - With a rank of 86, Clemson University is renowned for its engineering and technology programs. It provides a dynamic campus environment with numerous opportunities for research and extracurricular involvement.

  5. Furman University - Ranked 46th, Furman University is a prestigious liberal arts college that emphasizes experiential learning and community engagement. Its picturesque campus and strong academic programs attract students from across the country.

These institutions provide various educational opportunities and contribute significantly to the academic landscape surrounding Milligan University.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
8
Aggravated assault
2
Weapons arrests
2
Rape
1
Arson
1
Weapons referrals
1

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Milligan University

Milligan University has seen a fluctuating trend in its campus crime rates over the years. Notably, from 2013 to 2015, the university reported zero incidents, indicating a period of relative safety. However, starting in 2016, there was a noticeable increase in the average number of incidents per 1000 students, peaking in 2020 with a rate of 3.21. This spike may reflect broader national trends of increasing campus crimes during that period, possibly exacerbated by the stressful circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic.

In 2021, the crime rate decreased significantly to 1.20 but rebounded in 2022 to 2.93, showing that fluctuations in crime rates are not unusual. The data indicates that incidents of gun arrests and drug-related arrests have been consistent, albeit at low levels, suggesting that while crime is present, it may not be pervasive.

The most recent data for 2023 shows a crime rate of 1.81, which, while lower than the peak, still highlights ongoing concerns for campus safety. It is essential for universities to continually assess their safety measures and support systems to address these issues effectively. As seen in other institutions, proactive approaches such as increased security presence, educational programs on substance abuse, and community engagement can help mitigate crime rates on campuses.

For further understanding of how these crime rates are calculated, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Milligan University include Francis Gary Powers (Pilot shot down in the 1960 U-2 incident), Frank Knight (Economist, a founder of the Chicago School) and William G. Dever (Archaeologist and Biblical scholar).

More alumni (7, by field)

Politics and law

Arts and media

Sports

  • Dale Alexander 1903–1979

    Baseball first baseman for Tigers and Red Sox

  • Will Little 1984–

    Major League Baseball umpire

From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.

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.