The University of the South
2025 USNews Best National Liberal Arts Colleges Ranking: 45(↑6) (Click for schools/majors ranking)
Abbreviation/Alias: Sewanee | University of the South
School Characteristics: Private, non-Profit (4-Years)
Calendar systerm: Semester
Religious Affiliation: Protestant Episcopal
School Chief: Dr. Robert W. Pearigen (Vice-Chancellor and President)
Website: www.sewanee.edu/; Phone: 9315981000
Location: 735 University Avenue, Sewanee, TN, 37383-1000

The University of the South Important Facts
Analysis of Key Metrics at The University of the South
The University of the South, a private institution, has exhibited notable trends in several key areas over the years. One striking aspect is the steady increase in tuition fees, particularly for undergraduate students. Starting from approximately $34,793 in 2014, tuition for in-state and out-of-state students has climbed to about $53,704 in 2024. This represents a significant increase of over 54%, indicating a troubling trend as college affordability continues to be a critical concern for students and families across the United States.
Moreover, the graduation rates showcase varying performance; the timely graduation rate for undergraduate students in 2023 was around 75.75%, which is relatively stable compared to past years. However, a closer look reveals fluctuations with a peak in 2019 at 79.05% before dipping. Such variations can impact the university's reputation and student satisfaction, as these factors are closely tied to both retention and post-graduation opportunities.
Retention rates have shown a consistent tendency to hover around 88%, with a slight decrease in 2024. Retention is crucial as it signifies the university’s ability to keep students engaged and satisfied, leading to higher graduation rates. The slight decline in retention over the last few years suggests potential challenges in maintaining student experience and satisfaction.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained stable at 10:1 in recent years, which is generally considered favorable. This ratio allows for more personalized attention and support from faculty, enhancing the educational experience and potentially contributing to higher retention and graduation rates.
Overall, while The University of the South maintains a good student-to-faculty ratio and reasonable graduation rates, the rising tuition costs and slight fluctuations in retention indicate areas requiring attention and improvement so that the institution can better support its students in an increasingly competitive educational landscape.
The University of the South Degrees and Majors
Analysis of Graduates in Various Fields at The University of the South
The data from The University of the South for the year 2023 reveals some intriguing trends in the graduation rates across different fields of study. Notably, the highest number of bachelor’s degree graduates is in Sociology, with 43 students graduating, which indicates a strong interest in social sciences reflecting contemporary issues in society. Psychology and Biology follow closely, attracting 40 and 34 graduates respectively, showcasing the ongoing fascination with human behavior and the life sciences.
Interestingly, fields categorized as interdisciplinary studies, such as Sustainability Studies and International Studies, have also seen a growing number of graduates, with 19 and 16 respectively. This trend aligns with global educational priorities as institutions increasingly focus on producing graduates who can tackle complex, systemic issues.
A distinctive aspect worth mentioning is the performed arts where multiple disciplines such as Fine Arts and Performing Arts have collectively produced only 18 bachelor’s graduates. This suggests that while these fields are significant, they attract fewer students compared to the robust offerings in the sciences and social sciences.
There is minimal representation from international students in most programs, particularly at the bachelor’s level, with the majority of international students choosing to study in Psychology and Sociology. This could point to the need for universities to bolster their support and outreach to international students, especially in fields that traditionally attract fewer international candidates.
Overall, the data paints a picture of a diverse academic environment with a clear inclination towards social sciences and an increasing interest in sustainability and interdisciplinary studies, which are crucial for addressing the pressing challenges of our global society today.
The University of the South Ranking and Admission
Trends in Admissions and Rankings at The University of the South
Over the years, The University of the South has seen fluctuations in its national ranking and admission rates. Notably, the ranking improved from 51st in 2024 to 45th in 2025, suggesting a positive shift in perception and quality within the academic community. Looking more closely at the admission rates, the acceptance of male students has generally been more favorable than that of female students, although the gap has shown signs of narrowing in recent years. In 2023, for instance, the acceptance rate for males was approximately 46.9%, while for females it was about 57.0%. This somewhat consistent trend indicates ongoing efforts to broaden inclusivity and equity in the admissions process, even if slight disparities remain. Additionally, the data shows significant admission denial rates, particularly highlighted in 2016, which saw a staggering 2,679 denials. However, in the latest records, both enrollment and denial numbers demonstrated a more balanced approach, with 449 students enrolling in 2024 against 2,464 denials. These trends reflect broader national patterns in higher education, where competitive admissions processes are becoming increasingly common. As colleges strive to advance their academic standing, applicants face growing challenges. The decrease in denial rates paired with a rise in rankings could signal a strategic re-evaluation at The University of the South, aiming to attract a diverse student body while still maintaining high academic standards. Overall, the recent improvements in rankings alongside the complexities of admission rates showcase both the challenges and successes that the university faces in the current educational landscape.
The University of the South Admission Score Requires
*Numbers at left represent SAT/ACT submitting percentage, numbers on blue blocks represent 25%-75% admission scores
**Drag green block to check data for different years, click blue block to check scores trends
Trends in Admissions and Test Scores at The University of the South
The data reflect significant trends in the admissions process and the standardized test scores of applicants at The University of the South over the years. Notably, the proportion of applicants submitting their SAT scores has seen a marked decline since 2012, dropping from 55% down to just 17% in 2024, indicating a possible shift in the admissions landscape, possibly influenced by the growing number of colleges adopting test-optional policies nationwide.
In terms of score performance, the ACT and SAT ranges show a generally positive trend in academic capability among admitted students over recent years. The 25th to 75th percentile score range for SAT reading and math have both seen increases, with scores climbing to as high as 710 for reading in 2024. This data illustrates an upward trajectory in student performance, reinforcing the idea that the institution is attracting high-achieving students.
Moreover, compared to national trends, where standardized testing scores remain a determinant factor, The University of the South appears to adapt its strategy by balancing quantitative metrics with qualitative aspects of admissions. This may enhance their diversity within the student body as they open opportunities for talented individuals who may not excel in standardized testing.
Overall, while the declining percentage of test submissions raises questions about the future role of these examinations, the rising test scores among those who do submit suggest that the university continues to attract academically strong candidates. This dual trend emphasizes a complex yet evolving philosophy in higher education admissions that values both traditional academic metrics and broader evaluation criteria.
The University of the South Students Diversity
Student Demographics at The University of the South in 2024
The student body composition at The University of the South for the year 2024 reflects a diverse range of individuals across various classifications. Beginning with undergraduate new students, there are nearly 450 students, with a notable gender distribution—approximately 45.4% of them are male and 54.6% are female. This slight female majority here is consistent with broader trends in higher education, where female enrollment often surpasses male enrollment.
Continuing with undergraduate continuing students, this number increases significantly to 1,127 individuals, maintaining a relatively balanced gender ratio of about 47.2% male and 52.8% female. This marginal difference emphasizes a continued engagement from both genders in academic pursuits.
The transfer students' figures are considerably lower, with 22 students recorded. Interestingly, this group has a higher male percentage at 59.1%, marking a contrast with the earlier classifications where females predominate.
Graduate students, though fewer in number (78), also show a significant male representation at 57.7%, which raises questions about the dynamics of gender in advanced studies. Lastly, there are 17 students in the unspecified category, highlighting the university's ongoing effort to cater to non-traditional and diverse learners.
The demographic distinctions among these groups provide insights into the university's recruitment strategies and the evolving landscape of higher education. As institutions strive for inclusivity, understanding these compositions is vital in facilitating a supportive educational environment that values diversity across gender and racial lines.
The University of the South Students Age Distribution
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at The University of the South for 2024
The age composition of students at The University of the South reveals interesting trends and disparities among different age groups and gender distributions.
The majority of undergraduate students fall within the 18-21 age range, with 304 male and 401 female students aged 18-19 and 350 male and 389 female students aged 20-21. This finding indicates a strong presence of traditional college-age students, which aligns with national trends where most college attendees are between 18 and 22 years old. In total, above 90% of students in these age brackets are undergraduates, suggesting that the institution primarily caters to younger cohorts.
In contrast, the representation of older students is notably lower. For instance, only 17 graduate men are in the 40-49 age group, and just 2 female students aged 50 and above are enrolled. This is indicative of a potential gap in accessibility or interest among older demographics, a concern that has been echoed in various academic discussions. The representation of older students is crucial, particularly as more working professionals seek further education to advance their careers.
Furthermore, the gender distribution highlights a higher number of female students across most younger age demographics, especially in the traditional-aged undergraduates. For example, there are 401 female students aged 18-19 compared to 304 males, forming a 57.1% to 42.9% gender ratio in this category.
Overall, while the data reflects a healthy number of younger students, the underrepresentation of middle-aged and older individuals requires attention to foster a truly inclusive academic environment catering to all age groups.
The University of the South International Students Trends
Trends in International Student Enrollment at The University of the South
Over the years, The University of the South has witnessed a gradual increase in international student enrollment, particularly among undergraduate students. From 2005 to 2024, the proportion of international undergraduates saw a growth from 2.24% to an impressive 4.46%. This suggests a growing appeal of the university and its programs to students from diverse cultural backgrounds, indicating successful recruitment strategies and enhanced global visibility.
The number of undergraduate international students rose significantly from 31 in 2005 to 72 in 2024, demonstrating the institution's commitment to fostering a multicultural educational environment. Such diversity enriches the campus experience, promotes cultural exchange, and prepares domestic and international students to thrive in a globalized world.
On the other hand, international graduate student enrollment reflects a more fluctuating pattern. While the percentage increased to 14.10% in 2024, there were also years with lower numbers, highlighting potential challenges the university may face in attracting graduate students. The significant drop in graduate enrollment during certain years could indicate a need for improved support networks or targeted recruitment initiatives that align with the interests of prospective graduate students.
Overall, these trends signify a positive trajectory for undergraduate international enrollment, while suggesting that the university might need to reassess its strategies and offerings for graduate-level students to continue enhancing its reputation as a leading institution for higher education. Addressing these dynamics is crucial as universities worldwide increasingly compete for international talent, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has reshaped the landscape of global education.
The University of the South Campus and Safety
Nearby Top Colleges
Here are some notable universities near The University of the South:
Vanderbilt University - Ranked 18th in the 2025 US News rankings, Vanderbilt is a prestigious private research university located in Nashville, Tennessee. Known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life, it offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degrees across various fields.
University of Alabama in Huntsville - With a rank of 244, this comprehensive university is recognized for its research initiatives and engineering programs. It's an ideal institution for students interested in STEM disciplines.
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville - Ranked 109th, this large public university provides a comprehensive education and is known for its extensive research facilities and strong community engagement.
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus - With a rank of 33, Georgia Tech is a renowned public research university located in Atlanta, Georgia. It specializes in engineering, computing, and business, attracting students from all over the world.
Emory University - Ranked 24th, Emory is a private research university in Atlanta, Georgia, known for its rigorous academic programs, particularly in the fields of business, law, and medicine.
These institutions offer a diverse array of educational opportunities and contribute significantly to the academic landscape of the region.
Campus Safety
Crime Trends at The University of the South
Analyzing the crime statistics from The University of the South over the years reveals significant fluctuations in crime rates that merit attention. Between 2013 and 2016, there was a notable upward trend, culminating in a peak crime rate in 2017 at 90.58 incidents per 1,000 students. This period raised concerns about safety on campus, particularly in relation to firearm arrests and alcohol-related offenses.
Interestingly, the crime rate saw a steep decline in 2022, where it plummeted to 18.35 per 1,000 students and further decreased to 12.56 in 2023. This sharp downturn could be attributed to enhanced campus security measures, increased awareness and intervention programs concerning violence, or shifts in student behavior towards responsible conduct. The decrease might also reflect broader trends in college campuses nationwide where institutions are increasingly prioritizing student safety through comprehensive crime prevention strategies.
Among specific categories, gun-related arrests remained present, often sparking discussions about personal safety and responsible firearm policies on campus. Drug and alcohol-related incidents also warrant continuous monitoring, given their links to student health and the overall campus environment.
Overall, the data from the university emphasizes the importance of ongoing efforts in community safety and prevention. As seen nationally, these figures can fluctuate, and institutions must remain vigilant in their approaches to ensure that students feel secure and protected in their educational environments. For further details on calculating crime rates, you can visit: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Reference
- The University of the South Official Website
- USNews Best National Liberal Arts Colleges Ranking
- USNews Bset Global Universities Ranking
- THE World University Ranking
- QS World University Ranking
- ARWU World University Ranking
- US Department of Education College Scorecard
- National Center for Education Statistics
- Forward Pathway US College Ranking Database
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The University of the South Important Facts Trends
The University of the South degrees/majors
The University of the South major details
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2023 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Anthropology, General. | - | |||
Econometrics and Quantitative Economics. | $58,532 | |||
Political Science and Government, General. | $31,831 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $23,932 | |||
Biochemistry. | - | |||
Neuroscience. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Creative Writing. | - | |||
General Literature. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Psychology, General. | $35,379 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
International/Globalization Studies. | $42,390 | |||
Sustainability Studies. | - | |||
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Theology/Theological Studies. | - | |||
Divinity/Ministry. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
History, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |||
Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | |||
Art History, Criticism and Conservation. | - | |||
Music, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Natural Resources/Conservation, General. | $35,204 | |||
Environmental Studies. | $35,204 | |||
Forest Sciences and Biology. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Chemistry, General. | - | |||
Geology/Earth Science, General. | - | |||
Physics, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Finance, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Philosophy. | - | |||
Religion/Religious Studies. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Russian Language and Literature. | - | |||
French Language and Literature. | - | |||
Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Mathematics, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
American/United States Studies/Civilization. | - | |||
Asian Studies/Civilization. | - | |||
Women's Studies. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Computer Science. | - |
The University of the South Schools/Majors Ranking
Under Ranking (2025)
Grad Ranking (2025)
- No Ranking
*Rankings have been updated to 2025USNews schools/majors ranking, rankings are for reference only
*numbers in bracket represent rankings change compare to last version
The University of the South Varsity Athletes
NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
---|---|---|
Lacrosse | 48 | 27 |
Football | 69 | - |
Soccer | 33 | 28 |
Baseball | 47 | - |
Swimming and Diving (combined) | 10 | 31 |
Tennis | 18 | 18 |
Track and Field (Outdoor) | 17 | 14 |
Cross Country | 8 | 23 |
Golf | 16 | 13 |
Track and Field (Indoor) | 15 | 11 |
Basketball | 15 | 9 |
Softball | - | 16 |
Volleyball | - | 16 |
Field Hockey | - | 15 |
Equestrian | - | - |
NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
---|---|---|
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 56 | 79 |
Football | 86 | - |
Soccer | 39 | 36 |
Lacrosse | 44 | 26 |
Swimming and Diving (combined) | 13 | 35 |
Baseball | 45 | - |
Tennis | 17 | 26 |
Golf | 15 | 12 |
Equestrian | 1 | 25 |
Basketball | 14 | 9 |
Volleyball | - | 17 |
Field Hockey | - | 16 |
Softball | - | 12 |
NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
---|---|---|
All Track Combined | 57 | 57 |
Football | 71 | - |
Lacrosse | 38 | 25 |
Soccer | 30 | 23 |
Baseball | 43 | - |
Tennis | 16 | 20 |
Swimming and Diving | 13 | 21 |
Golf | 16 | 11 |
Volleyball | - | 22 |
Softball | - | 14 |
Equestrian | - | 13 |
Basketball | 11 | - |
The University of the South, commonly referred to as Sewanee, is a distinguished liberal arts institution located in the picturesque region of Sewanee, Tennessee. Established in 1857, the university is uniquely positioned atop the Cumberland Plateau, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and a rich natural environment that enhances the educational experience. The campus, often recognized for its beautiful architecture and expansive forests, fosters a close-knit and vibrant community atmosphere that encourages collaboration and camaraderie among students, faculty, and staff.
One of the notable aspects of Sewanee is its commitment to academic excellence and rigorous scholarship, which is reflected in its unique Honor Code, promoting personal integrity and responsibility among students. The university also emphasizes outdoor engagement, exemplified by its extensive Domain, which spans over 13,000 acres. This not only serves as an outdoor laboratory for various environmental studies but also provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, and nature exploration. The university is renowned for its strong programs in the arts, humanities, and sciences, often encouraging students to engage in research and creative projects. Additionally, Sewanee boasts a vibrant campus life, with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletics that contribute to a well-rounded university experience. With its strong emphasis on community values and personal growth, The University of the South continues to nurture students who excel both academically and socially, preparing them for successful careers and meaningful contributions to society.