The University of Akron, located in Akron, Ohio, is a public research university known for its strong emphasis on innovation, community engagement, and academic excellence. Established in 1870, the university has evolved into a comprehensive institution with a diverse array of programs and a commitment to student success. The university's campus boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced laboratories, a modern library, and various recreational centers that foster both academic and extracurricular activities.

One of the key highlights of the University of Akron is its robust engineering and polymer science programs, which are among the best in the nation. The university's strategic location in an industrial hub allows students to benefit from numerous internship and job opportunities with leading companies, enhancing their employability after graduation. Additionally, the University of Akron is dedicated to creating a vibrant campus culture, offering a wide range of extracurricular activities, from sports to arts, ensuring a well-rounded student life. The university's motto, "We Are Akron," reflects the strong sense of community and belonging that permeates the campus, encouraging students to engage, collaborate, and thrive in their academic journeys.

Analysis of Key Trends at the University of Akron

The data from the University of Akron reveals several notable trends that are significant for prospective students and educational policymakers. One of the most striking trends is the increase in undergraduate tuition fees. From 2014 to 2023, in-state tuition rose from $10,054 to $12,427, representing a 23.5% increase. For out-of-state students, tuition has also increased significantly, from $18,418 to $15,500, despite a slight dip in recent years. This trend reflects a broader national issue of rising college costs, which can burden students and families with increased debt.

Additionally, the student enrollment figures show a concerning decline. The number of undergraduate students dropped from 22,123 in 2013 to just 11,323 in 2023, a staggering decrease of over 48%. This decline may be attributed to various factors, including demographic shifts, increased competition from other institutions, and possibly the rising cost of education deterring potential students.

Furthermore, the graduation rates have shown a notable increase, particularly the on-time graduation rate which jumped from approximately 14% in 2013 to 25% in 2022. This increase can be seen as a positive development, indicating that the university is likely improving its support systems for students, thereby enhancing their academic success and timely completion of degrees.

Lastly, the retention rate has fluctuated but remains an important indicator of student satisfaction and institutional efficacy. The retention rate in 2023 was around 68%, slightly down from previous years, which may warrant further investigation into the factors affecting student retention at the university.

These trends underscore important challenges and successes at the University of Akron, highlighting the critical need for institutions to address affordability, enrollment strategies, and student support initiatives to foster a more sustainable educational environment.

Analysis of Graduation Data at the University of Akron

The graduation data from the University of Akron in 2023 reveals intriguing insights into the distribution of degrees across various programs. Notably, the Law program stands out with an impressive total of 120 doctorate graduates, indicating a robust interest and commitment to legal studies within the institution. Interestingly, this program has no graduates in the associate, bachelor, or master categories, suggesting a focused pathway for students pursuing legal education directly at the doctoral level.

In the realm of psychology, there were 103 bachelor’s degrees awarded, along with one international student, reflecting the program's popularity among local students. However, the absence of master's degrees in psychology suggests a potential gap in advanced studies that could be explored to cater to students seeking further education in this field.

Criminal Justice also shows a solid number of 87 bachelor graduates, indicating a sustained interest in this discipline, which aligns with increasing societal concerns over safety and security. The lack of master's graduates in this field might indicate a need for more advanced programs to meet the demands of the job market.

The Business Administration program awarded 75 master's degrees alongside 5 international students, highlighting a significant interest in advanced business studies, which is critical in today's increasingly globalized economy. This trend is consistent with broader educational patterns where business disciplines attract a diverse range of students, both domestic and international.

Overall, the data illustrates varying levels of interest in different fields, reflecting broader societal trends and potential areas for program enhancement at the University of Akron. The lack of graduates in associate degrees across most categories may also prompt a reevaluation of offerings at the entry-level education stage.

Trends in Admission Rates and Rankings at the University of Akron

The admission landscape at the University of Akron reveals significant trends over recent years, particularly when examining the acceptance rates and overall rankings. From 2019 onwards, there has been a noticeable decline in the university's ranking, falling from 230th to 377th by 2025. This decline in ranking may not only impact the university's reputation but could also influence prospective students' decisions. The admission rates for both male and female students have shown volatility. In 2019, the admission rate plummeted to approximately 69% for males and 69% for females, a stark decrease from earlier years where rates hovered around 94-96%. This significant drop in acceptance rates could indicate a tightening of enrollment policies or a shift in the applicant pool's competitiveness. The number of students enrolled also dropped, with only 2,115 students admitted in 2023 compared to 4,201 in 2013. Moreover, the number of students denied admission has increased, suggesting that while the university receives a large number of applications, it may be struggling to maintain its enrollment figures. The deferred admissions also paint a complex picture, with thousands of students placed on hold, indicating potential challenges in managing student capacity or institutional resources. Overall, these trends raise questions about the university's future strategies in attracting and retaining students while navigating the challenges posed by declining rankings and fluctuating admission rates. It's crucial for the administration to analyze these data points and develop targeted strategies that enhance both the quality of education and the attractiveness of the University of Akron to prospective students.

Trends in Admission Scores at the University of Akron

The data from the University of Akron reveals significant trends in admission scores over the years, particularly regarding standardized tests like the SAT and ACT. Starting from 2013, the reporting of score ranges for various sections has become more consistent, showing the 25th to 75th percentile scores for admitted students. The SAT reading and math scores have seen a gradual increase over the years, indicating that the university is attracting a more academically prepared cohort.

In 2013, the SAT reading scores ranged from 440 to 570. By 2023, this range had improved to 490 to 610. This upward trend could reflect broader educational improvements or the university's efforts to enhance its appeal to high-achieving students. Moreover, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, with a notable drop in recent years, suggesting a shift towards test-optional policies, which many universities have adopted in response to the pandemic and ongoing discussions about the equity of standardized testing.

The percentage of students submitting scores has varied, with the highest being 21% in 2020, and this may reflect changing attitudes towards standardized testing as a requirement for college admissions. This trend towards test-optional policies aligns with national movements in higher education, emphasizing holistic review processes that consider diverse student backgrounds and experiences beyond test scores.

Overall, the data indicates a progressive shift at the University of Akron, highlighting a commitment to academic excellence while adapting to the evolving landscape of college admissions.

Analysis of Student Demographics at the University of Akron in 2023

The student demographics at the University of Akron for the year 2023 reveal a diverse and dynamic academic environment. The data shows that undergraduate freshmen constitute a significant portion of the student body, totaling 2,115, with a gender distribution leaning slightly towards male students at 53.2%. This trend continues among undergraduate juniors, who represent the largest group at 7,601 students, with a male percentage of 52.6%.

Interestingly, the figures shift when examining transfer students, where females slightly outnumber males at 53%, indicating a potential area of interest for recruitment and retention strategies. Graduate students, numbering 2,142, show a notable gender disparity as well, with females comprising 57.4% of this group, highlighting an increasing trend of women pursuing advanced degrees.

The data also suggests a growing diversity within the student body, although specific breakdowns of ethnicities are not fully available for all categories. The representation of White students remains substantial, indicating a need for continued efforts towards inclusivity and diversity across all demographics.

As universities strive to create inclusive environments, understanding these demographics is crucial for tailoring programs and resources that cater to the needs of all students. This data can inform recruitment strategies, student services, and support systems to enhance the educational experience for every individual at the University of Akron.

Age Composition of Students at University of Akron in 2023

The age distribution of students at the University of Akron in 2023 presents a diverse and dynamic academic environment. Notably, the majority of students fall within the traditional college age bracket of 18-24, with a significant number of undergraduates aged 18-19 and 20-21, comprising approximately 28% and 29% of the total student body, respectively. The presence of students under 18 is also notable, indicating a robust pipeline of younger students entering higher education.

Interestingly, as students age, the numbers gradually decline, particularly in the older age categories. The 25-29 age group, while smaller, still represents a meaningful portion of the student population, suggesting that the university attracts non-traditional students who may be returning to education to further their careers or change fields.

Furthermore, the data highlights an increasing representation of graduate students, particularly those aged 22-24, which reflects a trend in higher education where individuals pursue advanced degrees in their mid-twenties.

As the demographic landscape of higher education continues to evolve, it is essential for institutions like the University of Akron to adapt and cater to the varying needs of both traditional and non-traditional students. This includes providing resources and support systems that address the unique challenges faced by older students balancing education with work and family commitments. Overall, the age composition at the University of Akron underscores a commitment to inclusivity and lifelong learning in a rapidly changing world.

Trends in International Student Enrollment at the University of Akron

The data on international student enrollment at the University of Akron reveals significant trends over the years from 2004 to 2023. Initially, the proportion of international undergraduate students was relatively low, with only 0.85% in 2004. However, this figure gradually increased, peaking at 2.44% in 2016, suggesting a growing appeal of the university to international students during that period.

In contrast, the percentage of international graduate students exhibited a more stable yet upward trend, rising from 17.91% in 2004 to a notable 25.33% in 2017. This indicates that while undergraduate enrollment fluctuated, the graduate programs appeared more consistently attractive to international applicants.

However, a concerning decline in both undergraduate and graduate international student numbers is evident from 2017 onward. The undergraduate percentage fell to 1.38% by 2023, and the graduate percentage dropped to 13.96%. This decline could be attributed to various factors, including changing immigration policies, global economic conditions, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has disrupted international travel and education.

As universities globally continue to navigate these challenges, it is crucial for institutions like the University of Akron to adapt their strategies to attract and retain international talent. Enhancing support services, increasing outreach efforts, and fostering a welcoming campus environment may be essential in reversing these downward trends and ensuring a diverse student body that enriches the educational experience for all.

Here are some notable universities near the University of Akron:

1. Kent State University at Kent - Ranked 231st in the 2025 US News rankings, Kent State is a comprehensive university known for its diverse programs and vibrant campus life.

2. Case Western Reserve University - With a rank of 51, Case Western is a prestigious comprehensive university located in Cleveland, offering strong programs in engineering, business, and the humanities.

3. Carnegie Mellon University - Ranked 21st, CMU is renowned for its programs in computer science, engineering, and the arts, making it one of the leading institutions in the United States.

4. Oberlin College - This liberal arts college is ranked 55th and is known for its commitment to social justice, music, and arts education.

5. Kenyon College - A highly regarded liberal arts college ranked 45th, Kenyon is celebrated for its strong writing programs and picturesque campus.

6. Ohio State University-Main Campus - With a rank of 41, OSU is a large comprehensive university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

7. University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus - Ranked 70th, Pitt is known for its research initiatives and strong programs in health sciences and engineering.

These institutions offer a variety of educational opportunities and unique campus experiences, making the Akron area a vibrant hub for higher education.

Analysis of Crime Trends at the University of Akron

The crime data from the University of Akron reveals a concerning trend over the past decade. In 2013, the average number of incidents per 1,000 students was 8.58, which peaked in 2014 at 10.09. However, following this peak, there has been a noticeable decline in crime rates, particularly from 2016 onwards. By 2022, the average dropped to 4.24 incidents per 1,000 students, indicating a significant improvement in campus safety.

A closer look at the specific types of offenses shows that gun-related arrests, drug-related arrests, and alcohol-related arrests have fluctuated over the years. The data highlights that while gun-related arrests remained consistent, other categories exhibited varying numbers. For instance, in 2021, there were fewer incidents overall, reflecting a potential impact of the broader societal changes during the pandemic.

The downward trend in crime rates may suggest effective safety measures implemented by the university, increased awareness of campus safety, or changes in student behavior. However, the recent uptick in 2023, with a rise in gun-related arrests, indicates that vigilance is still necessary.

Overall, while the university has made strides in reducing crime, the fluctuating nature of these incidents underscores the importance of continued focus on campus safety and community engagement. It is crucial for institutions of higher education to remain proactive in addressing and mitigating crime to foster a secure learning environment.

For more information on calculating crime rates, refer to this link.