Emory & Henry University

Despite its accessibility, Emory & Henry punches above its weight academically, offering 90+ majors, minors, and tracks across four schools—including graduate programs in health sciences, education, and business. The university transitioned from college to university status in recent years, reflecting its expanded graduate offerings. Small classes (average size: 18) foster close faculty interaction, particularly in standout programs like secondary education (with specialized tracks in biology, chemistry, and history) and the liberal arts core.

• Student-Faculty Ratio: ~13:1 (implied by 1,150 students and 90 faculty)
• Notable Programs: Secondary education, health sciences graduate programs
• Graduate Offerings: Master's and doctoral programs added in the last decade

The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, with all undergraduates engaging in a liberal arts foundation regardless of major.

Life at Emory & Henry revolves around its rural Virginia campus, where 85+ student organizations—including Greek life, performing groups, and the university's first historically African American fraternity—create a surprisingly vibrant scene for a school of its size. The residential experience is central, with housing options ranging from traditional dorms to themed living communities. Students describe the vibe as "friendly" and "engaged," with outdoor activities in the Appalachian Highlands supplementing campus events.

• Clubs/Orgs: 85+
• Greek Life: Active but not dominant
• Recent Addition: First historically African American fraternity (focused on leadership and service)

The university actively cultivates community through events and service initiatives, leveraging its small size to foster strong peer connections.

Emory & Henry delivers solid ROI for a non-selective school: 96% of 2024 graduates secured employment or graduate school admission within six months. The four-year graduation rate sits at 45% (slightly below the national average for private colleges), but those who persist earn a median salary of $39,448 six years post-graduation—comparable to many more selective institutions. The university tracks IPEDS six-year graduation rates as a key metric, currently at 57%.

• Post-Grad Success: 96% employed/enrolled in grad school (2024)
• Median Salary: $39,448 at 6 years
• 4-Year Grad Rate: 45%

These outcomes suggest the university effectively prepares students for the workforce despite its open admissions profile.

In a bold 2026 move, Emory & Henry slashed tuition by 50%—from $39,975 to $19,990—to reflect what students actually pay after aid. The university guarantees scholarships and financial aid for all full-time undergraduates, with 100% of students receiving some form of grant money (average award: $21,978). This 'Emory & Henry Promise' initiative dramatically improves transparency, though the net priceNet priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. calculator remains essential for personalized estimates.

• New Tuition: $19,990 (down from $39,975)
• Students Receiving Aid: 100%
• Average Grant: $21,978

The reset positions E&H as a rare private institution with a public-school price tag, though living costs and fees still apply.

Emory & Henry defies expectations at every turn: a near-open admissions policy that yields strong outcomes, a tuition cut that undercuts peers, and a microscopic class size (18 students) rare for institutions at its price point. The university has shrewdly expanded into graduate health sciences and education while maintaining its liberal arts core—a hybrid model that appeals to career-focused students who still want small seminars and faculty mentorship. Its Appalachian location fosters a distinctive community spirit, with outdoor enthusiasts and service-oriented learners thriving. For students priced out of elite liberal arts colleges but unwilling to sacrifice intimacy or outcomes, E&H offers a compelling alternative.