20 Colleges With Shockingly Low Graduation Rates: Unveiling Hidden Struggles in Higher Education

A deserted college campus with empty classrooms and overgrown pathways, surrounded by abandoned buildings and a sense of neglect

College graduation rates serve as a crucial indicator of an institution’s effectiveness in supporting student success.

While many universities boast high completion percentages, some struggle to see even half their students earn degrees.

This article examines 20 colleges with surprisingly low graduation rates, shedding light on potential factors behind these statistics.

Understanding these numbers can help prospective students make informed decisions about their educational futures.

The data may also prompt institutions to reflect on areas for improvement in student retention and support services.

1. Chicago State University

A solemn campus with empty graduation chairs and caps scattered on the ground, symbolizing the shockingly low graduation rates at Chicago State University

Chicago State University, a public institution in Illinois, faces significant challenges with student retention and graduation rates. The university’s six-year graduation rate stands at a mere 11%, ranking it among the lowest in the nation.

Several factors contribute to this low rate. Financial difficulties plague many students, forcing them to balance work and studies or leave school entirely. The university also struggles with academic support services and student engagement initiatives.

Chicago State primarily serves a diverse, urban student population. Many are first-generation college students or come from low-income backgrounds, presenting additional hurdles to degree completion.

The university has implemented programs to improve graduation rates, including enhanced academic advising and mentoring. However, progress remains slow, and the institution continues to grapple with its low completion numbers.

2. University of the District of Columbia

A deserted graduation ceremony at the University of the District of Columbia, with empty seats and a lone podium on stage

The University of the District of Columbia (UDC) is a public historically black university located in Washington, D.C. It was established in 1851 and is the only public university in the nation’s capital.

UDC faces significant challenges with student retention and graduation rates. The six-year graduation rate for full-time, first-time undergraduate students is approximately 20%.

Several factors contribute to this low graduation rate. Many UDC students come from low-income backgrounds and face financial difficulties that can interrupt their studies.

The university also serves a high proportion of non-traditional and part-time students, who often take longer to complete their degrees due to work and family commitments.

UDC has implemented various initiatives to improve student success, including enhanced academic advising and support services. The university continues to work on strategies to boost retention and graduation rates for its diverse student body.

3. Southern University at New Orleans

A deserted college campus with empty buildings and overgrown greenery, a sense of neglect and abandonment

Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO) faces significant challenges in student retention and graduation rates. The institution, located in Louisiana, reports a six-year graduation rate of only 17%.

This low rate reflects various factors impacting student success at SUNO. Financial constraints often force students to balance work and studies, extending their time to degree completion.

Academic preparedness also plays a role, with many students requiring remedial courses upon entry. This can delay progress toward graduation and increase the likelihood of dropping out.

SUNO has implemented support programs to address these issues. These include tutoring services, academic advising, and financial aid counseling. Despite these efforts, the university continues to struggle with improving its graduation rates.

4. University of Maine at Augusta

A deserted graduation ceremony at University of Maine at Augusta. Empty chairs and stage, with a few scattered graduates and families

The University of Maine at Augusta (UMA) has faced challenges in student retention and graduation rates. As of 2024, the institution reports a six-year graduation rate of approximately 16%.

This low rate can be attributed to several factors. UMA primarily serves non-traditional students, many of whom are working adults balancing their education with job and family responsibilities.

The university offers a mix of on-campus and online programs, which can present unique challenges for student engagement and completion. Additionally, many students attend part-time, extending their time to degree completion.

UMA has implemented various support services to improve student success. These include academic advising, tutoring, and career counseling. The institution also offers flexible scheduling options to accommodate diverse student needs.

Despite these efforts, the graduation rate remains a concern for the university and its stakeholders. Improving this metric continues to be a priority for UMA’s administration and faculty.

5. Louisiana State University at Alexandria

The Louisiana State University at Alexandria campus, surrounded by 20 colleges with shockingly low graduation rates, sits under a clear blue sky with a few scattered clouds

Louisiana State University at Alexandria (LSUA) has a graduation rate of 22%. This public university, located in Alexandria, Louisiana, was founded in 1960.

LSUA offers associate and bachelor’s degree programs across various fields of study. The university serves approximately 3,000 students, with a mix of traditional and non-traditional learners.

Despite its low graduation rate, LSUA provides several support services to assist students. These include academic advising, tutoring, and career counseling.

The university faces challenges in student retention and degree completion. Factors contributing to the low graduation rate may include financial constraints, academic preparedness, and personal circumstances of students.

LSUA continues to work on improving student success rates through various initiatives and programs. The university aims to enhance academic support and engagement opportunities for its diverse student population.

6. Central State University

A desolate campus with empty classrooms and neglected buildings, surrounded by overgrown greenery and abandoned student facilities

Central State University, located in Wilberforce, Ohio, has faced challenges in student retention and graduation rates. The institution, historically known for serving African American students, reported a six-year graduation rate of 26% for the 2015 cohort.

This figure places Central State among universities with lower completion rates nationwide. Several factors contribute to this statistic, including financial constraints faced by many students and academic preparedness issues.

The university has implemented various initiatives to improve student success. These include enhanced academic support services, mentoring programs, and efforts to increase financial aid accessibility.

Central State’s administration acknowledges the need for improvement and continues to work on strategies to boost graduation rates. The school remains committed to its mission of providing quality education to underserved populations.

7. Harris-Stowe State University

A university campus with multiple buildings and a prominent sign reading "Harris-Stowe State University." The scene is busy with students walking between classes

Harris-Stowe State University is a public historically black university located in St. Louis, Missouri. The institution has faced challenges with its graduation rates in recent years.

Data from the National Center for Education Statistics shows that Harris-Stowe’s six-year graduation rate stands at approximately 21%. This means that only about one in five students who enroll complete their degree within six years.

Several factors contribute to this low graduation rate. Financial constraints often impact students’ ability to continue their education. Many Harris-Stowe students come from low-income backgrounds and struggle to afford tuition and living expenses.

Academic preparedness is another issue. Some students enter the university underprepared for college-level coursework, which can lead to academic difficulties and eventual dropout.

The university has implemented support programs to address these challenges. These include tutoring services, academic advising, and financial aid counseling. Despite these efforts, improving graduation rates remains an ongoing priority for Harris-Stowe State University.

8. Langston University

A deserted college campus with empty classrooms and neglected buildings, surrounded by overgrown greenery and abandoned sports fields

Langston University, located in Langston, Oklahoma, faces challenges with its graduation rates. The institution, founded in 1897, is Oklahoma’s only historically Black college or university (HBCU).

Despite its long history, Langston University struggles to retain students through to graduation. The six-year graduation rate for first-time, full-time students hovers around 20%.

Several factors contribute to this low rate. Financial constraints often force students to interrupt their studies. Limited academic support services and a lack of diverse course offerings also play a role.

The university has implemented initiatives to improve student success. These include enhanced tutoring programs and increased financial aid opportunities. Langston also focuses on career readiness to help students see the value of completing their degrees.

9. University of North Texas at Dallas

A desolate campus with empty lecture halls and overgrown pathways, surrounded by 20 crumbling college buildings

The University of North Texas at Dallas faces challenges in student retention and graduation rates. With a six-year graduation rate of approximately 20%, the institution falls below national averages.

Several factors contribute to this low rate. Many students at UNT Dallas are first-generation college attendees or come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, which can present additional hurdles to degree completion.

The university has implemented programs aimed at improving student success. These include academic support services, mentoring initiatives, and financial aid counseling.

UNT Dallas also offers flexible scheduling options to accommodate working students. This includes evening and weekend classes, as well as online course offerings.

Despite these efforts, the graduation rate remains a concern. The university continues to explore strategies to better support its diverse student population and increase degree attainment.

10. Benedict College

A deserted college campus with empty buildings and overgrown grounds, surrounded by a sense of abandonment and neglect

Benedict College, located in Columbia, South Carolina, faces challenges with its graduation rates. The historically Black college, founded in 1870, has struggled to retain and graduate students in recent years.

Data from the National Center for Education Statistics shows Benedict College’s graduation rate hovering around 22%. This means that less than a quarter of students who enroll complete their degrees within six years.

Several factors contribute to this low rate. Financial difficulties often force students to leave before finishing their studies. Academic preparedness is another issue, with some students struggling to meet the rigors of college coursework.

The college has implemented programs to improve student success. These include academic support services, mentoring initiatives, and financial literacy workshops. Despite these efforts, Benedict College continues to grapple with low graduation rates.

11. University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown

A university campus with multiple buildings and green spaces, surrounded by hills and trees. A sense of emptiness and quietness, with few people in sight

The University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown, a regional campus of the University of Pittsburgh system, has struggled with graduation rates in recent years. Located in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, this public institution offers a range of undergraduate programs.

Despite its affiliation with the prestigious University of Pittsburgh, UPJ’s graduation rates have fallen below expectations. The six-year graduation rate for full-time, first-time students hovers around 40%, significantly lower than the national average.

Several factors contribute to these low graduation rates. Financial constraints often force students to leave before completing their degrees. Additionally, some students transfer to other institutions or the main Pittsburgh campus.

The university has implemented various initiatives to improve student retention and graduation rates. These include enhanced academic support services, improved advising programs, and efforts to increase student engagement on campus.

12. Voorhees College

A campus with an empty graduation stage, surrounded by deserted buildings and overgrown greenery, symbolizing low graduation rates at Voorhees College

Voorhees College, a historically Black liberal arts institution in Denmark, South Carolina, faces significant challenges with its graduation rates. Founded in 1897, the college aims to provide educational opportunities to underserved populations.

Despite its mission, Voorhees College has struggled to retain and graduate students. The six-year graduation rate hovers around 26%, well below the national average for four-year institutions.

Several factors contribute to this low rate. Financial difficulties often force students to leave before completing their degrees. Additionally, some students arrive underprepared for college-level work, requiring extensive remedial courses.

The college has implemented support programs to address these issues. These include tutoring services, academic advising, and financial literacy workshops. However, the impact of these efforts on graduation rates remains limited.

Voorhees College continues to seek ways to improve student outcomes and increase its graduation rates. The institution faces an uphill battle in retaining students and helping them achieve their educational goals.

13. Rust College

A deserted college campus with empty classrooms, overgrown lawns, and abandoned buildings, symbolizing the shockingly low graduation rates at Rust College

Rust College, located in Holly Springs, Mississippi, faces challenges with its graduation rates. This private, historically Black liberal arts college has struggled to retain students through to completion of their degrees.

Recent data indicates that Rust College’s six-year graduation rate hovers around 30%. This means that less than one-third of students who enroll manage to earn their degree within six years.

Several factors contribute to this low graduation rate. Financial difficulties often force students to leave before finishing their studies. Additionally, academic preparedness can be an issue for some incoming students.

Rust College has implemented support programs to improve student retention and graduation rates. These include tutoring services, academic advising, and financial aid counseling. Despite these efforts, the college continues to grapple with low completion rates.

14. Texas Southern University

A college campus with iconic buildings and green spaces, surrounded by a bustling cityscape

Texas Southern University (TSU) in Houston, Texas, faces significant challenges with its graduation rates. The six-year graduation rate at TSU hovers around 17%, placing it among institutions with low completion rates.

TSU is a historically Black university with a diverse student body. Many of its students come from low-income backgrounds and are first-generation college attendees, factors that can impact graduation rates.

The university has implemented various programs to improve student retention and success. These include academic support services, mentoring initiatives, and financial aid assistance.

Despite these efforts, TSU continues to struggle with improving its graduation rates. The university faces ongoing challenges related to student preparedness, financial constraints, and institutional resources.

TSU remains committed to its mission of providing educational opportunities to underserved populations. The university continues to work on strategies to enhance student outcomes and increase graduation rates.

15. University of the Southwest

The University of the Southwest with 20 colleges, each with a shockingly low graduation rate. The scene could depict a row of college buildings with a dismal atmosphere

The University of the Southwest, located in Hobbs, New Mexico, faces challenges with its graduation rates. This private Christian institution reports a six-year graduation rate of approximately 20%.

Several factors contribute to this low completion rate. The university primarily serves a non-traditional student population, including many working adults and first-generation college students.

Financial constraints also play a role, as many students struggle to afford tuition and living expenses. The university’s small size and limited resources can impact the availability of support services and academic programs.

Despite these challenges, the University of the Southwest continues to work on improving student retention and graduation rates. The institution has implemented various initiatives aimed at supporting students throughout their academic journey.

16. Livingstone College

A college campus with empty graduation chairs and a low graduation rate sign

Livingstone College is a private historically Black college located in Salisbury, North Carolina. Founded in 1879, it has a rich history of providing education to African American students.

Despite its long-standing presence, Livingstone College faces challenges with student retention and graduation rates. The college’s six-year graduation rate stands at approximately 20%, which is significantly lower than the national average.

Several factors contribute to this low graduation rate. Financial difficulties often force students to leave before completing their degrees. Limited academic support services and inadequate preparation for college-level work also play a role.

Livingstone College has implemented initiatives to improve student success. These include enhanced tutoring programs, academic advising, and financial literacy workshops. The college also focuses on strengthening its partnerships with local businesses to provide internship opportunities for students.

17. East-West University

A desolate university campus with empty classrooms and deserted hallways. Overgrown grass and neglected buildings hint at the low graduation rates

East-West University, located in Chicago, Illinois, has struggled with low graduation rates. The institution faces challenges in retaining students and guiding them to degree completion.

Recent data shows that only a small percentage of students graduate within six years of enrollment. This low rate raises concerns about the university’s ability to support student success.

Several factors contribute to the low graduation rate at East-West University. Financial difficulties, academic preparedness, and limited support services may play a role in students’ inability to complete their degrees.

The university has implemented some initiatives to improve student retention and graduation rates. These efforts include academic advising programs and tutoring services.

Despite these measures, East-West University continues to grapple with low graduation rates. The institution faces ongoing challenges in helping students achieve their academic goals and obtain degrees.

18. Edward Waters College

A college campus with a low graduation rate, featuring historic buildings and lush greenery, with a sense of struggle and perseverance in the atmosphere

Edward Waters College, located in Jacksonville, Florida, faces significant challenges with its graduation rates. Founded in 1866, it is the oldest historically black college in Florida.

The institution’s six-year graduation rate hovers around 22%, which is substantially below the national average. This low rate raises concerns about student retention and academic support at the college.

Edward Waters College offers various programs in business, communications, and criminal justice. Despite these offerings, the college struggles to see a high percentage of students complete their degrees within the expected timeframe.

Financial constraints and academic preparedness are factors that may contribute to the low graduation rates. The college has implemented retention initiatives to address these issues, but progress remains slow.

19. Paul Quinn College

A college campus with few students, empty classrooms, and deserted graduation ceremony

Paul Quinn College is a private, historically Black college located in Dallas, Texas. Founded in 1872, it is the oldest historically Black college west of the Mississippi River.

The college has faced significant challenges in recent years, including a low graduation rate. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, Paul Quinn College’s graduation rate is approximately 15%.

Despite this low figure, the college has implemented several initiatives to improve student outcomes. These include a work college model, where students gain valuable work experience while earning their degrees.

Paul Quinn College offers bachelor’s degree programs in various fields, including business administration, legal studies, and health and wellness. The institution has a small student body, with an enrollment of around 500 students.

20. Alderson Broaddus University

A desolate campus with empty classrooms and deserted dormitories at Alderson Broaddus University

Alderson Broaddus University, located in Philippi, West Virginia, faces challenges with its graduation rates. The institution, founded in 1871, has struggled to retain students through to completion of their degrees.

Recent data shows a six-year graduation rate of approximately 27%. This means that less than one-third of students who begin their studies at Alderson Broaddus complete their degrees within six years.

Several factors contribute to this low graduation rate. Financial difficulties, academic preparedness, and student engagement issues play roles in the university’s retention challenges.

The university has implemented programs to improve student success and boost graduation rates. These include enhanced academic support services and increased financial aid opportunities.

Despite these efforts, Alderson Broaddus continues to grapple with low completion rates. The university faces ongoing pressure to improve student outcomes and demonstrate its value to prospective students.

Factors Leading to Low Graduation Rates

A desolate college campus with empty classrooms and abandoned graduation gowns strewn across the floor, surrounded by neglected textbooks and unattended study areas

Several key elements contribute to the low graduation rates observed at certain colleges. These factors often intersect and compound, creating significant challenges for students pursuing higher education.

Financial Barriers

Many students struggle to afford the rising costs of college tuition, fees, and living expenses. This financial burden can force them to work long hours while studying, potentially affecting their academic performance. Some may need to take breaks from school to earn money, prolonging their time to graduation.

Financial aid packages may be insufficient to cover all expenses, leaving students with gaps in funding. Unexpected financial emergencies can derail even well-prepared students, causing them to drop out or delay graduation.

Students from low-income backgrounds may face additional hurdles, such as limited access to resources or family obligations that compete with their studies.

Academic Preparedness

Inadequate high school preparation can leave students ill-equipped for college-level work. This gap in readiness often leads to struggles in foundational courses, potentially causing discouragement and academic probation.

Some students may lack essential study skills or time management abilities crucial for success in higher education. Remedial courses, while intended to help, can extend the time and cost required to complete a degree.

Mismatches between students’ academic interests and their chosen majors may result in poor performance or frequent major changes, delaying graduation.

Institutional Support

Colleges with limited resources may struggle to provide comprehensive support services. Inadequate academic advising can lead to poor course selection and unclear degree pathways.

Insufficient mental health services and counseling can leave students without crucial support during challenging times. This lack of assistance may contribute to higher dropout rates.

Large class sizes and limited faculty interaction can make it difficult for students to engage fully with their coursework or receive personalized attention when needed.

Some institutions may not offer flexible scheduling options, creating conflicts for students balancing work, family, and academic responsibilities.

Impact of Low Graduation Rates

A desolate graduation stage with empty chairs and abandoned diplomas scattered on the ground, surrounded by neglected college buildings

Low graduation rates have significant repercussions for students, institutions, and society. These effects ripple through personal finances and the broader economy.

Economic Consequences

Students who don’t complete their degrees often face reduced earning potential. Census data shows bachelor’s degree holders earn about $1 million more over their lifetimes compared to those with only high school diplomas.

Colleges with low graduation rates may struggle to attract students and funding. This can lead to budget cuts, affecting educational quality and resources.

Communities also feel the impact. Areas with higher educational attainment tend to have lower unemployment rates and higher tax revenues.

Student Loan Debt

Students who leave college without a degree often carry substantial debt without the increased earning power to repay it. The average student loan debt for borrowers is over $30,000.

Default rates are higher among non-graduates. About 32% of borrowers who didn’t complete their programs default on their loans within 12 years, compared to 16% of graduates.

This debt burden can delay major life milestones like homeownership, marriage, and starting a family. It may also impact credit scores, making it harder to secure loans for cars or homes.

Improving Graduation Rates

A graduation cap and diploma lying abandoned on a deserted college campus, surrounded by overgrown grass and neglected buildings

Colleges are implementing strategic initiatives to boost graduation rates through targeted support and resources for students.

Enhanced Student Services

Many institutions are expanding their student services to provide comprehensive support. Academic advisors now offer more personalized guidance, helping students navigate course selections and degree requirements. Career centers have strengthened their programs, offering resume workshops, interview preparation, and internship placement assistance.

Some colleges have introduced peer mentoring programs. Upperclassmen mentor new students, offering advice on campus life and academic challenges. This personal connection helps freshmen adjust to college life more smoothly.

Mental health services have also been expanded on many campuses. Counseling centers now offer extended hours and online appointments to accommodate diverse student schedules.

Financial Assistance Programs

Colleges are developing innovative financial aid options to help students complete their degrees. Need-based grants have increased at many schools, reducing the reliance on student loans. Some institutions have introduced completion grants, providing small amounts of aid to students nearing graduation who face financial hurdles.

Work-study programs have been revamped to offer more flexible hours and higher wages. This allows students to earn money without sacrificing study time. Several colleges have partnered with local businesses to create paid internship opportunities, combining work experience with financial support.

Emergency funds have been established at many schools. These provide quick financial assistance to students facing unexpected expenses that could derail their education.

Academic Support Systems

Colleges are strengthening their academic support systems to help students succeed. Tutoring centers have expanded their services, offering both in-person and online sessions. Some schools have implemented early alert systems to identify struggling students quickly.

Supplemental instruction programs have grown, providing peer-led study sessions for challenging courses. These sessions help students grasp difficult concepts and develop effective study strategies.

Many institutions have redesigned introductory courses to be more engaging and supportive. This includes incorporating active learning techniques and providing additional resources for students who need extra help.

Technology has enhanced academic support efforts. Adaptive learning software helps students practice at their own pace, while data analytics allow colleges to identify and address academic challenges more effectively.

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