Cedarville University Market Research Report

Background

Overview: Cedarville University, established in 1887, is a private Baptist institution located in Cedarville, Ohio. The university is committed to providing a Christ-centered learning community that equips students for lifelong leadership and service through education marked by excellence and grounded in biblical truth. With a total enrollment of 6,384 students, including 4,024 traditional undergraduates, 590 graduate students, and 1,770 dual-enrolled students, Cedarville stands as one of Ohio's largest private universities.

Mission and Vision: Cedarville's mission is to transform lives through excellent education and intentional discipleship in submission to biblical authority. The university aims to cultivate graduates who are academically prepared, spiritually mature, and professionally competent.

Industry Significance: Recognized for its rigorous academic programs and authentic Christian community, Cedarville has earned national accolades, including being ranked among the top three evangelical universities in The Wall Street Journal's 2025 Best Colleges in the U.S.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives:

• Academic Excellence: Offering over 150 programs of study across arts, sciences, and professional fields, Cedarville emphasizes a comprehensive education grounded in biblical truth.

• Spiritual Development: All students are required to complete a 15-credit-hour Bible minor and attend daily chapel services, fostering spiritual growth alongside academic pursuits.

• Professional Preparation: The university integrates practical experiences, such as the Integrated Business Core (IBC), where students run entrepreneurial ventures, applying classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios.

Areas of Specialization:

• Health Sciences: Cedarville's School of Pharmacy offers a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education. The university also provides a Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.N.) and a Physician Assistant program, one of only five evangelical universities to offer such an accredited program.

• Engineering and Computer Science: The university's cyber operations program is one of only 21 in the nation to earn the National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations designation by the National Security Agency (NSA), and the only Christian university to receive that honor.

Primary Markets Targeted:

• Undergraduate Education: Traditional students seeking a Christ-centered education with strong academic programs.

• Graduate Education: Professionals pursuing advanced degrees in fields such as business, nursing, and pharmacy.

• Dual Enrollment: High school students earning college credits through Cedarville's dual enrollment programs.

Financials and Funding

Revenue and Expenses:

• Fiscal Year Ending June 2024:

• Revenue: $206.7 million

• Expenses: $188.6 million

• Net Income: $18.1 million

• Net Assets: $308.2 million

Revenue Sources:

• Program Services: $186.6 million (90.3% of total revenue)

• Contributions: $11.9 million (5.7%)

• Investment Income: $5.8 million (2.8%)

Expense Allocation:

• Executive Compensation: $1.96 million (1.0% of total expenses)

• Other Salaries and Wages: $43.9 million (23.3%)

The university maintains a low liabilities-to-assets ratio of 10.29%, indicating strong financial health and efficient resource management.

Pipeline Development

Academic Programs:

• Physician Assistant Program: Launched to address the growing demand for healthcare professionals, with the first cohort commencing clinical rotations in 2024.

• Cyber Operations: Recognized by the NSA, this program prepares students for careers in cybersecurity, a field with increasing importance in national security.

Infrastructure Projects:

• Campus Expansion: As part of a 10-year master plan, Cedarville has added a 300-seat dining commons featuring Chick-fil-A, a 282-bed residence hall, and a civil engineering building, all aimed at accommodating a growing student body.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies:

• Center for Pharmacy Innovation: This center focuses on advancing pharmaceutical practices and education, integrating cutting-edge research with practical applications.

Scientific Methodologies:

• Integrated Business Core (IBC): A year-long practicum where students form teams to run entrepreneurial ventures, applying business theories to real-world scenarios.

AI-Driven Capabilities:

• Cybersecurity Program: Incorporates machine learning algorithms to enhance threat detection and response, preparing students for the evolving landscape of cyber threats.

Leadership Team

• Dr. Thomas White: President since 2013, Dr. White has overseen significant growth in enrollment and the expansion of academic programs.

• Dr. Janice L. Supplee: Vice President of Marketing and Communications and Dean of Graduate Studies, instrumental in enhancing the university's national profile and graduate offerings.

• Dr. Jeffrey Haymond: Dean of the Robert W. Plaster School of Business, focusing on integrating faith and learning in business education.

Leadership Changes

There have been no recent significant changes in the university's leadership team.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics:

• Market Size: The U.S. private higher education sector comprises over 1,600 institutions, serving millions of students annually.

• Growth Potential: Increasing demand for faith-based education and professional programs in healthcare and technology sectors.

• Industry Trends: Emphasis on online education, interdisciplinary programs, and experiential learning opportunities.

Competitor Analysis:

• Dordt University: A private Christian university in Iowa, known for strong student engagement and academic programs.

• Samford University: A private Christian university in Alabama, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

• Liberty University: A large private Christian university in Virginia, offering extensive online and residential programs.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

• NSA Partnership: Cedarville's cyber operations program is recognized by the National Security Agency, enhancing its credibility and providing students with unique opportunities.

• Healthcare Affiliations: Collaborations with local hospitals and clinics for clinical rotations in nursing, pharmacy, and physician assistant programs.

Operational Insights

Competitive Advantages:

• Faith-Based Education: Integration of biblical principles across all programs, attracting students seeking a Christ-centered education.

• Student Engagement: Ranked fourth nationally for student engagement, indicating a strong community and supportive learning environment.

• Academic Excellence: High graduation and retention rates, reflecting the quality of education and student satisfaction.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

• Program Expansion: Developing new programs in emerging fields such as data science and artificial intelligence to meet market demand.

• Online Education: Expanding online offerings to reach a broader audience and accommodate non-traditional students.

• Global Outreach: Enhancing international partnerships and study abroad programs to provide students with global perspectives.

Contact Information

• Website: www.cedarville.edu

• Social Media:

• Facebook: Cedarville University Facebook

• Twitter: Cedarville University Twitter

• Instagram: Cedarville University Instagram

• Location: Cedarville, Ohio