Elon University Market Research Report

Background

Overview

Elon University, established in 1889 in Elon, North Carolina, is a private institution renowned for its commitment to engaged, experiential learning. The university's mission is to prepare graduates to be creative, resilient, ambitious, and ethical citizens in a global society. Elon's vision emphasizes fostering a community where students find their calling and reach their full potential through meaningful relationships and innovative problem-solving. The university's motto, "Numen Lumen" (Intellectual and Spiritual Light), reflects its dedication to intellectual and spiritual growth.

Campus and Facilities

The 690-acre campus is designated as a botanical garden and includes the 56-acre Elon University Forest, a land preserve for scientific research, and Loy Farm, a center for environmental research and sustainability. Elon's athletic teams, known as the Phoenix, compete in NCAA Division I as members of the Coastal Athletic Association.

Key Strategic Focus

Academic Excellence and Experiential Learning

Elon University emphasizes a curriculum grounded in the liberal arts and sciences, complemented by professional and graduate programs in law, business, education, and health care. The university operates on a 4-1-4 academic calendar, including a four-week Winter Term, allowing for intensive courses and experiential learning opportunities. Elon is recognized for its "Elon Experiences," which include study abroad, internships, undergraduate research, service, and leadership, ensuring that students are well-prepared for both graduate school and careers.

Global Engagement and Diversity

Elon is committed to global engagement, offering over 100 study abroad programs and Study USA opportunities. The university has made significant strides in increasing diversity, with students from 49 states and 52 countries. The student body comprises 6% Black or African American, 6% Hispanic/Latino, 2% Asian, and 2% international students.

Financials and Funding

Endowment and Financial Health

As of May 31, 2023, Elon University's endowment was valued at approximately $352 million, reflecting strong financial health and stability. The university's annual revenue is estimated to be around $750 million, with approximately 3,100 employees.

Tuition and Financial Aid

For the 2024-25 academic year, undergraduate tuition and fees are $46,958, with additional costs for food and housing totaling $16,284. Approximately 66% of undergraduate students receive financial aid through grants, and 24% receive aid through loans.

Academic Programs and Innovation

Schools and Colleges

Elon University comprises six academic divisions:

Elon College, the College of Arts and Sciences: Offers 51 undergraduate majors across three divisions: Arts and Humanities, Social and Behavioral Sciences, and Natural, Mathematical, and Computational Sciences.

Martha and Spencer Love School of Business: Provides undergraduate degrees in accounting, business administration, economics, entrepreneurship, finance, international business, management, and marketing.

School of Communications: Accredited by the Accrediting Council for Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC), offering concentrations in Journalism, Strategic Communications, Cinema & Television Arts, Communication Design, Media Analytics, and Sport & Event Management.

Dr. Jo Watts Williams School of Education: Focuses on preparing educators through innovative programs and partnerships.

School of Health Sciences: Includes programs in Physical Therapy and Physician Assistant Studies.

School of Law: Located in Greensboro, North Carolina, offering a 2.5-year program and the Elon Law Flex Program for working professionals.

Innovative Programs

Elon is recognized for its high-impact educational practices, including first-year experiences, learning communities, internships, service learning, senior capstones, study abroad, undergraduate research, and writing in the disciplines.

Leadership Team

Connie Ledoux Book – President

Connie Ledoux Book became the ninth president of Elon University on March 1, 2018. Prior to her appointment, she served as the first female Provost and Dean of Academic Affairs at The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina.

Aswani Volety – Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs

Aswani Volety oversees the university's academic programs and initiatives, ensuring the delivery of high-quality education and fostering a culture of academic excellence.

Jon Dooley – Vice President for Student Life

Jon Dooley is responsible for student affairs, including residential life, student activities, and health services, aiming to enhance the overall student experience.

Jeff Stein – Vice President for Strategic Initiatives

Jeff Stein leads strategic planning and implementation of university-wide initiatives, focusing on long-term growth and development.

Jean Rattigan-Rohr – Vice President for Access and Success

Jean Rattigan-Rohr works to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring access and success for all students.

Competitor Profile

Peer Institutions

Elon University identifies several peer institutions for benchmarking and strategic planning, including:

American University (DC)

Bucknell University (PA)

Chapman University (CA)

Fordham University (NY)

Furman University (SC)

Gonzaga University (WA)

James Madison University (VA)

Lehigh University (PA)

Marquette University (WI)

Miami University – Oxford (OH)

Santa Clara University (CA)

Southern Methodist University (TX)

Syracuse University (NY)

University of Denver (CO)

William & Mary (VA)

Market Insights and Dynamics

Elon University operates in the competitive higher education market, emphasizing engaged learning and global experiences. The university's commitment to experiential learning and student success positions it favorably among its peers.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Global Partnerships

Elon has established dual-degree programs with European universities, including Reutlingen University in Germany, NEOMA Business School in France, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore in Italy, and the Instituto Católico de Administración y Dirección de Empresas in Spain. These programs allow students to earn degrees from both Elon and the partner institution.

Community Engagement

The university's Kernodle Center for Civic Life partners with local and global communities to advance student learning, leadership, and citizenship, connecting students with volunteer opportunities at nonprofit, education, and government agencies.

Operational Insights

Distinctive Competencies

Elon's emphasis on experiential learning, global engagement, and a strong liberal arts foundation differentiates it from competitors. The university's commitment to small class sizes and faculty mentorship enhances student outcomes and satisfaction.

Strategic Initiatives

The "Boldly Elon" strategic plan focuses on advancing innovation, enhancing the student experience, and expanding the university's global impact. Key initiatives include the development of the Innovation Quad for engineering and sciences and the establishment of the HealthEU Center to support health and well-being.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Program Expansion

Elon is launching new Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science programs in neuroscience, reflecting its commitment to expanding academic offerings in response to emerging fields.

Technological Integration

The university utilizes a tech stack that includes Quantcast Measure, Cloudflare, and LinkedIn, indicating a tech-forward approach that supports digital marketing, cybersecurity, and professional networking.

Financial Growth

With an endowment of approximately $352 million and annual revenue estimated at $750 million, Elon is well-positioned to invest in infrastructure, faculty development, and student support services.