About Covenant College
The financial picture tells a story of substantial aid bringing costs within reach for many families. While sticker price hits $53,906, students actually pay an average net price of $24,832 after institutional support. Graduates earn a median of $50,412 ten years out, making the typical $22,500 debt load manageable with monthly payments of $239. Nearly 30% of students receive institutional grants averaging $26,658, helping bridge the gap between aspiration and affordability.
The tight-knit campus culture reflects both the small enrollment and shared faith commitment. With a 12:1 student-faculty ratio, professors know students personally. The 88% retention rate suggests students find what they're looking for in this mountain community. About 64% come from out of state, creating a geographically diverse student body united by common beliefs.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 12:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 98.6%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 72.9%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 71.9%
- Retention Rate
- 87.3%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $50,412
- Carnegie Classification
- Liberal Arts College
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $32,925 |
| Economics. | Bachelor | $30,771 |
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | Bachelor | $28,598 |
| Psychology, General. | Bachelor | $24,369 |
| English Language and Literature, General. | Bachelor | $20,687 |
Campus Life
The 12:1 student-faculty ratio creates classroom discussions that often spill into dining hall conversations about theology and worldview. Students gather for mandatory chapel three times weekly, reinforcing the school's Presbyterian identity. Weekends revolve around outdoor adventures like rock climbing at nearby cliffs or hiking the extensive trail system. The Scots compete in 14 NCAA Division III sports with 237 total athletes, creating a strong athletic culture despite the small size. Students also organize regular trips down the mountain to explore Chattanooga's food scene and cultural attractions. The 87.34% retention rate reflects how students embrace this blend of rigorous academics, outdoor lifestyle, and faith-centered community.
- Setting
- Suburb-Large
- Housing Capacity
- 902 beds
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1955
Campus Safety (2023)
27 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary | 12 | 3 | 0 | 0 |
| Rape | 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 |
| Dating Violence | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Arson | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 28°–45°F
- July Avg
- 67°–83°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 58.6"
- Annual Snowfall
- 0.7"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 46.9%
- Women
- 53.2%
- White
- 87.1%
- Black
- 1.3%
- Hispanic
- 3.5%
- Asian
- 3.2%
- In-State Students
- 35.6%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 18.5%
Location
- Address
- Lookout Mountain, Georgia 30750-4164
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $50,412
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $43,240
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $35,100
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 81.9%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $239/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $22,500
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Covenant College?
Covenant College accepts 84.13% of applicants, making it accessible to most students who meet basic requirements. The average SAT score is 1260, with the middle 50% ranging from 1140 to 1380. This Reformed Presbyterian institution values character and faith commitment alongside academic preparation.
How much does Covenant College cost after financial aid?
The average net price at Covenant College is $24,832, less than the full cost of attendance of $53,906. Students graduate with a median debt of $22,500 and monthly loan payments of $239. The college provides institutional grants averaging $26,658 to 29% of students.
What are academics like at Covenant College?
Covenant College maintains a 12:1 student-faculty ratio across its 858 students, ensuring personalized attention in the classroom. The college emphasizes classical liberal arts education rooted in Reformed theology. With 87.34% of students returning for their second year, most find the rigorous academic environment engaging.
What career outcomes can graduates expect from Covenant College?
Covenant College graduates earn a median salary of $50,412 ten years after graduation, with 98.6% finding employment. The 6-year graduation rate stands at 71.90%, typical for a small liberal arts college. Alumni often pursue careers in education, ministry, and professional fields that align with their Christian worldview.
Where is Covenant College located and what is campus life like?
Covenant College sits atop Lookout Mountain, Georgia, offering stunning views and a close-knit community of 858 students. Housing capacity reaches 902 students, creating a residential campus experience. The Scots compete in 14 NCAA Division III sports with 237 student-athletes participating.
Does Covenant College have a strong religious identity?
Covenant College maintains deep ties to the Presbyterian Church in America since its founding in 1955. The student body is 87.06% white and draws from across the country, with only 35.58% from Georgia. This Christian liberal arts college integrates Reformed theology throughout its curriculum and campus life.
