Liberty University's Student Population: A Comprehensive Overview

Liberty University, a private evangelical Christian university in Lynchburg, Virginia, has a large student body. In 2023, the university had a total enrollment of over 140,000 students, with over 16,000 on-campus students and 124,000 online students. The university offers a wide range of academic fields and has 15 colleges and schools, including a law school and a college of osteopathic medicine. With a focus on Christian values and a commitment to Training Champions for Christ, Liberty University attracts students from diverse backgrounds and has seen steady growth in its student population over the years.

Liberty University has over 140,000 students enrolled

Liberty University, a private evangelical Christian university in Lynchburg, Virginia, has over 140,000 students enrolled. This makes it one of the largest private, nonprofit universities in the United States by total student enrollment. The university was founded in 1971 by Jerry Falwell Sr. and Elmer L. Towns as Lynchburg Baptist College.

The university consists of 15 colleges, including a law school and a college of osteopathic medicine, and offers over 700 unique programs of study, with more than 550 academic programs at its Lynchburg campus and online. Liberty University has a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs, as well as certificate programs.

The majority of Liberty University's students are enrolled in online courses. In the fall of 2022, the university enrolled over 115,000 online students, with a record of over 124,000 online students in the 2023-24 academic year. The university's online programs have seen steady growth, with projections of continued increases for the 2024-25 academic year.

In addition to its online programs, Liberty University also has a significant number of students enrolled in residential programs. In the fall of 2022, the university welcomed a record number of over 15,000 on-campus students, with over 16,000 on-campus students in the 2024-25 academic year. The university's residential population includes students from all 50 states and a diverse range of countries, reflecting its global appeal.

The high enrollment numbers at Liberty University can be attributed to several factors, including its Christian mission and values, the variety of academic programs offered, and its competitive tuition fees, which are among the lowest in the United States. The university's commitment to its founding principles and its focus on providing a well-rounded education that integrates faith and learning have contributed to its growth and popularity among students.

With its large student body, diverse academic offerings, and dedication to its Christian foundation, Liberty University continues to be a prominent and influential institution in higher education, shaping the lives of its students and impacting the world.

16,000 students attend classes on campus

Liberty University, a private evangelical Christian university in Lynchburg, Virginia, has a thriving student community with a total enrollment that exceeds 140,000 students. Of these, over 16,000 students attend classes on campus, marking a significant milestone in the university's history.

The university's on-campus student population is diverse, with individuals from all 50 states and over 77 countries, representing a variety of cultural backgrounds and perspectives. This diversity enriches the campus community and enhances the educational experience for all students.

The university's commitment to its Christian mission and academic excellence has been a key factor in attracting students to its campus. With a foundation rooted in biblical values, Liberty University offers a holistic education that nurtures both the intellectual and spiritual growth of its students. The university's dedication to its founding principles has reassured parents, alumni, and donors, contributing to its growing reputation as a top choice for higher education.

The university's on-campus enrollment has been steadily increasing over the years, and the opening of the new high-rise Commons IV residence hall reflects this positive trend. This new residence hall accommodates the growing number of students who choose to live on campus, fostering a sense of community and providing convenient access to the university's facilities and resources.

In addition to its residential programs, Liberty University also offers a wide range of online courses, catering to a global audience. The university's online programs have seen tremendous growth, with approximately 127,000 students enrolled for the 2024-25 academic year. This includes the Liberty University Online Academy, which provides Christian online education to over 17,600 K-12 students.

Liberty University's total enrollment, including both residential and online programs, showcases its broad reach and impact. The university's ability to maintain and grow its student body is a testament to its resilience and the appeal of its educational offerings.

With a combination of residential and online programs, Liberty University is meeting the diverse needs of its students, providing them with a well-rounded education that equips them to become champions for Christ in their respective fields.

124,000 students are enrolled in online courses

Liberty University, a private evangelical Christian university in Lynchburg, Virginia, offers a diverse range of academic programs to a large student body. As of 2024, the university announced a record-breaking enrollment, with over 16,000 students attending on-campus classes and a remarkable 124,000 students enrolled in online courses. This number is expected to grow even further, with projections for the 2024-25 academic year anticipating around 127,000 online students.

The university's online programs have been pivotal to its success, attracting students from across the nation and around the globe. Liberty University's online courses offer flexibility and accessibility without compromising on academic quality. With over 600 online degree programs to choose from, students can pursue undergraduate or graduate certificates, associate, bachelor's, master's, or even doctoral degrees. This extensive range of options provides students with the opportunity to find a program that aligns with their interests and career goals.

The university's commitment to providing a well-rounded education is evident in its diverse course offerings. Students enrolled in online courses can explore a variety of disciplines, including business, communication, behavioral sciences, and applied studies. Additionally, the university's Christian foundation is integrated into the curriculum, as undergraduate students are required to take three Evangelical Bible-studies classes. This blend of academic and spiritual development sets Liberty University apart and appeals to those seeking a faith-based education.

The high enrollment numbers in Liberty University's online courses can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the university's accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) ensures that students receive a high-quality education that is recognized and respected. Secondly, Liberty University's online programs are known for their affordability, making education more accessible to a wider range of students. Finally, the convenience and flexibility of online learning cannot be overstated, especially for students who may have other commitments or prefer a non-traditional learning environment.

In conclusion, Liberty University's online courses have experienced tremendous growth, with 124,000 students enrolled as of 2024. This number is a testament to the university's ability to adapt to the changing landscape of education, offering rigorous and faith-based programs that cater to the diverse needs of its student body. As Liberty University continues to innovate and expand its online offerings, it is poised to maintain its position as a leading institution for remote learning.

The university has 15 colleges and schools

Liberty University is a private evangelical Christian university in Lynchburg, Virginia. It was founded in 1971 by Jerry Falwell Sr. and Elmer L. Towns and is currently led by President Dondi E. Costin. The university is affiliated with the Southern Baptist Conservatives of Virginia and is one of the largest Christian universities in the world.

Liberty University consists of 15 colleges and schools, including:

Helms School of Government

The Helms School of Government offers degrees in criminal justice, government and public administration, international relations, pre-law, public policy, strategic intelligence, and fire administration. The school is named after former US Senator Jesse Helms, a friend of the Falwell family.

Rawlings School of Divinity

The Rawlings School of Divinity, formerly known as the Liberty Divinity School, was founded in 1973 and is the largest divinity school in the world based on student enrollment. The school offers a wide range of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees and is housed in the Freedom Tower, the tallest building in Lynchburg.

School of Aeronautics

The School of Aeronautics offers 11 bachelor's degrees in areas such as professional pilot and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). In 2018, the school had over 1,200 students enrolled in its in-person and online programs. The school has partnerships with American Eagle, Piedmont Airlines, and Wayman Aviation to address pilot shortages.

School of Behavioral Sciences

The School of Behavioral Sciences consists of four departments: Community Care & Counseling, Counselor Education & Family Studies, Psychology, and Social Work. The school offers a range of master's and doctoral degrees, with an overall acceptance rate of 38%.

School of Business

The School of Business provides a comprehensive range of programs, with 46 bachelor's, 67 master's, and 14 doctoral degrees. The school is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) and was nearing completion of a new 78,000-square-foot building in 2019.

School of Communication & the Arts

The School of Communication & the Arts has five departments: Cinematic Arts, Digital Media and Journalism, Strategic and Personal Communication, Studio & Digital Arts, and Theatre Arts. This school attracts a large number of students, with over 12,000 residential and online enrollees.

School of Education

As of 2022, the School of Education enrolled 4,441 students and offers a variety of programs to prepare future educators.

School of Engineering

The School of Engineering provides degrees in computer, civil, electrical, industrial, and mechanical engineering. The program is accredited through the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) and has invested in advanced facilities, such as the Center for Advanced Engineering and Research (CAER).

School of Law

The School of Law has been accredited by the American Bar Association since 2010 and has achieved notable success in bar passage and employment rates for its graduates. The school is housed within the Center for Law and Government, along with the Helms School of Government.

College of Arts and Sciences

The College of Arts and Sciences comprises eight departments and offers a range of degrees, including PhDs. The college includes "creationist studies" classes that teach Young Earth creationism.

College of Osteopathic Medicine

The College of Osteopathic Medicine (LUCOM) opened in 2014 with funding from a grant by the Virginia Tobacco Commission. The college received initial accreditation in 2018 and launched its first residency program in neuromusculoskeletal treatment.

College of Applied Studies and Academic Success (CASAS)

The College of Applied Studies and Academic Success houses various programs and centres, such as the Academic Success Centre, Eagle Scholar's Program, and Technical Studies. The college offers a diverse range of programs to support students in their academic journeys.

School of Music

The School of Music was formed in 2012 through the merger of the departments of worship and music studies and music and humanities. The school offers 32 bachelor's, 15 master's, and four doctoral degrees. Liberty University has a comprehensive band program and a thriving music community.

Liberty University Online Academy (K-12)

The Liberty University Online Academy is a Christian online education program serving students from kindergarten to grade 12. The academy had over 17,600 students enrolled in 2024 and offers a faith-based curriculum.

Other Schools and Programs

Liberty University also offers a range of other schools and programs, including Visual and Performing Arts, Communication and Digital Content, and Osteopathic Medicine. The university provides a diverse array of programs to cater to the varied interests and passions of its students.

Liberty University is a private evangelical Christian university

The university offers over 700 unique programs of study, including more than 600 online programs, with courses at the certificate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. Liberty University is committed to academic excellence and mentorship, with experienced professionals who personally mentor students. The university also emphasizes a biblical worldview and service to others, reflecting its identity as a Christian university.

In the 2023-24 academic year, Liberty University had a record enrollment of over 16,000 on-campus students and 124,000 online students, with projections of another record-breaking year in 2024-25. The university's online programs have been a significant contributor to its high enrollment numbers, with tuition fees that are among the lowest in the United States. Liberty University's online division has been criticized for the quality of its courses, with faculty members acknowledging that the online courses are not as good as the university's traditional in-person classes.

Liberty University's student body is diverse, representing all 50 states and over 100 countries. The university welcomes students from various backgrounds and offers a range of support services to ensure their success. The university's commitment to excellence and its Christian values shape its approach to education, fostering leaders who will make a positive impact on the world.

Frequently asked questions