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Survey Methodology

Who participated in the Survey of Independent College Presidents?

Two-hundred and sixteen independent college presidents completed this survey.

  • 44% have been leading their current institution for six or more years.
  • For 76%, this is their first presidency.
  • 70% hold memberships in CIC and/or NAICU.
  • 46% are members of ACE.

They represent institutions all across the country.

  • More come from schools accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (45%) than any other accrediting agency; 20% are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Universities and 18% by the Middle States Association.
  • 66% of these institutions are religiously affiliated.
  • Their mean tuition rate is $30,000.
  • Their average undergraduate residential enrollment is 1,149 students.

When was this survey conducted?

August 30—September 9, 2016

How was this survey conducted?

Email invitations were distributed to 1,090 college presidents directing them to the online survey, which was completed by 216, rendering a participation rate of 19.8%. Responses were compared for statistically significant differences at a 95% confidence level for the following variables:

  • Undergraduate residential tuition
  • Religious vs. non-religious affiliation
  • Professional affiliation (CIC vs. Others)
  • Accrediting agency
  • Undergraduate residential enrollment

Download the executive summary.