Henderson, Tenn. – September 20, 2026 -- Freed-Hardeman University enrolled 2,296 students this fall, posting an all-time-high five-year graduation rate of 71% that exceeds nine of Tennessee's public four-year universities.
Retention rate reaches 89% as new student numbers climb 5%
FHU's 89% retention rate accompanied a 5% year-over-year increase in new students. Full-time undergraduate enrollment rose 3%, while on-campus residency grew 5%, adding to a total undergraduate population of 1,806 students.
Graduate enrollment jumps 13% while international student count hits record high
Full-time graduate enrollment increased 13% this fall, bringing graduate program participation to 490 students. The university also welcomed its highest-ever number of international students, broadening its base of cultural backgrounds on campus.
Church of Christ affiliation among students reaches 76%, the highest of any Christian college
Approximately 76% of on-campus undergraduate students are members of the churches of Christ, according to Senior Vice President Dave Clouse, who cited it as the highest percentage among Christian colleges and universities.
FHU President Keith Harris attributed the results to a campus culture focused on student engagement. "Our strong retention and graduation rates, along with the continued growth in new and international students, show a community that is investing deeply in the lives of its students," Harris said.
Ryan Malecha, vice president for enrollment management, pointed to the growth in graduate enrollment and on-campus residency as indicators of sustained demand heading into the new academic year.