
221 College Lane, Salem, VA 24153-3794, USA


Roanoke College provides a diverse array of athletic opportunities through its participation in NCAA Division III sports. The college supports a total of 20 varsity teams, offering equal varsity programs for men and women. Students can engage in traditional team sports such as basketball, soccer, and baseball for men, as well as volleyball, softball, and field hockey for women. Beyond these, there are options like tennis, golf, cross country, and track and field, ensuring a broad spectrum of athletic interests are accommodated.
The college's commitment to athletics is reflected in its focus on balancing competitive play with academic demands, emphasizing sportsmanship and development over athletic scholarships. This approach makes it well-suited for students seeking a competitive collegiate sports experience without the pressures found in higher NCAA divisions. Facilities supporting these programs include well-maintained venues for both indoor and outdoor sports, enhancing the student-athlete experience. Additionally, Roanoke College promotes intramural and club sports, providing recreational options for students who want to stay active without the commitment of varsity competition.
Roanoke College offers a variety of student organizations that cater to diverse interests. Among these are Habitat for Humanity, which focuses on community service and housing projects; Catholic Campus Ministry, providing faith-based activities and support; RC Pride, an organization promoting inclusivity and support for LGBTQ+ students; the International Club, which celebrates cultural diversity and global awareness; and the Board Game Club, a social group centered on recreational gaming.
Approximately 4.5% of the student body participates in these social organizations, based on a combined total of 36 members-19 men and 17 women-out of a student population comprising 809 men and 959 women. This participation reflects an active but selective engagement in group activities among Roanoke College students.
Roanoke College has a total enrollment of approximately 603 new students, including 531 freshmen and 72 transfer students, reflecting a relatively modest intake compared to other institutions. The student age distribution skews heavily toward traditional college-age individuals, with the majority of undergraduates aged between 18 and 21 years old; specifically, 869 are aged 18-19 and 720 are aged 20-21. Older students are present but in significantly smaller numbers, with only a handful aged 25 and above. Graduate students constitute a small segment, with just a few individuals aged primarily between 20 and 34.
The racial and ethnic diversity at Roanoke College shows an enrollment pattern dominated by White students, numbering 1,393, which situates the institution in the lower 45th percentile nationally. Hispanic and African American students each represent a smaller portion of the student body, with 118 and 115 students respectively, both groups falling into the lower 40th percentile. Asian students number 33, while Native American and Pacific Islander students are few, with 6 and 2 respectively. Those identifying with two or more races total 69 students. Overall, the college's racial composition places it below the national median in diversity among comparable institutions.
Information regarding the proportion of in-state, out-of-state, and international students is not available, limiting a thorough assessment of geographic diversity.
Roanoke College offers a variety of cultural and media activities that contribute to a vibrant student life. Students can engage with campus newspaper, drama productions, radio broadcasts, and chorus groups. While there is no campus band or television station, the existing outlets provide ample opportunities for artistic and communication interests.
Health and wellness services include access to a health clinic and psychological counseling, supporting students' physical and mental well-being during their time on campus. However, there is no dedicated veterans affairs office or legal services available on campus. Additionally, there is no specified women's center to address gender-specific student needs.
The college's campus size and total enrollment position it as a moderately sized institution, which may appeal to those looking for a community that is neither too large nor too small. The student-faculty ratio of 11 to 1 suggests an environment conducive to personalized academic interaction.
Roanoke College offers access to a single main library, the Fintel Library, which serves as the central hub for students' research and study needs. Although the college has no additional libraries, the available library resources support a solid academic environment.
The collection includes approximately 158,134 physical books, a figure that places it within the lower 45th percentile compared to peers. Subscriptions to journals and other periodicals number around 3,054, complemented by 145,413 digital subscriptions, which rank near the midpoint among similar institutions. Additionally, the library provides access to about 309,647 e-books, though this number is comparatively on the lower side within the peer spectrum.
Students benefit from 224 available databases, offering a balanced array of research materials. The Fintel Library is well-equipped with facilities, maintaining 92 service hours weekly and providing study rooms that are accessible all day. Physical and digital access is ensured with trained staff on hand and established operating hours, which includes shared collections to broaden research possibilities.
Total enrollment
1835Full Time Degree Seeking Freshmen
531Member of Athletic Associations
Data not availableTotal staff
375 full time, 203 part timeVeterans affair office
NoMain library name
Fintel LibraryNumber of libraries on campus
1Reservable study rooms in library
Yes24h access
YesPhysical facilities
YesAccess to digital/electronic resources
YesStaff trained to provide and interpret library materials
YesEstablished library hours
YesAccess to library collections that are shared with other institutions
Yes