The Lenoir-Rhyne Experience

Your future is full of potential—an LR education helps you unlock it.

At Lenoir-Rhyne, you’ll never be just a number. Small class sizes mean your professors will know you by name and provide the personalized support you need to thrive. You’ll get the close-knit experience of a liberal arts college paired with the real-world preparation of a career-focused university.

You’ll learn by doing—through internships, research, service and hands-on experiences—so you graduate ready for both a meaningful career and a fulfilling life. At LR, you’ll discover your calling and become the kind of leader who makes a difference in your community and beyond.

Start Here, Go Anywhere

No matter your ambitions, dreams or goals for the future, you’ll find your new home and path to success at LR. With a wide range of degree programs, you’ll soon discover a life-changing experience at Lenoir-Rhyne.

I had a phenomenal college experience, and I now hold a degree in a field in which I'm interested. I’m excited to utilize it in disease research.

John Amodeo '18, Biology

Academics Preparation & Real-World Experiences

Our intimate learning environment enables our faculty to connect deeply with each student. You aren't just a number at LR. With hands-on learning, student research opportunities, internships and close faculty mentorship, you'll gain the knowledge and experience to thrive in your career and make an impact in the world.

Group of LR Outdoor Adventure Club students pose for a photo in front of a waterfall while hiking

Student Life

At LR, you’ll find more than just a campus—you’ll find a community. Student life is filled with ways to engage, lead, serve and make lasting memories every step of the way.

Aerial view of downtown Hickory at sunset with concert on the green by the Sails

Hickory, Our Hometown

Nestled between Charlotte and Asheville, Hickory is a vibrant small city known for its arts, food, festivals and thriving job market. With national recognition as a top place to live, it offers students big opportunities in a welcoming, creative and connected community.

Go Beyond What’s Expected

We don’t just offer a world-class education—we create a community of passionate learners to lift you up and inspire you to become your best self.

15:1

Student to Faculty Ratio

Two students laughing while studying in hammocks on lawn

$30M

Provided in student financial aid each year

Students talking at table in coffee shop

Professor talking to students from front of classroom

News & Events

Kate Esch leans on a table in the space designated for the new food pantry

Alumna, husband make gift to support Internship Microgrant Program

A gift from LR alumna Kate Esch ’70 and her husband, Bob, will extend internship microgrant funding for students through the 2028-29 academic year.

Two students walking on campus with LR banners in background

Lenoir-Rhyne records historic fundraising year, raises $19.76 million

Fiscal Year 2026 sets new records for giving, donor engagement and annual fund support as Charge Forward campaign surpasses $81.8 million.

September 10 7:00 PM / P.E. Monroe Auditorium

Visiting Writers Series: Andrew McCarthy

October 08 7:00 PM / P.E. Monroe Auditorium

Visiting Writers Series: Patrick Ryan