In college, in one class, what is the average failure rate? I know its different for each class.?

Question

Like, statistically, how many people should be failing the class? At what rate, is there a problem with the class, professor, or students?

Answer 1

This is not an easy question - there are 4000 college campuses in the USA and they each have their own policy about failures. It depends on whether the class is a general survey course or an advanced course, whether it is a non-major course or a majors course, honors or remedial....

When I taught biochemistry for nutrition/dietetics students I failed everyone who didnt know it cold. When I taught Science Survey for business students, I cut them some slack. When I surpervised MS and MA students every single aspect of their thesis had to be perfect before I would approve it. When I taught Freshmen, I never failed more than about 20%, although I did give a fair number of D's and C's.

At the tutoring center some students recently complained to me that one of their profs hardly ever gives an A. But he does tell them exactly what they need to do to get an A - they dont want to work that hard. I say, too bad! If you want the A, work for it.

Answer 2

There are some courses where half of those enrolled fail. I lay the blame at the student's feet. My experience as a professor has taught me that some people are just slackers and want their pet 'C.' If they think that it takes too much effort to get their desired grade, then they just take a failing grade. In the courses that I have taught, only a small percentage of students have failed. That number is increasing each semester, however; of course, I blame the students.

Answer 3

I would consider around 10-25% to be acceptable in an introductory class. It depends greatly on the level. The number of people failing is much less in honors and upper level classes.

Answer 4

Well, I guess it would depend. I know if alot of people are failing one class all at the same time, than yes there would be a problem. Maybe the teacher. Again, you would have to look at how many people are getting low scores.