Bard College
2025 USNews Best National Liberal Arts Colleges Ranking: 71(↑1) (Click for schools/majors ranking)
School Characteristics: Private, non-Profit (4-Years)
Calendar systerm: Semester
Religious Affiliation: Not applicable
School Chief: Coleen Murphy Alexander (V.P. for Administration)
Website: www.bard.edu/; Phone: 8457586822
Location: Annandale Road, Annandale-On-Hudson, NY, 12504-5000
Bard College Important Facts
Analysis of Key Metrics at Bard College
Bard College has exhibited notable trends over the years, particularly in tuition costs, student retention, graduation rates, and the gender ratio among students. One of the most striking aspects is the continuous rise in tuition fees. From 2014 to 2024, in-state undergraduate tuition has escalated from $46,370 to $63,612, marking an increase of approximately 36.7%. This trend aligns with nationwide concerns regarding the rising cost of higher education and its impact on student debt.
In terms of student retention, the rates have shown fluctuations but ultimately indicate a positive trend toward student satisfaction and support. Retention improved significantly to 89% in 2023, reflecting a commitment from the institution to foster a supportive learning environment. This high rate of retention is critical as it often correlates with a higher likelihood of graduation.
However, graduation rates have been less stable, particularly the on-time graduation rate, which dipped to 57% in 2024. This is concerning as it may signal challenges that students face in completing their degrees within the expected timeframe. Supporting factors such as mentoring and academic resources might need reevaluation to improve student outcomes.
Finally, the gender ratio data shows a relatively balanced participation of male and female students in undergraduate programs, with women slightly outnumbering men. Overall, this balanced gender representation can contribute positively to the campus culture and learning diversity.
In summary, while Bard College is making strides in some areas, especially retention, the rising tuition costs and fluctuating graduation rates pose challenges that the institution must address to maintain its standards and support for students.
Bard College Degrees and Majors
Analysis of Graduation Data at Bard College 2023
The graduation data from Bard College in 2023 showcases some notable trends and insights regarding the distribution of degrees across various fields. The most significant observation is that Fine/Studio Arts stands out with the highest number of graduates at the bachelor's level, totaling 110 students. This reflects the institution's strong emphasis on the performing arts, which is also evident in the 28 master's graduates in Visual and Performing Arts. Such figures suggest a robust engagement and support for artistic disciplines, perhaps encouraging students to pursue careers in increasingly popular fields such as music, theater, and visual arts.
Moreover, it is noteworthy that the Biological and Physical Sciences program also attracted a considerable number of bachelor graduates (90), with a consistent representation of international students, indicating a diverse and appealing curriculum. Despite the absence of master or doctorate graduates in this field, the continued increase in undergraduate enrollment may signify a growing interest in STEM areas.
In contrast, traditional business disciplines like Business Administration and Accounting show minimal participation, with no graduates at the master's or doctorate levels. This trend mirrors national shifts in higher education, where students increasingly seek creative and interdisciplinary programs that promote innovative thinking.
Interestingly, the data reveals no graduates in associate degrees across most subjects listed, with only two graduates reported in Liberal Arts and Sciences. This raises questions about the appeal of associate degrees in these fields at Bard College, especially compared to the bachelor’s degrees that dominate the numbers.
Overall, Bard College continues to foster a vibrant academic environment focusing primarily on the arts, while also integrating a diverse set of disciplines that cater to various student interests and career pathways.
Bard College Ranking and Admission
Bard College Admissions Trends and Rankings
Bard College has experienced a dynamic shift in its rankings and admissions rates over the years. Notably, the latest ranking for 2025 stands at 71, which marks a significant decline from previous years, including a ranking of 62 in 2022 and 60 in 2023. While rankings can fluctuate due to various factors such as changes in academic programs, faculty reputation, and other institutional developments, this downward trend may raise concerns among prospective students and parents. The admissions rates reflect a similarly turbulent landscape. The admit rate for male students has shown substantial variability, peaking at around 65% in 2020 before dropping to approximately 41% in 2023. Female applicants also experienced a declining acceptance rate, with a peak of around 68% in 2019 followed by a decrease to about 48% in 2023. The fluctuating admission rates suggest increasing selectivity at Bard College, possibly driven by a higher number of applications in response to its evolving reputation. Moreover, the enrollment numbers have seen a decline, with the highest recorded enrollment of 560 students in 2015, contrasting sharply with only 402 new students in 2024. This decrease could be indicative of a more competitive admissions process combined with changing perceptions of the college. As Bard continues to navigate its position in higher education, it remains essential to monitor these trends to understand how they might impact the college's identity and attract future students. The 2025 ranking serves as a reminder of the competitive landscape of college admissions and the significance of maintaining a strong academic profile in an ever-changing educational environment.
Bard College Admission Score Requires
*Numbers at left represent SAT/ACT submitting percentage, numbers on blue blocks represent 25%-75% admission scores
**Drag green block to check data for different years, click blue block to check scores trends
Analysis of Admission Data at Bard College
Bard College's admission data reveals intriguing trends regarding standardized test performance over the years, despite a lack of comprehensive data for most years. As noted, in 2024, there were specific benchmarks for SAT reading and mathematics scores, indicating that future students might hold relatively strong academic qualifications. The SAT reading scores ranged from 670 to 740, while the mathematics scores displayed a similar range, suggesting a consistent level of achievement among admitted students.
The data also indicates that 52 applicants submitted SAT scores, accounting for 13% of those accepted. This relatively low proportion may reflect a growing trend in the college admissions landscape where institutions are increasingly adopting test-optional policies. In the context of higher education, several colleges have recognized that standardized tests may not be the best indicators of a student's potential contributions to their campus community.
Moreover, as more students choose to opt out or are unable to submit test scores, emphasis on other facets of an applicant’s profile, such as personal essays, recommendations, and extracurricular activities, becomes critical. This shift aligns with educational discussions surrounding equity and access, particularly for marginalized communities who may not have the same resources for standardized test preparation.
Bard’s data in 2024 stands as a critical glimpse into how the admissions process may evolve in response to changing societal expectations and educational philosophies. Balancing rigor in academic standards while fostering inclusivity will be vital as institutions prepare their future class profiles.
Bard College Students Diversity
Analysis of Bard College's Student Demographics for 2024
The demographic data from Bard College for 2024 reveals a diverse student body, with notable variations across different categories of students. It is particularly noteworthy that among the incoming undergraduate students, almost 62.4% are female, contrasted with only 37.6% being male. This gender distribution suggests a growing trend of female enrollment, which is reflective of wider patterns across higher education institutions in the United States.
The undergraduate upperclassmen’s population maintains a relatively similar gender ratio, with females at 54.2% and males at 45.8%. Interestingly, the gender representation is even more skewed among transfer undergraduate students, where a significant 77.5% are female. These trends may indicate both an increasing appeal of Bard College to women and possibly systemic challenges that male students face in higher education.
The graduate student population also shows a gender imbalance, with 62.7% of students being female. This predominance mirrors trends in many graduate programs, where female representation has been steadily increasing.
In terms of racial demographics within these categories, the data highlights a significant presence of White students across all groups. However, further breakdown of the percentage of students from different ethnic backgrounds would provide a clearer picture of diversity and inclusion efforts at Bard College.
Overall, the demographic composition of Bard College for 2024 underscores an evolving gender distribution in higher education, alongside a need for a more extensive examination of racial diversity within the student body. These insights could guide the institution's strategies for recruitment and support programs going forward.
Bard College Students Age Distribution
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Bard College 2024
The age distribution of students at Bard College in 2024 highlights a diverse demographic that reflects broader trends in higher education. The largest group of students falls within the 18-19 age range, which is common in many institutions as it includes a significant number of traditional first-year students. This demographic comprises approximately 32.2% of the total undergraduate population, showcasing the prevalence of students entering college directly after high school.
Interestingly, the institution also accommodates a notable number of slightly older students, particularly in the 22-24 bracket, where younger graduate students and returning undergraduates may pursue advanced degrees or new fields of study. This age group accounts for about 21% of total students, which suggests Bard College is attracting more non-traditional students who are likely to bring diverse perspectives and experiences to the academic environment.
Moreover, the presence of students aged 30 and above, while representing a smaller percentage of the total population, reflects the college's supportive atmosphere for adult education. The statistics indicate a growing trend in higher education where individuals returning to academia to further their careers or seek new opportunities contribute to campus vibrancy.
Overall, Bard College's age demographics indicate a healthy mix of traditional and non-traditional students, fostering a dynamic learning environment that encourages collaboration across generations. This aligns with national trends where more adults are pursuing higher education, contributing to a richer educational experience for everyone involved.
Bard College International Students Trends
Commentary on International Student Enrollment at Bard College
The data on international students at Bard College reveals a significant trend in the increase of diversity within the student population over the years. Beginning in 2005, the percentage of international undergraduate students was only 6.08%. However, by 2024, this figure had almost quadrupled to 14.31%. This increase not only highlights Bard College's commitment to fostering a multicultural environment but also reflects broader trends in higher education where institutions are increasingly recognizing the value of global perspectives.
In tandem with the growth in undergraduate international enrollment, graduate programs at Bard have also seen a notable rise in diversity. The proportion of international graduate students soared from 9.92% in 2005 to an impressive 33.26% in 2024. This dramatic increase in graduate-level diversity is particularly significant as it suggests that international students are increasingly attracted to Bard’s advanced programs.
The COVID-19 pandemic may have temporarily disrupted the flow of international students globally, yet Bard’s continued growth in enrollment figures may indicate a resilient international student market and Bard’s adaptive strategies in maintaining its appeal. Ultimately, this upward trend may contribute positively to the overall academic experience, enriching classroom discussions with varied cultural insights and fostering global networks among graduates.
As education systems worldwide continue to navigate the complexities of globalization and international relations, Bard College’s international enrollment figures serve as a promising indicator of the institution's evolving landscape and its role in promoting a diverse academic community.
Bard College Campus and Safety
Nearby Top Colleges
Here are some notable colleges and universities near Bard College:
Vassar College - Ranked 12th in the 2025 US News rankings, Vassar College is a prestigious liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on academic freedom and a diverse range of programs.
United States Military Academy - Ranked 8th, this esteemed institution, also known as West Point, trains future leaders of the U.S. Army with a rigorous curriculum and a focus on military and ethical leadership.
Williams College - Holding the top spot at 1st rank, Williams College is renowned for its academic excellence and vibrant campus life, offering a variety of liberal arts programs.
Trinity College - With a rank of 36th, Trinity College is a liberal arts college in Hartford, Connecticut, known for its small class sizes and strong alumni network.
Amherst College - Ranked 2nd, Amherst is another leading liberal arts college that emphasizes a diverse curriculum, inclusive community, and exceptional faculty-student engagement.
These institutions are highly regarded for their academic programs, student engagement, and vibrant campus communities, making them important players in the higher education landscape in the vicinity of Bard College.
Campus Safety
Crime Rate Trends at Bard College
The crime rate data from Bard College over the past decade presents a noteworthy trend. The average number of crimes per 1,000 students peaked in 2015 at 38.88 but has since seen a significant decline, reaching its lowest at 12.35 in 2022. This decline suggests a potentially safer environment for the student body, which is reassuring given the concerns about campus safety prevalent in many colleges today.
One particularly interesting aspect is the prevalence of arrests related to drug offenses, which might indicate a broader societal issue of substance abuse among younger populations. While the overall numbers decreased by 2021, it's essential to remain vigilant about the impact of such issues, particularly as students return to campus post-pandemic, which may bring an increase in substance-related incidents.
The absence of firearm-related incidents on campus is a positive highlight as well, reflecting a controlled environment. However, any recorded cases of domestic violence or theft serve as critical reminders that even in seemingly safe spaces, vigilance and supportive measures must be prioritized to ensure the well-being of all students.
With ongoing concerns about campus safety, schools and institutions should take these trends into account and continue fostering community programs aimed at prevention and education. Overall, while the data from Bard College indicates a decreasing trend in crime rates, it serves as an important reminder that continuous effort is necessary to maintain and improve campus safety. For those interested in understanding how to calculate crime rates, you can find more details here.
Reference
- Bard College Official Website
- USNews Best National Liberal Arts Colleges Ranking
- USNews Bset Global Universities Ranking
- THE World University Ranking
- QS World University Ranking
- ARWU World University Ranking
- US Department of Education College Scorecard
- National Center for Education Statistics
- Forward Pathway US College Ranking Database
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Bard College Important Facts Trends
Bard College degrees/majors
Bard College major details
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2023 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Fine/Studio Arts, General. | $19,327-$37,112 | ||||
Art History, Criticism and Conservation. | $19,327-$37,112 | ||||
Music Performance, General. | $30,660 | ||||
Visual and Performing Arts, Other. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Social Sciences, General. | $23,302 | ||||
Economics, General. | - | ||||
Econometrics and Quantitative Economics. | - | ||||
Social Sciences, Other. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $13,221 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Biological and Physical Sciences. | $39,296 | ||||
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
English Language and Literature/Letters, Other. | $17,237 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Secondary Education and Teaching. | $60,943 | ||||
Environmental Education. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Business Administration and Management, General. | $81,653 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Environmental Science. | - |
Bard College Schools/Majors Ranking
Under Ranking (2025)
- No Ranking
*Rankings have been updated to 2025USNews schools/majors ranking, rankings are for reference only
*numbers in bracket represent rankings change compare to last version
Bard College Varsity Athletes
NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
---|---|---|
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 24 | 37 |
Soccer | 28 | 21 |
Basketball | 17 | 13 |
Volleyball | 13 | 13 |
Tennis | 12 | 13 |
Baseball | 21 | - |
Lacrosse | - | 18 |
Squash | 8 | 8 |
Swimming | 4 | 12 |
NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
---|---|---|
Soccer | 23 | 26 |
Basketball | 17 | 12 |
Baseball | 28 | - |
Volleyball | 13 | 12 |
Tennis | 13 | 9 |
Track and Field (Indoor) | 13 | 9 |
Track and Field (Outdoor) | 13 | 9 |
Swimming | 7 | 13 |
Lacrosse | - | 18 |
Cross Country | 8 | 9 |
Squash | 6 | 8 |
NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
---|---|---|
Baseball | 24 | - |
Track and Field, Outdoor | 2 | 2 |
Bard College, located in Annandale-on-Hudson, New York, is renowned for its commitment to the liberal arts and its emphasis on creative education. Established in 1860, Bard is known for its picturesque campus, nestled alongside the Hudson River and surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes. This vibrant environment encourages students to engage with their studies outdoors, promoting a holistic approach to learning. The college prides itself on its interdisciplinary curriculum, which allows students to explore various fields and develop critical thinking skills that are essential in today’s world. Bard’s commitment to the arts is reflected in its strong music, theater, and visual art programs, making it a breeding ground for creativity and innovation.
Bard College also boasts a distinguished faculty, many of whom are prominent figures in their respective fields, providing students with ample opportunities for mentorship and collaboration. The college encourages active participation in its extensive campus life through various student organizations, facilitating personal growth and community engagement. Notable alumni include successful writers, artists, and public figures who have made significant contributions in their spheres, further illustrating the college's impact in shaping leaders of tomorrow. Bard is particularly recognized for its progressive approach to education, often hosting speakers and events that align with contemporary issues, fostering an atmosphere of informed dialogue among students and faculty. Overall, Bard College's dedication to academic excellence and creative expression makes it a distinguished institution within the liberal arts landscape.