Brown University, located in Providence, Rhode Island, is one of the Ivy League universities renowned for its unique approach to higher education. Established in 1764, it stands out for its flexible curriculum that allows students to design their own academic paths. The university's commitment to academic freedom enables students to explore a wide range of subjects across disciplines without the constraints of a core curriculum. This fosters a culture of intellectual curiosity and innovation, providing an enriching environment where students can pursue their passions.

Beyond its educational philosophy, Brown University boasts a vibrant campus life complemented by a diverse student body. The university encourages students to engage in various extracurricular activities, from over 400 student organizations to arts and athletics. The Brown Arts Initiative, for example, enhances the cultural landscape by supporting students’ artistic endeavors. Furthermore, Brown’s athletic teams, known as the Bears, compete at the Division I level in the NCAA, promoting a strong sense of school spirit among students. The picturesque campus, featuring historic buildings and lush green spaces, creates an inviting atmosphere conducive to both academic and personal growth. Brown University not only equips its graduates with exceptional knowledge and skills but also inspires them to become leaders and change-makers in their respective fields.

Analysis of Key Educational Metrics at Brown University

Brown University, a prominent private institution, displays notable trends in several key metrics over the past decade, particularly regarding tuition, graduation rates, retention rates, and the student-to-faculty ratio.

Firstly, tuition costs have risen significantly, with in-state undergraduate tuition increasing from approximately $45,612 in 2014 to about $68,230 in 2024. This represents an increase of around 49% over the decade. Such steep tuition hikes are reflective of broader trends in higher education, heightening concerns about affordability and student debt levels.

In terms of student success, the graduation rate for on-time completion (within 4 years) has shown improvement, fluctuating around 83% to 86% from 2014 to 2024. Notably, the 2024 on-time graduation rate is at 86.45%, a positive signal that Brown is successfully supporting its students in completing their degrees in the standard timeframe.

Retention rates also present an encouraging trend, consistently above 91% since 2021, with a peak of nearly 99% in the last recorded year for 2024. High retention values suggest that students are satisfied with their educational experience, a vital component in the competitive landscape of higher education.

Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained stable at 6:1 since 2019, which is relatively low and indicates that students at Brown benefit from a favorable faculty-to-student interaction. This ratio can significantly impact academic performance and student satisfaction, establishing a conducive learning environment.

Overall, while tuition expenses are steep, Brown University's strong graduation and retention rates, alongside low student-to-faculty ratios, demonstrate its commitment to providing quality education and support for its students.

Analysis of Degree Completion Data at Brown University

The graduation statistics for 2023 from Brown University reveal some significant trends, particularly within advanced degrees. Notably, the Doctorate in Medicine produced 135 graduates, with a minor representation of international students accounting for only 2 graduates. This stark contrast suggests that Brown’s medical program may be more domestically focused, pointing to a potential gap in attracting international talent in this field.

In the domain of Mathematics and Computer Science, there were 48 Master's degrees awarded, with 34 being conferred to international students, indicating a healthy influx of global perspectives that are increasingly vital in tech-driven fields. This statistic aligns with broader trends identified in higher education, where STEM disciplines are seeing a remarkable increase in international enrollment, contributing to innovation and diversity in these fields.

Conversely, in disciplines such as Chemistry and several engineering fields, the absence of undergraduate degree completions alongside the modestly graduated Master's degrees suggests either a limitation in program reach or a strategic focus on graduate education in these areas. For example, Industrial Engineering had 22 Master’s graduates, indicating a robust interest at the graduate level, even in a landscape that may not emphasize undergraduate education within this specific discipline.

The data overall reflects a strategic emphasis on graduate education, especially in STEM and healthcare sectors, which resonates with current labor market demands for advanced skill sets. Additionally, understanding these trends can be crucial for future recruitment strategies, as institutions strive to cultivate a diverse and skill-rich academic environment.

Brown University Admission Trends and Rankings

Brown University has consistently maintained a prestigious position in the landscape of higher education. The university's ranking has undergone fluctuations over the years, with a notable decline to 13th place in 2023 and again in 2025. It reached an impressive 9th place in 2024, reflecting the university's competitive edge in overall academic performance. The admission rates present an intriguing narrative. Over the years, both male and female admission rates have steadily decreased, with the overall admission rate dropping from 13.2% in 2010 to just 6.7% in 2023. This trend reflects the increasing selectivity of Brown University, as it continues to attract a larger pool of applicants; for instance, the university received over 48,000 applications in 2023, resulting in the acceptance of only 1,717 students. The significant rise in applicants, alongside a shrinking acceptance rate, indicates Brown's reputation for academic excellence and its desirable campus culture. The number of enrolled students has remained relatively stable, hovering around 1,500, which suggests that the university is not only attracting top talent but also carefully curating its student body. Overall, Brown University's ongoing commitment to fostering a diverse and high-achieving academic environment is evident in both its admission trends and its competitive rankings, ensuring it remains a sought-after institution for prospective students.

Trends in Standardized Testing Scores and Admissions at Brown University

The data from Brown University spanning over several years reveals an interesting trend in standardized testing scores and admissions practices. Firstly, it is evident that the number of applicants submitting SAT scores has declined significantly, dropping from 99% in 2007 to approximately 54% in 2024. This pattern mirrors a broader national trend where many colleges and universities have adopted test-optional policies, allowing students the choice to submit standardized test scores or not, largely catalyzed by the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing discussions about equity in education.

From a score perspective, there has been a notable increase in the 25th percentile scores for the SAT reading and math sections over the years, suggesting that the admitted cohort has become more competitive. For example, the lower threshold for SAT reading has risen from 670 in 2007 to 740 in 2024, indicating that while the test numbers have decreased, the quality of applicants who choose to submit them appears to be increasing. Conversely, the upper 75th percentile scores have remained relatively stable, highlighting a consistent standard among top-performing students.

This evolution showcases Brown's commitment to a holistic review process that prioritizes a broad assessment of applicants beyond numbers. As more schools move towards flexible admissions criteria, Brown seems to be positioning itself as a responsive institution while also maintaining high academic standards. Future observations will be crucial to see how these changes influence the overall applicant pool and the institution's reputation in a rapidly evolving educational landscape.

Diverse Student Demographics at Brown University in 2024

The student demographic data released by Brown University for 2024 reveals an interesting and diverse composition among its student body. Starting with undergraduate freshmen, there are 1,695 students, evenly split between males and females, indicating an inclination towards gender parity in the initial stages of college life. The sophomore class, although slightly larger at 5,495 students, shows a fairly balanced gender distribution as well, with 49% male and 51% female students, reflective of a broader trend in higher education where female enrollment often surpasses that of males.

Undergraduate transfer students are a smaller group, numbering 83, but they exhibit a higher male representation at nearly 52%. Graduate students at Brown constitute 3,775 individuals, with a notable female majority at approximately 53%, highlighting the increasing participation of women in graduate studies.

Moreover, there is an evident diversity in terms of ethnic breakdowns within the student populations, especially among specific student groups, though exact figures are not provided in this data. The representation of traditionally underrepresented groups, such as African American and Latino students, remains a critical aspect of university demographics, mirroring national trends in the pursuit of greater inclusivity within education.

This demographic snapshot serves as a reminder of the evolving landscape in higher education, where universities like Brown strive to create a balanced and inclusive environment that caters to the diverse needs of an increasingly varied student body. The ongoing commitment to gender and ethnic diversity will likely play a crucial role in shaping future university policies and initiatives.

Age Composition of Students at Brown University in 2024

The student age composition at Brown University for the year 2024 reflects a diverse demographic, particularly in the undergraduate and graduate categories. The largest age group comprises students aged 18-21, highlighting the traditional college-age demographic. This segment indicates a healthy influx of younger students, with 56% of undergraduates falling within this age range, suggesting Brown remains a popular choice for recent high school graduates.

Interestingly, in the 22-24 age bracket, the institution retains a significant number of students, showing that many choose to continue their education directly after completing their undergraduate studies. This aligns with the trend towards further education in today’s job market, where a bachelor’s degree is no longer seen as sufficient in many fields.

The presence of students aged 25 and older, especially those in the 25-29 bracket, represents approximately 12% of the overall undergraduate and graduate population. This could hint at a growing acceptance and support for non-traditional students returning to academia, something many institutions are adapting to in response to changing societal norms.

Moreover, the significantly lower numbers in the older age brackets, such as those over 40, may indicate challenges faced by mature students in balancing academics with career and family commitments. As trends show increasing enrollment among older adults in higher education, Brown can benefit by developing tailored support services for these populations.

Overall, the age distribution at Brown illustrates the university's appeal to both traditional and non-traditional students, fostering an environment ripe for diverse perspectives and experiences.

Brown University's International Student Trends

The data on international students at Brown University highlights noteworthy trends over nearly two decades. A clear upward trajectory is evident in both the undergraduate and graduate populations. For undergraduates, the number of international students rose from 377 in 2005 to 1,044 in 2023, marking a significant increase. This growth is reflected in the percentage of international students, which climbed from 6.27% to 13.67%.

Interestingly, the graduate population also saw substantial growth. While the overall graduate student count fluctuated, the number of international students increased from 573 in 2005 to 1,202 in 2023. This also corresponds with an increase in the percentage of international graduate students, from 34.64% to 33.86%.

These trends indicate that Brown is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for international students, likely due to its prestigious academic reputation and support for diverse student populations. The rise in international student numbers can be attributed to various factors, including globalization, the increasing availability of international academic scholarships, and Brown’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment.

However, it’s important to note that, while the percentage of international graduate students has slightly decreased in recent years, their numbers continue to grow. This could suggest changes in the competitive landscape of higher education, where other institutions are also vying for international talent. As such, Brown University remains a pivotal player in the higher education landscape, catering to a diverse body of students and enriching the educational experience through global perspectives.

Here are some notable schools surrounding Brown University:

1. Wellesley College - Ranked 7th among liberal arts colleges in the 2025 US News rankings, Wellesley College is a prestigious women's college known for its rigorous academic programs and strong emphasis on leadership development.

2. Harvard University - With a rank of 3, Harvard University is one of the oldest and most renowned universities in the world, offering a diverse array of programs and fostering an atmosphere of intellectual excellence.

3. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) - Ranked 2nd overall, MIT is globally recognized for its engineering and technology programs and its innovative research contributions.

4. Boston College - Holding the 37th position, Boston College is well-known for its Jesuit educational tradition and strong programs in liberal arts, business, and education.

5. College of the Holy Cross - Ranked 28th among liberal arts colleges, Holy Cross combines a rigorous academic curriculum with a commitment to the Catholic intellectual tradition.

These institutions not only enhance the educational environment around Brown University but also provide a diverse array of opportunities for collaboration and growth in various academic fields.

Analysis of Crime Data at Brown University

The crime statistics at Brown University from 2013 to 2023 indicate significant fluctuations in the average crime rate per 1,000 students. Particularly notable is the spike in 2023, with a rate of 13.42 incidents per 1,000 students, which is considerably higher than the average of prior years. This surge may reflect various underlying issues, including increased reporting, changes in campus safety protocols, or even shifts in student behavior and social dynamics, possibly exacerbated by the recent pandemic's impact on college life.

In examining specific types of offenses, it is evident that drug-related arrests and alcohol-related incidents have consistently contributed to the recorded numbers. For instance, drug-related arrests are a significant concern, as they not only affect the individuals involved but also influence the broader campus environment. The high rate of assaults, particularly in the context of student interactions, raises questions about campus safety and the need for enhanced protective measures.

Furthermore, trends in domestic violence and stalking present additional challenges for the university community, highlighting the need for addressing mental health and support services for students. This evolution in crime statistics emphasizes the importance of continuous monitoring and the adaptation of policies to ensure campus safety.

In conclusion, while Brown University historically maintains a relatively low crime rate, the recent rise in reported incidents calls for proactive measures, community engagement, and a commitment to fostering a safer educational environment. For a detailed methodology on calculating crime rates, please refer to the following link: crime rate calculation method.