Saint Joseph’s College of Maine
Acceptance rate
83.5%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$44,420
$59,804 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,097
Student-faculty ratio 10:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
62.0%
4-year; 6-year rate 69.5%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Saint Joseph's College of Maine is a private Catholic liberal arts college located in Standish, Maine. Established in 1912, the college is known for its strong commitment to liberal arts education and is rooted in the traditions of the Sisters of Mercy. The college emphasizes the importance of community service, ethical leadership, and personal growth, which is encapsulated in its motto, "The Mercy Way." This guiding principle fosters a sense of responsibility among students to contribute positively to society and uphold the values of compassion and service.
The campus is beautifully situated on the shores of Sebago Lake, providing students with a serene and picturesque environment conducive to learning and personal development. The college offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, with a strong emphasis on experiential learning and real-world application. Students benefit from small class sizes and a low student-to-faculty ratio, allowing for personalized attention and mentorship from dedicated faculty members. Athletic programs are also a significant part of the campus culture, with various sports teams competing in NCAA Division III. The college's commitment to student life is evident in its diverse range of extracurricular activities, including clubs, organizations, and community engagement opportunities, which help build a vibrant and inclusive campus community.
Trends in Tuition, Enrollment, and Graduation Rates
Saint Joseph's College of Maine has experienced significant changes in several key metrics over the past decade. One of the most notable trends is the steady increase in tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. Starting from approximately $31,075 in 2014, the tuition has risen to around $42,834 by 2024. This represents a substantial increase of about 37%, which is concerning given the current economic climate and the burden of student debt on graduates. Such rising costs may deter prospective students from enrolling, impacting the college's overall enrollment numbers.
Correspondingly, the student enrollment figures have shown a marked decline. In 2013, the college had approximately 1,959 undergraduate students; however, by 2023, this number has dropped to just 990. This nearly 50% decrease in undergraduate enrollment raises questions about the institution's appeal and its ability to attract and retain students amidst increasing tuition costs.
Moreover, the graduation rates have fluctuated over the years, with the on-time graduation rate for undergraduates reaching a high of 62.4% in 2022 before slightly declining to 53.9% in 2023. While the rates indicate a general capacity for students to complete their education, the variability suggests underlying issues that may need addressing, such as student support systems and academic resources.
Finally, the student-to-faculty ratio has also varied, with a notable decrease to 8 students per faculty member in 2022, suggesting an increase in faculty availability for students. However, this ratio has increased again to 10 in 2023. Balancing faculty support with budget constraints is essential to fostering a conducive learning environment and improving retention rates.
In conclusion, while Saint Joseph's College of Maine has invested in faculty support, the rising tuition costs and declining enrollment may pose challenges for the institution's future sustainability and reputation. Addressing these issues will be crucial for enhancing student experience and ensuring the college remains a competitive option in higher education.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Rural, near a city
- Nearest major city
- Portland, ME, about 20 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Portland International Jetport (PWM), about 15 mi
- Also known as
- Saint Joseph's College
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Roman Catholic
- President
- Joseph L. Cassidy, JD (President)
- Phone
- 2078926766
- Address
- 278 Whites Bridge Rd, Standish, ME 04084-5263
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 87.4%, women 87.0%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Saint Joseph's College of Maine
The admission data for Saint Joseph's College of Maine reveals interesting patterns over the years from 2009 to 2023. The acceptance rates for both male and female applicants have shown some fluctuations, indicating a dynamic admission process. For instance, in 2009, the acceptance rates were approximately 77.2% for males and 77.9% for females, while by 2023, these rates adjusted to around 79.8% for males and 81.5% for females. This gradual increase suggests a more accommodating approach towards applicants, possibly in response to changing enrollment goals or demographic shifts.
The total enrollment numbers also present a notable development. The college saw a significant jump in enrollment in 2013 with 1,015 students admitted, which is considerably higher than in previous years. However, this was followed by a decrease in subsequent years, with smaller enrollment figures noted in 2020 and 2021. This could reflect broader trends in higher education, where institutions grapple with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and shifting student preferences.
Furthermore, the number of denied applications has varied significantly, peaking in 2014 with 351 denials. This could suggest an increasingly competitive environment during certain years, leading to a higher number of rejections. The deferral rates, on the other hand, indicate that the college has been considering a substantial number of applicants for future terms, which may reflect an intent to retain strong candidates while managing enrollment numbers effectively.
Overall, the admission data highlights the evolving landscape of higher education at Saint Joseph's College of Maine, characterized by changing acceptance rates, fluctuating enrollment numbers, and strategic considerations in managing applicant pools.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 10% submitted SAT, 0% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Admissions Data at Saint Joseph's College of Maine
The admissions data for Saint Joseph's College of Maine over the years reveals some intriguing trends regarding standardized test scores and submission rates. From 2007 to 2016, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores consistently remained high, often exceeding 95%. This indicates a strong reliance on the SAT as a critical component of the admissions process. However, a notable shift occurs in the subsequent years, particularly from 2019 onward, where the submission rates plummet to as low as 6% in 2023.
This decline in submissions may reflect broader changes in the college admissions landscape, as many institutions are moving towards test-optional policies. The variability in SAT and ACT scores also illustrates the evolving standards and expectations within the applicant pool. For example, the 75th percentile SAT reading scores showed a range of 510 to 620 over the years, suggesting a progression in applicant preparedness and performance.
Interestingly, the recent years show a significant decrease in the number of applicants submitting scores alongside a corresponding increase in the score ranges, which may indicate that fewer students feel pressured to submit scores, potentially due to the changes in college admissions policies.
The 2021 data, showing only 1% of applicants submitting SAT scores, is particularly telling of this trend. It raises questions about the implications for future admissions decisions and how colleges will assess candidates in an increasingly test-optional environment. Overall, this data reflects a significant transitional phase for Saint Joseph's College and possibly other institutions navigating the changing dynamics of college admissions.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
2,025 applicants in 2025, 83.5% admitted
1,691 admitted 334 not admitted Yield 12.0%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Theology/Theological Studies · Master's31 (0% international)
- Education, General · Master's22 (0% international)
- Family Practice Nurse/Nursing · Master's19 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's14 (0% international)
- Health Services Administration · Master's13 (0% international)
- Geriatric Nurse/Nursing · Master's13 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduates from Saint Joseph's College of Maine in 2023
The graduation data from Saint Joseph's College of Maine for 2023 reveals several noteworthy trends across various fields of study. Primarily, the healthcare-related programs, such as Registered Nursing and Health Care Administration, emerge as significant contributors to the graduate pool, with 30 and 16 graduates respectively for master's degrees. This aligns with the current high demand for healthcare professionals, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has intensified the focus on health services and nursing.
In the realm of business studies, the presence of graduates in Business Administration and Management indicates a steady interest in this field, with 20 graduates at the bachelor level. The business sector continues to adapt to changing economic conditions, which may explain the sustained interest in such programs, emphasizing the need for flexibility and innovation in business practices.
Interestingly, there is a lack of international students graduating from most programs, particularly at the bachelor and associate levels, which may point to potential areas for growth in attracting a more diverse student body. Programs with even a single graduate, like Environmental Science and Marine Biology, suggest niche interest areas that could be further developed to boost enrollment and graduate numbers.
Overall, the data reflects a strong emphasis on practical and in-demand fields, particularly healthcare and business, while also highlighting opportunities for growth in international student recruitment and niche academic programs. As the job market continues to evolve, educational institutions must adapt their offerings to meet these emerging needs effectively.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health and Wellness, General. | - | |||
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | $68,118-$120,035 | |||
| Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer. | - | |||
| Health Services Administration. | - | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $85,031-$112,610 | |||
| Nursing Administration. | $85,031-$112,610 | |||
| Family Practice Nurse/Nursing. | $85,031-$112,610 | |||
| Geriatric Nurse/Nursing. | $85,031-$112,610 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $58,192 | |||
| Accounting. | $86,715 | |||
| Finance, General. | - | |||
| Human Resources Management and Services, Other. | - | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theology/Theological Studies. | - | |||
| Divinity/Ministry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | $71,121 | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $41,030 | |||
| Mathematics Teacher Education. | - | |||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $40,001 | |||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $40,001 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $52,181 | |||
| Biomedical Sciences, General. | $52,181 | |||
| Biochemistry. | - | |||
| Marine Biology and Biological Oceanography. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sustainability Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Physical Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
Students
1,454 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 41:59 · Freshman retention 74.6%
- Continuing undergraduates 744
- First-year undergraduates 203
- Graduate students 357
- Transfers and others 150
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,097)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Saint Joseph's College of Maine
The 2023 enrollment data from Saint Joseph's College of Maine reveals a diverse student body, with a notable representation of both undergraduate and graduate students. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 201, with a gender distribution that shows 42.8% male and 57.2% female students. This trend continues among the undergraduate juniors, where the total enrollment stands at 739, consisting of 36.3% male and 63.7% female students.
Interestingly, the data for transfer students indicates a smaller cohort of 23 students, with a more pronounced gender disparity of 30.4% male and 69.6% female. The graduate student population is significantly larger, totaling 488 students, with a gender ratio somewhat similar to that of the undergraduate juniors, comprising 36.9% male and 63.1% female.
The ethnic breakdown of these groups indicates that the majority of students identify as white, reflecting broader trends in higher education demographics across the United States. However, the college's commitment to diversity is evident in the enrollment of students from various backgrounds, including Asian, Latino, and African American students, alongside international students.
Overall, the gender distribution indicates a stronger female presence across all student categories, which aligns with national trends in higher education where women are increasingly enrolling in and completing college degrees. As institutions continue to address diversity and inclusion, it will be interesting to see how these demographics evolve in the coming years, especially in response to ongoing societal shifts and educational initiatives.
Age Composition of Students at Saint Joseph's College of Maine
The age composition of students at Saint Joseph's College of Maine reveals interesting insights into the demographic landscape of the institution. The majority of students fall within the traditional college age range of 18-24, which is typical for many higher education institutions across the United States. In particular, the 20-21 age group has the highest representation, with 109 male undergraduates and 208 female undergraduates, highlighting a strong female presence in this cohort.
The data also indicates a notable number of students in the 22-24 age range, reflecting the growing trend of adult learners returning to education later in life. This demographic is becoming increasingly prominent in higher education, as more individuals seek to enhance their skills or pivot their careers. Specifically, there are 122 male undergraduates and 185 female undergraduates in this age group, alongside a small number of graduate students.
Interestingly, the institution also accommodates mature students aged 25 and above, with a significant number of females in the 30-34 age range, suggesting that the college is successfully attracting individuals seeking a more flexible approach to education. This trend aligns with national observations where adult learners are prioritizing education to adapt to rapidly changing job markets.
Overall, the diversity in age among the student body at Saint Joseph's College of Maine reflects broader societal trends in education, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in higher education. As institutions continue to evolve, understanding and catering to a wide range of student ages will be crucial for fostering an enriching educational environment.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
International Student Enrollment Trends at Saint Joseph's College of Maine
The data from Saint Joseph's College of Maine reveals a modest presence of international students in both undergraduate and graduate programs over the years 2004 and 2005. Notably, in 2004, the college had a total of 2,571 undergraduate students, with only one international student, which represents a mere 0.04% of the population. This figure slightly improved in 2005, when the undergraduate population increased to 2,624, and the number of international students rose to two, raising the percentage to 0.08%.
In the graduate programs, the total enrollment numbers were also low, with 1,152 students in 2004 and one international student (0.09%). In 2005, the graduate total increased to 1,177, with two international students, yielding a slightly higher percentage of 0.17%.
These statistics indicate a slow increase in international student enrollment, but the overall numbers remain low. In comparison to national trends, many institutions are experiencing a surge in international student enrollments, driven by global academic collaborations and increasing opportunities for international education.
Saint Joseph's College might consider enhancing its outreach and support for international students to further diversify its student body and enrich the campus experience. The benefits of a more internationalized education environment are significant, including cultural exchange and broader perspectives in academic discussions, which are essential in today's globalized world.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$59,804
- Undergraduate tuition
- $44,420
- Room and board
- $15,384
- Graduate tuition
- $9,738
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 36% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 23%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$32.9M
Expenses$34.7M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Great Northeast Athletic Conference
Great Northeast Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 83 | 64 |
| Lacrosse | 41 | 24 |
| Soccer | 31 | 26 |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Basketball | 18 | 15 |
| Field Hockey | - | 25 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Skiing | 8 | 8 |
| Golf | 10 | 2 |
| Swimming | 2 | 10 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 81 | 40 |
| Lacrosse | 42 | 26 |
| Soccer | 39 | 27 |
| Baseball | 39 | - |
| Basketball | 14 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Swimming | 4 | 14 |
| Skiing | 8 | 9 |
| Field Hockey | - | 15 |
| Golf | 8 | - |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 49 | 29 |
| Lacrosse | 43 | 29 |
| Soccer | 39 | 27 |
| Baseball | 56 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Swimming | 4 | 14 |
| Skiing | 8 | 9 |
| Field Hockey | - | 15 |
| Golf | 11 | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Bates CollegeLewiston · 23.8 mi
Liberal Arts #26
-
University of New EnglandBiddeford · 25.9 mi
U.S. News #262
-
Bowdoin CollegeBrunswick · 26.5 mi
Liberal Arts #3
-
University of New Hampshire-Main CampusDurham · 52.7 mi
U.S. News #109
-
Colby CollegeWaterville · 65.2 mi
Liberal Arts #22
-
Dartmouth CollegeHanover · 90.5 mi
U.S. News #12
-
University of Massachusetts-LowellLowell · 91.5 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Tufts UniversityMedford · 103.1 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Harvard UniversityCambridge · 105.3 mi
U.S. News #3
Data insights
Here are some notable colleges and universities near Saint Joseph's College of Maine:
-
Bowdoin College - Ranked 9th in the 2024 US News rankings, Bowdoin College is a highly prestigious liberal arts college known for its rigorous academic programs and strong sense of community.
-
Bates College - With a ranking of 24, Bates College is another esteemed liberal arts institution that emphasizes critical thinking and active citizenship.
-
Dartmouth College - Ranked 18th nationally, Dartmouth is an Ivy League university offering a unique blend of liberal arts education and research opportunities.
-
Colby College - This liberal arts college is ranked 25th and is recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and vibrant campus life.
-
University of New England - With a ranking of 260, this comprehensive university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly strong in health sciences.
-
University of New Hampshire-Main Campus - Ranked 115th, UNH is known for its diverse academic offerings and research initiatives, particularly in environmental science and engineering.
-
Tufts University - Ranked 40th, Tufts is a well-respected research university known for its strong programs in the humanities, social sciences, and international relations.
These institutions contribute to a rich educational landscape in the region, providing a variety of opportunities for students in different fields of study.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Data at Saint Joseph's College of Maine
The crime data from Saint Joseph's College of Maine spanning from 2013 to 2023 reveals significant fluctuations in the rates of various criminal activities on campus. The most notable trend is the dramatic increase in the average crime rate per 1000 students, which peaked in 2019 at approximately 113.58 incidents per 1000 students. This rise may reflect broader societal trends, such as the increasing prevalence of drug-related incidents and alcohol-related arrests, which typically affect college campuses nationwide.
In 2018, the total crime incidents reached a staggering 200.2, indicating a growing concern for student safety. However, it's interesting to observe a sharp decline in reported incidents in 2023, where the average dropped to 2.71 per 1000 students. This could suggest improved campus safety measures, increased awareness, or a response to the previous years' high rates.
The data also highlights specific types of crimes, particularly drug and alcohol-related arrests, which are common issues in college environments. There is a pressing need for educational programs aimed at preventing substance abuse and fostering a safer campus atmosphere.
Overall, while the data shows significant fluctuations in crime rates, it underscores the importance of ongoing vigilance, community involvement, and proactive measures to ensure student safety. For more details on crime rate calculations, refer to the following link: crime rate calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Saint Joseph’s College of Maine include Andrea Gibson (Poet and activist), Bonnie Newman (Republican administrator and business executive from New Hampshire) and Charlie Furbush (Former MLB pitcher).
-
Andrea Gibson 1975–2025
Poet and activist
-
Bonnie Newman 1945–
Republican administrator and business executive from New Hampshire
-
Charlie Furbush 1986–
Former MLB pitcher
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.