Eastern Connecticut State University
U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027
#142
Acceptance rate
83.0%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$17,426
In-state $13,928
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
4,174
Student-faculty ratio 15:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
50.1%
4-year; 6-year rate 60.0%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Eastern Connecticut State University (ECSU) is a public university located in Willimantic, Connecticut. As the state's oldest public university, ECSU has a rich history dating back to 1889 and is renowned for its commitment to providing a high-quality education while fostering a supportive and inclusive community. The university's mission emphasizes the importance of academic excellence, civic engagement, and personal development, which is reflected in its diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs. ECSU is particularly well-regarded for its programs in Education, Business, and Environmental Studies, which equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for successful careers.
The campus environment at ECSU is vibrant and engaging, marked by a strong sense of community and a variety of extracurricular activities. With a focus on the holistic development of students, the university offers numerous organizations, clubs, and sports teams that encourage student participation and leadership. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational spaces that enhance the learning experience. Additionally, ECSU boasts a dedicated faculty with a wealth of experience and expertise, providing students with personalized attention and mentorship. This supportive academic environment, combined with a commitment to community service and engagement, prepares ECSU graduates to thrive in their professional and personal lives.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Eastern Connecticut State University
Eastern Connecticut State University has shown significant trends in several key metrics over the years, particularly in tuition costs, graduation rates, student retention, and the student-to-faculty ratio.
Firstly, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students has increased from approximately $9,376 in 2014 to $13,292 in 2024, representing an increase of about 42%. This rise in tuition reflects a broader trend seen across many public universities in the United States, as institutions strive to maintain financial stability amidst rising operational costs. For out-of-state students, the tuition hike is even more pronounced, with costs skyrocketing from $20,881 to $16,624 over the same period. This dramatic decrease in out-of-state tuition in recent years suggests a strategic shift to attract a wider demographic of students and increase enrollment.
When examining graduation rates, there is a noticeable improvement in the timely graduation rate, which increased from 32.02% in 2013 to 44.78% in 2023. This trend indicates that the university is effectively supporting students in completing their degrees on time, which could be attributed to enhanced academic resources or advising services. Moreover, the retention rate has also shown improvement, rising from 75.84% in 2013 to 83.21% in 2023. A higher retention rate is often indicative of student satisfaction and engagement, suggesting that Eastern Connecticut State University is successfully fostering a supportive learning environment for its students.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained relatively stable, hovering around 14 to 16 students per faculty member over the past decade. This stability suggests that the university is maintaining a consistent level of faculty support, which is essential for providing personalized attention to students and enhancing their overall academic experience.
In conclusion, Eastern Connecticut State University is making strides in critical areas such as graduation and retention rates, while also addressing the financial barriers posed by rising tuition costs. These trends are crucial for potential students and parents to consider when evaluating educational opportunities at this institution.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Town near a city
- Nearest major city
- Hartford, about 25 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Bradley International Airport (BDL), about 30 mi
- Also known as
- Eastern, ECSU
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Karim Ismaili (President)
- Phone
- 8604655000
- City
- Willimantic, Connecticut
- Address
- 83 Windham St, Willimantic, CT 06226
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 58.4%, women 67.9%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Eastern Connecticut State University
The admission data for Eastern Connecticut State University reveals several significant trends over the years. The male admission rate has fluctuated, starting at approximately 64.78% in 2009 and showing a downward trend, falling to 67.18% by 2023. Meanwhile, the female admission rate has also exhibited variability, beginning at around 62.31% and peaking at 78.49% in 2023. This suggests a growing accessibility for female applicants, reflecting broader societal trends towards gender parity in higher education.
The total enrollment figures indicate a steady decline, from 1,017 new students in 2009 to just 716 in 2023. This decline, coupled with increasing denial numbers, might hint at heightened competition among applicants, possibly due to a larger pool of candidates or a shift in the university's admission strategy. The total number of denied applicants peaked at 2,468 in 2017, illustrating a critical point where the university faced substantial competition.
Furthermore, the number of deferred admissions has increased significantly in recent years, indicating that the university is possibly adopting a more selective approach, allowing them to manage enrollment based on institutional needs and applicant quality.
Overall, these trends highlight the evolving landscape of university admissions, influenced by factors such as demographic shifts, institutional priorities, and the increasing complexity of the higher education environment. As universities continue to navigate these dynamics, understanding these trends will be crucial for both prospective students and institutional administrators.
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
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
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 · 18% submitted SAT, 0% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Scores at Eastern Connecticut State University
The data from Eastern Connecticut State University presents an interesting view of the trends in SAT and ACT scores over the years from 2007 to 2023. A notable trend is the steady increase in the SAT reading and math scores for the 25th to 75th percentile range, particularly in recent years. Starting with SAT scores, the range shifted from 460-540 in 2007 to 500-610 in 2023, indicating that the university is attracting a higher caliber of students. This increase in score range may reflect not only the competitiveness of the applicant pool but also the university's efforts in enhancing its academic reputation.
Moreover, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has shown a slight decrease, from nearly all applicants in earlier years to around 62% in 2023. This decline could suggest a shifting trend in college admissions, where more students might be opting for test-optional policies or relying on alternative qualifications such as high school GPAs or personal statements.
The ACT scores also mirror this upward trend, albeit with less data available for comprehensive analysis. The fact that the percentage of students submitting scores has remained relatively stable suggests that the ACT remains a critical component for applicants to Eastern Connecticut State University.
Overall, these trends indicate that while the university continues to maintain high academic standards, the shifting dynamics in standardized testing submissions may require ongoing adjustments in admissions strategies to remain competitive in an evolving educational landscape. The implications of these trends are critical for prospective students as they navigate the admissions process in a changing environment.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
6,491 applicants in 2025, 83.0% admitted
5,386 admitted 1,105 not admitted Yield 15.0%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Elementary Education and Teaching · Master's19 (5% international)
- Secondary Education and Teaching · Master's19 (0% international)
- Accounting · Master's16 (0% international)
- Early Childhood Education and Teaching · Master's12 (0% international)
- Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's8 (0% international)
- Organizational Leadership · Master's8 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Eastern Connecticut State University
The graduation data from Eastern Connecticut State University reveals notable trends in various fields of study for the year 2023. A significant highlight is the prominence of Psychology as the leading major, with 88 students graduating with a bachelor's degree. This aligns with the increasing societal interest in mental health and the growing recognition of psychology as a critical area of study.
Business Administration also stood out, with 84 bachelor's degree graduates, reflecting the continuous demand for professionals in a competitive job market. The fields of health services and communication followed closely, showcasing the university's diverse academic offerings and their relevance in today’s economy.
Interestingly, the data shows a minimal representation of international students in bachelor's programs, with only a few graduates in Psychology and Communication. This suggests potential opportunities for the university to enhance its international recruitment strategies, particularly in popular majors.
In contrast, the education sector showed a healthy output at the master's level, with 22 graduates in Elementary Education and 21 in Early Childhood Education. This surge could indicate a response to the increasing demand for qualified educators, particularly in early childhood settings, as educational institutions emphasize the importance of foundational learning.
Overall, the data underscores the university's strengths in certain disciplines while also highlighting areas for potential growth, especially in attracting a more diverse student body in undergraduate programs. As the job market continues to evolve, maintaining relevance in academic offerings will be crucial for the institution's continued success.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $48,145 | |||
| Organizational Leadership. | $48,145 | |||
| Accounting. | $70,085-$78,447 | |||
| Finance, General. | $49,007 | |||
| Labor Studies. | - | |||
| Management Information Systems, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | - | |||
| Criminology. | $41,589 | |||
| Economics, General. | - | |||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |||
| Sociology, General. | $43,145 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Educational/Instructional Technology. | - | |||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $47,395-$51,559 | |||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $47,395-$51,559 | |||
| Teacher Education, Multiple Levels. | $47,395-$51,559 | |||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $47,395-$51,559 | |||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | $52,324 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $39,409 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | $36,093 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | $38,657 | |||
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | $23,334 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $43,357 | |||
| General Studies. | $43,357 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |||
| Film/Cinema/Media Studies. | - | |||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | $33,038 | |||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $37,516 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $60,298 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $38,576 | |||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | $41,953 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | $41,866 | |||
| Computational and Applied Mathematics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | $35,150 | |||
| History, Other. | $35,150 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $35,337 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
Students
4,355 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 41:59 · Freshman retention 83.7%
- Continuing undergraduates 2,333
- First-year undergraduates 804
- Graduate students 181
- Transfers and others 1,037
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (4,174)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Eastern Connecticut State University in 2023
In 2023, Eastern Connecticut State University showcases a diverse student body, prominently featuring undergraduate freshmen, sophomores, transfer students, and graduate students. The total count of undergraduate freshmen is 716, with a notable gender distribution of 36.7% male and 63.3% female, indicating a strong female presence in this cohort. This trend aligns with broader national patterns where female students increasingly outnumber their male counterparts in higher education institutions.
Continuing to undergraduate sophomores, the population significantly increases to 2,568, with a gender ratio of 42.3% male and 57.7% female. This larger group suggests that the institution has a robust retention rate, successfully maintaining a diverse mix of students from their first year onward.
Transfer students account for 250 individuals, with a slightly higher male representation at 45.2%. This demographic could reflect the university's appeal to students seeking new opportunities or environments for their academic pursuits.
Graduate students, while fewer in number at 156, display a stark gender divide, with only 26.9% being male. This underrepresentation of men in graduate programs is consistent with national trends, where women are more likely to pursue advanced degrees.
Overall, the university's demographic data reveals a balanced and diverse student population, with a noticeable predominance of female students across all categories. This trend may reflect broader societal shifts towards increasing female participation in higher education and could indicate the need for institutions to address gender-specific support and resources as they continue to attract and retain a diverse student body.
Commentary on the Age Composition of Students at Eastern Connecticut State University (2023)
The age distribution of students at Eastern Connecticut State University showcases a significant presence of younger individuals, particularly those under 24 years old. The data indicates that a substantial majority of students, approximately 79% (1,959 out of 2,484), fall into the under-24 age category. This trend is consistent with national statistics showing that a large proportion of college students are typically in their late teens to early twenties, reflecting the traditional college demographic.
Interestingly, the number of graduate students is notably lower compared to undergraduates, with only 36 graduate males and 44 graduate females. This may highlight a common trend where individuals pursue higher education later in life or after gaining work experience. The data also reveals that there is a gender disparity, with females outnumbering males in both undergraduate and graduate categories, which aligns with broader trends in higher education where female enrollment has been steadily increasing.
In the older age brackets, the representation of students diminishes sharply, particularly for those over 30. This suggests that while returning adult students are becoming more common in higher education, they still represent a minority at Eastern Connecticut State University.
Overall, the data reflects the university's strong appeal to younger students while also indicating potential areas for growth in attracting older, non-traditional students who may enrich the campus diversity and learning environment. This observation is crucial for the university's strategic planning and marketing efforts in future enrollment cycles.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
9 in 2025 · 1.1% in 2016
2 in 2025 · 1.2% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Eastern Connecticut State University
The data on international student enrollment at Eastern Connecticut State University reveals a noticeable decline over the years, particularly among undergraduate students. Starting from 2004, the percentage of international undergraduates was relatively stable, but it has sharply decreased in recent years, dropping from 1.04% in 2004 to just 0.46% in 2023. This trend raises concerns about the university's attractiveness to international students, especially in a global landscape where institutions are increasingly competing for a diverse student body.
In contrast, the percentage of international graduate students has shown some fluctuation, with a notable peak of 3.83% in 2018, but it has also faced challenges recently, reaching 1.28% in 2023. This discrepancy suggests that while the university may still appeal to some graduate students, undergraduates are opting for other institutions. Factors contributing to this trend could include shifts in immigration policies in the U.S., the global pandemic's impact on travel and education, and increased competition from other universities offering robust international programs.
Overall, this decline in international student enrollment may have significant implications for the university's cultural diversity and financial stability, as international students often contribute substantially to tuition revenue. To address this issue, the university may need to enhance its recruitment strategies, improve support services for international students, and actively promote its programs to a global audience.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$34,871
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $17,426
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $13,928
- Room and board
- $17,445
- Graduate tuition
- $20,004
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose -22% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 44%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$136M
Expenses$130M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Other · Little East Conference
Little East Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 84 | 66 |
| Lacrosse | 32 | 26 |
| Soccer | 30 | 27 |
| Swimming | 18 | 26 |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Basketball | 19 | 16 |
| Field Hockey | - | 21 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Golf | 13 | - |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 84 | 55 |
| Lacrosse | 32 | 26 |
| Soccer | 30 | 27 |
| Swimming | 18 | 26 |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Basketball | 19 | 16 |
| Field Hockey | - | 21 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Golf | 13 | - |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 76 | 57 |
| Lacrosse | 39 | 22 |
| Soccer | 28 | 26 |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 16 |
| Swimming | 13 | 19 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Field Hockey | - | 19 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Golf | 14 | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Connecticut CollegeNew London · 24.3 mi
Liberal Arts #47
-
Trinity CollegeHartford · 24.4 mi
Liberal Arts #31
-
Wesleyan UniversityMiddletown · 25.4 mi
Liberal Arts #14
-
Mount Holyoke CollegeSouth Hadley · 41.1 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
College of the Holy CrossWorcester · 41.4 mi
Liberal Arts #22
-
Brown UniversityProvidence · 42.6 mi
U.S. News #16
-
Yale UniversityNew Haven · 46.3 mi
U.S. News #4
-
Smith CollegeNorthampton · 46.5 mi
Liberal Arts #22
-
Amherst CollegeAmherst · 47.5 mi
Liberal Arts #2
Data insights
Here are some notable institutions near Eastern Connecticut State University:
-
University of Connecticut - Ranked 58th in the 2024 US News rankings, the University of Connecticut is a comprehensive university known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Connecticut College - This liberal arts college is ranked 46th and offers a unique educational experience focusing on critical thinking and interdisciplinary studies.
-
Trinity College - With a rank of 39, Trinity College is another esteemed liberal arts college that emphasizes a liberal education and is located in Hartford, Connecticut.
-
Wesleyan University - Ranked 11th, Wesleyan is a prestigious liberal arts university that encourages creativity and intellectual exploration among its students.
-
Brown University - As one of the Ivy League institutions, Brown is ranked 9th and is renowned for its flexible curriculum and commitment to undergraduate education.
-
Yale University - Located in New Haven, Yale is ranked 5th nationally and is one of the most prestigious universities in the world, known for its rigorous academics and extensive resources.
These schools provide a range of academic opportunities and are recognized for their commitment to excellence in education.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public 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
Crime Trends at Eastern Connecticut State University
The crime statistics at Eastern Connecticut State University reveal notable trends over the years, highlighting fluctuations in campus safety and student behavior. From 2013 to 2023, there was a significant decrease in the average number of offenses per 1,000 students, dropping from approximately 24.78 in 2013 to just 7.15 in 2023. This trend suggests an overall improvement in campus safety and a potential positive shift in student conduct.
The most alarming year appears to be 2014, when the rate peaked at 46.87 incidents per 1,000 students, indicating a substantial spike in criminal activity. However, this was followed by a gradual decline, culminating in 2021, which recorded the lowest rate at 8.23. Such a substantial reduction could be attributed to various factors, including enhanced campus security measures, student awareness programs, or even shifts in university policies regarding crime prevention.
Interestingly, the offenses categorized as drug-related arrests and alcohol-related arrests seem to have contributed significantly to earlier spikes in crime rates. Efforts to combat these issues can lead to more positive outcomes in the long run, as seen in the later years where the figures have drastically decreased. The data reflects the university's ongoing commitment to creating a safer environment for its students.
As we analyze these statistics, it is crucial to remain vigilant and continue fostering a culture of safety and responsibility on campus. For further understanding of crime rates and their calculations, you can refer to this link.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Eastern Connecticut State University include Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (Nigerian writer), Camille Kostek (Model and host on Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover) and Victoria Leigh Soto (Teacher killed in the Sandy Hook shooting).
-
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie 1977–
Nigerian writer
-
Camille Kostek 1992–
Model and host on Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover
-
Victoria Leigh Soto 1985–2012
Teacher killed in the Sandy Hook shooting
-
David W. Gay 1935–
Former Adjutant General of Connecticut
-
Jeff Benedict 1966–
Author and Sports Illustrated writer
-
Edward Gaffney 1943–
Republican Michigan State Representative
-
Pat Boyd 1981–
Connecticut state representative
-
William A. Cugno 1948–2011
US Army major general
-
Ron Welch 1960–
Retired brigadier general, Connecticut National Guard
More alumni (2, by field)
Politics and law
-
Kevin Christie 1950–
Democratic member of the Vermont House of Representatives
-
Anne Dauphinais 1960–
Republican member of the Connecticut House of Representatives
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
Recent News at Eastern Connecticut State University
Summarized daily from the school's official news. Click "Source" for the original story.
-
Eastern Connecticut State University anthropology professor Sarah Baires received an NSF grant to study Cahokia's early occupation using non-invasive techniques alongside co-PI Melissa Baltus, who will examine the city's collapse.
Source: ctpublic.org
No updates on this topic in this month.
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.