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U.S. News #175 Private nonprofit, 4-year

Mitchell College

New London, Connecticut · www.mitchell.edu

中文

U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027

#175

Acceptance rate

94.7%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$40,490

$56,650 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

442

Student-faculty ratio 11:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

52.2%

4-year; 6-year rate 61.7%

Peer median 45.1%

“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Mitchell College, located in New London, Connecticut, is a private liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on experiential learning and personalized education. Established in 1938, the college has developed a reputation for its supportive learning environment, which is particularly beneficial for students who thrive in smaller class settings. With a student-to-faculty ratio of approximately 10:1, Mitchell College provides students with ample opportunities for one-on-one interaction with faculty members, fostering an engaging academic atmosphere. The college offers a range of undergraduate programs, with a focus on liberal arts, environmental studies, business, and education, among others, ensuring that students can tailor their educational experience to align with their career aspirations.

In addition to its academic offerings, Mitchell College boasts a vibrant campus culture that encourages student involvement and community engagement. The college is home to various student organizations, clubs, and athletic teams, promoting a well-rounded student life. Mitchell College emphasizes the importance of sports and wellness, providing students with numerous opportunities to participate in intramural sports and outdoor activities. The campus itself is situated along the picturesque coastline of Long Island Sound, offering students beautiful views and opportunities for outdoor recreation, which enhances their overall college experience. With a commitment to preparing students for successful careers and active citizenship, Mitchell College nurtures a diverse and inclusive community, where students are encouraged to grow both academically and personally.

Trends in Tuition, Student Enrollment, and Graduation Rates at Mitchell College

Mitchell College, a private institution, has demonstrated significant trends over recent years regarding tuition costs, student enrollment, and graduation rates. Notably, tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduates have shown a consistent increase, rising from $29,458 in 2014 to a projected $39,050 in 2024. This nearly 32% increase over a decade presents a financial challenge for students and families, especially when considering the rising overall cost of higher education in the United States.

The student enrollment numbers reflect a concerning trend, with undergraduate enrollment dropping from 866 students in 2014 to 539 in 2023. This decline of approximately 38% raises questions about the college's attractiveness and competitiveness in the current educational landscape, particularly in the context of rising tuition costs. Institutions that are unable to maintain or grow their student base may face financial instability and difficulty in sustaining academic programs.

Graduation rates at Mitchell College also merit attention. The rate of on-time graduation for undergraduates has fluctuated but saw an encouraging rise to about 53% in 2023, compared to only 30% in 2013. This improvement may indicate better support systems for students or enhanced academic offerings, which are crucial for attracting and retaining students.

Overall, while tuition costs continue to rise significantly, the college's efforts to improve graduation rates could enhance its reputation and potentially stabilize enrollment numbers in the future. The balance between affordability and quality education remains a critical challenge for Mitchell College and similar institutions in the current higher education environment.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Small city
Nearest major city
Hartford, about 45 mi
Nearest international airport
Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport (PVD), about 45 mi
New London, Connecticut
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Dr. Tracy Y. Espy (President)
Phone
8607015000
City
New London, Connecticut
Address
437 Pequot Avenue, New London, CT 06320

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
94.2%
Women
95.0%

In 2020: men 79.6%, women 76.6%.

U.S. News Liberal Arts Colleges · last 10 years
#175Ranked #175 every year from 2027 to 2027

Data insights

Trends in Mitchell College Admissions

The admissions data from Mitchell College over the years reveals significant trends in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. The data shows a fluctuating landscape, particularly in the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants. For instance, in 2011, the acceptance rates were quite high, with 87.8% for males and 77.3% for females, which gradually declined to around 74.3% and 79.2% respectively by 2023. This suggests a tightening of admission standards or perhaps a growing applicant pool.
Enrollment numbers have also varied, peaking at 260 in 2011 and dropping to just 100 by 2023. This decline could reflect broader trends in higher education where many institutions are seeing decreased enrollment due to demographic shifts and economic factors, including the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has influenced student decisions regarding college attendance.
Moreover, the number of applicants denied admission has fluctuated significantly, particularly notable in 2013 and 2014 when denial rates were extraordinarily high. In contrast, the number of deferred admissions has shown a notable increase, especially in 2017, indicating that the college may be offering more students the option to delay their enrollment, possibly due to uncertainties in their readiness or the impact of external factors affecting their immediate college decision.
Overall, Mitchell College's admission statistics reflect broader trends in higher education, highlighting the challenges and shifts that colleges face in maintaining enrollment and adapting to changing applicant demographics.

Test Scores

SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.

Data insights

Analysis of Mitchell College Admission Data

The admission data for Mitchell College over the years presents a curious situation, as there seems to be a lack of available scores and percentage participation in standardized tests such as the SAT and ACT from 2007 to 2023. This absence of data could indicate a shift in the college's admission policy, possibly moving toward a more holistic approach that emphasizes other attributes beyond standardized test scores.

In recent years, many institutions have been reevaluating the role of standardized testing in admissions, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to widespread test-optional policies. This trend reflects a growing recognition that standardized tests may not fully capture a student's potential or readiness for college. Consequently, colleges may be placing greater emphasis on high school GPA, extracurricular activities, personal statements, and letters of recommendation.

Furthermore, the absence of data could also suggest that the college is either in the process of revising its reporting methods or is facing challenges in data collection and transparency. As prospective students and their families increasingly seek colleges that align with their values, including those that prioritize inclusivity and equity, Mitchell College's approach to admissions could play a significant role in shaping its reputation and appeal.

Overall, while the lack of specific data may raise questions, it also opens up opportunities for the college to redefine its admissions strategy in a way that reflects contemporary educational values and practices.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 9 in 10

1,030 applicants in 2025, 94.7% admitted

975 admitted 55 not admitted Yield 7.2%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate40 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's830 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management
17
Communication and Media Studies, Other
12
Early Childhood Education and Teaching
8
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies
7
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
7
Business Administration and Management, General
7
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
6
Psychology, General
6
Elementary Education and Teaching
4
Environmental Studies
3

U.S. studentsInternational

Data insights

Analysis of Graduate Degrees at Mitchell College in 2023

The graduate data from Mitchell College in 2023 reveals intriguing insights into the academic landscape, particularly in terms of degree attainment across various fields of study. Notably, the highest number of bachelor's degrees awarded was in Sport and Fitness Administration/Management, with 19 graduates, followed closely by Communication and Media Studies and Health Services, each producing 16 and 13 graduates, respectively. This trend reflects the growing interest in health, wellness, and media professions, aligning with current societal shifts toward health awareness and the increasing influence of media in our lives.

Interestingly, there were no international students graduating from any bachelor's, master's, or doctorate programs, which raises questions about the college's appeal to global scholars and potential barriers they may face. This absence could impact the diversity of perspectives within the student body, which is increasingly vital in today’s interconnected world.

Moreover, the data indicates a significant gap in the associate degree program, with only a few programs reporting participants in the liberal arts category. This may suggest a need for Mitchell College to enhance its offerings or provide better pathways for students seeking associate degrees.

The absence of master's and doctorate graduates in all fields also highlights a potential area for growth. As the job market continues to evolve, the demand for advanced degrees in specialized areas is likely to increase. Therefore, it would be beneficial for Mitchell College to explore opportunities to expand its graduate programs, thereby equipping students with the necessary skills to thrive in competitive job markets.

Overall, while the data illustrates strengths in certain undergraduate programs, it also points to areas where the institution can enhance its academic offerings and inclusivity to attract a diverse student population.

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

Parks, recreation, leisure has 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.$35,191
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.$35,191
Communication has 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Communication and Media Studies, Other.-
Educationhas 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Elementary Education and Teaching.$28,253
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.$28,253
Businesshas 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Business Administration and Management, General.$40,759
Hospitality Administration/Management, General.-
Liberal arts has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.-
Homeland security has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.$41,205
Health professionshas 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General.-
Psychology has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Psychology, General.-
Natural resources has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Environmental Studies.-
Computer and information sciencehas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Biologyhas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Marine Biology and Biological Oceanography.-

Students

442 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 53:47 · Freshman retention 59.0%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (442)

White
234 · 52.9%
Hispanic
91 · 20.6%
Black
59 · 13.3%
Unknown
28 · 6.3%
Two or more races
15 · 3.4%
Asian
7 · 1.6%
International
3 · 0.7%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
5.2%
18–19
36.2%
20–21
31.2%
22–24
18.8%
25 and over
8.6%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Mitchell College in 2023

The student demographic data of Mitchell College for 2023 reveals a diverse composition across different classifications. Notably, the incoming undergraduate freshmen consist of 100 students, with a nearly balanced gender ratio of 49% male and 51% female. This trend of gender parity is encouraging and aligns with broader educational goals of inclusivity in higher education.

In contrast, the undergraduate upperclassmen present a more male-dominated environment, with 54.8% identifying as male and 45.2% as female, totaling 352 students. This shift in gender dynamics could reflect various factors, including historical enrollment patterns and the specific academic programs offered at the college. Interestingly, the transfer students demonstrate a significant female presence, with 57.1% female among the 28 total students, indicating that women are increasingly seeking opportunities to continue their education through transfer pathways.

The race and ethnicity breakdown, although not fully detailed in the available data, hints at further diversities within the student body. The presence of white, Asian, Latino, Pacific Islander, African American, and international students contributes to the multicultural environment that is characteristic of contemporary colleges. The students’ experiences are likely enriched by this diversity, fostering a broader exchange of ideas and perspectives.

As educational institutions continue to evolve, it will be crucial for Mitchell College to focus on maintaining and enhancing this diversity while addressing any disparities that may exist among various groups. Understanding these dynamics will be essential for developing programs that support student success and promote an inclusive campus culture.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Mitchell College

The age distribution of students at Mitchell College reveals interesting trends regarding the demographics of its student body. The majority of undergraduates fall between the ages of 18 and 21, with 106 males and 95 females aged 18-19, and 110 males and 80 females aged 20-21, representing approximately 46% and 43% of the total student population, respectively. This indicates a strong presence of traditional college-age students, typically between 18 and 22 years old, aligning with national trends where most students enroll in college shortly after high school.

Moreover, the data shows a significant decrease in student numbers as age increases. For instance, the 22-24 age group has only 47 males and 44 females, and those aged 25-29 drop to 12 males and 8 females. This trend may suggest that older students are less likely to enroll or that the college may not cater extensively to non-traditional students, who often juggle work and family commitments alongside their education.

Interestingly, there are no graduate males reported, which may point to a potential area for growth in graduate enrollment or reflect broader trends in higher education where certain fields attract more females. The representation of male students in the <18 category, though small (8 males), shows the college's outreach efforts may be effective in engaging younger students early.

Overall, Mitchell College's age composition reflects a youthful and predominantly undergraduate student body, emphasizing the importance of adapting educational offerings to meet the needs of both traditional and non-traditional learners in an evolving academic landscape.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Undergraduates0.7%

3 in 2025 · 1.8% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.8%2017: 0.6%2018: 0.1%2019: 0.2%2020: 0.0%2021: 0.0%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.2%2024: 0.8%2025: 0.7%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Mitchell College

The data on international student enrollment at Mitchell College reveals significant fluctuations over the years, particularly in undergraduate populations. Starting from a modest 0.81% in 2004, there was a notable increase in 2011 and 2012, where the percentage peaked at 1.16%. However, this upward trend did not sustain itself and saw a dramatic decline in the subsequent years, reaching a low of just 0.14% in 2018 and remaining around 0.19% in 2023.

This decline could be attributed to several factors, including changing immigration policies, increased competition from other institutions, and possibly a decrease in global student mobility trends due to geopolitical tensions or economic uncertainties. The data reflects a broader trend observed in many U.S. colleges and universities, where international student enrollment has faced challenges in recent years.

While the figures for graduate students are unavailable in this dataset, the trends observed in the undergraduate figures may also reflect similar challenges at the graduate level. International students play a vital role in enriching the academic community and promoting cultural diversity. Therefore, it is crucial for institutions to adapt and create supportive environments for these students to reverse the declining trends in enrollment.

Overall, while the figures indicate a drop in international students at Mitchell College, it serves as a reminder for institutions to proactively engage with international communities to sustain and enhance their global presence in academia.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$56,650

Undergraduate tuition
$40,490
Room and board
$16,160
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Tuition rose 31% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 29%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$20.4M

Auxiliary enterprises
$7.9M38.6%
Tuition and fees
$7.7M37.8%
Gifts and private grants
$1.6M8.0%
Investment return
$1.5M7.4%
Government grants and contracts
$1.1M5.3%
Other
$581K2.8%

Expenses$23.1M

Student services
$6.2M26.8%
Auxiliary enterprises
$5.7M24.9%
Institutional support
$5.7M24.9%
Instruction
$3.3M14.3%
Academic support
$2.1M9.0%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

All faculty
$67,597peers $65,931
Professor
$80,322peers $77,501
Associate professor
$71,975peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$60,578peers $61,725
Instructor
$50,564peers $53,914

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Great Northeast Athletic Conference

Great Northeast Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Baseball39-
Soccer2316
Basketball1910
Lacrosse1216
Softball-14
Volleyball-13
Cross Country55
Golf7-
2024
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer2820
Basketball2513
Baseball34-
Lacrosse1516
Cross Country99
Softball-16
Volleyball-13
Golf7-
2023
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer2122
Baseball39-
Basketball2114
Lacrosse1515
Softball-17
Cross Country77
Volleyball-13
Golf5-

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable colleges and universities near Mitchell College:

  1. Connecticut College - Ranked 46th, this liberal arts college is known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts education and vibrant campus life.

  2. Wesleyan University - With a rank of 11, Wesleyan is a prestigious liberal arts university that offers a unique blend of rigorous academics and a creative environment.

  3. Trinity College - Ranked 39th, Trinity is a liberal arts college that provides a personalized education and is located in Hartford, Connecticut.

  4. Yale University - A member of the Ivy League, Yale is ranked 5th and is renowned for its outstanding programs and research opportunities.

  5. Brown University - Ranked 9th, Brown is known for its flexible curriculum and diverse academic offerings, making it a top choice for students seeking an interdisciplinary education.

  6. College of the Holy Cross - This college ranks 27th and is recognized for its commitment to liberal arts education and strong Jesuit values.

Each of these institutions offers unique educational experiences and opportunities for students in the region.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Fondling
5
Drug referrals
3
Liquor referrals
3
Dating violence
3
Weapons referrals
1
Residence hall fires
1

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Data at Mitchell College

The crime data from Mitchell College over the past decade indicates a significant decline in the overall crime rate on campus. Starting with an average of 61.07 incidents per 1,000 students in 2013, the numbers have steadily decreased, reaching a low of 7.05 incidents per 1,000 students in 2023. This represents an impressive drop of approximately 88.4%.

A closer examination of the types of offenses reveals that arrests related to firearms and drug-related incidents were notable in earlier years but have diminished substantially. In 2013, for example, firearm arrests were a significant concern, but the numbers have fallen dramatically, reflecting a potential improvement in campus safety measures and community awareness.

Moreover, the steady reduction in incidents of violent crimes such as assault and robbery may suggest that the college's initiatives aimed at enhancing student safety and security are proving effective. The consistent decline in reported cases of domestic violence and dating offenses also supports this trend.

The findings are particularly relevant in the current climate, where college campuses nationwide are striving to improve safety and reduce crime. The proactive measures taken by Mitchell College can serve as a model for other institutions facing similar challenges.

Overall, Mitchell College's data illustrates a positive trajectory towards a safer campus environment, enhancing the quality of life for students and staff alike. For further details on calculating crime rates, please refer to the methodology here: crime rate calculation.

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.