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U.S. News #132 Private nonprofit, 4-year

Eckerd College

Saint Petersburg, Florida · www.eckerd.edu

中文

U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027

#132

Acceptance rate

75.8%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$51,884

$66,618 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

1,893

Student-faculty ratio 11:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

62.7%

4-year; 6-year rate 67.5%

Peer median 45.1%

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

About

Eckerd College, located in St. Petersburg, Florida, is a private liberal arts college known for its unique commitment to experiential learning and environmental stewardship. Founded in 1958, the college boasts a picturesque campus that spans 188 acres along the shoreline of Tampa Bay, providing students with a stunning natural environment to study and engage in outdoor activities. Eckerd College emphasizes a strong sense of community and encourages students to take an active role in their education, promoting a hands-on approach to learning through programs such as internships, research opportunities, and study abroad experiences.

One of the defining features of Eckerd College is its dedication to environmental sustainability and social responsibility. The college's curriculum includes a robust environmental studies program, and students often participate in community service projects that align with these values. The college's motto, "The world is our classroom," reflects its commitment to providing students with real-world experiences that enhance their academic learning. Additionally, Eckerd College is known for its strong faculty-student relationships, with a low student-to-faculty ratio that allows for personalized attention and mentorship. The vibrant campus life, characterized by various clubs, organizations, and athletic programs, ensures that students enjoy a well-rounded college experience, preparing them for successful futures in diverse fields.

Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention

Eckerd College, a private institution, has experienced a notable increase in tuition over the past decade. Starting from approximately $37,362 in 2014, the tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has risen steadily to around $50,374 in 2024. This 35% increase in tuition, coupled with escalating room and board costs, raises concerns about the financial burden placed on students and their families, especially in a context where many individuals are already grappling with significant student loan debt.

In terms of academic performance, graduation rates have shown a fluctuating trend. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students peaked at around 63.1% in 2020 but saw a decline in subsequent years, dropping to approximately 58.8% by 2023. This downward trajectory may indicate challenges that students face in completing their degrees within the expected timeframe, possibly linked to the increasing financial pressures stemming from rising tuition costs.

Retention rates, which reflect the percentage of students who continue their studies at Eckerd from year to year, have also exhibited a decline. Retention dropped from approximately 83.2% in 2014 to around 76.9% in 2023. This decrease is concerning, as lower retention rates can indicate dissatisfaction among students, whether due to financial, academic, or social factors.

Additionally, the demographic makeup of the student body has shifted, with the proportion of female undergraduate students increasing from about 61.2% in 2014 to 69.9% in 2023. While a diverse student body is generally a positive indicator, such a significant gender shift might warrant further investigation into the factors attracting more female students and whether the institution is effectively supporting their academic success.

In summary, Eckerd College faces critical challenges regarding rising tuition, fluctuating graduation rates, and declining retention rates. These trends necessitate strategic planning and interventions to ensure that the institution remains accessible and supportive for its student population.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Large city
Nearest major city
Tampa, about 20 mi
Nearest international airport
St. Petersburg Clearwater International Airport (PIE), about 15 mi
Saint Petersburg, Florida
Academic calendar
4-1-4
Religious affiliation
Presbyterian Church (USA)
President
James J. Annarelli (President)
Phone
7278671166
City
Saint Petersburg, Florida
Address
4200 54th Ave S, Saint Petersburg, FL 33711-4700

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

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

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
71.2%
Women
77.5%

In 2020: men 62.1%, women 69.9%.

U.S. News Liberal Arts Colleges · last 10 years
#132Ranked #132 every year from 2027 to 2027

Data insights

Analysis of Eckerd College Admission Trends

Eckerd College has shown a varied trend in its admission rates and enrollment figures over the years. The acceptance rates for both male and female students have fluctuated between 61.2% to 69.0% for males and 69.7% to 77.9% for females from 2009 to 2023. Notably, the female acceptance rate consistently remains higher than that of their male counterparts, highlighting a potential gender disparity in the admission process.
The total number of enrollees has generally increased, peaking in 2022 with 650 enrolled students. This increase is accompanied by a substantial number of denials, reaching as high as 1,937 in 2023, indicating that while the institution is accepting more students, it is also rejecting a significant number of applicants. The number of deferred admissions has also been notable, with 3,277 students deferring in 2022, suggesting that many students are either uncertain about their immediate enrollment or are seeking to postpone their college experience for personal reasons.
The consistent increase in both the denial numbers and deferred admissions may reflect broader trends in higher education, where students are becoming more selective about their choices, often applying to multiple institutions. Moreover, these dynamics could be influenced by external factors such as economic conditions or the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which have reshaped students' expectations and decisions regarding higher education.
Overall, Eckerd College's admission statistics reveal a complex landscape of college enrollment, characterized by increasing selectivity and changing student preferences. Future strategies may need to focus on addressing gender disparities, enhancing student support for those who defer, and maintaining enrollment levels amid fluctuating application rates.

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 27% submitted SAT, 17% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total1160–1330Peer median 1220
ACT composite24–29
SAT Reading
600–690
600700800
SAT Math
560–640
600700800
ACT composite
24–29
253036

Data insights

Trends in SAT Scores and Admission Ratios at Eckerd College

The data from Eckerd College reveals interesting trends in SAT scores and the number of students submitting their scores over the years. Notably, the number of students submitting their SAT scores has shown a significant decline from 2007 to 2023. For instance, in 2007, 88% of admitted students submitted their SAT scores, while by 2023, this figure plummeted to just 35%. This downward trend raises questions about the changing landscape of college admissions, particularly in the wake of increasing test-optional policies adopted by many institutions across the United States.

Over the same period, the range of SAT reading and math scores among admitted students has generally improved, with the 25th percentile scores rising from 500-620 in 2007 to 580-670 in 2023. This suggests that while fewer students are submitting scores, those who do tend to be more academically qualified, as indicated by higher scores. This aligns with national trends where colleges are focusing more on holistic admissions approaches, evaluating candidates based on a broader set of criteria beyond standardized test scores.

The data also indicates fluctuations in the total number of admitted students submitting ACT scores, which, although not detailed here, may follow similar patterns. The increasing emphasis on a more comprehensive evaluation of applicants may be a response to social movements advocating for equity in education, particularly for underrepresented groups.

In summary, Eckerd College's admissions data reflects broader national trends towards test-optional policies, rising academic standards among those who choose to submit scores, and an evolving understanding of student qualifications beyond standardized testing. This evolution may redefine college admissions processes and expectations in the future.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 8 in 10

5,071 applicants in 2025, 75.8% admitted

3,844 admitted 1,227 not admitted Yield 12.3%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's50024 international (4.8%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Marine Biology and Biological Oceanography
111
Animal Behavior and Ethology
63
Environmental Studies
60
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
58
Psychology, General
30
Business/Commerce, General
17
International Business/Trade/Commerce
14
Marketing/Marketing Management, General
13
Developmental and Child Psychology
12
Economics, General
10

U.S. studentsInternational

Data insights

Analysis of Graduating Majors at Eckerd College

In 2023, Eckerd College presented a diverse range of academic disciplines, with a significant emphasis on biological sciences and environmental studies. The highest number of graduates was recorded in Marine Biology and Biological Oceanography, with 84 bachelor's degrees conferred. This reflects the growing interest in marine ecosystems and the importance of sustainability in education, especially as climate change and ocean conservation become pressing global issues.

Environmental Studies also showcased a robust output of 60 bachelor's degrees, indicating a strong awareness and commitment to ecological issues among students. The presence of international students, albeit modest, suggests that Eckerd College is attracting a global perspective on these critical subjects, with 5% of the Environmental Studies graduates being international students.

Psychology emerged as another prominent field, with a total of 45 graduates, including a notable contribution from international students. This aligns with increasing societal interest in mental health and well-being, particularly post-pandemic, highlighting the importance of psychological education in today's context.

Conversely, business-related majors exhibited lower graduation numbers, with a combined total of 36 graduates from various business programs. This could suggest that students are gravitating towards more specialized or impactful fields, rather than traditional business disciplines, which may face saturation in the job market.

Overall, the data reflects a commitment to environmental sustainability and mental health, alongside a varied academic landscape. As society continues to evolve, these trends in education could significantly influence future workforce development and societal priorities.

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

Biologyhas 237 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$35,644
Biochemistry.-
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.-
Animal Behavior and Ethology.$31,929
Marine Biology and Biological Oceanography.$31,746
Natural resources has 60 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Environmental Studies.$31,532
Businesshas 50 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Business/Commerce, General.-
Business Administration and Management, General.-
International Business/Trade/Commerce.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Psychology has 42 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Psychology, General.$38,690
Developmental and Child Psychology.$31,605
Social sciencehas 35 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Anthropology, General.-
Economics, General.-
International Relations and Affairs.-
Political Science and Government, General.$32,267
Sociology, General.-
Visual and Performing artshas 26 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Visual and Performing Arts, General.-
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Film/Cinema/Media Studies.-
Music, General.-
Physical scienceshas 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Chemistry, General.-
Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences, Other.-
Computer and information sciencehas 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Computer Science.-
English has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
English Language and Literature, General.-
Creative Writing.-
Foreign languages has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
French Language and Literature.$38,294
Spanish Language and Literature.$38,294
Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, Other.-
Communication has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Communication, General.$37,246
Liberal arts has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Humanities/Humanistic Studies.-
History has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
History, General.-
Philosophy has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Philosophy.-
Religion/Religious Studies.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Mathematics, General.-
Health professionshas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Art Therapy/Therapist.-
Cultural has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Women's Studies.-

Students

1,893 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 30:70 · Freshman retention 75.8%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,893)

White
1,419 · 75.0%
Hispanic
190 · 10.0%
Two or more races
105 · 5.5%
International
74 · 3.9%
Black
56 · 3.0%
Asian
35 · 1.8%
Unknown
11 · 0.6%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
0.8%
18–19
42.9%
20–21
46.2%
22–24
8.8%
25 and over
1.1%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Eckerd College in 2023

The demographics of Eckerd College for the year 2023 reveal a diverse student body, particularly among the undergraduate new students, who comprise a significant portion of the total enrollment. With 544 new freshmen, their gender distribution shows a notable lean towards female students, who represent 73.3% of this group, while males make up 26.7%. This trend continues among the undergraduate continuing students, where females account for 69.5% of 1,377 students, suggesting a consistent pattern of higher female enrollment across these categories.

In contrast, the undergraduate transfer students show a more balanced gender ratio, with 44.6% male and 55.4% female. This may reflect the varied backgrounds and motivations of transfer students, who often come from different educational institutions and life experiences.

A small number of students fall into the "other" category, indicating a need for further exploration of the factors influencing this demographic. The absence of detailed data on graduate students and the representation of various ethnic backgrounds limits our understanding of the full diversity at Eckerd College. However, it is crucial to acknowledge the importance of fostering an inclusive environment that not only attracts a diverse student population but also supports their academic and social needs.

Overall, the data indicates a predominance of female students at Eckerd College, with potential implications for campus culture and support services. As institutions continue to evolve, understanding these trends will be vital for promoting equity and inclusivity within the academic community.

Analysis of Age Distribution at Eckerd College in 2023

The age composition data from Eckerd College for 2023 reveals some intriguing insights into the demographics of its student body. The majority of the students fall within the 18-21 age range, which is typical for many undergraduate institutions. Specifically, students aged 18-19 account for approximately 26.5% of the total population, while those aged 20-21 represent about 27.2%. This trend suggests that Eckerd College is attracting a youthful demographic, likely comprising recent high school graduates seeking higher education.

In contrast, the number of students aged 22-24 drops significantly, making up only 6.8% of the total enrollment. This decline may reflect the common phenomenon where students either graduate earlier or choose to enter the workforce before pursuing further education. Notably, the data shows a stark absence of graduate male students across most age categories, indicating that further investigation is needed to understand the motivations and circumstances that lead to this gender imbalance in graduate studies.

Moreover, the representation of older students (ages 25 and above) is minimal, with only a few individuals in each category. This could imply that Eckerd College predominantly serves a traditional student demographic, which may limit its appeal to non-traditional students seeking a more diverse age range in their educational environment.

Overall, the age distribution at Eckerd College reflects broader trends in higher education, where younger students dominate the undergraduate landscape. Understanding this demographic composition can help the college tailor its programs and services to better meet the needs of its student population.

International Students

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

Undergraduates3.9%

74 in 2025 · 4.7% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 4.7%2017: 4.3%2018: 4.4%2019: 4.2%2020: 4.1%2021: 3.4%2022: 3.8%2023: 4.1%2024: 3.8%2025: 3.9%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Eckerd College

The data on international student enrollment at Eckerd College reveals a notable decline in the percentage of international students among undergraduates from 2004 to 2023. In 2004, the proportion of international students was 8.4%, but this figure has steadily decreased over the years, reaching only 4.06% in 2023. This trend raises concerns about the college's attractiveness to foreign students, which could be influenced by various factors, including changing immigration policies, global competition for international talent, and shifts in the perception of the United States as a study destination.

Interestingly, the total undergraduate enrollment has fluctuated, peaking at 2,555 students in 2007 before experiencing a gradual decline. The decrease in international student numbers is particularly striking, dropping from 137 in 2004 to just 81 in 2023. This decline may reflect broader trends in U.S. higher education, where many institutions have reported challenges in attracting international students amid increasing competition from universities around the world.

Moreover, the global pandemic has further complicated the picture, as many students faced travel restrictions and uncertainties regarding studying abroad. As universities strive to rejuvenate their international student populations, it will be essential for Eckerd College to assess its recruitment strategies and support systems for international students to ensure a diverse and vibrant campus community moving forward.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$66,618

Undergraduate tuition
$51,884
Room and board
$14,734
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 30% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 35%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$109M

Tuition and fees
$57.7M52.9%
Auxiliary enterprises
$21.9M20.0%
Investment return
$13.4M12.3%
Gifts and private grants
$12.6M11.6%
Government grants and contracts
$3.3M3.0%

Expenses$93.4M

Instruction
$37.1M39.7%
Institutional support
$18.0M19.3%
Student services
$16.5M17.7%
Auxiliary enterprises
$15.3M16.3%
Academic support
$5.4M5.8%
Research
$1.2M1.2%

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
$80,283peers $65,931
Professor
$102,584peers $77,501
Associate professor
$83,700peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$70,785peers $61,725
Instructor
$57,527peers $53,914

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Sunshine State Conference

Sunshine State Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer3432
Baseball38-
Basketball1311
Softball-22
Golf146
Tennis810
Volleyball-16
Beach Volleyball-15
Sailing-6
2024
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer3030
Baseball36-
Basketball1310
Golf147
Softball-18
Tennis99
Volleyball-15
Beach Volleyball-14
Sailing-5
2023
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer2726
Baseball37-
Basketball1410
Golf137
Softball-20
Volleyball-19
Tennis98
Beach Volleyball-15
Sailing-8

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near Eckerd College:

  1. University of Florida - Ranked 28th in the 2024 US News rankings, the University of Florida is a comprehensive university known for its research programs and vibrant campus life.

  2. University of South Florida - With a ranking of 89, the University of South Florida offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, making it a key educational institution in the region.

  3. Florida State University - This comprehensive university is ranked 53rd and is renowned for its strong academic programs and commitment to research.

  4. University of Miami - Ranked 67th, the University of Miami is a prestigious private research university known for its strong programs in business, law, and medicine.

  5. Florida International University - Holding the 124th rank, this university is recognized for its diverse student body and extensive academic offerings, particularly in business and international studies.

  6. New College of Florida - As a liberal arts college ranked 100th, New College is known for its unique curriculum and emphasis on independent study.

These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and resources for students in the vicinity of Eckerd College.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

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

Incidents, 2023–2025

Drug referrals
76
Liquor referrals
60
Rape
22
Fondling
21
Stalking
19
Dating violence
6

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Eckerd College

The crime statistics from Eckerd College reveal a fluctuating trend in campus safety over the past decade. Starting in 2013, the average number of offenses per 1,000 students was quite high at 48.52. This rate peaked in 2015 at 58.86, which raises concerns regarding campus security during that period. However, a noticeable decline began in 2016, culminating in a significant drop to 14.27 by 2021, indicating improvements in safety measures or a change in student behavior.

In 2022, the recorded crime rate saw a modest increase to 30.45, followed by a slight decrease to 22.78 in 2023. Such fluctuations may be influenced by various factors, including the social climate, enforcement of regulations, and availability of campus resources for safety. Notably, the absence of violent crime, such as murder or robbery, is a positive sign, suggesting that while there are incidents of drug and alcohol-related offenses, the campus remains relatively safe from more severe criminal activities.

The data reflects a broader trend seen in many educational institutions, where there are concerted efforts to enhance campus safety through awareness programs and improved security measures. While the decrease in crime rates is commendable, it is crucial for Eckerd College to continue fostering a safe environment for its students. Continuous monitoring and response strategies will be essential to sustain this downward trend in crime rates. For further details on crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Eckerd College include Dennis Lehane (Novelist and screenwriter), Dorothy Allison (Writer, poet and novelist) and Hank Green (YouTuber and science communicator).

More alumni (7, by field)

Politics and law

Arts and media

Sports

  • Steve Balboni 1957–

    Former MLB first baseman

  • Jim Mecir 1970–

    MLB pitcher who overcame a club foot

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.

Related News

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.