Franklin College
Acceptance rate
69.8%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$38,710
$51,115 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
931
Student-faculty ratio 12:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
58.7%
4-year; 6-year rate 63.0%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Franklin College, located in Franklin, Indiana, is a distinguished liberal arts college known for its commitment to providing a well-rounded education grounded in the principles of inquiry, creativity, and service. Established in 1834, the college has a rich history and a strong tradition of academic excellence. With a student-centered approach, Franklin College emphasizes small class sizes, allowing for personalized attention from faculty members. The college offers a range of undergraduate programs, including areas such as business, education, and the sciences, all designed to prepare students for a successful career while fostering critical thinking and effective communication skills.
The campus culture at Franklin College is vibrant and inclusive, encouraging students to engage in various extracurricular activities and community service. The college's motto, “Enter to Learn, Go Forth to Serve,” reflects its dedication to developing responsible and engaged citizens. Students have ample opportunities to participate in athletics, arts, and various student organizations, which contribute to a dynamic and supportive community. The college's facilities are modern and well-maintained, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational facilities, ensuring students have access to resources that enhance their educational experience. With a strong emphasis on experiential learning and community engagement, Franklin College prepares its graduates to excel in their chosen fields and make meaningful contributions to society.
Analysis of Tuition Trends and Graduation Rates
Over the years, the tuition costs for in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students at Franklin College have shown a consistent upward trend. For example, in 2014, the tuition was $27,695, and by 2024, it is projected to reach $37,350. This represents a staggering increase of approximately 35% over a decade. Such rising costs are reflective of broader trends in higher education, where tuition inflation often outpaces general inflation. This financial burden can significantly impact students' decisions regarding college attendance and their eventual financial stability post-graduation.
In conjunction with rising tuition, the graduation rates also present an interesting narrative. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates fluctuated over the years, with a notable peak in 2019 at around 60.2%, but it has since dipped to approximately 57.8% in 2023. This decline raises concerns about the effectiveness of support systems for students and the potential impact of financial stress caused by increasing tuition on student persistence and completion rates.
Additionally, the retention rate among undergraduates has shown variability, from a high of approximately 79% in 2015 to around 72% in 2023. A declining retention rate can indicate challenges in student satisfaction and engagement, which could be exacerbated by financial issues. Institutions must prioritize strategies to improve retention, especially as tuition continues to rise.
Moreover, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained stable at 11:1 over the years, suggesting that students maintain access to faculty support despite the fluctuations in other metrics. This consistent ratio may help counterbalance some of the adverse effects of financial strain by fostering a conducive learning environment.
In summary, the interplay between rising tuition costs, fluctuating graduation and retention rates, and a stable student-to-faculty ratio at Franklin College underscores the complex dynamics of higher education today. Addressing these challenges will be crucial for the institution's future success and the well-being of its students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Indianapolis, about 20 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Indianapolis International Airport (IND), about 20 mi
- Also known as
- Franklin College of Indiana
- Academic calendar
- 4-1-4
- Religious affiliation
- American Baptist
- President
- Kerry Prather (President)
- Phone
- 3177388000
- Address
- 101 Branigin Blvd, Franklin, IN 46131-2623
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 80.9%, women 81.7%.
Data insights
Analysis of Franklin College Admission Trends
The admission data from Franklin College over the years reveals significant trends in enrollment practices and gender disparities in acceptance rates. Starting from 2009, the acceptance rates for male applicants hovered around 65-93% while female applicants faced slightly higher rates of admission, indicating a consistent trend of providing slightly more favorable outcomes for women during this period.
From 2009 to 2011, there was a notable decline in enrollment numbers, alongside an increase in the number of denied applications. This could reflect the tightening of admissions criteria amidst a competitive landscape for higher education as colleges adapted to changing demographics and applicant expectations. The trend appears to reverse starting from 2016, where the enrollment numbers began to stabilize, suggesting that Franklin College may have found a balance in its recruitment strategies.
The most striking observation is the significant drop in both male and female acceptance rates in 2022, with male acceptance plummeting to approximately 93.5% and female acceptance at about 95.9%. This sharp decline in acceptance rates may reflect a strategic shift towards creating a more competitive admission environment, possibly in response to increasing applications or a desire to enhance the college's prestige.
Furthermore, the data indicates a trend towards increasing the number of deferred admissions, especially in the years leading up to 2022. This could signal a strategic approach to managing the incoming class size while still accommodating interested candidates.
Overall, the fluctuations in admission rates and enrollment numbers at Franklin College mirror broader trends seen across many institutions, where competitive admission practices are increasingly the norm, reflecting a desire to attract high-caliber students while navigating the complexities of the higher education landscape.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 39% submitted SAT, 4% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Data at Franklin College
The admissions data from Franklin College over the years reveals significant trends in standardized test scores and submission rates. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, peaking at 93% in 2010 and dropping to 46% in 2023. This decline in submission rates could reflect broader national trends where students are increasingly opting for test-optional policies, a movement that gained momentum during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In terms of academic performance, the range of SAT scores for admitted students shows a general upward trend, with the lower quartile SAT Reading scores starting at 430 in 2007 and reaching a high of 500 by 2018. However, the upper quartile scores have also seen fluctuations, suggesting variability in the academic preparedness of incoming students. The most consistent aspect is the relatively stable range of scores over the years, indicating that while more students may be applying, the competitive landscape remains robust.
Moreover, the data from 2022 and 2023 illustrates a concerning drop in both the number of applicants submitting scores and the scores themselves. This trend may challenge the college's ability to maintain its academic standards and could necessitate a reevaluation of recruitment strategies to attract higher-caliber students. As institutions like Franklin College navigate these changes, they will need to balance maintaining a rigorous academic environment while adapting to evolving admissions practices. Overall, this data reveals not just the college's academic standards, but also the broader implications of changing attitudes towards standardized testing in higher education.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 7 in 10
2,609 applicants in 2025, 69.8% admitted
1,821 admitted 788 not admitted Yield 17.4%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Physician Assistant · Master's22 (0% international)
- Athletic Training/Trainer · Master's3 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Franklin College in 2023
The graduation data from Franklin College in 2023 reveals intriguing patterns across various fields of study. Notably, the Physician Assistant program stands out as the only discipline offering a master's degree, with 23 graduates, indicating a strong demand for healthcare professionals. This aligns with the increasing focus on healthcare careers in recent years, driven by a growing population and an ongoing need for medical services.
In contrast, the Exercise Science and Kinesiology program produced 22 bachelor's graduates, showcasing the rising interest in health and fitness sectors. This trend reflects a broader societal shift towards wellness and preventive care, emphasizing the importance of physical education and training.
Additionally, the data reveals a lack of international students graduating in various disciplines, particularly at the bachelor's and associate levels. This may point to potential barriers for international students, such as visa regulations or financial constraints, which could hinder the growth of a diverse academic environment.
Interestingly, traditional fields such as Psychology and Sociology also produced modest graduation numbers, with 17 and 12 graduates respectively. These figures suggest a consistent interest in social sciences, which are crucial for understanding human behavior and societal dynamics, especially in today's complex social landscape.
Overall, this data underscores the evolving educational landscape at Franklin College, reflecting both market demands and societal trends. As the job market continues to prioritize health-related fields, it will be crucial for the college to adapt its programs to attract a diverse student body and prepare graduates for the challenges of the future workforce.
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 | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physician Assistant. | $96,997 | ||
| Athletic Training/Trainer. | $96,997 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Journalism. | - | ||
| Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. | $44,252 | ||
| Sports Communication. | $44,252 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Biomedical Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Ecology. | - | ||
| Neuroscience. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | - | ||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - | ||
| Non-Profit/Public/Organizational Management. | - | ||
| Accounting. | - | ||
| Finance, General. | - | ||
| Actuarial Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $38,256 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economics, General. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Programming/Programmer, General. | - | ||
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | - | ||
| Photography. | - | ||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | ||
| Painting. | - | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | ||
| Creative Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - | ||
| Applied Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Data Science, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - | ||
| Religion/Religious Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| French Language and Literature. | - | ||
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
985 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 50:50 · Freshman retention 72.9%
- Continuing undergraduates 553
- First-year undergraduates 316
- Graduate students 54
- Transfers and others 62
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (931)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Franklin College 2023
The demographic composition of Franklin College in 2023 reveals interesting insights into the student body. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 246 students, with a nearly balanced gender ratio of 50.4% male and 49.6% female. This indicates a healthy and inclusive environment for new students entering college life.
In contrast, the undergraduate juniors present a larger cohort of 589 students, with a slightly higher male representation at 53.7%. The presence of more males may reflect various social dynamics and academic trends that encourage or support male students in their educational pursuits.
The undergraduate transfer students are significantly fewer in number, totaling 24, with a notable 62.5% being male. This discrepancy could suggest that the transfer process is more appealing or accessible to male students, or it could reflect larger national trends in transfer student demographics.
Graduate students, numbering 63, show a stark contrast with a predominance of female students at 76.2%. This trend aligns with national statistics indicating that women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees at higher rates than men, reflecting broader societal shifts toward gender equity in higher education.
The racial composition data, while incomplete for some categories, suggests that the college is striving for diversity. For instance, the majority of undergraduate freshmen are White, followed by other ethnic groups, indicating the need for continued efforts in promoting inclusivity and representation among all student demographics.
Overall, Franklin College's student demographics reflect broader trends in higher education, including gender disparities in certain categories and an ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Analysis of Student Age Distribution at Franklin College
The age distribution of students at Franklin College presents an interesting snapshot of the student body. Most notably, the dominant age group is between 18-21, with a significant number of both male and female undergraduates. Specifically, among those aged 18-19, there are 174 males and 175 females, indicating a balanced gender ratio in this age bracket. This trend continues in the 20-21 age group, where the male population slightly exceeds the female population, highlighting a youthful demographic that is typical in many colleges.
As we move to older age categories, the number of students begins to decline sharply. For instance, in the 22-24 age range, there are 64 males and 52 females among undergraduates, along with additional graduate students contributing to the total. This could be indicative of students either graduating or transitioning into the workforce, which is common as students age.
The representation of non-traditional students, particularly those aged 25 and above, is relatively low. The combined total for ages 25-29 and the subsequent age groups shows a modest presence, with only a handful of students in their 30s and 40s. This demographic trend aligns with national statistics suggesting that higher education continues to attract younger students, while adult learners remain a smaller segment.
Overall, Franklin College's age composition reflects broader trends in higher education, emphasizing a focus on traditional college-aged individuals while also providing a supportive environment for non-traditional students. The balance between men and women in younger age groups is particularly noteworthy, demonstrating the college's commitment to fostering an inclusive educational experience.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
43 in 2025 · 1.7% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2017
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Trends at Franklin College
The data on international students at Franklin College reveals an intriguing trend over the years, particularly among undergraduate students. Starting from a mere 0.87% of the undergraduate population in 2004, the percentage of international students has seen modest fluctuations, peaking at 2.33% in 2015. However, the overall numbers remain relatively low, with many years recording less than 1% representation.
This underrepresentation may reflect broader trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly competing for international students to enrich campus diversity and stimulate economic growth. The small numbers could be attributed to various factors, including regional policies on immigration, the global competitiveness of U.S. institutions, and the rising popularity of alternative study destinations such as Canada and Australia.
On the graduate level, the data shows an increase in the number of international students, albeit with limited representation, peaking at 5.56% in 2018. The growth in graduate numbers, while still modest, suggests that Franklin College is making some strides in attracting international talent, particularly in more advanced academic programs.
Moreover, the recent global context, including the COVID-19 pandemic, has significantly impacted international student mobility. As colleges and universities adapt to the post-pandemic landscape, there may be new opportunities for Franklin College to enhance its appeal to international students through improved support services and marketing efforts.
In conclusion, while Franklin College has seen slight increases in international student enrollment over the years, there remains significant potential for growth. A focus on recruitment strategies and the development of a more inclusive environment could lead to a more diverse and vibrant academic community.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$51,115
- Undergraduate tuition
- $38,710
- Room and board
- $12,405
- Graduate tuition
- $40,014
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 33% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 37%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$37.0M
Expenses$32.3M
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.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference
Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 126 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 83 | 39 |
| Baseball | 47 | - |
| Soccer | 25 | 21 |
| Basketball | 22 | 16 |
| Volleyball | 9 | 25 |
| Tennis | 17 | 10 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Golf | 9 | 9 |
| Lacrosse | - | 13 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | - | 13 |
| Swimming | 13 | - |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 88 | 55 |
| Football | 113 | - |
| Soccer | 31 | 25 |
| Basketball | 30 | 24 |
| Baseball | 41 | - |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 16 | 20 |
| Softball | - | 27 |
| Tennis | 19 | 7 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Golf | 9 | 5 |
| Lacrosse | - | 14 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 119 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 57 | 40 |
| Soccer | 31 | 26 |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 18 | 19 |
| Basketball | 16 | 19 |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| Volleyball | - | 21 |
| Golf | 10 | 8 |
| Tennis | 9 | 9 |
| Lacrosse | - | 17 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of IndianapolisIndianapolis · 16.6 mi
U.S. News #288
-
Indiana University-Purdue University-IndianapolisIndianapolis · 21.4 mi
U.S. News #219
-
Marian University (IN)Indianapolis · 24.6 mi
U.S. News #276
-
Indiana University-BloomingtonBloomington · 33.5 mi
U.S. News #73
-
DePauw UniversityGreencastle · 44.8 mi
Liberal Arts #49
-
Wabash CollegeCrawfordsville · 59.8 mi
Liberal Arts #44
-
Ball State UniversityMuncie · 60.5 mi
U.S. News #227
-
Earlham CollegeRichmond · 64.8 mi
Liberal Arts #83
-
Miami University-OxfordOxford · 70.1 mi
U.S. News #133
Data insights
Here are some notable colleges and universities near Franklin College:
-
Indiana University-Bloomington - Ranked 73rd in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its vibrant campus life and strong academic programs.
-
Purdue University-Main Campus - With a ranking of 43rd, Purdue is renowned for its engineering and technology programs, making it a leading institution in the Midwest.
-
University of Notre Dame - Ranked 20th nationally, Notre Dame is highly regarded for its academic excellence and strong sense of community, featuring a beautiful campus and a rich tradition.
-
DePauw University - This liberal arts college ranks 46th and is recognized for its small class sizes and personalized education, fostering close interactions between students and faculty.
-
Wabash College - Ranked 59th, Wabash is an all-male liberal arts college known for its rigorous academics and emphasis on developing leaders.
-
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - This comprehensive university is ranked 35th and is well-known for its research programs and diverse student body.
These institutions offer a range of academic opportunities and vibrant campus experiences, making them excellent options for students in the Franklin College area.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges 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 Rates at Franklin College
The crime rates reported at Franklin College over the past decade reveal a significant decline in the average number of infractions per 1,000 students. In 2013, the average rate was 54.51 incidents per 1,000 students, which steadily decreased to 18.50 by 2022. This downward trend is a positive sign, particularly for a college environment where safety and security are paramount.
One notable observation is the sharp drop in crime rates around 2016, where the average plummeted to 29.99. This could correlate with enhanced safety measures, increased campus security, or a shift in student behavior and attitudes towards crime. The rates further declined to 19.52 in 2021, indicating that the trend was not merely a temporary fluctuation but rather a sustained improvement.
However, the data for 2023 indicates a slight uptick to 23.15, which may warrant further investigation. It is essential for campus authorities to understand the contributing factors to this increase, whether they stem from external societal influences, changes in student demographics, or other unforeseen circumstances.
In terms of specific crime types, the data suggests that arrests related to drug offenses and alcohol consumption remain critical areas of concern, reflecting broader societal issues. As colleges across the country grapple with similar challenges, Franklin College's efforts in crime prevention and student education will be crucial in maintaining a safe campus environment.
Overall, the reduction in crime rates at Franklin College is encouraging, but continued vigilance and proactive measures will be necessary to sustain this trend moving forward. For more information on calculating crime rates, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Franklin College include Robert Wise (Director of West Side Story and The Sound of Music), Marjorie Main (Character actress known for the Ma Kettle films) and Edna Ruth Parker (Supercentenarian, once oldest person in the world).
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Robert Wise 1914–2005
Director of West Side Story and The Sound of Music
-
Marjorie Main 1890–1975
Character actress known for the Ma Kettle films
-
Edna Ruth Parker 1893–2008
Supercentenarian, once oldest person in the world
-
Joseph R. Burton 1852–1923
Kansas senator, first US senator convicted of a crime
-
Gareth B. Matthews 1929–2011
Philosopher of ancient philosophy and childhood
-
Roger D. Branigin 1902–1975
42nd Governor of Indiana
-
Fuzzy Vandivier 1903–1983
Basketball player and coach, Franklin Wonder Five
-
Elmer Davis 1890–1958
Reporter, author and wartime Office of War Information director
-
Dale Hamilton 1919–1994
Professional basketball guard-forward in the NBL and NBA
More alumni (11, by field)
Politics and law
-
William Steele Holman 1822–1897
Indiana lawyer, judge and US representative
-
Jesse Overstreet 1859–1910
Lawyer and U.S. Representative from Indiana
-
Francis M. Griffith 1849–1927
U.S. representative from Indiana
-
William G. Everson 1879–1954
US Army major general, Chief of National Guard Bureau
Business
-
Arch West 1914–2011
Marketing executive behind Doritos
Science and academia
-
Boyd E. Haley 1940–
Chemist and retired University of Kentucky professor
-
Otis William Caldwell 1869–1947
Botanist, science writer and football coach
-
Paul Monroe 1869–1947
Educator specializing in history of education
Arts and media
-
Alvin F. Harlow 1875–1963
American writer, biographer and historian
Sports
-
Paul Franklin 1906–1959
Chicago Bears football player
Other fields
-
Joseph F. Beam 1954–1988
Gay rights activist and editor of In the Life
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.
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.