Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
Acceptance rate
76.9%
2025
Tuition per year
$56,046
$73,773 with room and board
Peer median $23,938
Undergraduates
2,315
Student-faculty ratio 12:1
Peer median 10 : 1
Graduation rate
72.6%
4-year; 6-year rate 80.8%
“Peers” are all 11 private engineering and technology schools in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, located in Terre Haute, Indiana, is renowned for its commitment to engineering, mathematics, and science education. Established in 1874, the institute has earned a strong reputation for its rigorous academic programs and a focus on experiential learning. The school emphasizes a hands-on approach to education, allowing students to engage in practical projects and research that enhance their understanding of theoretical concepts. This focus on practical application helps prepare graduates for successful careers in various technical fields. The student-to-faculty ratio is notably low, ensuring personalized attention and mentorship from experienced professors, many of whom have significant industry experience.
The campus culture at Rose-Hulman is vibrant and inclusive, fostering a strong sense of community among students. The institute promotes a collaborative environment where students are encouraged to work together and share ideas. Extracurricular activities, including various clubs, organizations, and athletic programs, contribute to a well-rounded student experience. The school's motto, "The Best Engineering School in America," reflects its dedication to academic excellence and innovation. Rose-Hulman consistently ranks among the top engineering schools in the United States, particularly in undergraduate education, and its graduates have a strong track record of employment in prestigious companies and organizations. With a focus on preparing students for the challenges of the modern workforce, Rose-Hulman continues to be a leader in engineering and technology education.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
The Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology presents an intriguing case for discussion, particularly regarding tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention. Over the past decade, tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has seen a significant increase, rising from approximately $40,254 in 2014 to around $54,174 in 2024. This represents a staggering growth of approximately 34.5%, which is indicative of broader trends in higher education where tuition inflation has outpaced general economic growth, raising concerns about accessibility for prospective students.
In terms of graduation rates, the data reflects a mixed bag. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates fluctuated over the years, with a notable drop to 57.3% in 2017, which was concerning. However, it rebounded to 73.1% in 2023, suggesting that the institution has successfully implemented strategies to support students in completing their degrees on time. The 150% graduation rate also exhibited positive trends, reaching 83.1% in 2023, which indicates that while some students may take longer to graduate, they are ultimately succeeding in earning their degrees.
Retention rates provide another layer of insight into student satisfaction and institutional effectiveness. Retention has remained relatively stable, hovering around the 90% mark from 2013 to 2023, with a slight dip in 2020 likely influenced by the pandemic. This stability is a strong indicator of student engagement and satisfaction, essential factors for any educational institution looking to maintain and grow its enrollment.
Overall, while tuition costs at Rose-Hulman continue to rise, the institution demonstrates resilience in its graduation and retention rates, indicating a commitment to student support amid the challenges faced in the landscape of higher education.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Small city
- Nearest major city
- Indianapolis, about 70 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Indianapolis International Airport (IND), about 60 mi
- Also known as
- R-HIT, RHIT, Rose Polytechnic, Rose Polytechnic Institute, RP, RPI, Rose-Hulman, Rose Hulman, Rose-Hulman Institute, Rose Hulman Institute, Rose
- Academic calendar
- Quarter
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Robert A. Coons (President)
- Phone
- 8128771511
- City
- Terre Haute, Indiana
- Address
- 5500 Wabash Avenue, Terre Haute, IN 47803-3920
Rankings & Admission
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 72.9%, women 78.8%.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Rates at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
The admission data for Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology reveals notable trends over the years. From 2009 to 2023, the overall admission rates for both male and female applicants have demonstrated a fluctuating pattern, particularly reflecting the institution's increasing selectivity. For instance, in 2009, the admission rate for male students stood at approximately 69.5%, while for female students it was around 73.2%. However, by 2023, these rates had decreased to roughly 71.3% for males and 78.9% for females, indicating a gradual tightening in the admission process.
The total number of enrollees has also shown variability, with a peak enrollment of 643 in 2022. This could suggest that despite the increasing selectivity, Rose-Hulman continues to attract a substantial number of applicants, as evidenced by the higher number of applicants denied admission each year.
Moreover, the significant number of students deferred admission, particularly in recent years, may reflect a strategic choice by the institution to maintain its enrollment numbers while managing the growing applicant pool. As the academic landscape becomes increasingly competitive, institutions like Rose-Hulman are likely to continue adapting their admissions strategies.
Overall, the data paints a picture of an institution that is striving to balance quality and accessibility, a challenge faced by many universities today amid rising applicant expectations and a competitive educational environment.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 53% submitted SAT, 29% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Scores at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
The admission data from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology reveals significant trends in standardized test scores and submission rates over the years. Notably, there has been a gradual decline in the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores, dropping from 82% in 2007 to just 42% in 2023. This sharp decrease may reflect a broader trend in higher education where institutions are increasingly adopting test-optional policies, allowing students to apply without standardized test scores.
Despite this decline in submissions, the SAT reading and math scores of admitted students have shown a consistent increase, with the 25th percentile rising from 570 to 620 for reading and from 670 to 720 for math over the observed period. This suggests that while fewer students are submitting scores, those who do are increasingly high-achieving, indicating that the pool of applicants is becoming more competitive.
Furthermore, the ACT scores also demonstrate a similar pattern, with consistent thresholds being maintained for the 25th and 75th percentiles. This trend underscores the institution's commitment to attracting high-caliber students.
In the context of national educational trends, these observations align with the growing debate surrounding the relevance of standardized testing in college admissions, especially as institutions strive for diversity and inclusivity in their applicant pools. As Rose-Hulman continues to adapt to these changes, it remains essential for prospective students to focus on holistic application strategies that showcase their strengths beyond standardized test scores.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
6,097 applicants in 2025, 76.9% admitted
4,686 admitted 1,411 not admitted Yield 12.9%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Engineering/Industrial Management · Master's60 (3% international)
- Civil Engineering, General · Master's4 (0% international)
- Mechanical Engineering · Master's3 (0% international)
- Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering · Master's2 (0% international)
- Chemical Engineering · Master's1 (0% international)
- Structural Engineering · Master's1 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
The graduation data from the Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology for 2023 reveals interesting trends in various fields of study. Notably, the Computer Science program stands out with a total of 58 graduates, including 19% who are international students. This indicates a strong global appeal for this discipline, aligning with the increasing demand for technology professionals in the job market.
In contrast, the Engineering/Industrial Management program produced 11 master's graduates, with 18% being international students, showcasing the program's relevance in addressing the complexities of engineering management in a globally competitive environment. The presence of international students across these programs highlights the institution's commitment to providing a diverse educational experience.
While several engineering disciplines like Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Chemical Engineering have shown no bachelor’s degree graduates, they do produce graduates at the master's level, which may suggest a shift in focus towards advanced studies in these fields. This trend is documented across various engineering programs and indicates a growing preference for advanced degrees among students.
Furthermore, the lack of doctoral graduates in many disciplines could indicate the institution's emphasis on undergraduate and master's-level education, which is consistent with the current trends favoring job readiness over academic research.
Overall, these statistics not only reflect the current educational landscape at Rose-Hulman but also mirror the broader trends in STEM education, where practical skills and global perspectives are increasingly prioritized. This data serves as a critical tool for prospective students and educational policymakers when assessing the alignment of academic programs with industry needs.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering, General. | - | ||
| Bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering. | $76,100 | ||
| Chemical Engineering. | $86,468 | ||
| Civil Engineering, General. | $79,432 | ||
| Structural Engineering. | $79,432 | ||
| Computer Engineering, General. | $89,033 | ||
| Computer Software Engineering. | $89,033 | ||
| Electrical and Electronics Engineering. | $86,684 | ||
| Laser and Optical Engineering. | $86,684 | ||
| Engineering Physics/Applied Physics. | - | ||
| Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering. | - | ||
| Mechanical Engineering. | $76,705 | ||
| Electrical and Computer Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Computer Science. | $87,801 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering/Industrial Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Biochemistry. | - | ||
| Molecular Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computational Science. | - | ||
| Data Science, General. | - |
Students
2,334 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 76:24 · Freshman retention 91.7%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,688
- First-year undergraduates 604
- Graduate students 19
- Transfers and others 23
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,315)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology (2023)
The student population at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology in 2023 presents an interesting demographic landscape. The undergraduate freshmen constitute a significant portion of the student body, with 598 students, amongst which a notable 79.1% are male and 20.9% are female. This high male-to-female ratio is reflective of broader trends in engineering and technical fields, where male students often outnumber their female counterparts.
For undergraduate upperclassmen, the numbers are even more pronounced, with 1,539 students and a male ratio of 74.4% compared to 25.6% female. This trend raises questions about retention rates and the support systems in place for female students in STEM disciplines, as their representation decreases as students progress through their studies.
Interestingly, the transfer students present a slightly different picture, with a smaller cohort of 17 students, where 64.7% are male and 35.3% are female. This could suggest a growing interest from females in transferring into STEM fields, potentially reflecting changing perceptions and increased support for women in these areas.
Lastly, the graduate student population, although limited with only 19 students, shows a male dominance of 78.9%. This data indicates that while Rose-Hulman continues to attract a predominantly male student body, there is a notable presence of female students, particularly among transfer students. Encouragingly, the diversity within the undergraduate population through the breakdown of ethnic backgrounds is an important area for further development, aiming towards a more inclusive environment that can support students from various backgrounds effectively.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
The age distribution of students at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology reveals some interesting trends. A significant majority, approximately 62.6% of the total male students and 52.8% of the female students, fall within the 18-19 age category. This indicates a strong influx of traditional-age students just graduating from high school, which is typical for engineering and technical schools.
As students progress in age, the numbers begin to decline sharply. For instance, the 20-21 age group comprises about 25.8% of male students and 26.3% of female students, but by the time we reach the 22-24 category, the figures drop to just 13.5% and 15.8% respectively. This trend suggests that many students may be completing their undergraduate studies without extending their academic journey into graduate programs, which could reflect on the job market's capacity to absorb graduates effectively.
Moreover, the presence of older students is minimal, as seen in the 25-29 and 30-34 age groups, which together account for less than 1% of the total student body. This could indicate that the institution primarily attracts younger students, who may be more inclined to pursue a traditional educational pathway directly after high school.
In conclusion, the data suggests that Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology maintains a youthful demographic, characteristic of many engineering-focused institutions. This could provide a vibrant and dynamic environment for learning and collaboration, essential for fostering innovation in STEM fields.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 11 private engineering and technology schools in the U.S.
193 in 2025 · 11.7% in 2016
2 in 2025 · 45.9% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Trends at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
The data from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology reveals significant trends regarding international students over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduate students has shown a steady increase, peaking at 14.96% in 2019, before experiencing a decline in the subsequent years. This trend reflects a broader national pattern in U.S. higher education where international enrollment saw a boom in the mid-2010s, likely influenced by favorable visa policies and the global demand for STEM education.
However, the sharp drop in the percentage of international undergraduates to 8.11% in 2023 raises concerns. This decline could be attributed to various factors, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted international travel and studies, as well as recent shifts in U.S. immigration policy that may deter prospective students. Furthermore, the fluctuating numbers in graduate international student enrollment, which reached as high as 48.15% in 2015, emphasize the varying appeal of graduate programs compared to undergraduate offerings.
The institution's commitment to fostering a diverse educational environment is reflected in its ability to attract international students, yet the recent downward trend indicates potential challenges. As the global landscape for higher education continues to evolve, it is crucial for institutions like Rose-Hulman to adapt their recruitment strategies to ensure a robust international presence, which enriches academic discourse and cultural exchange on campus. This data serves as a critical indicator of the institution's internationalization efforts and the broader trends affecting international students in the U.S.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$73,773
- Undergraduate tuition
- $56,046
- Room and board
- $17,727
- Graduate tuition
- $55,824
Tuition rose 31% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 40%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$130M
Expenses$110M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 92 | 34 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 92 | 34 |
| Football | 105 | - |
| Soccer | 49 | 34 |
| Cross Country | 57 | 16 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 30 | 14 |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Basketball | 17 | 15 |
| Tennis | 12 | 12 |
| Golf | 13 | 8 |
| Softball | - | 18 |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 81 | 33 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 81 | 33 |
| Football | 100 | - |
| Soccer | 38 | 33 |
| Cross Country | 56 | 15 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 28 | 17 |
| Baseball | 38 | - |
| Basketball | 20 | 15 |
| Tennis | 19 | 9 |
| Golf | 12 | 11 |
| Softball | - | 16 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 117 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 67 | 48 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 57 | 45 |
| Soccer | 41 | 35 |
| Cross Country | 58 | 17 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 39 | 21 |
| Baseball | 39 | - |
| Basketball | 25 | 12 |
| Tennis | 17 | 7 |
| Golf | 12 | 11 |
| Softball | - | 16 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
DePauw UniversityGreencastle · 27.1 mi
Liberal Arts #49
-
Wabash CollegeCrawfordsville · 44.3 mi
Liberal Arts #44
-
Indiana University-BloomingtonBloomington · 48.1 mi
U.S. News #73
-
Marian University (IN)Indianapolis · 64.0 mi
U.S. News #276
-
University of Illinois at Urbana-ChampaignChampaign · 64.3 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Indiana University-Purdue University-IndianapolisIndianapolis · 64.6 mi
U.S. News #219
-
University of IndianapolisIndianapolis · 65.4 mi
U.S. News #288
-
Purdue University-Main CampusWest Lafayette · 68.8 mi
U.S. News #55
-
Oakland City UniversityOakland City · 79.0 mi
U.S. News #250
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology:
-
DePauw University - Ranked 46th in the 2024 US News rankings, DePauw University is a liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education and its vibrant campus life.
-
Wabash College - With a ranking of 59, Wabash College is another distinguished liberal arts college, renowned for its unique all-male environment and strong academic programs focused on the liberal arts.
-
Indiana University-Bloomington - This comprehensive university is ranked 73rd and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, along with a vibrant campus culture and extensive research facilities.
-
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - Ranked 35th, this comprehensive university is one of the leading public research institutions in the United States, known for its innovation and strong engineering and computer science programs.
-
Purdue University-Main Campus - With a ranking of 43, Purdue is recognized for its engineering and technology programs, making it a prime choice for students pursuing careers in these fields.
-
University of Chicago - As one of the top-ranked universities in the nation at 12th place, the University of Chicago is famed for its rigorous scholarship and a strong emphasis on research across disciplines.
These institutions provide a rich educational landscape in the vicinity of Rose-Hulman, catering to a variety of academic interests and career aspirations.
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 Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
The crime data from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology over the past decade reveals significant fluctuations in the reported incidents per 1,000 students. The highest recorded crime rate occurred in 2018, with a rate of 4.54 incidents per 1,000 students, which is concerning for a campus environment. In contrast, 2017 marked the lowest with only 0.88 incidents per 1,000 students, indicating a sharp decline in criminal activities.
Notably, the data indicates a concerning trend in drug-related arrests, as this specific category seems to contribute prominently to the overall crime rates. This aligns with broader national trends where college campuses have been grappling with issues related to substance abuse. Additionally, the absence of gun-related arrests on campus throughout these years suggests a well-managed environment concerning firearms, which is a positive aspect.
Interestingly, the data from 2020 shows a significant drop in crime rates, possibly attributed to the pandemic's impact as many students were not on campus. However, the resurgence in 2021 with a rate of 2.01 suggests that as campus life resumed, criminal activities also returned, albeit at a manageable level. Moving into 2023, the rate of 1.37 indicates that while there are still challenges, the crime rates seem to be stabilizing.
Overall, while the fluctuations in crime rates may cause concern, the overall trend indicates that the institution is making strides towards maintaining a safer campus environment. Continuous attention to these issues is essential for ensuring the well-being of students. For more insights on calculating crime rates, you can refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology include Richard "Skeets" Gallagher (Actor), Abe Silverstein (Aerospace engineer and longtime NASA manager) and Marshall Goldsmith (Executive leadership coach and author).
-
Richard "Skeets" Gallagher 1891–1955
Actor
-
Abe Silverstein 1908–2001
Aerospace engineer and longtime NASA manager
-
Marshall Goldsmith 1949–
Executive leadership coach and author
-
John Hostettler 1961–
Former US Representative from Indiana
-
Don Lincoln 1964–
Fermilab particle physicist and science communicator
-
Barzilla W. Clark 1880–1943
16th governor of Idaho
-
Ernest R. Davidson 1936–
Theoretical chemist, 2001 National Medal of Science recipient
-
Richard A. Correll 1964–
U.S. Navy admiral, 13th commander of Strategic Command
-
Lawrence J. Giacoletto 1916–2004
Electrical engineer and inventor
More alumni (4, by field)
Politics and law
-
Robert L. Wilkins 1963–
US Circuit Judge, D.C. Circuit
Science and academia
-
Fujio Matsuda 1924–2020
9th President of the University of Hawaii
-
Chris Mack 1960–
Expert in photolithography
Sports
-
Art Nehf 1892–1960
Major League Baseball pitcher
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.