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U.S. News #125 Private nonprofit, 4-year

Goucher College

Baltimore, Maryland · www.goucher.edu

中文

U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027

#125

Acceptance rate

77.7%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$53,350

$70,540 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

981

Student-faculty ratio 9:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

50.3%

4-year; 6-year rate 58.3%

Peer median 45.1%

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

About

Goucher College, located in Towson, Maryland, is a distinguished liberal arts college known for its commitment to experiential learning and global education. Established in 1885, Goucher provides a diverse and inclusive environment where students are encouraged to engage in critical thinking and develop their unique voices. The college's motto, "Create, Connect, Change," embodies its mission to empower students to become active participants in their communities and the world. With a strong emphasis on study abroad programs, Goucher promotes global citizenship, allowing students to immerse themselves in different cultures and perspectives.

The campus features beautiful facilities and a vibrant student life, fostering a strong sense of community. Goucher College boasts a wide array of academic programs, with strengths in fields such as environmental studies, international relations, and the arts. The faculty is composed of highly qualified professionals dedicated to providing personalized attention to students, ensuring a supportive learning environment. Additionally, Goucher promotes a healthy balance between academics and extracurricular activities, with various clubs, organizations, and athletic programs that encourage student engagement and leadership development. The college’s focus on holistic education prepares graduates for successful careers and meaningful contributions to society, making Goucher College a place where students can truly thrive.

Analysis of Tuition Costs and Student Dynamics at Goucher College

Goucher College, a private institution, has seen a continuous increase in tuition fees for both undergraduate and graduate students over the years. For instance, undergraduate tuition has risen from $39,084 in 2014 to $51,250 in 2024, marking a significant increase of approximately 31%. This rising cost reflects a broader trend in higher education, where tuition increases have outpaced inflation, making college less affordable for many families.

Moreover, the student population has also experienced notable fluctuations. The number of undergraduate students decreased from 1,484 in 2013 to 1,001 in 2023, indicating a decline of about 33%. This drop may be attributed to the increasing tuition costs and possibly a shift in the perceived value of a liberal arts education. Conversely, the number of graduate students has shown more stability, suggesting that Goucher may be maintaining its appeal for those seeking advanced degrees.

The graduation rates for undergraduate students have seen some volatility, with the on-time graduation rate peaking at 62.6% in 2021 but declining to 53.4% by 2023. This decline in graduation rates could be a concern, as it may indicate challenges within the student support systems or the academic rigor of the programs offered.

Retention rates have fluctuated as well, from a high of 85.4% in 2014 to approximately 77.2% in 2023, highlighting potential issues with student satisfaction and engagement. These numbers suggest that while Goucher College continues to attract students, maintaining them through to graduation is becoming increasingly challenging.

In summary, Goucher College's rising tuition fees, declining undergraduate enrollment, fluctuating graduation rates, and variable retention rates present a complex picture of the institution's current landscape. Addressing these issues will be critical for sustaining its academic reputation and ensuring future enrollment stability.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Small city
Nearest major city
Baltimore, about 8 mi
Nearest international airport
Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), about 15 mi
Baltimore, Maryland
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Kent Devereaux (President)
Phone
4103376000
City
Baltimore, Maryland
Address
1021 Dulaney Valley Rd, Baltimore, MD 21204-2794

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

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

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
73.1%
Women
80.6%

In 2020: men 76.4%, women 84.0%.

U.S. News Liberal Arts Colleges · last 10 years
#125Ranked #125 every year from 2027 to 2027

Data insights

Analysis of Goucher College Admission Data Over the Years

Goucher College's admission data from 2009 to 2023 reveals interesting trends in both acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Over the years, the male acceptance rate has shown a general upward trajectory, increasing from approximately 56.5% in 2009 to 75.2% in 2023. This suggests an increasingly competitive environment, where more male applicants are gaining entry into the institution.
In contrast, the female acceptance rate has remained relatively high, peaking at 86.2% in 2022. This indicates that Goucher College may prioritize gender diversity, which is a growing trend in higher education as institutions strive to create balanced and inclusive student bodies. The fluctuating female acceptance rates could reflect broader societal trends and shifts in the applicant pool.
The overall enrollment numbers have also varied significantly, with a notable peak of 441 freshmen in 2017, followed by a decline in subsequent years. This decline could be attributed to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which impacted colleges nationwide, leading to reduced applications and altered enrollment strategies.
The number of denied applicants has fluctuated, reaching a high of 1,962 in 2009 and dropping to 582 in 2023. This could be indicative of changing admissions strategies or a response to varying applicant interest levels.
Overall, Goucher College's admission data highlights the interplay of acceptance rates, enrollment figures, and gender dynamics within the student body. As the college continues to adapt to changing societal norms and challenges, it will be interesting to watch how these trends evolve in the coming years.

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 20% submitted SAT, 5% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total1090–1325Peer median 1220
ACT composite27–30
SAT Reading
560–680
600700800
SAT Math
530–645
600700800
ACT composite
27–30
253036

Data insights

Trends in Admissions Test Scores at Goucher College

The admission data from Goucher College over the years reveals noteworthy trends in standardized test scores and submission rates. From 2007 to 2023, there has been a gradual decline in the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores, dropping significantly from 93% in the earlier years to just 23% in 2023. This shift could reflect broader national trends, as many colleges and universities have adopted test-optional policies, allowing students to choose whether or not to submit standardized test scores as part of their applications.

In terms of score ranges, the 25th percentile and 75th percentile SAT reading scores showed some fluctuation; however, the general trend indicates a slight decline in the lower end of the score range over the years. For example, the 25th percentile SAT reading score started at 560 in 2007 and increased to 580 by 2023, while the upper range remained relatively stable. This suggests that while fewer students are submitting scores, those who do tend to be more competitive.

The ACT submission data follows a similar trajectory, with a notable decrease in submissions, which echoes the broader test-optional movement seen in higher education. The emphasis on holistic admissions processes may be contributing to the lower submission rates, as colleges increasingly consider a broader range of factors beyond standardized test scores.

Overall, Goucher College’s evolving admissions landscape reflects changing attitudes towards standardized testing in higher education, aligning with national trends that prioritize diverse applicant profiles and holistic evaluation methods. This shift may also enhance accessibility, allowing more students to apply without the pressure of standardized test performance.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 8 in 10

3,683 applicants in 2025, 77.7% admitted

2,862 admitted 821 not admitted Yield 9.7%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's1865 international (2.7%)
Master's1263 international (2.4%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Psychology, General
28
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
16
Writing, General
14
Speech Communication and Rhetoric
13
Business Administration and Management, General
12
Economics, General
11
English Language and Literature, General
9
Computer and Information Sciences, General
8
Sociology, General
8
Engineering Science
7

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Education, General · Master's91 (2% international)
  • Secondary Education and Teaching · Master's23 (4% international)
  • Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other · Master's7 (0% international)
  • Rhetoric and Composition · Master's5 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Goucher College

The graduation data of Goucher College for 2023 reveals significant trends in various academic fields. Notably, the most prominent degrees conferred are in Education, where a total of 88 master's degrees were awarded, indicating a robust commitment to preparing educators. This aligns with the increasing demand for qualified teachers in the U.S. educational system, especially in light of ongoing teacher shortages across the nation.

In the realm of undergraduate degrees, Psychology stands out with 47 bachelor's degrees awarded, alongside 1 international student. This reflects the growing interest in mental health and wellness, a trend that has gained momentum in recent years, particularly following the heightened awareness around mental health issues during the pandemic.

Additionally, the data shows that interdisciplinary studies are gaining traction, with several programs such as Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies awarding multiple degrees. This trend indicates a shift towards a more integrated educational approach, catering to diverse student interests and the complex nature of contemporary challenges.

Interestingly, the data also highlights areas with limited graduation numbers, such as the fields of Business Administration and Management, which reported no graduates. This could signal a need for curriculum reassessment or marketing strategies to attract students to these programs.

Overall, Goucher College's graduation data reflects broader educational trends and societal needs, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in academic offerings to meet evolving demands in the job market.

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

Educationhas 118 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Education, General.$64,336-$86,276
Secondary Education and Teaching.$65,533
Psychology has 28 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$30,381
English has 28 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-
Writing, General.-
Rhetoric and Composition.-
Social sciencehas 24 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Economics, General.-
International Relations and Affairs.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.-
Biologyhas 21 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$39,503
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution.-
Mathematics and Computer Science.-
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.-
Communication has 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.$30,661
Visual and Performing artshas 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Visual and Performing Arts, General.-
Digital Arts.-
Dance, General.-
Music, General.-
Businesshas 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$41,131
Computer and information sciencehas 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Cultural has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
American/United States Studies/Civilization.-
Women's Studies.-
Engineeringhas 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Engineering Science.-
Natural resources has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Environmental Studies.-
Physical scienceshas 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.-
Foreign languages has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
French Language and Literature.$28,297
Spanish Language and Literature.$28,297
History has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
History, General.-
Health professionshas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Public Health, General.-
Philosophy has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Philosophy.-

Students

1,459 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 36:64 · Freshman retention 78.6%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (981)

White
445 · 45.4%
Black
307 · 31.3%
Unknown
76 · 7.7%
International
74 · 7.5%
Asian
47 · 4.8%
Hispanic
24 · 2.4%

Data insights

Student Demographics at Goucher College in 2023

The student composition at Goucher College in 2023 reveals a diverse and engaging educational environment. Among the undergraduate freshmen, the male to female ratio shows that approximately 29.7% are male, while a significant 70.3% are female, indicating a strong representation of women in this cohort. This trend continues among the undergraduate upperclassmen, where males constitute about 34.1% and females 65.9%. Such gender distribution is reflective of a broader trend in higher education where female enrollment often surpasses that of males.

The graduate student population presents a notable contrast, with only 18.5% male representation and a striking 81.5% female majority. This discrepancy could be indicative of the current trends in graduate education, where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees across various fields.

Examining the racial and ethnic diversity within these groups, the data shows that the majority of students identify as white, with specific counts for each subgroup reflecting the college's commitment to inclusivity. However, the exact numbers for the ethnic breakdown were not provided for upperclassmen and graduate students, suggesting that further analysis might be needed to understand the full scope of diversity at Goucher College.

Overall, these statistics highlight Goucher College's progressive gender dynamics and the ongoing need for a comprehensive approach to enhance racial and ethnic diversity within its student body. As educational institutions strive for inclusivity, understanding these demographics will be critical in shaping future recruitment and retention strategies.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Goucher College in 2023

The student age composition at Goucher College in 2023 reveals a diverse demographic spread, particularly among undergraduates and graduates. The largest age group for undergraduates is between 18-19 years, accounting for approximately 31% of the total student population, which highlights the institution's appeal to traditional college-age students.

Among graduate students, those aged 25-29 represent a significant portion, with a notable 38 females in this category, suggesting that Goucher College attracts a considerable number of non-traditional students who may be returning to education later in life. This trend aligns with a broader national increase in adult learners, driven by the need for career advancement and the evolving job market.

Interestingly, the data shows a sharp decline in the number of students as age increases, particularly in the 50-64 and 65+ categories, where participation is minimal. This phenomenon may reflect societal barriers or a lack of accessible programs tailored to older students.

Additionally, the gender distribution indicates a higher number of female students across most age categories, particularly at the undergraduate level, where there are significantly more females than males. This gender disparity is consistent with national trends in higher education, where women have been enrolling in college at higher rates than men in recent years.

Overall, Goucher College's age distribution illustrates an institution that caters predominantly to younger students while also successfully integrating older, returning students into its academic community. This diverse age range enriches the campus environment, fostering a variety of perspectives and experiences.

International Students

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

Undergraduates7.5%

74 in 2025 · 2.4% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 2.4%2017: 2.6%2018: 2.6%2019: 2.6%2020: 3.0%2021: 2.4%2022: 2.2%2023: 5.0%2024: 4.5%2025: 7.5%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025
Graduate students0.6%

3 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 0.3%2018: 0.3%2019: 0.3%2020: 0.7%2021: 0.1%2022: 0.1%2023: 0.3%2024: 0.2%2025: 0.6%
2016Peer median 1.0%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Goucher College

The data on international student enrollment at Goucher College reveals significant fluctuations over nearly two decades. In the early years, the percentage of international undergraduates was notably low, with figures often below 2%. For instance, in 2004, only 1.07% of the undergraduate population was comprised of international students. This trend continued until around 2010, after which we see a gradual increase in both the number and percentage of international undergraduates.

By 2023, the international undergraduate enrollment surged to 5%, indicating a growing recognition of the value international students bring to the campus community. This rise may reflect broader trends in U.S. higher education, where institutions are increasingly seeking to diversify their student bodies and enhance global perspectives on campus.

However, the graduate student data tells a different story, with percentages remaining relatively low throughout the years. The highest recorded international graduate student percentage was 0.70% in 2020, suggesting that Goucher may face challenges in attracting graduate students from abroad.

This disparity could be attributed to various factors, including program offerings, recruitment strategies, and competition from other institutions. As universities worldwide adapt to changing global dynamics, Goucher College may benefit from reassessing its approach to international recruitment, particularly at the graduate level, to foster a more diverse academic environment. Overall, the trends observed suggest a promising trajectory for undergraduate international enrollment, while highlighting the need for targeted efforts in graduate programs.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$70,540

Undergraduate tuition
$53,350
Room and board
$17,190
Graduate tuition
$18,834
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 26% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 44%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$124M

Gifts and private grants
$62.0M49.9%
Investment return
$23.5M18.9%
Tuition and fees
$18.2M14.7%
Auxiliary enterprises
$14.1M11.3%
Government grants and contracts
$5.5M4.4%
Other
$1.0M0.8%

Expenses$75.9M

Instruction
$21.9M28.9%
Auxiliary enterprises
$18.2M23.9%
Institutional support
$15.0M19.8%
Student services
$12.9M17.0%
Academic support
$7.9M10.4%
Research
$15K0.0%

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
$75,442peers $65,931
Professor
$92,551peers $77,501
Associate professor
$77,056peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$63,376peers $61,725

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Landmark Conference

Landmark Conference: basketball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)3033
Soccer3329
Basketball2519
Lacrosse2315
Swimming915
Tennis106
Field Hockey-15
Golf87
Volleyball-15
Equestrian--
2024
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)3444
Soccer3330
Lacrosse2722
Basketball2213
Swimming813
Tennis109
Field Hockey-17
Volleyball-17
Golf97
Equestrian--
2023
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer3126
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)1640
Lacrosse2217
Basketball2013
Swimming1011
Tennis79
Volleyball-16
Golf86
Field Hockey-13
Equestrian--

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools near Goucher College:

  1. Johns Hopkins University - Ranked 9th in the 2024 US News rankings, Johns Hopkins is renowned for its research programs and strong emphasis on science and engineering.

  2. University of Maryland-College Park - This flagship campus of the University System of Maryland ranks 46th and offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  3. Georgetown University - An elite institution ranked 22nd, Georgetown is well-known for its programs in international relations, law, and business.

  4. United States Naval Academy - With a rank of 3rd, this academy is dedicated to training future naval officers and is highly regarded for its rigorous academic and military training.

  5. Franklin and Marshall College - A liberal arts college ranked 35th, it offers a personalized education with a strong focus on undergraduate research.

These institutions provide a diverse range of educational opportunities and are highly regarded in their respective fields.

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
18
Liquor referrals
7
Stalking
5
Rape
4
Fondling
2
Aggravated assault
2

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Data at Goucher College

The crime statistics at Goucher College reveal a significant decline in the average crime rate per 1,000 students over the past decade. In 2013, the average crime rate was 27.63 incidents per 1,000 students, which peaked in 2014 at 31.08. However, this rate has steadily decreased, culminating in a notable drop to just 0.99 in 2021. This dramatic reduction in crime may be attributed to various factors, including improved campus safety measures, increased awareness and education on crime prevention, and perhaps a more engaged campus community.

Particularly striking is the substantial decrease in serious crimes like assault and drug-related incidents, which have seen significant drops over the years. For example, the data shows a notable absence of gun-related incidents on campus in the recent years, indicating a potentially safer environment for students. The only exceptions to this trend were recorded in 2018 and 2020, where minor incidents were still reported.

In a broader context, the overall trend aligns with national statistics indicating a decline in campus crime rates as universities implement more robust safety programs and foster a culture of reporting and awareness among students. However, while the overall crime rate is low, the presence of any criminal activity still necessitates ongoing vigilance and preventive strategies.

In conclusion, Goucher College's concerted efforts to ensure student safety appear to be effective, but continuous monitoring and proactive measures are crucial to maintaining this positive trend. For more information on calculating crime rates, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

All 24

Notable alumni of Goucher College include Jane Levy (Actress, original Mandy Milkovich on Shameless), Margaret Woodrow Wilson (Daughter of Woodrow Wilson, acting First Lady) and Mildred Dunnock (Stage and screen actress, two-time Oscar nominee).

See all 24 notable alumni of Goucher College →

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.