McDaniel College
Acceptance rate
77.9%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$52,081
$65,055 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,620
Student-faculty ratio 13:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
58.2%
4-year; 6-year rate 66.2%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
McDaniel College, located in Westminster, Maryland, is a private liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on personalized education and community engagement. The college boasts a picturesque campus that blends historic architecture with modern facilities, creating an inspiring environment for students. McDaniel’s commitment to a liberal arts education fosters critical thinking, creativity, and effective communication skills, preparing graduates for success in a diverse range of careers. The college’s motto, "To advance the common good," reflects its dedication to social responsibility and encourages students to become active contributors to society.
The college offers a vibrant campus culture, enriched by a variety of student organizations and activities that promote leadership and service. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, McDaniel ensures individualized attention, allowing students to develop meaningful relationships with faculty members who are dedicated to mentoring and guiding them. McDaniel College also provides a wide array of academic programs, with strong offerings in education, psychology, and the sciences, alongside opportunities for undergraduate research and internships. In addition, the college's commitment to athletics fosters school spirit and camaraderie through a variety of sports teams, engaging students in physical activity and teamwork. Overall, McDaniel College provides a supportive and dynamic environment that nurtures academic excellence and personal growth.
Critical Insights on Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention
The data from McDaniel College reveals significant trends in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention that merit attention. Over the years, tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has consistently risen, with a notable increase from $36,960 in 2014 to $49,647 in 2024, marking a substantial rise of approximately 34%. This escalating cost can be a barrier for many prospective students, especially in the context of rising student debt levels nationwide.
Graduation rates present an equally concerning picture. The timely graduation rate for undergraduates dropped from around 66% in 2013 to just over 52% in 2023. This decline could indicate various challenges facing students, from financial hardships exacerbated by tuition hikes to potential issues with student support services. A sustained decrease in graduation rates can adversely affect the college's reputation and its students' employability.
Retention rates have also shown a downward trend, falling from about 83% in 2013 to 76% in 2023. This decline suggests that students may be facing obstacles that hinder their ability to continue their education at McDaniel College. Such factors could include academic pressures, financial strains, or lack of engagement within the campus community.
In contrast, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained relatively stable, but a slight increase from 11:1 to 12:1 could indicate a growing concern regarding the availability of personalized attention and support for students. These factors combined suggest that while McDaniel College offers educational opportunities, there are significant challenges that could impact student success and satisfaction. Addressing these issues is crucial for the institution's future viability and the well-being of its student body.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Town near a city
- Nearest major city
- Baltimore, about 30 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), about 35 mi
- Academic calendar
- 4-1-4
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Julia Jasken (President)
- Phone
- 4108487000
- City
- Westminster, Maryland
- Address
- 2 College Hill, Westminster, MD 21157
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 89.0%, women 94.4%.
Data insights
Analysis of McDaniel College Admissions Trends
The admission statistics for McDaniel College over the years reveal significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Notably, the male acceptance rate has varied from approximately 59.8% in 2019 to a peak of about 89.0% in 2020. This increase in acceptance rate, particularly during the pandemic, may reflect broader trends in higher education where institutions adjusted their admissions strategies amidst uncertain circumstances.
Female acceptance rates have also shown variability, ranging from about 66.2% in 2013 to 95.4% in 2018. The high rates in 2018 could indicate a concerted effort by the college to attract more female students, aligning with national trends emphasizing gender parity in higher education.
The total enrollment numbers reached a peak of 581 students in 2021, coinciding with a relatively high acceptance rate of 77.1%. However, the following years saw a decline in both enrollment and acceptance rates, suggesting potential challenges in maintaining student interest or competition from other institutions.
The number of denied applicants has consistently been high, particularly in 2013 and 2019, with over 1,200 denials in both years. This indicates a growing applicant pool but also highlights the competitive nature of admissions at McDaniel College.
Overall, McDaniel's admission patterns illustrate the complexities and changing dynamics of higher education, influenced by external factors such as economic conditions and institutional priorities. The data suggest that while the college has made strides in accommodating diverse applicants, maintaining enrollment figures remains a challenge in an increasingly competitive landscape.
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Test Scores at McDaniel College
The admission statistics of McDaniel College from 2007 to 2023 reveal significant trends in standardized testing performance and the number of applicants submitting scores. Over the years, the number of students submitting SAT scores has shown a declining trend, dropping from 448 in 2007 to 342 in 2023. This decrease in the number of submissions, especially notable in recent years (2020-2023), may reflect broader national trends where fewer students opt for standardized tests, possibly due to the increasing number of colleges adopting test-optional policies.
In terms of SAT scores, the range for the 25th to 75th percentile has shown a fluctuation but generally indicates a stable performance among admitted students. The reading scores have remained relatively consistent, with the lower end starting between 480 and 540, while the upper end fluctuates between 590 and 620. Such consistency suggests that, despite the decline in applicants, the quality of admitted students remains robust, emphasizing the institution's ability to attract capable candidates.
Furthermore, the percentage of students submitting scores has decreased from 94% in 2007 to 82% in 2023, indicating a shift in how applicants perceive the importance of these scores in the admission process. This trend aligns with the growing discourse around the efficacy and fairness of standardized testing, particularly in light of recent educational reforms and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on test accessibility.
Overall, McDaniel College's data highlights the evolving landscape of college admissions, reflecting both external pressures and internal strategies aimed at maintaining academic standards while adapting to changing student preferences.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
4,237 applicants in 2025, 77.9% admitted
3,302 admitted 935 not admitted Yield 13.7%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Management Science · Master's70 (86% international)
- Curriculum and Instruction · Master's44 (0% international)
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services, Other · Master's41 (0% international)
- Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language/ESL Language Instructor · Master's24 (0% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's20 (0% international)
- Education/Teaching of Individuals with Hearing Impairments Including Deafness · Master's13 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at McDaniel College
The graduation data from McDaniel College for 2023 reveals significant insights into the trends and preferences of students across various programs. Notably, the highest number of master's degrees were conferred in Curriculum and Instruction, with 77 graduates, reflecting the ongoing demand for educators in specialized teaching methodologies. This trend aligns with the broader educational landscape, where there is a push for enhanced teacher training programs in response to evolving educational needs.
In the realm of bachelor's degrees, Psychology leads with 46 graduates, indicating a robust interest in this field, which remains popular among students seeking to understand human behavior. This is particularly relevant given the increasing recognition of mental health issues in society, emphasizing the growing need for professionals in this area.
Interestingly, the data shows a complete absence of international students graduating in several programs, particularly at the undergraduate level. This raises questions about the appeal of these programs to a global audience and could highlight potential areas for growth in recruitment strategies for international students, especially in fields like Business Administration and Management, where global perspectives are increasingly valued.
Moreover, several disciplines, including Health Professions and Human Services, are seeing a modest number of graduates, suggesting a steady, if not overwhelming, interest in these essential fields. This could be reflective of the growing emphasis on public health and social services, especially in a post-pandemic context where societal needs have shifted.
In conclusion, the data presents a mixed picture of student interests, with strong performances in education and psychology, while also highlighting opportunities for enhancing the appeal of certain programs to international students. As McDaniel College continues to adapt to changing educational demands, these insights will be crucial for strategic planning and program development.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $55,817 | ||
| Accounting and Related Services, Other. | $70,972 | ||
| Human Resources Development. | - | ||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | ||
| Management Science. | - | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | $40,038 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $33,581 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economics, General. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, Other. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | $40,958 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | ||
| Film/Cinema/Media Studies. | - | ||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | - | ||
| Public Administration. | - | ||
| Social Work. | $40,509 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $34,153 | ||
| Biomedical Sciences, General. | $34,153 | ||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - | ||
| American Sign Language (ASL). | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - | ||
| Publishing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gerontology. | - | ||
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | $31,897 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - | ||
| Applied Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Near and Middle Eastern Studies. | - |
Students
2,868 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 44:56 · Freshman retention 76.0%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,084
- First-year undergraduates 453
- Graduate students 1,248
- Transfers and others 83
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,620)
Data insights
Student Demographics at McDaniel College in 2023
In 2023, McDaniel College reflects a diverse student body, especially notable in its gender distribution across various categories. Among the undergraduate newcomers, 41.3% are male while 58.7% are female. This trend continues with returning undergraduates, where 41.1% are male and 58.9% are female. The figures indicate a consistent higher representation of female students in these categories, a trend that is increasingly common in higher education institutions across the United States.
The graduate student population also showcases a significant gender disparity, with only 23.5% of graduate students being male compared to 76.5% female. Such a stark contrast emphasizes the growing appeal of graduate programs for female students and raises questions about the factors influencing this trend, including career aspirations and program availability.
In terms of racial and ethnic diversity, the breakdown among undergraduates shows a substantial representation of white students, alongside smaller groups from other ethnic backgrounds. The inclusion of international students adds to the college's multicultural environment, presenting an opportunity for cross-cultural interactions and learning.
Overall, McDaniel College's student demographics in 2023 suggest a need for continued focus on inclusivity and support for all students, particularly in fostering environments that encourage male participation in both undergraduate and graduate studies. The educational landscape is evolving, and institutions must adapt to meet the changing needs of their student populations while promoting diversity and equity.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at McDaniel College in 2023
The age composition of students at McDaniel College in 2023 reveals a significant trend towards younger individuals pursuing higher education, particularly in the undergraduate categories. The largest group is found in the 18-19 age range, with a total of 808 students, which highlights the college's appeal to recent high school graduates. This demographic makes up approximately 49% of the total student population, reflecting a common trend seen across many colleges where younger students dominate the enrollment figures.
As the age increases, we observe a notable decline in student numbers. The 20-21 age group also represents a substantial portion, with 779 students, but the numbers taper off dramatically in the subsequent age brackets. For instance, the 22-24 age range has only 308 students, a stark contrast to the younger cohorts. This pattern continues, with only a handful of students aged 25 and above. The presence of older students, particularly in the graduate categories, indicates a growing trend towards lifelong learning and professional development among adults, but they still represent a minor fraction of the overall student body.
Moreover, the gender distribution shows a healthy balance, although slightly favoring female students in most age categories. For example, in the 25-29 age group, there are 102 females compared to 102 males, suggesting a more equitable representation in higher education.
Overall, McDaniel College's age composition reflects broader societal trends in education, emphasizing the importance of catering to the needs of both younger and older students, while also considering the implications of these demographics on campus life, resources, and academic programs.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
9 in 2025 · 1.3% in 2016
198 in 2025 · 1.0% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at McDaniel College
The data on international student enrollment at McDaniel College reveals a fluctuating trend over the years. Notably, the percentage of international undergraduate students has remained relatively low, peaking at 3.53% in 2018, and showing a decline in subsequent years. This indicates a potential challenge in attracting and retaining international undergraduates, especially when compared to the overall student population, which has remained stable.
In contrast, the graduate program has seen a significant increase in the number of international students, culminating in a remarkable 12.64% in 2023. This rise suggests that McDaniel College is becoming increasingly appealing to international graduate students, potentially due to the quality of the programs offered or enhanced recruitment efforts. The growth in this demographic is critical, as international students contribute to the diversity and cultural richness of the campus, benefiting all students through varied perspectives and experiences.
However, the inconsistency in data reporting, particularly for certain years, raises concerns about the reliability of these figures. The absence of data for graduate students in 2008 and 2010 limits a comprehensive understanding of trends over time. Furthermore, the global landscape for higher education has been shifting, especially post-pandemic, with institutions facing intensified competition for international students.
Overall, while McDaniel College has made strides in attracting international graduate students, there remains significant room for improvement in the undergraduate sector. Strategic initiatives focusing on marketing, support systems, and community integration could enhance the college's appeal to a broader international audience.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$65,055
- Undergraduate tuition
- $52,081
- Room and board
- $12,974
- Graduate tuition
- $10,044
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 32% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 26%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$95.5M
Expenses$74.0M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Centennial Conference
Centennial Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 105 | - |
| Lacrosse | 49 | 24 |
| Soccer | 27 | 29 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 34 | 22 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 33 | 21 |
| Wrestling | 28 | 13 |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Basketball | 22 | 17 |
| Cross Country | 17 | 9 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Swimming | 14 | 10 |
| Field Hockey | - | 21 |
| Volleyball | - | 20 |
| Golf | 13 | 6 |
| Tennis | 9 | 9 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 78 | - |
| Lacrosse | 45 | 31 |
| Soccer | 29 | 28 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 34 | 22 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 34 | 21 |
| Baseball | 38 | - |
| Basketball | 19 | 14 |
| Wrestling | 26 | - |
| Cross Country | 14 | 10 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Swimming | 11 | 9 |
| Tennis | 11 | 9 |
| Golf | 10 | 7 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Field Hockey | - | 15 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 123 | - |
| Lacrosse | 42 | 30 |
| Soccer | 31 | 28 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 31 | 15 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 27 | 13 |
| Baseball | 35 | - |
| Basketball | 22 | 12 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Cross Country | 13 | 10 |
| Field Hockey | - | 21 |
| Swimming | 8 | 12 |
| Golf | 13 | 6 |
| Tennis | 6 | 13 |
| Wrestling | 18 | - |
| Volleyball | - | 12 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Gettysburg CollegeGettysburg · 21.4 mi
Liberal Arts #54
-
Johns Hopkins UniversityBaltimore · 26.9 mi
U.S. News #9
-
University of Maryland-College ParkCollege Park · 41.3 mi
U.S. News #49
-
Dickinson CollegeCarlisle · 44.0 mi
Liberal Arts #54
-
Howard UniversityWashington · 45.7 mi
U.S. News #73
-
Georgetown UniversityWashington · 46.8 mi
U.S. News #23
-
George Washington UniversityWashington · 47.4 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Franklin and Marshall CollegeLancaster · 48.4 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
United States Naval AcademyAnnapolis · 50.1 mi
Liberal Arts #3
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near McDaniel College:
-
Johns Hopkins University - Ranked 9th in the 2024 US News rankings, this prestigious university is known for its research programs and strong emphasis on the sciences.
-
Georgetown University - With a ranking of 22, Georgetown is recognized for its excellence in international relations and its vibrant campus life.
-
University of Maryland-College Park - This university ranks 46th and offers a diverse range of programs, making it one of the largest universities in Maryland.
-
George Washington University - Also ranked 67th, GWU is located in the heart of Washington D.C., providing students with unique opportunities for internships and networking.
-
University of Delaware - Ranked 76th, UD is known for its strong programs in engineering, business, and the sciences.
These institutions not only provide a variety of academic offerings but also contribute to a vibrant educational landscape in the region.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities 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
Crime Trends at McDaniel College: A Reflection
McDaniel College has exhibited notable fluctuations in its crime rates over the past decade. The data indicates a peak in criminal activity in 2015, with a rate of 32.63 incidents per 1,000 students, which is significantly higher than the following years. Since then, there has been a general downward trend, particularly highlighted in 2020 and 2021, where the rates dropped to 9.75 and 8.46 per 1,000 students, respectively. Such a decrease could be attributed to increased safety measures and community awareness programs.
Interestingly, in 2022 and 2023, while the crime rate saw a slight increase to 8.71 and 15.40 per 1,000 students, it remains considerably lower than the rates observed in the early years of the data. The types of crimes reported, including instances of drug and alcohol-related incidents, reflect broader societal issues facing college campuses today. The data shows a steady occurrence of domestic violence and assault, which is a growing concern nationally and points to the need for ongoing dialogues around consent, healthy relationships, and student well-being.
The patterns seen here are not unique to McDaniel College but resonate with trends across various educational institutions, where crime rates can be influenced by numerous factors including campus policies, student support systems, and external societal influences. Continuous vigilance and proactive measures are essential in maintaining a safe educational environment.
For more on calculating crime rates, you can refer to this link.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of McDaniel College include Whittaker Chambers (Journalist and editor, former Soviet spy), Joni Eareckson Tada (Christian author, artist and disability ministry founder) and Knut Hjeltnes (Norwegian discus and shot put athlete and coach).
-
Whittaker Chambers 1901–1961
Journalist and editor, former Soviet spy
-
Joni Eareckson Tada 1949–
Christian author, artist and disability ministry founder
-
Knut Hjeltnes 1951–2024
Norwegian discus and shot put athlete and coach
-
Alan Rabinowitz 1953–2018
Zoologist and CEO of Panthera
-
Frank Kratovil 1968–
Former US Representative from Maryland
-
Mabel Garrison 1886–1963
Coloratura soprano who sang at the Metropolitan Opera
-
William F. Goodling 1927–2017
Pennsylvania Republican US congressman
-
Sara Lundberg 1971–
Swedish author and illustrator
-
Thomas Roberts 1999–
Television journalist and MSNBC news anchor
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.