Anna Maria College
Acceptance rate
50.3%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$44,571
$62,463 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
916
Student-faculty ratio 12:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
33.0%
4-year; 6-year rate 40.4%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Anna Maria College, located in Paxton, Massachusetts, is a private Roman Catholic liberal arts college known for its commitment to service, community, and academic excellence. Founded in 1946, the college emphasizes the importance of a well-rounded education, offering a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs across disciplines such as business, education, health sciences, and the arts. One of the college's defining characteristics is its dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive campus environment, where students are encouraged to engage in service learning and community outreach, aligning with the college's mission to prepare graduates who are not only skilled professionals but also socially responsible citizens.
The campus is equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational spaces that promote both academic and extracurricular engagement. The college boasts a vibrant campus culture, with numerous student organizations, clubs, and athletic teams that enrich the student experience. Anna Maria College also places a strong emphasis on athletics, featuring various sports teams that compete at the NCAA Division III level, fostering teamwork and school spirit among students. The college’s commitment to student success is evident in its dedicated faculty and staff, who provide personalized attention and mentorship to help students achieve their academic and career goals. With a focus on holistic education and community involvement, Anna Maria College continues to empower its students to make meaningful contributions to society.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Anna Maria College
The data from Anna Maria College reveals significant trends in tuition, graduation rates, and student retention, which are crucial indicators of the institution's performance and attractiveness to prospective students.
Firstly, the tuition costs for in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students have shown a consistent upward trend, increasing from approximately $32,164 in 2014 to $43,064 in 2024. This represents a 34% increase over a decade, which may raise concerns among potential students and their families about the affordability of higher education. As tuition prices continue to climb, it is essential for the college to illustrate the value of its programs to justify these rising costs.
Secondly, the graduation rates have exhibited a notable fluctuation over the years. The on-time graduation rate improved from about 36.5% in 2013 to approximately 42.0% in 2023. This upward shift suggests that the college may be implementing effective strategies to support student success and timely completion of degrees. However, the rates still remain relatively low, indicating room for further improvement in academic support and student engagement initiatives.
Furthermore, the student retention rate has also shown an encouraging trend, increasing from 60.5% in 2013 to around 67.7% in 2023. A higher retention rate often correlates with student satisfaction, which can be a selling point for the institution. Retaining students is not only beneficial for the institution's reputation but also crucial for maintaining financial stability, as it reduces the need for recruiting new students each year.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained relatively stable, hovering around 12 to 15 students per faculty member over the years. This ratio is favorable, as smaller class sizes can lead to more personalized attention and support for students, thereby potentially enhancing their educational experience.
In summary, while Anna Maria College displays promising trends in graduation and retention rates, the increasing tuition costs pose a challenge that needs to be addressed. Balancing affordability with quality education will be vital for the institution to remain competitive in the higher education landscape.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Rural, near a city
- Nearest major city
- Worcester, about 7 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), about 45 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Roman Catholic
- President
- Sean Ryan (President)
- Phone
- 5088493300
- City
- Paxton, Massachusetts
- Address
- 50 Sunset Lane, Paxton, MA 01612-1198
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 73.2%, women 76.1%.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Rates at Anna Maria College
The admission data from Anna Maria College reveals significant fluctuations in both male and female acceptance rates over the years. Starting from 2009, the college exhibited a strong acceptance rate for males at approximately 88.34%, while females had a slightly higher acceptance rate of 90.72%. However, as we progress through the years, we observe a noticeable decline in acceptance rates for both genders. For instance, by 2013, the acceptance rates had decreased to 61.82% for males and 71.53% for females, reflecting a tightening of admissions standards.
The data further indicates that the number of students enrolling has varied, with a peak enrollment of 373 in 2010, followed by a decline in subsequent years, hitting a low of 169 in 2015. This decline in enrollment numbers could be indicative of broader trends in higher education, where institutions are facing challenges in attracting students amid increasing competition and shifting demographics.
Interestingly, the college saw a spike in acceptance rates in 2019, particularly for males, reaching an impressive 97.04%. However, this came with a decrease in female acceptance rates to 54.67%, suggesting a potential imbalance in admissions practices that may warrant further investigation.
Overall, as Anna Maria College navigates its admissions landscape, it must balance maintaining a diverse student body while adhering to rigorous academic standards. The fluctuating data reflects not only institutional strategies but also broader trends in higher education that merit close attention in the coming years.
Test Scores
SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no SAT/ACT data for students admitted in 2025.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Scores and Submission Rates at Anna Maria College
The data from Anna Maria College spanning from 2007 to 2023 reveals notable trends in admission scores and the percentage of applicants submitting standardized test scores. Initially, a high percentage of students submitted SAT scores, with rates consistently above 90% until 2013. However, from 2013 onwards, the submission rate dramatically dropped to approximately 51%, indicating a significant shift in applicant behavior—possibly a response to changing attitudes toward standardized testing or the implementation of test-optional policies at many institutions.
In terms of academic performance, the SAT reading and math scores have shown a relatively narrow range over the years, with the 25th percentile scores remaining around the mid-380s to 420s in reading and between 480 to 510 in math during the earlier years. The consistency in scores, despite the decline in submission rates, suggests that the college continues to attract academically capable students, even as fewer are inclined to submit standardized test scores.
This trend reflects a broader national movement towards test-optional admissions, which has gained momentum, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic that disrupted traditional testing schedules. Colleges and universities, including Anna Maria College, are increasingly focusing on a holistic review process that considers various aspects of student applications beyond standardized test scores. This approach may lead to a more diverse student body, as it allows applicants from varied backgrounds to showcase their strengths in other areas such as extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation.
In conclusion, while the submission rates have declined sharply in recent years, the stability of the scores achieved by those who do submit indicates that Anna Maria College continues to maintain high academic standards in its admissions process. The evolving landscape of college admissions reflects changing societal values regarding education and assessment.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 5 in 10
6,906 applicants in 2025, 50.3% admitted
3,474 admitted 3,432 not admitted Yield 6.5%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Public Administration · Master's63 (0% international)
- Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration · Master's27 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's18 (22% international)
- Social Work · Master's12 (0% international)
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology, Other · Master's12 (0% international)
- Design and Visual Communications, General · Master's4 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Trends at Anna Maria College
The graduation data from Anna Maria College for 2023 reveals significant trends in various fields of study. Notably, the healthcare sector continues to dominate, particularly in Nursing and related disciplines, with a total of 36 bachelor’s graduates in Registered Nursing. This emphasis on healthcare education aligns with the growing demand for healthcare professionals, especially in light of the ongoing global health challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In the realm of graduate degrees, Public Administration stands out with 91 master's graduates, indicating a strong interest in governance and organizational management. This trend may reflect an increasing awareness and involvement in public service careers, a critical area as society navigates complex social issues.
Moreover, the Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Administration program produced 64 master's graduates, showcasing the importance placed on law enforcement and criminal justice education in today’s climate of social justice and reform. The heightened scrutiny of law enforcement practices and policies has likely spurred interest in this field.
Interestingly, the data also highlights a growing focus on mental health, with multiple programs in psychology yielding graduates. As mental health awareness rises, educational institutions are responding by cultivating a workforce equipped to address these pressing societal needs.
Overall, the data from Anna Maria College not only reflects current educational trends but also aligns with broader societal demands for skilled professionals in healthcare, public administration, and criminal justice, indicating a proactive approach to equipping students for the workforce of tomorrow.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $50,753-$118,463 | ||
| Fire Science/Fire-fighting. | $104,738 | ||
| Crisis/Emergency/Disaster Management. | - | ||
| Cybersecurity Defense Strategy/Policy. | - | ||
| Forensic Science and Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | - | ||
| Public Administration. | $104,486 | ||
| Social Work. | $62,628 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $45,316-$55,474 | ||
| Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other. | $45,316-$55,474 | ||
| Digital Marketing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - | ||
| Counseling Psychology. | $66,760 | ||
| Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology, Other. | $66,760 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | - | ||
| Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic). | - | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $86,447 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | ||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | - | ||
| Music Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design and Visual Communications, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pastoral Studies/Counseling. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Government and Politics (United States). | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - |
Students
1,202 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 63:37 · Freshman retention 60.3%
- Continuing undergraduates 630
- First-year undergraduates 221
- Graduate students 286
- Transfers and others 65
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (916)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Gender and Ethnic Diversity Among Students at Anna Maria College in 2023
In 2023, Anna Maria College showcased a diverse student population across various categories. The undergraduate newcomers, comprising 202 students, had a male representation of approximately 60.4%, while female students accounted for about 39.6%. This gender distribution indicates a relatively balanced admission process, although it still leans towards a male majority.
Continuing students, numbering 666, exhibited a slightly lower male ratio of 57.2% and a female ratio of 42.8%, suggesting an ongoing trend of gender diversity within the undergraduate program. Transfer students, on the other hand, had a higher male representation at 64.2%, with females at 35.8%. This could be reflective of broader trends in higher education, where certain fields attract a higher proportion of male students.
Graduate students at the college numbered 367, again showing a male majority at 64.6% compared to 35.4% female students. The data reflects a consistent trend across the institution, with males making up a larger share of the student population in more advanced studies as well.
When examining the ethnic breakdown, the representation of white students is significant, particularly among newcomers and continuing students. This raises important discussions about the need for enhancing diversity and inclusion strategies at the college, especially in light of national conversations about equity in education.
Overall, while Anna Maria College demonstrates a commitment to gender diversity, there remains an opportunity to further improve ethnic representation and inclusivity, which could lead to a richer educational experience for all students. As institutions continue to evolve, it is essential to ensure that all voices are heard and represented within academic environments.
Age Distribution of Students at Anna Maria College in 2023
The age composition of students at Anna Maria College in 2023 reveals interesting insights into the demographics of the student body. A notable trend is the dominance of younger students, particularly those aged 18-19, which constitutes a significant portion of the undergraduate population. Specifically, 199 male and 143 female undergraduates fall within this age group, highlighting the college's appeal to recent high school graduates.
As students progress into their 20s, the numbers begin to diversify, with a slight increase in graduate enrollment. The data indicates that the 22-24 age bracket has a robust presence, especially among graduate males, who number 29, indicating that many students choose to pursue further education shortly after their undergraduate studies.
Moreover, the data shows a significant drop in the number of students in their late twenties and early thirties, suggesting that there might be a gap in enrollment for non-traditional students during these years. This pattern may reflect broader societal trends where individuals in this age range are often engaged in their careers or family commitments.
The presence of older students, particularly those in their 40s and 50s, is also noteworthy, with a total of 102 students aged 40-49 and a smaller group in the 50-64 age range. This indicates a growing trend of lifelong learning, where older adults seek to enhance their skills or change careers through higher education.
Overall, Anna Maria College's age distribution showcases a vibrant and diverse student body, reflecting both traditional students and a commitment to lifelong education.
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.
31 in 2025 · 0.4% in 2016
15 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Trends at Anna Maria College
The data on international students at Anna Maria College reveals significant fluctuations over the years, with notable trends emerging from both undergraduate and graduate statistics. Initially, the college had a relatively low number of international students, peaking at 1.09% of the undergraduate population in 2004, which later dwindled to as low as 0.09% in 2011.
However, a remarkable turnaround began in 2020, when international undergraduate enrollment surged to 1.89%, with an extraordinary rise to 6.83% in 2023. This increase indicates a growing appeal of the college to international students, possibly driven by broader trends in the U.S. higher education system that have seen institutions adapt to attract a more diverse student body.
In contrast, the percentage of international graduate students remained relatively low, generally fluctuating between 0.25% and 2.72%. The increase in international graduate enrollment in 2023, despite being modest, suggests that Anna Maria College is slowly becoming a destination for graduate studies as well.
These trends parallel the ongoing global shifts in higher education, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has changed student mobility patterns. Institutions that can adapt and promote their unique offerings may benefit from increased international enrollment. As the college continues to enhance its programs and support for international students, it could solidify its position as a competitive choice for students worldwide.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$62,463
- Undergraduate tuition
- $44,571
- Room and board
- $17,892
- Graduate tuition
- $10,782
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 27% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 36%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$29.3M
Expenses$32.7M
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 · Eastern Collegiate Football Conference · Great Northeast Athletic Conference
Eastern Collegiate Football Conference: football
Great Northeast Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 112 | - |
| Ice Hockey | 29 | 24 |
| Baseball | 50 | - |
| Soccer | 35 | 15 |
| Basketball | 20 | 19 |
| Lacrosse | 23 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 15 |
| Field Hockey | - | 14 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 110 | - |
| Ice Hockey | 29 | 23 |
| Baseball | 50 | - |
| Soccer | 28 | 19 |
| Lacrosse | 25 | 17 |
| Basketball | 24 | 17 |
| Softball | - | 18 |
| Field Hockey | - | 14 |
| Volleyball | - | 9 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 107 | - |
| Soccer | 30 | 21 |
| Baseball | 49 | - |
| Ice Hockey | 26 | 23 |
| Basketball | 26 | 14 |
| Lacrosse | 23 | 16 |
| Softball | - | 15 |
| Field Hockey | - | 14 |
| Volleyball | - | 9 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
College of the Holy CrossWorcester · 8.6 mi
Liberal Arts #22
-
Amherst CollegeAmherst · 30.8 mi
Liberal Arts #2
-
Wellesley CollegeWellesley · 31.4 mi
Liberal Arts #10
-
Smith CollegeNorthampton · 36.7 mi
Liberal Arts #22
-
Boston CollegeChestnut Hill · 38.3 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Harvard UniversityCambridge · 41.0 mi
U.S. News #3
-
Tufts UniversityMedford · 41.2 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridge · 42.2 mi
U.S. News #1
-
Brown UniversityProvidence · 43.7 mi
U.S. News #16
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding Anna Maria College:
-
Worcester Polytechnic Institute - Ranked 82nd in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its strong emphasis on engineering and technology.
-
Clark University - This comprehensive university ranks 142nd in 2024 US News and is recognized for its liberal arts education and research opportunities.
-
College of the Holy Cross - A distinguished liberal arts college, it ranks 27th in the 2024 US News rankings and is known for its rigorous academic programs.
-
Amherst College - Ranked 2nd among liberal arts colleges in 2024, Amherst is highly regarded for its academic excellence and rich history.
-
Wellesley College - This prestigious women's liberal arts college ranks 4th in 2024 and is known for its commitment to empowering women through education.
-
Smith College - Another top women's college, Smith ranks 16th among liberal arts colleges and offers a diverse and inclusive academic environment.
-
Boston College - A comprehensive university ranked 39th in 2024, Boston College is renowned for its strong programs in education, business, and law.
-
Harvard University - The prestigious Ivy League institution ranks 3rd overall and is known globally for its research, diverse programs, and influential alumni.
These institutions contribute to a vibrant educational landscape in the region, offering a range of programs and opportunities for students.
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
Analysis of Crime Rates at Anna Maria College
The crime rates at Anna Maria College have shown a fluctuating trend from 2013 to 2023. In 2013, the crime rate was relatively high at 16.08 incidents per 1,000 students, peaking in 2017 with a significant rise to 22.08. This spike can raise concerns about safety on campus and may have prompted the institution to enhance security measures. However, following this peak, the rates have generally declined, reaching a low of 8.77 in 2023, suggesting that recent efforts to improve campus safety may be having a positive impact.
Among the various categories of crime, arrests related to drug offenses and alcohol consumption have been notable contributors to the overall crime statistics. This aligns with broader trends observed in colleges across the United States, where substance-related incidents often comprise a significant portion of reported crimes. The data indicates that the instances of gun-related arrests and domestic violence have been minimal, which may reflect both the campus culture and effective preventative measures.
It's also important to consider the context of national crime trends and how they might relate to the college environment. As many educational institutions are addressing issues of safety and crime through educational programs and community outreach, Anna Maria College appears to be following suit with a downward trend in crime rates.
Overall, while the fluctuations in crime statistics may seem alarming at times, the recent decrease in incidents could indicate a positive shift towards a safer campus environment. Continuous monitoring and proactive measures will be essential in maintaining this trend. For more on how crime rates are calculated, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Anna Maria College include Lise Thibault (27th Lieutenant Governor of Quebec), Geraldo Alicea (Former Massachusetts state representative) and Raymond Hull (Rhode Island state representative).
-
Lise Thibault 1939–
27th Lieutenant Governor of Quebec
-
Geraldo Alicea 1963–
Former Massachusetts state representative
-
Raymond Hull 1963–
Rhode Island state representative
-
Brian Patrick Kennedy 1961–
Rhode Island state representative
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.