Dean College
Acceptance rate
73.7%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$46,526
$66,390 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
1,092
Student-faculty ratio 15:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
33.9%
4-year; 6-year rate 38.1%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Dean College, located in Franklin, Massachusetts, is a private liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on personalized education and student engagement. Founded in 1865, Dean College has developed a reputation for its supportive academic environment and small class sizes, which allow for meaningful interactions between students and faculty. The college's motto, "In Pursuit of Excellence," reflects its commitment to fostering an atmosphere that encourages both academic and personal growth. With a diverse range of undergraduate programs, including business, performing arts, and health sciences, Dean College equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in their chosen fields.
The campus is characterized by its beautiful landscape and well-equipped facilities, including modern classrooms, state-of-the-art performance spaces, and athletic centers. Dean College also boasts a vibrant student life, with numerous clubs, organizations, and events that promote community and leadership. The college's focus on experiential learning and internships provides students with valuable real-world experience, enhancing their employability upon graduation. With a strong network of alumni who have gone on to achieve success in various industries, Dean College continues to play a significant role in shaping the futures of its students.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Dean College
Dean College has exhibited significant trends in several key areas over the years, particularly in tuition costs, graduation rates, student retention, and gender ratios among undergraduates.
The steady increase in tuition costs is striking, with the in-state and out-of-state undergraduate tuition rising from $33,230 in 2014 to $44,960 in 2024. This represents a growth of approximately 35% over a decade, highlighting the rising financial burden on students and families. This trend mirrors the national increase in college tuition, which has raised concerns about accessibility and affordability in higher education.
Graduation rates have also shown variation, with the on-time graduation rate fluctuating from a low of 24.4% in 2021 to nearly 49% in 2023. This rebound suggests that the institution may be implementing effective strategies to improve student outcomes, possibly linked to enhanced support services or curricular adjustments. Conversely, the 150% graduation rate also reflects a positive trend, increasing from 27.4% in 2021 to a healthier 52.2% in 2023.
Retention rates have shown a commendable increase, moving from approximately 61.1% in 2013 to nearly 75.8% in 2023. This improvement indicates that students are feeling more satisfied with their educational experience at Dean College, which is crucial for long-term institutional success and student achievement.
Finally, the gender ratio among undergraduates has stabilized, with male and female students nearly evenly split in 2023, indicating a balanced enrollment. This shift may enhance the campus environment, promoting diversity and a broader range of perspectives in the academic setting.
Overall, while the increase in tuition may present challenges, the improvements in graduation and retention rates suggest that Dean College is moving in a positive direction, fostering a supportive educational environment for its students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Providence, about 20 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport (PVD), about 25 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Darrell Kulesza (President)
- Phone
- 5085411900
- City
- Franklin, Massachusetts
- Address
- 99 Main Street, Franklin, MA 02038-1941
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 66.2%, women 71.3%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Dean College
The admission statistics for Dean College reveal intriguing trends over the years. A notable observation is the fluctuation in acceptance rates for both male and female applicants. In 2009, the acceptance rate for males was approximately 66.99%, while for females, it was about 72.86%. However, by 2010, the male acceptance rate dropped significantly to 39.5%, highlighting a competitive shift in the admissions landscape. This trend continues to showcase variability, with the male acceptance rates peaking at around 86.72% in 2017, before gradually declining again.
The enrollment numbers also provide insight into the college's capacity and attractiveness. In 2017, the college witnessed its highest enrollment figure with 446 students, alongside an impressive acceptance rate, suggesting that the college was able to attract a larger pool of applicants that year. Conversely, the years following 2017 saw higher denial numbers, peaking in 2020, which may reflect the impact of the pandemic and changing applicant behaviors.
Moreover, the number of deferred admissions has consistently remained high in recent years, indicating that many students are seeking to postpone their entry rather than outright decline offers. This trend may suggest a cautious approach from students amid uncertain circumstances, such as the ongoing effects of COVID-19 on higher education.
Overall, the data reflects a dynamic environment at Dean College, where acceptance rates and enrollment numbers are influenced by broader societal trends and institutional policies. Understanding these patterns is crucial for prospective students and the college's strategic planning.
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
Trends in Admissions Data at Dean College
The admissions data from Dean College over the years reveals significant trends in standardized test performance and submission rates. From 2007 to 2023, the proportion of applicants submitting SAT scores has shown a gradual decline, with the highest percentage of submissions reaching 87% in 2008 and dropping to just 49% by 2020 through 2023. This trend reflects a broader national movement towards test-optional admissions policies, which many institutions have adopted in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the growing debate surrounding the fairness and efficacy of standardized testing.
On the score side, the 25th percentile scores for reading and mathematics on the SAT have fluctuated, indicating varying levels of applicant preparedness. Notably, the 25th percentile score for reading started at 390 in 2007 and has since settled around 460 to 460 in the most recent years. This suggests that while the submission rates have dropped, the quality of applicants who choose to submit their scores may be on the rise.
Moreover, the overall landscape of college admissions is changing, with many institutions focusing more on holistic review processes that consider a student's entire profile rather than solely standardized test scores. This shift may encourage a more diverse applicant pool, ultimately benefiting students who excel in areas beyond traditional test metrics. As Dean College navigates this evolving landscape, it will be essential to monitor how these trends impact the overall academic environment and student success rates.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 7 in 10
4,617 applicants in 2025, 73.7% admitted
3,403 admitted 1,214 not admitted Yield 8.7%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Dean College 2023
The graduation data from Dean College for 2023 reveals interesting trends across various disciplines. Notably, the Business Administration and Management program stands out with the highest number of undergraduate graduates, totaling 28, which constitutes approximately 24% of the total bachelor's degrees awarded. This aligns with the growing demand for business professionals in the current job market, reflecting a broader national trend where business degrees remain highly sought after.
In the realm of performance arts, Dance and Drama programs show modest graduation figures, with 33 and 31 students respectively earning bachelor's degrees. Interestingly, these fields also highlight the absence of international students graduating, indicating a potential area for growth in attracting a diverse student body.
The data also indicates a significant presence of international students in the Business Administration program, with 5 international graduates. This suggests that Dean College may be a favorable option for international students pursuing careers in business, which is in line with the increasing globalization of the economy and the rising interest in international studies.
Moreover, the health-related programs like Pre-Nursing and Health and Wellness have seen a limited number of graduates, indicating potential barriers or a lack of resources that could be addressed. This observation is particularly relevant given the current emphasis on healthcare professions resulting from the global health crisis.
Overall, the graduation statistics not only reflect the academic landscape of Dean College but also mirror broader societal trends in education and employment. The emphasis on business and the challenges faced by health and arts programs could guide future institutional strategies to enhance enrollment and support in these areas.
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 | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $41,005 | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dance, General. | $30,938 | ||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | $29,919 | ||
| Acting. | $29,919 | ||
| Musical Theatre. | $29,919 | ||
| Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | $32,587 | ||
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $32,587 | ||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $32,587 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | $31,941 | ||
| Broadcast Journalism. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $43,757 | ||
| Securities Services Administration/Management. | $43,757 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $29,878 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - | ||
| General Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health and Wellness, General. | - | ||
| Pre-Nursing Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sociology, General. | - |
Students
1,092 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 49:51 · Freshman retention 68.4%
- Continuing undergraduates 746
- First-year undergraduates 293
- Transfers and others 53
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,092)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Student Demographics at Dean College in 2023
The student population at Dean College in 2023 presents an interesting blend of diversity and gender balance across various categories. In total, the college has welcomed 343 new undergraduate students, with a nearly equal gender representation of 49.6% male and 50.4% female. This balance is commendable and reflects an inclusive environment that encourages equal participation from both genders.
Among the continuing undergraduate students, the total number reaches 788, maintaining a similarly equal distribution with 49.9% male and 50.1% female. Such gender parity is crucial for fostering a collaborative academic setting, where students can thrive without bias based on gender.
However, the transfer undergraduate students show a different trend, comprising only 49 individuals. In this group, the male representation is higher at 61.2%, while females account for 38.8%. This shift suggests a need for further outreach to encourage female students to consider transferring, which could help balance this subgroup.
The college also acknowledges the presence of non-degree seeking students, with nine individuals, predominantly female at 88.9%. This demographic may include students exploring academic interests without the intent of pursuing a degree, indicating a flexible learning approach that caters to diverse needs.
In terms of racial and ethnic diversity, while specific breakdowns for continuing and transfer students are not provided, the new undergraduate cohort includes a significant number of white students, reflecting broader trends in higher education demographics. Overall, Dean College's commitment to gender equity and its diverse student body are promising indicators of a positive academic environment.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Dean College in 2023
The age demographic data of Dean College students in 2023 reveals a significant concentration of younger students, particularly in the 18-19 and 20-21 age brackets. In fact, these two categories account for nearly 76% of the total student population, with 240 males and 248 females aged 18-19, followed closely by 223 males and 229 females aged 20-21. This trend aligns with broader trends observed in higher education, where institutions are increasingly attracting younger undergraduate students.
Interestingly, the data shows a sharp decline in student numbers as the age increases. For instance, the 22-24 age group has only 90 males and 65 females, dropping to just 18 males and 13 females in the 25-29 age range. This pattern suggests that the college may not be attracting many non-traditional students or those returning to education later in life.
Moreover, the absence of graduate male students in the data reflects a potential area for growth. While there are some older female students in the 40-49 age group, with 15 enrolled, the overall numbers highlight a lack of diversity in age among the student body. This could signal an opportunity for Dean College to develop programs aimed at attracting a broader range of age groups, which can enhance the learning environment and foster intergenerational connections.
Overall, the data presents a clear picture of a predominantly young student body at Dean College, mirroring trends in many institutions across the United States, and raises questions about how to better serve older and graduate populations in the future.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
25 in 2025 · 6.8% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Dean College
The data on international student enrollment at Dean College over the years reveals significant fluctuations and highlights a concerning downward trend in the percentage of international undergraduates. Beginning in 2004, the percentage of international students was relatively robust, peaking at 11.31% in 2014. However, this figure has sharply decreased in subsequent years, culminating in a mere 2.52% in 2023.
This decline raises questions about the factors driving potential international students away from Dean College. Economic challenges, changes in immigration policies, and increased competition from other institutions may contribute to this trend. For instance, global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic have severely impacted international travel and education, creating barriers for students who might have otherwise considered studying in the United States.
Additionally, the drop in enrollment may reflect broader trends in higher education where institutions are struggling to attract international students due to a variety of socio-political factors. While the total number of undergraduate students at Dean College has fluctuated, the consistent drop in the international student population suggests a need for the institution to reevaluate its recruitment strategies.
To counteract this trend, Dean College could benefit from enhancing its international outreach efforts, improving support services for international students, and fostering partnerships with overseas institutions. By addressing these challenges, Dean College could potentially rejuvenate its international enrollment and ensure a more diverse and enriching educational environment for all students.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$66,390
- Undergraduate tuition
- $46,526
- Room and board
- $19,864
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 31% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 31%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$49.9M
Expenses$44.9M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Eastern Collegiate Football Conference · Great Northeast Athletic Conference
Eastern Collegiate Football Conference: football
Great Northeast Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 78 | - |
| Soccer | 36 | 22 |
| Lacrosse | 42 | 14 |
| Baseball | 51 | - |
| Volleyball | 14 | 23 |
| Basketball | 24 | 11 |
| Field Hockey | - | 21 |
| Cross Country | 11 | 7 |
| Softball | - | 16 |
| Golf | 10 | 1 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 86 | - |
| Lacrosse | 43 | 15 |
| Soccer | 35 | 20 |
| Baseball | 43 | - |
| Basketball | 20 | 12 |
| Volleyball | 11 | 19 |
| Cross Country | 18 | 9 |
| Field Hockey | - | 20 |
| Softball | - | 14 |
| Golf | 9 | 4 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 74 | - |
| Lacrosse | 42 | 17 |
| Soccer | 34 | 21 |
| Baseball | 46 | - |
| Basketball | 23 | 13 |
| Volleyball | 11 | 20 |
| Cross Country | 13 | 8 |
| Field Hockey | - | 18 |
| Softball | - | 16 |
| Golf | 10 | 2 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Wellesley CollegeWellesley · 15.0 mi
Liberal Arts #10
-
Brown UniversityProvidence · 17.9 mi
U.S. News #16
-
Boston CollegeChestnut Hill · 20.9 mi
U.S. News #31
-
College of the Holy CrossWorcester · 23.5 mi
Liberal Arts #22
-
Boston UniversityBoston · 23.6 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Northeastern UniversityBoston · 23.6 mi
U.S. News #42
-
Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridge · 24.5 mi
U.S. News #1
-
Harvard UniversityCambridge · 24.6 mi
U.S. News #3
-
Tufts UniversityMedford · 26.5 mi
U.S. News #31
Data insights
Here are some notable schools around Dean College:
-
Wellesley College - Ranked 4th in the 2024 US News rankings, Wellesley College is a prestigious women's liberal arts college known for its rigorous academics and beautiful campus.
-
Brown University - A top-ranked university at 9th place, Brown is an Ivy League institution located in Providence, Rhode Island. It is renowned for its flexible curriculum and vibrant student life.
-
Harvard University - With a ranking of 3rd, Harvard is one of the most famous universities in the world, known for its extensive resources, distinguished faculty, and significant contributions to research and education.
-
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) - Ranked 2nd, MIT is a leader in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education and research, attracting students from all over the globe.
-
Boston College - At 39th in the rankings, Boston College offers a strong liberal arts education with a commitment to Jesuit values and a vibrant campus community.
These institutions provide a range of educational opportunities and are highly regarded in their respective fields.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at Dean College
The crime statistics from Dean College over the past decade reveal a significant trend in campus safety, indicating a notable decline in the average number of offenses per 1,000 students. In 2013, the crime rate was alarmingly high at 97.13 incidents per 1,000 students, but this figure has steadily decreased to 25.57 in 2023. The sharpest drop occurred between 2016 and 2021, where the rate plummeted from 41.09 to just 8.81, reflecting a more secure environment for students.
This trend is particularly encouraging in light of increasing national concerns regarding campus safety across various universities. Factors such as improved campus security measures, heightened awareness and prevention programs, and community engagement might have contributed to this positive shift.
In examining specific types of offenses, the data suggests that arrests related to gun possession, drug offenses, and alcohol-related incidents have been significantly reduced. The absence of reported incidents for certain years further emphasizes a focused effort on mitigating these issues.
However, it is crucial to remain vigilant and proactive in maintaining this downward trend. Continuous assessment of safety policies and student support systems is essential to ensure that Dean College remains a safe haven for its students. Ongoing education and awareness campaigns can further fortify this progress, fostering a campus culture that prioritizes safety and accountability.
For more information on calculating crime rates, you can visit this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Dean College include Richard Belzer (Actor and comedian, Detective John Munch), Sage Francis (Underground rapper, founder of Strange Famous Records) and Pat Flaherty (Film actor who appeared in about 200 films).
-
Richard Belzer 1944–2023
Actor and comedian, Detective John Munch
-
Sage Francis 1976–
Underground rapper, founder of Strange Famous Records
-
Pat Flaherty 1897–1970
Film actor who appeared in about 200 films
-
Kodo Nishimura 1989–
Japanese Buddhist monk, makeup artist and author
-
Jan Malik 1956–
Former Rhode Island state representative
-
Bill Green 1953–
Former executive chairman of Accenture
-
Francis H. Woodward 1939–
Former Massachusetts 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.