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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Dean College

Franklin, Massachusetts · www.dean.edu

中文

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
Franklin, Massachusetts
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

Acceptance rate (%)

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

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
70.6%
Women
76.3%

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)

Associate316 international (19.4%)
Bachelor's2144 international (1.9%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
41
Dance, General
28
Mass Communication/Media Studies
20
Securities Services Administration/Management
20
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management
18
Exercise Science and Kinesiology
17
Psychology, General
11
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
9
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General
7
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
7

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

Businesshas 49 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Business Administration and Management, General.$41,005
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Visual and Performing artshas 49 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
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.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 43 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General.$32,587
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.$32,587
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.$32,587
Communication has 29 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Mass Communication/Media Studies.$31,941
Broadcast Journalism.-
Homeland security has 22 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.$43,757
Securities Services Administration/Management.$43,757
Psychology has 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Psychology, General.$29,878
Liberal arts has 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.-
General Studies.-
Biologyhas 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Educationhas 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.-
History has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
History, General.-
English has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
English Language and Literature, General.-
Health professionshas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Health and Wellness, General.-
Pre-Nursing Studies.-
Social sciencehas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Sociology, General.-

Students

1,092 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 49:51 · Freshman retention 68.4%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,092)

White
685 · 62.7%
Hispanic
135 · 12.4%
Black
123 · 11.3%
Two or more races
52 · 4.8%
Unknown
51 · 4.7%
International
25 · 2.3%
Asian
18 · 1.6%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
0.8%
18–19
41.8%
20–21
42.1%
22–24
11.3%
25 and over
3.8%

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.

Undergraduates2.3%

25 in 2025 · 6.8% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 6.8%2017: 6.2%2018: 5.1%2019: 4.3%2020: 4.4%2021: 4.2%2022: 3.2%2023: 2.5%2024: 1.6%2025: 2.3%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025

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
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 31% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 31%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$49.9M

Tuition and fees
$27.0M54.1%
Investment return
$10.2M20.4%
Auxiliary enterprises
$9.7M19.3%
Sales and services of educational activities
$1.4M2.8%
Government grants and contracts
$874K1.8%
Gifts and private grants
$824K1.7%

Expenses$44.9M

Student services
$12.2M27.1%
Auxiliary enterprises
$9.9M22.0%
Institutional support
$9.8M21.8%
Instruction
$9.2M20.5%
Academic support
$3.9M8.7%

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
$66,606peers $65,931
Professor
$75,411peers $77,501
Associate professor
$69,904peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$61,946peers $61,725

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

2025
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football78-
Soccer3622
Lacrosse4214
Baseball51-
Volleyball1423
Basketball2411
Field Hockey-21
Cross Country117
Softball-16
Golf101
2024
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football86-
Lacrosse4315
Soccer3520
Baseball43-
Basketball2012
Volleyball1119
Cross Country189
Field Hockey-20
Softball-14
Golf94
2023
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football74-
Lacrosse4217
Soccer3421
Baseball46-
Basketball2313
Volleyball1120
Cross Country138
Field Hockey-18
Softball-16
Golf102

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools around Dean College:

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. 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.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
136
Rape
20
Burglary
16
Drug referrals
16
Dating violence
8
Stalking
7

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).

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.