Emerson College
Acceptance rate
51.3%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$57,056
$77,976 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
3,908
Student-faculty ratio 14:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
73.4%
4-year; 6-year rate 77.2%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Emerson College, located in the heart of Boston, Massachusetts, is renowned for its focus on communication and the arts. Founded in 1880, Emerson has developed a vibrant campus culture that emphasizes creativity, collaboration, and innovation. The college is particularly known for its strong programs in Theatre, Film, Journalism, and Communication Studies, attracting students who aspire to excel in the performing arts and media industries. The school’s motto, "Expression, Engagement, and Excellence," encapsulates its commitment to fostering an environment where students can develop their unique voices and skills.
In addition to its rigorous academic programs, Emerson College boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including modern studios, theaters, and media labs that provide students with hands-on experience in their chosen fields. The college is also recognized for its strong emphasis on experiential learning, encouraging students to participate in internships and real-world projects that enhance their employability after graduation. With a diverse and inclusive community, Emerson College cultivates a supportive atmosphere that celebrates artistic expression and promotes student engagement through various extracurricular activities, including numerous student-run organizations, performance groups, and cultural events. As a result, Emerson graduates are well-prepared to enter competitive job markets and often find success in their respective careers, contributing positively to the arts and media sectors.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Emerson College
Emerson College, a private institution, has shown notable trends in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention over the years. The tuition for in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has steadily increased from $35,730 in 2014 to $54,816 in 2024. This represents a significant rise of approximately 53% over a decade, reflecting the broader trend of escalating college costs across the United States. Such increases can often lead to concerns regarding student debt and accessibility, prompting discussions on the sustainability of rising tuition fees.
Graduation rates have also experienced fluctuations. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students peaked at approximately 79.86% in 2014 but has since declined to around 74.91% in 2023. This drop in graduation rates could be indicative of various factors, including changes in student demographics, academic pressures, or financial difficulties exacerbated by rising tuition. Lower graduation rates can affect the institution's reputation and attractiveness to prospective students.
Student retention rates have remained relatively stable, hovering around 87% to 88% in recent years. This stability suggests that once students enroll, they are generally satisfied with their experience at Emerson College. However, a drop in retention to 80.32% in 2021 could be a concern, especially during the challenging landscape presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has impacted many students' college experiences.
Moreover, the gender ratio among students highlights a significant female majority, with women comprising roughly 65% of the undergraduate population in 2023. This trend aligns with the increasing enrollment of women in higher education, reflecting broader societal shifts towards gender equality in educational attainment.
In summary, while Emerson College has made strides in maintaining student retention, the rising tuition costs and fluctuating graduation rates merit attention as they may influence future enrollment and student satisfaction. Addressing these challenges will be crucial for the college's long-term success and reputation.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- In Boston
- Nearest international airport
- Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), about 3 mi
- Also known as
- Emerson
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Jay Bernhardt (President)
- Phone
- 6178248500
- City
- Boston, Massachusetts
- Address
- 120 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02116-4624
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 32.8%, women 33.6%.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Rates at Emerson College
The admission data from Emerson College reveals significant trends in enrollment and admission rates over the years. Starting from 2009, the overall admission rate for male applicants has shown a gradual increase, climbing from approximately 39.4% to 40.5% in 2023. In contrast, the admission rates for female applicants have fluctuated, reaching a peak of about 50.2% in 2013, before dropping to around 43.6% in 2023.
The enrollment numbers have also varied, with a substantial rise in total enrollments, especially noticeable in 2022, when the college welcomed over 1,000 new students. However, the corresponding denial figures have remained high, with the number of applicants being denied admission peaking in 2020 with over 10,000 applicants turned away. This suggests a competitive environment, with more students vying for limited spots.
Interestingly, the data reveals a growing trend of deferrals, which may reflect a response to external factors, such as the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on higher education. The significant number of students choosing to defer their enrollment indicates that many prospective students are weighing their options carefully in uncertain times.
Overall, Emerson College's admission statistics illustrate a dynamic and competitive landscape, indicative of broader trends in higher education, where institutions are adapting to changing applicant behaviors and external circumstances. This ongoing evolution highlights the importance of strategic planning for both students and educational institutions alike.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Health Specialty1 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 16% submitted SAT, 5% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Scores at Emerson College (2007-2023)
The admission data from Emerson College over the years presents a declining trend in both the number of applicants submitting standardized test scores and the overall performance of these applicants. Notably, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has decreased significantly from 92% in 2007 to a mere 22% in 2023. This sharp decline raises questions about the changing landscape of college admissions and the growing acceptance of test-optional policies, which have been increasingly adopted by many institutions in recent years.
In terms of performance, the SAT reading and math scores have also experienced fluctuations. For instance, the range of the 25th to 75th percentile scores for SAT reading started at 580-670 in 2007, peaking in 2018 at 620-700, before reaching a higher threshold of 650-730 in 2023. This suggests that while fewer students are submitting scores, those who do are demonstrating stronger academic capabilities. Conversely, the average scores for ACT have shown some variability, further illustrating the diverse academic backgrounds of the current applicant pool.
As institutions continue to adapt to a more holistic approach to admissions, it will be crucial for Emerson College to consider how these trends affect its community and the academic environment. With the increasing number of test-optional policies, it remains to be seen how the college will balance the need for academic rigor with inclusivity in admissions practices. Overall, these trends reflect broader changes in higher education admissions, challenging traditional metrics of evaluation and paving the way for a redefined college experience.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 5 in 10
10,378 applicants in 2025, 51.3% admitted
5,325 admitted 5,053 not admitted Yield 15.5%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist · Master's326 (1% international)
- Creative Writing · Master's96 (5% international)
- Marketing/Marketing Management, General · Master's40 (28% international)
- Drama and Dance Teacher Education · Master's31 (6% international)
- Publishing · Master's31 (6% international)
- Communication and Media Studies, Other · Master's27 (37% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Data at Emerson College
The data from Emerson College reveals significant trends in graduate education, particularly in the fields of performing arts and communication. Notably, the highest number of bachelor's degrees awarded is in the performing arts category, with a total of 298 graduates, of which 58 are international students. This indicates a strong international interest in performing arts, possibly due to the college's reputation in this domain.
In contrast, the fields of business and communication show a lesser number of graduates. For instance, business programs collectively awarded only 70 bachelor's degrees, suggesting that while the business sector is crucial, it may not attract as many students as the arts. Furthermore, the presence of master's degrees in communication and journalism, with notable international representation, highlights the growing global demand for skills in these critical areas.
The data also indicates a lack of doctoral graduates across various disciplines, particularly in the performing arts and business sectors, which could reflect the nature of these fields where advanced research degrees may not be as common. The absence of doctoral candidates in the performing arts points to a potential gap in higher-level academic training for those pursuing academic careers in this discipline.
Overall, Emerson College's graduate data illustrates a vibrant community focused on the arts and communication, with a diverse international student population. This trend aligns with broader educational patterns where creative and communication fields increasingly attract global talent, reinforcing the importance of these areas in today's interconnected world.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | $33,442-$49,506 | ||
| Technical Theatre/Theatre Design and Technology. | $33,442-$49,506 | ||
| Playwriting and Screenwriting. | $33,442-$49,506 | ||
| Acting. | $33,442-$49,506 | ||
| Directing and Theatrical Production. | $33,442-$49,506 | ||
| Musical Theatre. | $33,442-$49,506 | ||
| Dramatic/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft, Other. | $33,442-$49,506 | ||
| Cinematography and Film/Video Production. | $38,235 | ||
| Music Performance, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication Sciences and Disorders, General. | $69,037 | ||
| Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist. | $69,037 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $50,774-$54,462 | ||
| Communication and Media Studies, Other. | $50,774-$54,462 | ||
| Journalism. | $43,207 | ||
| Radio and Television. | - | ||
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | - | ||
| Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. | $47,775-$65,081 | ||
| Advertising. | $47,775-$65,081 | ||
| Political Communication. | $47,775-$65,081 | ||
| Sports Communication. | $47,775-$65,081 | ||
| Publishing. | $46,372 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Creative Writing. | $39,432-$44,786 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $45,871 | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $55,658-$73,467 | ||
| Marketing, Other. | $55,658-$73,467 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dance Teacher Education. | $54,639 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | $25,966 |
Students
5,263 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 34:66 · Freshman retention 87.4%
- Continuing undergraduates 2,912
- First-year undergraduates 828
- Graduate students 1,355
- Transfers and others 168
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,908)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Emerson College Student Demographics in 2023
In 2023, Emerson College's student population reflects significant diversity and varying gender representation across different categories. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 1,002, with a notable gender imbalance—31.6% male and 68.4% female. This trend of higher female enrollment is consistent throughout other categories, particularly among graduate students, where females constitute a staggering 87.3% of the population, while males only represent 12.7%.
The undergraduate upperclassmen, numbering 2,958, also show a predominance of females at 64.4%. Interestingly, the transfer students show slightly more equity, with 39.6% males and 60.4% females. This data suggests a wider trend in higher education where female students increasingly outnumber their male counterparts, which aligns with national statistics indicating that women are earning a greater share of college degrees compared to men.
In terms of racial diversity, white students appear to be the largest demographic group, particularly among undergraduates. However, the data indicates a need for a deeper understanding of the representation of other racial and ethnic groups, including Asian, Latinx, and African American students, as well as international students. As colleges strive for inclusivity, Emerson College's enrollment patterns highlight the importance of addressing gender disparities while also ensuring a more balanced representation of diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.
Overall, Emerson College's demographics reflect broader trends in higher education, indicating both progress and areas that require attention for future improvement.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Emerson College in 2023
The age distribution of students at Emerson College in 2023 reveals a predominantly young demographic, which is typical for many higher education institutions. The majority of students fall within the 18-21 age range, with 548 male undergraduates and 1,242 female undergraduates aged 18-19, and 662 male undergraduates and 1,194 female undergraduates aged 20-21. This suggests that Emerson College attracts a significant number of traditional-age students, who are typically entering college right after high school.
Interestingly, the number of graduate students begins to rise in the 22-24 age category, with 59 males and a noteworthy 452 females, indicating a strong female presence in graduate programs. This trend continues with older age groups, where the female student population remains robust, particularly in the 25-29 age range, comprising 520 females compared to only 84 males.
The presence of older students, such as those aged 30-34 and above, is minimal, reflecting the institution's focus on younger demographics, though there is still a small representation of non-traditional students.
Overall, the data indicates a clear gender disparity with a higher number of female students across all age groups. This aligns with broader trends observed in higher education, where female enrollment has been steadily increasing. As the college navigates these demographic patterns, it may consider strategies to further support and engage both male and non-traditional students to foster a more balanced and inclusive academic environment.
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.
583 in 2025 · 7.5% in 2016
104 in 2025 · 21.9% in 2016
Data insights
Commentary on International Student Trends at Emerson College
The data on international students at Emerson College over the years reveals notable trends that reflect broader patterns in higher education. From 2004 to 2023, the proportion of international undergraduate students has steadily increased from 3.53% to 16.32%. This significant rise indicates a growing appeal of Emerson College among global students, likely due to its strong emphasis on communication and the arts, which are highly sought after fields in today's interconnected world.
The graduate international student numbers, however, tell a different story. While there was a peak in 2018 with 26.28%, the percentage has considerably decreased in recent years, dropping to 5.99% in 2023. This decline could be attributed to several factors, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on international travel and education, as well as tightening visa policies in the United States. The fluctuating numbers suggest that while undergraduates are increasingly seeking opportunities at Emerson, the graduate sector may face challenges that deter international applicants.
Overall, the trends underscore the importance of understanding the evolving landscape of international education. Institutions like Emerson College must adapt to these changes, focusing on enhancing support for international students and fostering an inclusive environment. This will not only benefit the institution's diversity but also enrich the educational experience for all students, preparing them for a global workforce.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$77,976
- Undergraduate tuition
- $57,056
- Room and board
- $20,920
- Graduate tuition
- $35,382
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 42% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 33%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$301M
Expenses$268M
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 · New England Women's & Men's Athletic Conference
New England Women's & Men's Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 26 | 22 |
| Lacrosse | 23 | 16 |
| Baseball | 38 | - |
| Basketball | 19 | 12 |
| Volleyball | 8 | 13 |
| Cross Country | 9 | 9 |
| Softball | - | 15 |
| Tennis | 6 | 8 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Lacrosse | 31 | 20 |
| Baseball | 45 | - |
| Soccer | 26 | 19 |
| Basketball | 15 | 17 |
| Volleyball | 14 | 14 |
| Tennis | 11 | 12 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Cross Country | 9 | 6 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 29 | 26 |
| Lacrosse | 27 | 20 |
| Baseball | 43 | - |
| Basketball | 18 | 13 |
| Volleyball | 11 | 19 |
| Tennis | 6 | 18 |
| Cross Country | 8 | 8 |
| Softball | - | 14 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Northeastern UniversityBoston · 1.5 mi
U.S. News #42
-
Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridge · 1.5 mi
U.S. News #1
-
Boston UniversityBoston · 2.2 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Harvard UniversityCambridge · 3.1 mi
U.S. News #3
-
Tufts UniversityMedford · 4.7 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Boston CollegeChestnut Hill · 5.4 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Wellesley CollegeWellesley · 13.0 mi
Liberal Arts #10
-
College of the Holy CrossWorcester · 38.8 mi
Liberal Arts #22
-
Brown UniversityProvidence · 40.3 mi
U.S. News #16
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Emerson College:
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Harvard University - Ranked 3rd in the 2024 US News rankings, Harvard is one of the most prestigious universities in the world, known for its rigorous academic programs and distinguished faculty.
-
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) - With a rank of 2, MIT is renowned for its cutting-edge research and innovation, particularly in science and technology fields.
-
Northeastern University - This university is ranked 53rd and is recognized for its co-op program, providing students with valuable work experience in their chosen fields.
-
Boston University - Ranked 43rd, Boston University offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, and is known for its vibrant campus life.
-
Tufts University - With a ranking of 40, Tufts is celebrated for its internationalism and commitment to active citizenship.
-
Wellesley College - This prestigious women’s college is ranked 4th and is known for its strong liberal arts education and leadership programs.
These institutions offer a variety of programs and opportunities for students in the Boston area, making it a vibrant educational hub.
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 Emerson College
The crime data from Emerson College reveals significant fluctuations in the average number of crimes per 1000 students from 2013 to 2023. Notably, there was a peak in 2014 with a rate of 33.63, which marked a concerning trend. However, the numbers have shown a downward trajectory, particularly in recent years, culminating in a notable low of 5.79 in 2021.
The drastic decrease in crime rates during the pandemic years—especially in 2021—could be attributed to various factors, including reduced campus activity and the shift to remote learning. This situation mirrors broader trends observed across other educational institutions during the COVID-19 pandemic, where many campuses reported lower crime rates due to decreased student presence.
However, there are areas for concern, such as the incidents of drug-related arrests and alcohol-related offenses, which highlight ongoing challenges that colleges face in ensuring student safety. The data indicates that while some categories of crime have decreased, others persist, necessitating continued vigilance and proactive measures by campus safety and administration.
Overall, the decreasing trend in crime rates at Emerson College is encouraging, yet it is essential for the institution to maintain its focus on student safety and well-being. Continuous assessment of the effectiveness of safety programs and community engagement initiatives will be crucial in sustaining this positive trend. For further understanding of crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
All 61Notable alumni of Emerson College include Jay Leno (Former Tonight Show host and comedian), Jennifer Coolidge (Actress known for American Pie films) and Brandon Lee (Actor, star of The Crow).
-
Jay Leno 1950–
Former Tonight Show host and comedian
-
Jennifer Coolidge 1961–
Actress known for American Pie films
-
Brandon Lee 1965–1993
Actor, star of The Crow
-
Paul Thomas Anderson 1970–
Filmmaker and three-time Academy Award winner
-
David Cross 1964–
Stand-up comedian, actor and writer
-
Henry Winkler 1945–
Actor known as Fonzie in Happy Days
-
Gina Gershon 1962–
Actress and singer, starred in Face/Off
-
Denis Leary 1957–
Stand-up comedian and actor
-
Bill Burr 1968–
Stand-up comedian, actor and writer
Recent News at Emerson College
Summarized daily from the school's official news. Click "Source" for the original story.
-
Emerson College students at Kasteel Well developed the 'Feel Van Lymborch' exhibition at Gebroeders Van Lymborch Huis in Nijmegen, using sound, smell, taste, and touch to make medieval manuscripts accessible to visually impaired visitors.
Source: today.emerson.edu
No updates on this topic in this month.
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.