Framingham State University
Acceptance rate
83.6%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$18,000
In-state $11,920
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
2,782
Student-faculty ratio 12:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
42.5%
4-year; 6-year rate 54.6%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Framingham State University, located in Framingham, Massachusetts, is a public institution known for its commitment to providing a comprehensive education that blends liberal arts with professional studies. Established in 1839, it has a rich history and has evolved into a dynamic university that offers over 25 undergraduate and graduate programs. The university’s motto is “Ad astra per aspera,” which translates to “To the stars through difficulties,” reflecting its dedication to student perseverance and success. This ethos is ingrained in the campus culture, where students are encouraged to engage in critical thinking and develop a lifelong love of learning.
The university boasts a vibrant campus life, featuring various student organizations, clubs, and athletic teams, fostering a strong sense of community and belonging among students. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1, Framingham State ensures personalized attention and support from its dedicated faculty, who are committed to student development both academically and personally. The campus is equipped with modern facilities, including a state-of-the-art library, fitness center, and collaborative spaces that enhance the learning experience. Notably, the university's location in the Greater Boston area provides students with numerous internship and job opportunities, contributing to strong graduate employment rates in diverse fields. Framingham State University continues to empower students to achieve their goals and make significant contributions to society.
Analysis of Key Trends at Framingham State University
Framingham State University has exhibited notable trends in several key areas over the years. One significant aspect is the rising tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. In 2014, the in-state tuition was $8,080, which rose to $11,380 by 2023, indicating an increase of approximately 41.5%. This trend is alarming, given the increasing student debt crisis in the United States. The rising costs may deter prospective students from enrolling, particularly those from lower-income families.
Another critical factor is the graduation rates. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students increased from around 29.1% in 2013 to approximately 47.7% in 2022, showcasing an improvement in student outcomes and possibly reflecting enhanced academic support. However, the slight drop in 2023 to 46.7% raises questions about the university's ability to maintain this upward trajectory.
Student retention rates have also shown fluctuations. After peaking in 2018 at 75.9%, the retention rate declined to approximately 69.2% in 2021, before slightly rebounding to 70.9% in 2023. This inconsistency may indicate challenges in student satisfaction or engagement, which are crucial factors in retaining students through their degree programs.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has seen a decrease from 16:1 in 2013 to 11:1 by 2023. This improvement suggests increased faculty availability and potentially better educational experiences for students, which is vital for fostering academic success.
Overall, while Framingham State University has made strides in graduation rates and student-faculty ratios, the rising tuition costs and fluctuating retention rates present significant challenges that need to be addressed to ensure sustained growth and student success.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Small city
- Nearest major city
- Worcester, about 20 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), about 20 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Nancy S. Niemi, PhD (President)
- Phone
- 5086201220
- City
- Framingham, Massachusetts
- Address
- 100 State Street, Framingham, MA 01701-9101
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 67.8%, women 78.6%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Framingham State University
The admission data for Framingham State University reveals a notable trend in the acceptance rates and enrollment numbers over the years. The male admission rate has increased significantly from 49.8% in 2009 to 83.9% in 2023, indicating a more inclusive approach towards male applicants. Similarly, the female admission rate also saw a rise from 59.3% to 89.9% in the same period, reflecting a broader acceptance of female students as well.
The enrollment numbers peaked in 2013 with 924 new students, but have since fluctuated, ultimately decreasing to 490 in 2023. This decline in enrollment could be attributed to various factors, including changing demographics, competition from other institutions, and possibly shifts in student preferences towards different fields of study or types of institutions.
Moreover, the number of applicants denied admission has varied widely, with peaks in 2014 and 2017. The consistent increase in deferments suggests that many students are opting to delay their entry, possibly due to financial concerns or uncertainties about the college experience in light of recent global events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Overall, the data reflects an evolving landscape at Framingham State University, characterized by higher acceptance rates but a downward trend in enrollment figures. This could indicate a need for the university to reassess its recruitment strategies and ensure it remains an attractive option for prospective students amidst a competitive educational environment.
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
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Social Sciences and Humanities1 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 · 7% submitted SAT, 1% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Test Scores at Framingham State University
The data from Framingham State University over the years reveals significant trends in standardized testing and admission rates. Notably, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has fluctuated considerably, with a peak at 99% in 2008 and a dramatic decrease to just 17% by 2023. This decline may reflect broader changes in testing policies, such as the increasing number of institutions adopting test-optional admissions.
Examining the scores, we see that the interquartile ranges for SAT reading and mathematics have generally maintained a consistent level, albeit with some variations. For instance, the lower end of SAT reading scores started at 470 in 2007 but has risen to 510 by 2023, indicating a gradual increase in the academic preparedness of students. Conversely, the upper end of SAT mathematics scores has also shifted from 560 to 620 during the same period, showcasing an overall enhancement in student performance.
The drop in the number of students submitting scores, combined with a relatively stable or improving score range, raises questions about the university's admission strategy and the evolving landscape of higher education. As universities increasingly focus on holistic admissions processes, it may be beneficial for Framingham State University to analyze how these trends affect the diversity and quality of their incoming classes. The data suggests a potential shift in how both students and institutions perceive the value of standardized testing in the admissions process.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
4,532 applicants in 2025, 83.6% admitted
3,789 admitted 743 not admitted Yield 15.5%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Education, Other · Master's82 (0% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's31 (0% international)
- Counseling Psychology · Master's28 (0% international)
- Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language/ESL Language Instructor · Master's24 (0% international)
- Foods, Nutrition, and Wellness Studies, General · Master's17 (0% international)
- Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's16 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Numbers at Framingham State University in 2023
The data from Framingham State University reveals interesting trends in graduate numbers across various disciplines for 2023. A notable observation is the dominance of the Education sector, particularly at the master's level, where it produced the highest number of graduates. This aligns with the growing demand for qualified educators in the U.S., especially in light of recent educational reforms and the ongoing recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic which has highlighted the need for robust educational frameworks.
In terms of international students, while the majority of programs did not report significant numbers, the presence of international students in biology and nursing indicates a global interest in these fields. The nursing program, in particular, is critical given the current healthcare challenges, and the fact that it has international representation suggests a commitment to diversity in this essential sector.
Business-related fields also show a strong output, with several programs reporting substantial numbers of graduates, particularly at the bachelor's level. This trend reflects the increasing relevance of business education in a rapidly evolving job market, where skills in management and commerce are highly sought after.
Interestingly, fields such as Psychology and Criminology have fewer graduates, which could suggest a more competitive job market or a shift in student interest towards more lucrative or stable career paths. Overall, the data underscores a shift towards practical and necessary skills in education, healthcare, and business, which are crucial for workforce development in the current socio-economic climate.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $42,209 | ||
| Counseling Psychology. | $64,075 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foods, Nutrition, and Wellness Studies, General. | $44,472 | ||
| Child Care and Support Services Management. | $30,323 | ||
| Apparel and Textiles, General. | $48,872 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminology. | $44,115 | ||
| Economics, General. | - | ||
| Geography. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | $42,148 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | - | ||
| Dietetics/Dietitian. | - | ||
| Nursing Education. | $114,974 | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communications Technologies/Technicians and Support Services, Other. | $37,967 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $61,934 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $45,290 | ||
| Biochemistry. | - | ||
| Biotechnology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $43,464 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fashion/Apparel Design. | - | ||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | $35,867 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | $38,691 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $46,089 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Administration. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Sign Language (ASL). | $39,409 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - | ||
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Food Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| International/Globalization Studies. | - |
Students
4,002 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 45:55 · Freshman retention 71.0%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,747
- First-year undergraduates 584
- Graduate students 1,220
- Transfers and others 451
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,782)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Framingham State University in 2023
In 2023, Framingham State University showcases a diverse student body, primarily characterized by the distribution of undergraduate and graduate students. The first-year undergraduate population consists of 490 students, with a nearly balanced gender ratio of 50.4% male and 49.6% female. This gender parity reflects a positive trend towards inclusivity in higher education.
The undergraduate seniors, however, present a different picture, with a total of 2,014 students, where only 44.3% are male and 55.7% are female. This indicates a growing female presence in the upper undergraduate levels, potentially influenced by various factors, including changing societal norms and increased support for women in education.
Transfer students demonstrate an even distribution, with 208 students evenly split in gender representation. In stark contrast, the graduate student demographic is heavily skewed towards females, comprising 77% of the 1,141 students. This significant disparity may highlight the increasing inclination of women to pursue advanced degrees, aligning with national trends where women earn a larger proportion of graduate degrees than men.
The data also reveals insights into the ethnic composition among students. While specific numbers for categories such as White, Asian, Latino, and others are not fully presented, the overall figures suggest a predominantly White student population. This demographic trend raises questions about the university's efforts in promoting diversity and inclusion across various racial and ethnic groups.
Overall, the student composition at Framingham State University in 2023 reflects important societal shifts towards gender equality in education and hints at the impending need for institutions to address racial diversity comprehensively. As these trends continue to evolve, monitoring changes in student demographics will be crucial for fostering an inclusive academic environment.
Analysis of Student Age Distribution at Framingham State University
The age distribution of students at Framingham State University presents a clear picture of the demographic breakdown across various age categories. Notably, the majority of students fall within the younger age ranges, with the 18-19 age group being the most populous, comprising approximately 44.5% of the total female students and 39.6% of the total male students. This trend indicates a strong enrollment of traditional college-age students, which aligns with national trends observed in many universities across the United States.
As we move up the age brackets, the numbers begin to dwindle. The 22-24 age group shows a slight increase in the number of graduate students, suggesting that some students are continuing their education immediately after their undergraduate studies. However, the representation of older age groups, such as 30-34 and 40-49, remains marginal, with only 7.6% of total male students and 9.3% of total female students in these brackets. This low representation could point to various factors, including financial constraints, family responsibilities, or a preference for entering the workforce earlier.
Interestingly, the presence of students aged 50 and above, while minimal, reflects an increasing trend of lifelong learning where older individuals seek further education, whether for career advancement or personal fulfillment. This demographic shift can be observed in higher education institutions nationwide, indicating a growing recognition of the value of education at any stage of life.
Overall, the data from Framingham State University highlights a diverse student body that skews younger, while still showcasing a commitment to inclusivity through the presence of older students. This trend is significant as it emphasizes the university's role in catering to a wide range of educational needs and aspirations.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
45 in 2025 · 0.3% in 2016
28 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment Trends at Framingham State University
The data on international student enrollment at Framingham State University over the years reveals a concerning trend. From 2004 to 2023, the number of international undergraduate students has significantly decreased, with the percentage dropping from 1.90% in 2004 to just 0.51% in 2023. This decline in the proportion of international undergraduates may reflect broader global trends affecting international education, such as increased competition from other countries and potential changes in immigration policies.
The graduate program shows a slightly more stable but still low representation of international students. In 2021, there was a notable spike in the percentage of international graduate students to 1.47%, likely influenced by the university's efforts to attract more diverse talent. However, this was not sustained in subsequent years, with the percentage falling to 0.44% by 2023.
This oscillation in enrollment figures can be attributed to various factors, including the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted international travel and education, as well as changing perceptions of the United States as a destination for higher education.
As the university looks to enhance its global presence, it may need to implement targeted recruitment strategies, improve support services for international students, and foster partnerships with foreign institutions to reverse these downward trends. Investing in initiatives that promote cultural diversity and inclusivity could also enrich the university’s academic environment and attract a broader range of international students.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$33,310
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $18,000
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $11,920
- Room and board
- $15,310
- Graduate tuition
- $13,470
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 22% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 41%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$146M
Expenses$138M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Massachusetts State College Athletic Association
Massachusetts State College Athletic Association: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 100 | - |
| Ice Hockey | 33 | 18 |
| Soccer | 22 | 26 |
| Basketball | 23 | 20 |
| Baseball | 34 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | - | 29 |
| Cross Country | 12 | 11 |
| Lacrosse | - | 22 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Volleyball | - | 20 |
| Field Hockey | - | 19 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 79 | - |
| Soccer | 26 | 18 |
| Basketball | 21 | 16 |
| Ice Hockey | 36 | - |
| Baseball | 34 | - |
| Cross Country | 8 | 18 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | - | 22 |
| Lacrosse | - | 21 |
| Field Hockey | - | 17 |
| Softball | - | 14 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 92 | - |
| Soccer | 28 | 21 |
| Basketball | 25 | 16 |
| Ice Hockey | 32 | - |
| Baseball | 31 | - |
| Cross Country | 13 | 13 |
| Field Hockey | - | 23 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | - | 22 |
| Lacrosse | - | 21 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Wellesley CollegeWellesley · 6.7 mi
Liberal Arts #10
-
Boston CollegeChestnut Hill · 14.0 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Harvard UniversityCambridge · 17.2 mi
U.S. News #3
-
Boston UniversityBoston · 17.2 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Tufts UniversityMedford · 18.0 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridge · 18.1 mi
U.S. News #1
-
College of the Holy CrossWorcester · 19.4 mi
Liberal Arts #22
-
Brown UniversityProvidence · 32.6 mi
U.S. News #16
-
Amherst CollegeAmherst · 55.5 mi
Liberal Arts #2
Data insights
Here are some notable schools around Framingham State University:
-
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 academics and influential alumni.
-
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) - MIT is ranked 2nd and is renowned for its cutting-edge research and innovation in technology and engineering.
-
Wellesley College - Ranked 4th, Wellesley is a prestigious women's liberal arts college known for its strong academic programs and commitment to women's education.
-
Brandeis University - Ranked 60th, Brandeis is a private research university with a strong emphasis on liberal arts and social justice.
-
Boston College - With a ranking of 39, Boston College is a Jesuit university known for its strong programs in business, education, and the humanities.
-
Tufts University - Ranked 40th, Tufts is recognized for its diverse academic offerings and strong international programs.
-
Northeastern University - With a rank of 53, Northeastern is known for its cooperative education program, integrating professional experience with academic study.
These institutions offer a variety of programs and experiences, making them excellent choices for further education in the region.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public 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 Data at Framingham State University
The crime statistics from Framingham State University over the past decade reveal a significant fluctuation in criminal activities on campus. In 2013, the average crime rate was notably high at 10.7 incidents per 1,000 students. This trend continued, peaking in 2014 with an average of 11.54, suggesting a concerning environment for student safety.
However, subsequent years show a remarkable decline, particularly from 2015 onwards, where the average crime rate dropped to 6.83, and continued to decrease to just 1.35 in 2021. This substantial decrease could be attributed to improved campus safety measures, increased awareness among students, and possibly the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which limited on-campus activities and interactions.
Despite the positive trend, certain categories of crime, such as gun arrests and drug-related offenses, seem to maintain a presence, indicating that there are still areas requiring attention. The data from 2022 and 2023, while showing an increase from the previous low, remains significantly lower than the peak years.
Overall, while Framingham State University has made strides in reducing crime, it must remain vigilant and proactive in addressing ongoing issues to ensure a safe environment for its students. Continued monitoring and responsiveness to crime trends are essential to sustain this progress and provide a secure campus atmosphere. For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, further information can be found here: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Framingham State University include Christa McAuliffe (Teacher and astronaut killed on Space Shuttle Challenger), Ruth Graves Wakefield (Chef who created the chocolate chip cookie recipe) and Nicole Theriault (Thai pop singer and actress).
-
Christa McAuliffe 1948–1986
Teacher and astronaut killed on Space Shuttle Challenger
-
Ruth Graves Wakefield 1903–1977
Chef who created the chocolate chip cookie recipe
-
Nicole Theriault 1972–
Thai pop singer and actress
-
Anna Brackett 1836–1911
Philosopher, translator, feminist and educator
-
Jaune Quick–to–See Smith 1940–2025
Native American painter, printmaker and curator
-
Brian Moran 1959–
Former Virginia Secretary of Public Safety
-
Ralph G. Wright 1935–2026
Former Speaker of the Vermont House of Representatives
-
Catharine H. T. Avery 1844–1911
Author, editor and educator
-
Mary E. Bibb 1820–1877
Abolitionist, educator and journalist
More alumni (7, by field)
Politics and law
-
William C. Galvin 1956–
Massachusetts state representative
-
Alicia Hyndman 1971–
New York State Assembly member
Arts and media
-
Lucie Caroline Hager 1853–1903
Author, poet and teacher from Massachusetts
-
Charlotte Champe Stearns 1843–1929
Poet and mother of T. S. Eliot
Other fields
-
Jennie Howard 1845–1933
Educator
-
Corinna Shattuck 1848–1910
Educator and missionary in Turkey
-
Olivia A. Davidson 1854–1889
American teacher and educator
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
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.