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Private nonprofit, 4-year

MCPHS University

Boston, Massachusetts · www.mcphs.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

85.2%

2025

Peer median 83.3%

Tuition per year

$40,530

$65,234 with room and board

Peer median $18,677

Undergraduates

3,469

Student-faculty ratio 9:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

50.3%

4-year; 6-year rate 62.0%

Peer median 47.8%

“Peers” are all 221 private health professions schools in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

MCPHS University, also known as Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, is a distinguished institution located in Boston, Massachusetts. Founded in 1823, it has a rich history of providing high-quality education in the fields of pharmacy and health sciences. The university is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and innovation, offering a wide range of professional programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. MCPHS University places a strong emphasis on hands-on training and experiential learning, ensuring that students gain practical skills that are essential for successful careers in healthcare.

The university's campus is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including modern laboratories, simulation centers, and advanced technology resources that enhance the learning experience. MCPHS University is also known for its strong faculty, comprised of experienced professionals and scholars who are dedicated to mentoring students and fostering a collaborative learning environment. The university's location in Boston, a hub for healthcare and biotechnology, provides students with numerous opportunities for internships and networking within the industry. With a focus on student success, MCPHS University has a strong track record of graduate employment, with many alumni securing positions in various healthcare sectors, including pharmacy, nursing, and public health. The vibrant campus culture promotes engagement and community involvement, making it a great place for students to thrive both academically and socially.

Commentary on Key Data Trends at MCPHS University

The data from MCPHS University reveals significant trends that merit discussion. One of the most striking aspects is the increase in tuition fees over the years. For instance, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students rose from $28,470 in 2014 to $38,850 in 2024, representing a staggering increase of approximately 36%. This pattern of rising costs is consistent across both undergraduate and graduate programs, which can pose substantial financial burdens on students and their families. As higher education costs continue to escalate, many prospective students may find themselves reconsidering their options, potentially leading to a decline in enrollment.

Another critical area is the retention rate of undergraduate students, which shows a considerable decline from 88.9% in 2014 to 69.8% in 2023. This downward trend in student retention raises concerns regarding student satisfaction, academic support, and the overall college experience. A decrease in retention rates may indicate that students are facing challenges in adapting to the university environment or that the institution may not be meeting their needs effectively. Retention is crucial not only for the institution's reputation but also for the students’ educational journey.

Additionally, the gender ratio among undergraduate students has shifted notably. The proportion of male students has decreased from approximately 33% in 2014 to about 23% in 2023, while female students now make up a larger percentage of the undergraduate population. This trend reflects broader societal changes and may indicate a growing acceptance and encouragement of women in fields traditionally dominated by men, such as health sciences.

Finally, the student-to-faculty ratio has seen a decline, dropping from 25:1 in 2013 to a mere 10:1 in 2023. This improvement may enhance the quality of education, as smaller class sizes generally allow for more personalized attention from faculty, fostering better academic outcomes.

In conclusion, while MCPHS University shows positive developments in terms of faculty support and gender representation, the challenges of rising tuition and declining retention rates highlight areas that require attention and strategic planning to ensure a supportive and accessible educational environment.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Large city
Nearest major city
In Boston
Nearest international airport
Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), about 5 mi
Boston, Massachusetts
Also known as
MCPHS
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Richard J. Lessard (President)
Phone
6177322800
City
Boston, Massachusetts
Address
179 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02115-5896

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 83.3% · all 221 private health professions schools in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
80.1%
Women
86.6%

In 2020: men 80.8%, women 86.6%.

Data insights

Trends in Admission Rates at MCPHS University

The admission data for MCPHS University over the years reveals interesting trends regarding acceptance rates for male and female applicants. In the early 2010s, the acceptance rates for both genders were relatively low, hovering around 80%. However, as the years progressed, there was a noticeable increase in these rates, peaking in 2022 when the acceptance rate for males reached nearly 97%, while females were accepted at a rate of 98%.
This upward trend in acceptance rates could be attributed to various factors, including an increase in student enrollment and the university’s efforts to attract a larger and more diverse student body. The enrollment numbers show a consistent rise over the years, indicating that the university is becoming more appealing to prospective students. In 2022, the university enrolled 3,998 students, a significant increase from 334 students in 2009.
However, the data from recent years also shows a decline in the acceptance rates for both genders in 2023, suggesting that the university may be facing challenges in maintaining its attractiveness amid increasing competition from other institutions. With the rising number of applicants and a fluctuating acceptance rate, it is crucial for MCPHS University to fine-tune its recruitment strategies to continue attracting high-quality candidates.
Overall, the trends in admission rates at MCPHS University reflect broader changes in higher education, where institutions strive to balance enrollment goals with the need to maintain academic standards and diversity. As the landscape of college admissions continues to evolve, MCPHS will need to adapt to ensure its continued growth and success.

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

Nursing School#457▲23

Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition

Health Specialty3 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

SAT total1160–1416
ACT composite26–30
SAT Reading
570–678
600700800
SAT Math
590–738
600700800
ACT composite
26–30
253036

Data insights

Trends in SAT and ACT Scores at MCPHS University

The data from MCPHS University over the years reveals interesting trends in standardized test scores and the number of applicants submitting those scores. Notably, there has been a general increase in both the SAT reading and math scores, as well as the ACT composite scores, from 2007 to 2023. The 25th percentile and 75th percentile scores indicate an upward trajectory, particularly evident in the SAT reading scores, which rose significantly from a 440 start in 2007 to a 540 start in 2022.

However, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has shown a decline. For instance, it peaked at 99% in the late 2000s but dropped to just 14% by 2022 and 2023. This decrease in submission rates could reflect a broader trend seen in many universities, where more students are opting to apply without standardized test scores due to changing admission policies and a growing emphasis on holistic evaluations.

Furthermore, the scores themselves suggest that while the academic profiles of admitted students have improved, the reduced reliance on standardized tests may be a response to criticisms regarding accessibility and fairness in the admissions process. In light of recent discussions in the higher education landscape about equity and inclusivity, it will be essential for institutions like MCPHS University to balance maintaining rigorous academic standards while adapting to the evolving expectations of prospective students.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 9 in 10

6,010 applicants in 2025, 85.2% admitted

5,121 admitted 889 not admitted Yield 13.1%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's838109 international (13.0%)
Master's67893 international (13.7%)
Doctoral453109 international (24.1%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
221
Pharmaceutical Sciences
164
Pre-Medicine/Pre-Medical Studies
98
Dental Hygiene/Hygienist
70
Health/Medical Preparatory Programs, Other
49
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
44
Diagnostic Medical Sonography/Sonographer and Ultrasound Technician
39
Molecular Biology
35
Pharmaceutical Marketing and Management
23
Health/Medical Psychology
18

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Pharmacy · Doctoral297 (28% international)
  • Physician Assistant · Master's205 (1% international)
  • Hospital and Health Care Facilities Administration/Management · Master's114 (10% international)
  • Biomedical Sciences, General · Master's63 (22% international)
  • Occupational Therapy/Therapist · Master's61 (7% international)
  • Optometry · Doctoral51 (24% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from MCPHS University

The graduation data from MCPHS University for 2023 reveals interesting trends in the fields of health sciences and related disciplines. Notably, the Doctorate degree in Pharmacy has produced the highest number of graduates, with 409 students, of which 121 are international students. This indicates a strong focus on advanced education in this essential health sector, aligning with the growing demand for pharmacists globally.

In the Master's degree category, Hospital and Health Care Facilities Administration has notable numbers, graduating 174 students with an additional 12 from international backgrounds. This suggests an increasing recognition of the importance of health care management, especially in the wake of the global pandemic that highlighted the need for efficient health care systems.

On the other hand, the Bachelor's degree programs show varied results, with 68 graduates in Pre-Medicine, indicating a robust interest in pursuing medical careers. However, several programs, including those in Occupational Therapy and Registered Nursing, have no reported graduates at this level, which may reflect a shift toward focusing on advanced degrees rather than undergraduate programs.

It's also noteworthy that several traditional disciplines, such as Psychology and Chemistry, appear to enroll fewer students in advanced programs, suggesting these fields might be experiencing a decline in popularity or a shift in career aspirations among students.

The data reflects the broader trends in health care education, where specialized and advanced training is increasingly prioritized, preparing graduates to meet the complexities of modern health care demands. This aligns with national trends where health care occupations are among the fastest-growing sectors, emphasizing the importance of institutions like MCPHS University in shaping the future workforce.

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

Health professionshas 1838 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General.$91,796
Dental Hygiene/Hygienist.$70,434-$81,091
Health/Health Care Administration/Management.$117,646
Hospital and Health Care Facilities Administration/Management.$117,646
Clinical Research Coordinator.$117,646
Nuclear Medical Technology/Technologist.$85,548-$160,002
Medical Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiation Therapist.$85,548-$160,002
Diagnostic Medical Sonography/Sonographer and Ultrasound Technician.$85,548-$160,002
Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer.$85,548-$160,002
Physician Assistant.$85,548-$160,002
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technology/Technician.$85,548-$160,002
Pre-Dentistry Studies.$39,574
Pre-Medicine/Pre-Medical Studies.$39,574
Pre-Optometry Studies.$39,574
Health/Medical Preparatory Programs, Other.$39,574
Optometry.$90,675
Pharmacy.$50,630-$118,454
Pharmacy Administration and Pharmacy Policy and Regulatory Affairs.$50,630-$118,454
Pharmaceutics and Drug Design.$50,630-$118,454
Medicinal and Pharmaceutical Chemistry.$50,630-$118,454
Clinical and Industrial Drug Development.$50,630-$118,454
Pharmacoeconomics/Pharmaceutical Economics.$50,630-$118,454
Industrial and Physical Pharmacy and Cosmetic Sciences.$50,630-$118,454
Pharmaceutical Sciences.$50,630-$118,454
Pharmaceutical Marketing and Management.$50,630-$118,454
Public Health, General.$79,541
Occupational Therapy/Therapist.$71,162-$75,773
Physical Therapy/Therapist.$71,162-$75,773
Medical/Health Humanities.-
Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.$43,765
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$84,286-$117,830
Family Practice Nurse/Nursing.$84,286-$117,830
Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse/Nursing.$84,286-$117,830
Biologyhas 109 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Biomedical Sciences, General.-
Molecular Biology.$51,897
Pharmacology.-
Pharmacology and Toxicology.-
Psychology has 18 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Health/Medical Psychology.-
Physical scienceshas 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Chemistry, General.-
Agricultural has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Pre-Veterinary Studies.-

Students

5,945 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 23:77 · Freshman retention 74.0%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,469)

White
1,017 · 29.3%
Asian
701 · 20.2%
Hispanic
558 · 16.1%
Black
443 · 12.8%
International
406 · 11.7%
Unknown
289 · 8.3%
Two or more races
46 · 1.3%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
1.2%
18–19
31.7%
20–21
30.0%
22–24
20.2%
25 and over
17.0%

Graduate students

Under 22
3.7%
22–24
35.1%
25–29
33.9%
30–34
11.6%
35 and over
15.7%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at MCPHS University in 2023

The student demographic data from MCPHS University in 2023 reveals a diverse body of students across various categories, including undergraduate freshmen, continuing undergraduates, transfer undergraduates, and graduate students. Notably, the undergraduate freshmen cohort consists of 730 students, with a striking 24.2% male representation and 75.8% female representation. This trend continues among continuing undergraduates, where males account for 24.1% and females for 75.9% of the total 2392 students.

Interestingly, the transfer undergraduate group has a lower male representation at 18.9%, with females making up 81.1%. Graduate students exhibit a slightly higher male percentage of 25.2%, with females at 74.8%. These statistics indicate a consistent pattern of higher female enrollment across all student categories, suggesting a growing trend in female participation in health sciences and related fields.

When examining racial demographics, while the total numbers for certain categories are not provided, the data indicates a predominance of white students within each subgroup. For instance, among freshmen, white students represent 31.1% of the total demographic. The representation of other racial groups, including Asian, Latino, and Black students, while less visibly documented, is essential to consider for fostering an inclusive educational environment.

As the higher education landscape evolves, it will be interesting to see how MCPHS University addresses diversity and inclusion initiatives in response to these demographic insights. The gender imbalance, particularly in certain fields, could prompt strategic actions to attract more male students to balance representation. Overall, the data presents a snapshot of a university committed to creating a diverse and supportive environment for its students.

Analysis of Student Age Distribution at MCPHS University

The age composition of students at MCPHS University reveals interesting trends and highlights the diverse demographic of the student body. A significant portion of the students falls within the younger age brackets, particularly those aged 18-21, which together account for approximately 36% of the total student population. This is indicative of the university's appeal to traditional undergraduate students who are entering higher education right after high school.

As we move into the 22-24 age group, there is a noticeable increase in the number of graduate students, particularly males, who represent 307 individuals. This suggests that a considerable number of students are pursuing advanced studies shortly after completing their undergraduate degrees. The 25-29 age cohort also shows a robust presence of graduate students, with 361 males and 1,019 females, highlighting a trend of older individuals returning to education, likely for career advancement or specialization in their respective fields.

Interestingly, the data shows a stark decline in the number of students aged 30 and above, which may reflect the challenges adult learners face in balancing education with work and family commitments. However, the presence of older students, particularly in the 30-34 age range, demonstrates that MCPHS University is supportive of lifelong learning and accommodates diverse age groups.

Overall, the gender distribution also deserves attention, with females consistently outnumbering males across all age categories. This trend aligns with broader educational patterns where women are increasingly pursuing higher education, potentially reshaping workforce dynamics in health sciences and related fields. As the university continues to evolve, understanding these demographics will be crucial for tailoring programs and resources to meet the needs of its diverse student population.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 221 private health professions schools in the U.S.

Undergraduates11.7%

406 in 2025 · 13.7% in 2016

0% 10% 20% 2016: 13.7%2017: 12.9%2018: 14.0%2019: 15.4%2020: 15.1%2021: 14.8%2022: 14.1%2023: 13.7%2024: 12.7%2025: 11.7%
2016Peer median 0.0%2025
Graduate students18.6%

460 in 2025 · 11.4% in 2016

0% 12.5% 25% 2016: 11.4%2017: 13.1%2018: 9.7%2019: 11.2%2020: 11.1%2021: 11.2%2022: 13.5%2023: 16.5%2024: 17.3%2025: 18.6%
2016Peer median 0.0%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at MCPHS University

The data reveals a significant trend in the enrollment of international students at MCPHS University over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of international undergraduate students has shown a steady increase, rising from just 2 students in 2004 to 484 in 2023. This represents a striking growth in the proportion of international undergraduates, from 0.45% to approximately 13.74%, highlighting the university's growing appeal to a global audience.

In the graduate sector, the increase is even more pronounced, with the number of international graduate students climbing from 12 in 2004 to 545 in 2023. The percentage of international graduate students has also risen significantly, reaching 16.51% in 2023. This trend aligns with national patterns in higher education, where institutions across the United States have increasingly attracted international scholars, driven by the globalization of education and the pursuit of diverse perspectives in academic settings.

The data indicates that MCPHS University has become more competitive and inclusive, likely enhancing its reputation in the field of health sciences. The rise in international enrollment can also be attributed to factors such as the university's specialized programs, quality of education, and potential career opportunities in the healthcare sector, which are particularly appealing to students from diverse backgrounds.

Overall, the upward trajectory in international student enrollment at MCPHS University reflects broader trends in higher education, emphasizing the importance of global interconnectedness and the value of diverse educational experiences. This growth not only enriches the academic environment but also prepares students for a multicultural workforce in an increasingly globalized world.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$65,234

Undergraduate tuition
$40,530
Room and board
$24,704
Graduate tuition
$27,210
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $30,010 · all 221 private health professions schools in the U.S.

Tuition rose 33% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 63%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$437M

Investment return
$194M44.5%
Tuition and fees
$194M44.3%
Auxiliary enterprises
$18.5M4.2%
Gifts and private grants
$12.6M2.9%
Government grants and contracts
$4.0M0.9%
Sales and services of educational activities
$11K0.0%
Other
$14.0M3.2%

Expenses$223M

Instruction
$126M56.4%
Student services
$30.7M13.8%
Institutional support
$28.1M12.6%
Academic support
$22.6M10.1%
Auxiliary enterprises
$15.5M7.0%
Research
$227K0.1%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 221 private health professions schools in the U.S.

All faculty
$105,693peers $67,788
Professor
$133,940peers $85,183
Associate professor
$108,923peers $76,269
Assistant professor
$91,592peers $67,938
Instructor
$84,168peers $60,861

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA

No athlete data available for 2025.

No athlete data available for 2024.

No athlete data available for 2023.

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some prominent universities near MCPHS University:

  1. Harvard University - Ranked 3rd in the 2024 US News, Harvard is one of the most prestigious universities in the world, known for its rigorous academic programs and influential research.

  2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) - With a rank of 2, MIT is renowned globally for its engineering and technology programs, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.

  3. Northeastern University - Ranked 53rd, Northeastern is recognized for its co-op program and experiential learning opportunities, preparing students for the workforce.

  4. Boston University - With a rank of 43, Boston University offers a diverse range of programs and is known for its vibrant campus life and research initiatives.

  5. Brandeis University - Ranked 60th, Brandeis is a private research university known for its strong liberal arts education and commitment to social justice.

  6. Tufts University - With a rank of 40, Tufts is distinguished for its internationalism and strong programs in the humanities, social sciences, and health-related fields.

  7. Boston College - Ranked 39th, Boston College is a Jesuit university known for its strong liberal arts curriculum and commitment to service.

  8. Wellesley College - As a top-ranked women's college, Wellesley, which ranks 4th, is known for its rigorous academics and strong alumnae network.

These institutions offer a variety of academic opportunities and contribute significantly to the educational landscape of the Boston area.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 0.0 · all 221 private health professions schools in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
86
Fondling
2
Rape
1
Burglary
1
Dating violence
1

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Data at MCPHS University

The crime statistics from MCPHS University over the past decade show a notable decline in incidents reported per 1000 students. In 2013, the average crime rate was 4.09, which gradually decreased to an impressive low of 0.03 by 2022. This trend indicates a significant improvement in campus safety and student wellbeing, possibly reflecting enhanced security measures and community awareness initiatives.

Specifically, the arrests related to gun offenses and drug-related issues have seen considerable reductions. For instance, in 2018, there were only 1.53 incidents per 1000 students, highlighting effective prevention strategies. The absence of violent crimes such as murder, rape, and robbery in recent years is particularly encouraging, suggesting a secure environment for students.

However, it is essential to remain vigilant. The small uptick in crime rate to 1.26 in 2023 indicates that while overall safety has improved, there are still challenges to address. Continuous efforts towards maintaining a safe campus must be prioritized, including mental health support and community engagement to prevent incidents before they occur.

Overall, the data reflects positively on MCPHS University’s commitment to ensuring a safe educational environment, but it also serves as a reminder that safety is an ongoing process. For further insights into calculating crime rates, refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.

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.