Nichols College
Acceptance rate
80.8%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$42,705
$58,505 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,163
Student-faculty ratio 15:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
50.7%
4-year; 6-year rate 58.2%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Nichols College, located in Dudley, Massachusetts, is a private institution renowned for its emphasis on experiential learning, particularly in the fields of business and education. Established in 1815, Nichols College has a rich history and a tradition of preparing students for successful careers through a combination of rigorous academics and practical experience. The college's mission is encapsulated in its motto, "Learn by Doing," which reflects its commitment to hands-on learning experiences that allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. The programs offered at Nichols are designed to foster critical thinking, leadership, and problem-solving skills among students, making them well-equipped for the challenges of the modern workforce.
The campus of Nichols College is not only picturesque but also well-equipped with modern facilities that enhance the learning experience. Students benefit from state-of-the-art classrooms, advanced technology labs, and various recreational facilities that support both academic and extracurricular pursuits. The college prides itself on its close-knit community, where faculty and staff are dedicated to supporting student success. With a diverse range of clubs, organizations, and athletic programs, Nichols College promotes a vibrant campus culture that encourages involvement and personal growth. The college also boasts a strong network of alumni who are actively engaged in various industries, providing current students with valuable mentorship and career opportunities. Overall, Nichols College stands out as an institution committed to fostering an enriching educational environment that prepares graduates for meaningful careers.
Analysis of Key Trends at Nichols College
Nichols College exhibits several notable trends that reflect the evolving landscape of higher education. One of the most striking changes is in tuition costs for undergraduate students. From 2014 to 2024, in-state and out-of-state tuition increased from $32,370 to $40,375, representing a rise of about 25%. This persistent increase in tuition is a trend seen across many institutions, driven by rising operational costs and decreasing state funding, further exacerbating the student debt crisis.
Another significant metric is the graduation rate. The percentage of undergraduate students graduating on-time (within 100% of the expected time) has fluctuated but shows an upward trajectory, increasing from approximately 37% in 2013 to about 51.4% in 2023. This improvement suggests that the college has potentially enhanced its academic support services and retention strategies, which could be crucial for attracting and retaining students in a competitive market.
Retention rates also reflect a positive trend, rising from around 61.8% in 2013 to 72.2% in 2023. Higher retention rates indicate that students are finding value in their educational experience, which may correlate with improved graduation rates. This is particularly important as retention is often seen as a strong indicator of institutional success.
Lastly, the male-to-female ratio among undergraduate students has shifted slightly over the years, demonstrating a growing female presence in the student body. This change aligns with broader societal trends toward gender equity in education, where female enrollment has been on the rise across many institutions.
In conclusion, Nichols College is experiencing a period of growth and change, marked by rising tuition, improving graduation and retention rates, and a shift in gender demographics. These trends are critical for stakeholders to consider as they navigate the future of higher education.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Worcester, about 15 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport (PVD), about 35 mi
- Also known as
- Nichols
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Bill Pieczynski (President)
- Phone
- 8004703379
- City
- Dudley, Massachusetts
- Address
- Center Rd, Dudley, MA 01571-5000
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 80.0%, women 79.3%.
Data insights
Insights on Nichols College Admission Trends
Nichols College has demonstrated notable trends in its admission statistics over the years, reflecting broader shifts in higher education dynamics. The acceptance rates for both male and female applicants have shown fluctuations, yet there is an observable improvement in the overall admission rates, particularly for male students, which increased from approximately 63.6% in 2009 to around 84.0% in 2023. This trend could suggest a strategic effort by the college to attract more male students or a response to changing applicant demographics.
For female applicants, the acceptance rate also saw a positive trend, rising from about 68.9% in 2009 to 86.6% in 2023. The consistent increase in both rates indicates that Nichols College is becoming increasingly accessible, which may enhance its appeal among prospective students.
The enrollment figures exhibited some variability, peaking at 414 in 2014, while the most recent data shows a stable enrollment of 317 in 2023. This stability amidst fluctuating acceptance rates suggests that the college may be focusing on maintaining a certain student population size, possibly aiming for quality over quantity in its incoming classes.
Moreover, the number of denied applicants has generally decreased over the years, reflecting a more selective yet accommodating admission strategy. The data also indicates a substantial number of deferred admissions, which could be indicative of the college's desire to keep options open for prospective students who may need additional time to decide.
Overall, the admission trends at Nichols College reveal a college adapting to the changing landscape of higher education, striving for inclusivity while maintaining a solid enrollment base. As competition among colleges continues to grow, these statistics highlight the importance of strategic admissions practices in attracting and retaining a diverse student body.
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
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 · 12% submitted SAT, 1% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Test Scores and Submission Rates at Nichols College
The data from Nichols College spanning from 2007 to 2023 reveals interesting trends regarding standardized test scores and submission rates. Initially, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores remained consistently high, peaking at 96% in 2008. However, this figure has dramatically decreased to just 21% in 2023. This sharp decline may reflect broader trends in higher education where many institutions have adopted test-optional policies, allowing students to apply without standardized test scores.
In terms of test scores, the SAT reading and math scores show fluctuations over the years. The 25th percentile scores for SAT reading have shown a gradual improvement, rising from 410 in 2007 to 480 in 2022, indicating that the lower tier of admitted students has improved over time. However, the 75th percentile scores demonstrate a much more stable range, with slight variations, showing that while average scores might have improved, the top-performing students have remained relatively consistent.
The ACT scores present a similar narrative, with a noticeable increase in the lower 25% scores over the years. This reflects a changing demographic of students being admitted, potentially indicating a broader effort by the college to diversify its student body.
Overall, while the decrease in submission rates suggests a shift in the college admissions landscape, the improvements in test scores demonstrate a commitment to academic excellence amidst these changes.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
2,296 applicants in 2025, 80.8% admitted
1,856 admitted 440 not admitted Yield 18.1%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's76 (4% international)
- Organizational Leadership · Master's15 (0% international)
- Accounting · Master's15 (0% international)
- Terrorism and Counterterrorism Operations · Master's13 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Numbers at Nichols College in 2023
The data from Nichols College for the year 2023 shows a significant preference for graduate programs, particularly in fields related to business and management. Notably, the Master’s degree in Business Administration and Management saw 69 graduates, with 4% of them being international students. This trend highlights the college's strength in business education, which is likely a reflection of the growing demand for skilled professionals in this sector globally.
Conversely, the numbers for Bachelor's degrees indicate a more modest output, particularly in areas like Business/Commerce, which produced 48 graduates, but with no international representation. This raises questions about the appeal of the undergraduate programs for international students, suggesting that the college may need to enhance its marketing strategies or program offerings to attract a more diverse student body.
Interestingly, fields like Criminal Justice and Psychology show a mix of international and domestic graduates, but their overall numbers remain low, indicating potential areas for growth. For instance, the Criminal Justice program had 27 Bachelor's graduates and 3 at the Master's level, yet no international representation. This discrepancy points to the need for a deeper analysis of why certain programs are less appealing to international students.
In summary, while Nichols College excels in graduate-level business education, there appears to be an opportunity for growth in attracting international students at the undergraduate level across various disciplines. Enhancing program visibility and relevance could be crucial for the college's strategic growth and diversity in its student population.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $57,508 | ||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $50,749-$73,305 | ||
| Organizational Leadership. | $50,749-$73,305 | ||
| Accounting. | $57,747-$86,159 | ||
| Business/Managerial Economics. | - | ||
| Finance, General. | $57,783 | ||
| Investments and Securities. | $57,783 | ||
| Hospitality Administration/Management, General. | - | ||
| Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General. | - | ||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $52,721 | ||
| Digital Marketing. | $52,721 | ||
| Real Estate. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $39,416 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $45,078 | ||
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $45,078 | ||
| Terrorism and Counterterrorism Operations. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Analytics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Organizational Communication, General. | - |
Students
1,392 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 66:34 · Freshman retention 72.5%
- Continuing undergraduates 728
- First-year undergraduates 336
- Graduate students 229
- Transfers and others 99
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,163)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Nichols College for 2023
The student demographic data from Nichols College in 2023 reveals significant insights into the composition of its undergraduate and graduate populations. The total number of undergraduates, including freshmen, continuing students, and transfer students, shows a predominance of male students, with male percentages ranging from approximately 61.5% to 65.5%. This male-skewed ratio indicates that Nichols College may attract more male students, a trend that aligns with broader national patterns in higher education, where certain fields of study, particularly in STEM, tend to draw more male applicants.
The graduate student body, while smaller in number, also reflects a gender disparity, albeit with a slightly higher percentage of female students at 43.9%. This suggests that graduate programs might be more appealing to women, perhaps due to the diverse fields of study available or the increasing representation of women in professional and academic spheres.
In terms of racial and ethnic diversity, although the detailed breakdown is not fully available, the data indicates a majority of white students in all categories, highlighting a common issue in many colleges and universities across the United States. This lack of diversity raises questions about inclusivity and accessibility for underrepresented groups, particularly among Latino, Asian, and African American populations.
As Nichols College continues to evolve, addressing these demographic trends will be crucial for fostering a more inclusive campus environment. Strategies such as targeted recruitment efforts and support services for diverse student populations may be essential to enhance the overall educational experience and promote equity within the college community.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Nichols College
The age distribution of students at Nichols College in 2023 presents a diverse demographic landscape. The majority of the undergraduate population falls within the 18-19 age bracket, with a notable number of 364 males and 149 females, comprising approximately 60% of the total student body. This trend is reflective of the typical early college experience, as many students enter university directly after high school.
As we move up the age brackets, there is a gradual decline in the number of students, particularly in the 22-24 category, which includes a mix of undergraduates and graduates. The presence of 93 male graduates in this age group indicates a growing interest in advanced degrees, suggesting that students are increasingly pursuing higher education immediately after completing their undergraduate studies.
Interestingly, the 25-29 age range shows a shift with a significant number of graduate students, hinting at a pattern where individuals are returning to education later in life, possibly for career advancement or skill enhancement. This aligns with recent trends in higher education where mid-career professionals seek further qualifications to remain competitive in the job market.
Furthermore, the data highlights the continuing trend of older students, particularly those aged 30 and above, still engaging in higher education, albeit in smaller numbers. This could reflect the changing dynamics of the workforce and the necessity for lifelong learning in today's economy.
Overall, the student age composition at Nichols College showcases not only a traditional youthful demographic but also illustrates the inclusivity of education for varied age groups, thereby enriching the academic environment with diverse perspectives and experiences.
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.
32 in 2025 · 0.9% in 2016
2 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Nichols College
The data on international student enrollment at Nichols College reveals significant trends over the years, particularly in the undergraduate segment. Starting from a mere 0.21% in 2004, the percentage of international students in undergraduate programs has shown a gradual increase, peaking at 3.07% in 2022 before slightly declining to 2.92% in 2023. This steady growth reflects a wider trend in higher education, where institutions are increasingly recognizing the value of a diverse student body.
The number of international students in graduate programs has remained relatively modest, with a significantly lower percentage compared to undergraduates, reaching only 2.93% in 2021 and slightly dropping to 2.09% in 2023. This disparity raises questions about the appeal of graduate programs at Nichols College for international students, possibly indicating that the undergraduate offerings are better aligned with their expectations and needs.
It's essential to consider the broader context. The international education sector has faced challenges due to global events, including the COVID-19 pandemic, which impacted student mobility. As universities worldwide adapt to these changes, attracting international students requires strategic marketing and support services tailored to their needs. Nichols College's increasing trend in undergraduate international enrollment could be a positive indicator of its efforts in this direction.
Overall, while Nichols College demonstrates growth in international undergraduate enrollment, there is a need to enhance the appeal of graduate programs to foster a more diverse and inclusive academic environment.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$58,505
- Undergraduate tuition
- $42,705
- Room and board
- $15,800
- Graduate tuition
- $1,200
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 28% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 25%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$42.4M
Expenses$43.5M
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 · Commonwealth Coast Conference
Commonwealth Coast Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 110 | - |
| Lacrosse | 40 | 25 |
| Soccer | 30 | 35 |
| Ice Hockey | 30 | 24 |
| Baseball | 50 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 39 | 11 |
| Other Sports | 21 | 22 |
| Basketball | 18 | 16 |
| Volleyball | 18 | 16 |
| Tennis | 13 | 9 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Field Hockey | - | 20 |
| Golf | 14 | 6 |
| Cross Country | 7 | 2 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 121 | - |
| Soccer | 32 | 26 |
| Baseball | 52 | - |
| Lacrosse | 31 | 21 |
| Ice Hockey | 26 | 23 |
| Other Sports | 26 | 17 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 32 | 8 |
| Basketball | 19 | 19 |
| Volleyball | 18 | 15 |
| Tennis | 14 | 13 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Golf | 16 | 6 |
| Field Hockey | - | 13 |
| Cross Country | 12 | - |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 121 | - |
| Other Sports | 29 | 31 |
| Soccer | 32 | 25 |
| Baseball | 53 | - |
| Lacrosse | 31 | 20 |
| Ice Hockey | 26 | 23 |
| Basketball | 19 | 19 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 29 | 8 |
| Volleyball | 16 | 15 |
| Tennis | 12 | 13 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Golf | 16 | - |
| Field Hockey | - | 13 |
| Cross Country | 12 | 1 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
College of the Holy CrossWorcester · 14.8 mi
Liberal Arts #22
-
Brown UniversityProvidence · 31.0 mi
U.S. News #16
-
Wellesley CollegeWellesley · 36.2 mi
Liberal Arts #10
-
Amherst CollegeAmherst · 37.7 mi
Liberal Arts #2
-
Smith CollegeNorthampton · 40.9 mi
Liberal Arts #22
-
Boston CollegeChestnut Hill · 43.9 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Harvard UniversityCambridge · 47.4 mi
U.S. News #3
-
Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridge · 48.1 mi
U.S. News #1
-
Wesleyan UniversityMiddletown · 50.4 mi
Liberal Arts #14
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Nichols College:
-
College of the Holy Cross - Ranked 27th in the 2024 US News list, this liberal arts college is known for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Clark University - With a ranking of 142, this comprehensive university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing research and community engagement.
-
Worcester Polytechnic Institute - This university, ranked 82nd, is renowned for its engineering, technology, and science programs, combining academic rigor with hands-on learning experiences.
-
University of Connecticut - Ranked 58th, UConn is a leading public research university offering a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Brown University - As one of the Ivy League institutions, Brown is ranked 9th and is celebrated for its unique open curriculum and commitment to undergraduate teaching.
-
Amherst College - This prestigious liberal arts college is ranked 2nd and is known for its exceptional academic programs and strong emphasis on student-faculty collaboration.
-
Boston College - With a ranking of 39th, Boston College is a Jesuit university that offers a comprehensive education rooted in liberal arts.
-
Wellesley College - Ranked 4th, Wellesley is a women's liberal arts college that empowers students through a rigorous curriculum and leadership opportunities.
These institutions offer a variety of programs and are known for their academic excellence, making them excellent options for students considering higher education in the area.
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
Crime Trends at Nichols College: A Positive Shift
The crime statistics from Nichols College over the past decade reveal a significant decline in campus crime rates, which is an encouraging sign for students and faculty alike. In 2013, the average number of crimes per 1,000 students was a staggering 79.26, but this figure has steadily decreased to just 10.69 by 2023. This reduction demonstrates a commitment to enhancing campus safety and fostering a secure educational environment.
Specifically, the most notable drop occurred between 2020 and 2021, with crime rates plummeting from 22.69 to 11.20 per 1,000 students. This dramatic decrease may be attributed to various factors, including improved campus security measures, increased awareness and prevention programs, and a growing sense of community responsibility among students.
It's also worth noting the absence of serious crimes such as murder, rape, or robbery on campus during this period. Instead, the college has seen minor offenses, with the most common being alcohol-related arrests. This reflects a broader trend observed in many educational institutions, where drug and alcohol education programs are becoming more effective.
In conclusion, the downward trend in crime at Nichols College is a testament to the proactive measures taken by the administration and the cooperative spirit of the student body. As the campus continues to prioritize safety, it fosters an environment where students can focus on their studies and thrive. For further details on calculating crime rates, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Nichols College include Charles Drake (Film and television actor), Fred W. Friendly (Former president of CBS News) and Lyman T. Tingier (75th lieutenant governor of Connecticut).
-
Charles Drake 1917–1994
Film and television actor
-
Fred W. Friendly 1915–1998
Former president of CBS News
-
Lyman T. Tingier 1862–1920
75th lieutenant governor of Connecticut
-
Joseph Petty
Mayor of Worcester, Massachusetts
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.