College of Our Lady of the Elms
Acceptance rate
85.3%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$43,325
$58,930 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,002
Student-faculty ratio 11:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
68.1%
4-year; 6-year rate 74.8%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The College of Our Lady of the Elms, located in Chicopee, Massachusetts, is a private Catholic liberal arts college known for its commitment to academic excellence and community service. Established in 1928, the college emphasizes a strong liberal arts education that encourages critical thinking, creativity, and ethical reasoning. The school's mission is rooted in the Catholic tradition, focusing on the holistic development of students, fostering a sense of social responsibility, and promoting a lifelong commitment to learning. The college's motto, "The Truth Will Set You Free," reflects its dedication to intellectual inquiry and personal growth.
The campus boasts a vibrant community characterized by its inclusive campus culture and a wide array of extracurricular activities. Students can engage in various sports, clubs, and service opportunities, promoting a well-rounded educational experience. The faculty at the College of Our Lady of the Elms is dedicated to providing personalized attention and mentorship to students, enhancing their academic journey. The college also offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a focus on preparing graduates for successful careers in various fields. With its beautiful campus and supportive environment, the College of Our Lady of the Elms continues to cultivate a nurturing atmosphere that empowers students to thrive both academically and personally.
Discussion on Key Metrics at College of Our Lady of the Elms
The College of Our Lady of the Elms, a private institution, has shown notable trends in several key metrics over recent years. One of the most striking aspects is the rising tuition rates. From 2014 to 2024, in-state undergraduate tuition has increased from $30,172 to $42,061, reflecting a significant 39% rise over the decade. This trend mirrors the national average where college tuition has been rising steadily, contributing to the growing student debt crisis in the U.S. The rising costs may deter prospective students, especially from low-income backgrounds, from considering private education.
Another concerning trend is the decline in student enrollment. The undergraduate population has seen a decrease from 1,347 in 2014 to just 980 in 2023, a drop of approximately 27%. This reduction may raise questions about the institution's appeal and competitive standing in the higher education landscape. It is crucial for the college to understand the factors behind this decline, which could include increased competition from other institutions, changing demographics, or shifting societal attitudes towards higher education.
Additionally, the graduation rates reflect a mixed picture. The timely graduation rate for undergraduates saw a slight increase from 44.4% in 2014 to 54.5% in 2023, while the extended graduation rate (150% of the standard time) fluctuated, peaking at 72.7% in 2022. This indicates that while more students are completing their degrees on time, there remains room for improvement, particularly in support services that can help students persist and graduate.
Finally, the retention rate has varied, with a high of 85.6% in 2015 dropping to 74.6% in 2023. This decline could signify issues in student satisfaction or engagement, which are critical to retention and overall institutional health. The college must prioritize enhancing student experiences to foster a more supportive environment that encourages students to continue their education.
In summary, while the College of Our Lady of the Elms has made strides in certain areas, the rising tuition costs, declining enrollment, and fluctuating retention rates highlight critical challenges that need to be addressed for the institution to thrive in the competitive landscape of higher education.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Hartford, about 25 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Bradley International Airport (BDL), about 15 mi
- Also known as
- Elms College
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Roman Catholic
- President
- Harry E. Dumay, Ph.D. (President)
- Phone
- 4135942761
- City
- Chicopee, Massachusetts
- Address
- 291 Springfield St, Chicopee, MA 01013
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 71.1%, women 76.4%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at College of Our Lady of the Elms
The admission data from the College of Our Lady of the Elms reveals significant trends over the years, particularly in acceptance rates and enrollment numbers. Notably, the admission rates for both male and female applicants have shown fluctuations, with male acceptance rates ranging from approximately 64% to 93%, while female rates varied from about 66% to 93%. This reflects an overall competitive environment, especially in recent years.
In 2021 and 2022, there was a marked decline in both male and female acceptance rates, dropping to 66% and 64%, respectively. This trend raises questions about the factors contributing to these lower rates, potentially including increased applicant pools, changing admission policies, or broader economic challenges affecting higher education.
Interestingly, the data for 2023 indicates a resurgence in acceptance rates, with males at 93% and females at 93%. This dramatic rebound could suggest a strategic shift in the admissions approach or a targeted effort to attract a diverse range of applicants post-pandemic. The total enrollment numbers have also varied, with the highest recorded enrollment at 202 in 2012, indicating that the college has successfully adjusted its admissions strategy to meet the needs of its community.
Additionally, the number of denied applicants and those deferred has fluctuated significantly, reflecting the institution's responsiveness to changing demographics and enrollment goals. The ratio of accepted to denied students highlights the competitive nature of the admissions process, emphasizing the importance of a robust application strategy for prospective students.
Overall, these trends suggest that while challenges exist, the College of Our Lady of the Elms continues to adapt and evolve, aiming to foster a welcoming and inclusive 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
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
SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no SAT/ACT data for students admitted in 2025.
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Data at College of Our Lady of the Elms
Over the years, the admissions statistics at the College of Our Lady of the Elms reveal significant trends in standardized test score submissions and performance. From 2007 to 2023, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has shown a notable decline, dropping from 98% in 2007 to just 6% in 2023. This decline could reflect a broader trend in higher education where many institutions are moving towards test-optional policies, allowing students to apply without standardized test scores.
In terms of performance, both the SAT reading and math scores have shown fluctuations. The 25th percentile scores for reading started at 410 in 2007 and have risen to 545 in 2023, while the 75th percentile scores have increased from 510 to 665 in the same period. This indicates an upward trend in the quality of admitted students, suggesting a more competitive applicant pool over the years.
The ACT scores follow a similar pattern, with the 25th percentile score starting at 18 and climbing to 23 by 2023, demonstrating an increasing level of academic preparedness among those students who chose to submit ACT scores.
Overall, the data suggests that while fewer students are submitting scores, those who do are achieving higher results, indicating that the college may be adapting to a changing landscape in college admissions that prioritizes holistic evaluations over standardized testing. This shift could offer more opportunities for diverse applicants and reshape the future of admissions strategies.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
1,269 applicants in 2025, 85.3% admitted
1,082 admitted 187 not admitted Yield 10.9%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's30 (0% international)
- Nursing Science · Master's24 (0% international)
- Biomedical Sciences, General · Master's20 (0% international)
- Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other · Master's14 (0% international)
- Nursing Practice · Doctoral7 (0% international)
- Nursing Education · Master's5 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduates by Major at College of Our Lady of the Elms
The data from the College of Our Lady of the Elms reveals interesting insights into the distribution of graduates across various majors in 2023. Notably, the healthcare field, particularly Registered Nursing, stands out with 104 graduates, indicating a significant demand for nursing professionals. This trend aligns with national statistics showing a growing need for healthcare workers, driven by an aging population and increased healthcare access.
In contrast, majors such as Psychology and Biology have modest graduation numbers, with 27 and 13 graduates respectively, suggesting that while these fields are popular, they may not be producing as many graduates as nursing. Moreover, the absence of international students graduating in these areas highlights potential barriers for non-residents, possibly due to stringent admission policies or limited program availability.
Interestingly, the data also shows an emergence of master's programs, particularly in areas like Special Education and Business Management, where there are 27 and 15 graduates respectively. This indicates a shift towards advanced education, reflecting a broader trend where professionals seek further qualifications to enhance their career prospects in competitive job markets.
Moreover, the lack of doctoral graduates in most majors suggests that the college may focus more on undergraduate and master's level education, which could impact the institution's research output and academic reputation. Overall, this data not only sheds light on the academic landscape at the College of Our Lady of the Elms but also mirrors broader trends in higher education and labor market demands.
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 | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist. | $36,712 | ||||
| Communication Disorders Sciences and Services, Other. | $36,712 | ||||
| Medical/Health Management and Clinical Assistant/Specialist. | - | ||||
| Bioethics/Medical Ethics. | - | ||||
| Nursing Education. | - | ||||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $89,194-$122,327 | ||||
| Nursing Science. | $89,194-$122,327 | ||||
| Nursing Practice. | $89,194-$122,327 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | ||||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | $59,650 | ||||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | ||||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - | ||||
| Accounting. | - | ||||
| Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies. | - | ||||
| Financial Planning and Services. | - | ||||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - | ||||
| Marketing, Other. | - | ||||
| Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other. | $88,868 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $38,893 | ||||
| Biomedical Sciences, General. | $38,893 | ||||
| Biotechnology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | $45,509 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - | ||||
| Computer Graphics. | - | ||||
| Computer Software and Media Applications, Other. | - | ||||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | $40,127 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $37,829 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $38,969 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sociology, General. | - |
Students
1,268 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 28:72 · Freshman retention 76.0%
- Continuing undergraduates 650
- First-year undergraduates 118
- Graduate students 266
- Transfers and others 234
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,002)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at College of Our Lady of the Elms in 2023
The student body composition at the College of Our Lady of the Elms for 2023 reflects some noteworthy trends in gender and diversity. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there is a significant majority of female students, with 68.3% identifying as women compared to 31.7% as men. This trend continues with upperclassmen, who exhibit an even higher female representation at 74.5%. The graduate student population also shows a similar pattern, with women accounting for 78.3% of the cohort.
The diversity within these groups, particularly among the undergraduate freshmen, indicates a predominance of white students, but it is essential to observe the varying ratios across different ethnic backgrounds. The representation of other ethnic groups, such as Asian and Latinx students, appears to be relatively limited. This could reflect broader trends in higher education where certain racial and ethnic groups may face barriers to entry or retention.
Interestingly, the data on transfer students also shows a significant disparity in gender representation, with 77.1% being female, suggesting that women are more likely to transfer into this institution. This trend might indicate that the college is perceived as a supportive environment for female students.
In conclusion, while the College of Our Lady of the Elms showcases a strong presence of female students across all categories, ongoing efforts are necessary to enhance ethnic diversity and inclusivity within its student body. The institution may benefit from programs aimed at attracting and retaining a more diverse population, ensuring that all students feel represented and supported in their academic pursuits.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at College of Our Lady of the Elms
The age composition data from the College of Our Lady of the Elms reveals interesting trends in the demographic makeup of its student body. A significant proportion of students are in the younger age brackets, particularly those under 18 and between 18-19 years old, comprising approximately 28.4% and 54.4% of the total female students, respectively. This suggests that the college is attracting a substantial number of traditional college-age students, reflecting a broader trend in higher education where younger individuals are enrolling directly after high school.
As we examine the age groups, we can see a gradual decline in the number of students as age increases. For example, the 22-24 age group has 58 male students and 95 female students, while the 25-29 age group shows a notable drop, with only 25 male students and 128 female students. This decline could indicate that older age groups might be either less likely to pursue undergraduate studies or are opting for graduate programs instead.
Moreover, the data shows a higher representation of female students across nearly all age categories, especially in the 25-29 and 30-34 age ranges, where female enrollment is notably higher than male enrollment. This aligns with national trends indicating that women are increasingly pursuing higher education, often outpacing men in enrollment rates.
The presence of graduate students in the older age brackets, particularly those aged 22-24 and 25-29, highlights the college's role in facilitating advanced education for those seeking to further their careers or change fields. Overall, the College of Our Lady of the Elms appears to be fostering a diverse academic environment that accommodates both traditional and non-traditional students, particularly benefiting women in their educational pursuits.
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.
16 in 2025 · 0.5% in 2016
5 in 2025 · 0.5% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at the College of Our Lady of the Elms
The data on international student enrollment at the College of Our Lady of the Elms reveals significant trends over the years. Initially, in 2004, the percentage of undergraduate international students was remarkably low at just 0.12%. However, there was a notable increase in subsequent years, peaking at 1.03% in 2013. This growth indicates a gradual and increasing interest from international students in pursuing their undergraduate studies at this institution.
In contrast, the graduate program has shown fluctuating enrollment figures. The percentage of international students reached a high of 1.88% in 2020, reflecting a growing appeal of the college's graduate offerings. However, this was followed by a decline in 2021 and 2022, indicating potential challenges in attracting international graduate students in recent years.
The overall trend suggests that while there have been periods of growth in the international student population, particularly among undergraduates, stability and retention seem to be areas that need attention. The impact of global events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, could have influenced these fluctuations, as many international students faced travel restrictions and uncertainties regarding studying abroad.
Moving forward, the college may benefit from strategies aimed at enhancing its international presence and support systems for international students. As global competition for international students intensifies, especially among U.S. institutions, it will be crucial for the College of Our Lady of the Elms to adapt and innovate to sustain and grow its international student enrollment.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$58,930
- Undergraduate tuition
- $43,325
- Room and board
- $15,605
- Graduate tuition
- $17,670
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 34% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 33%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$34.1M
Expenses$30.8M
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 · Great Northeast Athletic Conference
Great Northeast Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 29 | 25 |
| Baseball | 35 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 15 |
| Volleyball | 12 | 12 |
| Field Hockey | - | 17 |
| Softball | - | 15 |
| Lacrosse | - | 13 |
| Cross Country | 2 | 8 |
| Swimming | 1 | 7 |
| Golf | 5 | - |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 34 | 29 |
| Basketball | 20 | 18 |
| Baseball | 37 | - |
| Lacrosse | 22 | 13 |
| Volleyball | 12 | 12 |
| Field Hockey | - | 13 |
| Softball | - | 13 |
| Swimming | 2 | 5 |
| Cross Country | 2 | 5 |
| Golf | 5 | - |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 22 | 28 |
| Basketball | 22 | 18 |
| Baseball | 37 | - |
| Volleyball | 14 | 11 |
| Field Hockey | - | 14 |
| Lacrosse | - | 14 |
| Softball | - | 11 |
| Swimming | 2 | 4 |
| Golf | 5 | - |
| Cross Country | 1 | 4 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Mount Holyoke CollegeSouth Hadley · 7.9 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
Smith CollegeNorthampton · 12.3 mi
Liberal Arts #22
-
Amherst CollegeAmherst · 16.5 mi
Liberal Arts #2
-
Trinity CollegeHartford · 27.6 mi
Liberal Arts #31
-
Wesleyan UniversityMiddletown · 40.7 mi
Liberal Arts #14
-
College of the Holy CrossWorcester · 41.1 mi
Liberal Arts #22
-
Williams CollegeWilliamstown · 50.0 mi
Liberal Arts #1
-
Connecticut CollegeNew London · 58.5 mi
Liberal Arts #47
-
Yale UniversityNew Haven · 59.8 mi
U.S. News #4
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near the College of Our Lady of the Elms:
-
Amherst College - Ranked 2nd among liberal arts colleges in the 2024 US News rankings, Amherst College is known for its rigorous academics and strong emphasis on undergraduate education.
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Smith College - With a ranking of 16, Smith College is one of the prestigious Seven Sisters colleges and offers a vibrant community for women focused on leadership and academic excellence.
-
Wellesley College - Ranked 4th, Wellesley College is renowned for its academic rigor and beautiful campus, providing an empowering environment for women to excel in various fields.
-
Mount Holyoke College - As the first of the Seven Sisters, Mount Holyoke College is ranked 34th and is celebrated for its diverse student body and commitment to women's education.
-
Williams College - Topping the list of liberal arts colleges at rank 1, Williams College is known for its outstanding faculty and exceptional academic programs.
-
Yale University - A prestigious Ivy League institution, Yale is ranked 5th and offers a wealth of resources and opportunities for research and professional development.
These institutions are recognized for their academic excellence and unique offerings, making them excellent options for students seeking higher education in the region.
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 Data at College of Our Lady of the Elms
The crime statistics at the College of Our Lady of the Elms over the past decade reveal significant fluctuations in the rates of various offenses. Notably, the overall crime rate per 1000 students has shown a downward trend from 2013, with a peak of 12.4 incidents per 1000 students, to a striking low of only 0.15 in 2022. This decline is commendable and may reflect effective campus safety measures and community engagement strategies.
However, it is essential to analyze the specific types of offenses recorded. The data indicates a variety of incidents, including arrests for drug-related offenses and incidents of assault. For instance, the year 2018 saw a rise in arrests related to drug offenses, which could point to an underlying issue that needs addressing through educational programs and preventive measures.
The absence of reported incidents in certain years, particularly in 2022, raises questions about the transparency of reporting practices or real improvements in campus safety. The recent uptick in 2023, with a crime rate of 1.57 per 1000 students, suggests that vigilance is necessary to maintain the progress made.
Overall, while the college has made strides in reducing crime rates, continuous efforts are vital to ensure student safety. Implementing targeted initiatives focused on awareness and prevention can help sustain this positive trend and further reduce the incidence of crime on campus. For more on calculating crime rates, refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of College of Our Lady of the Elms include Mike Lima (American soccer player), Shirley Arriaga (Massachusetts state representative) and Joan Hartley (Connecticut state senator).
-
Mike Lima 1985–
American soccer player
-
Shirley Arriaga
Massachusetts state representative
-
Joan Hartley
Connecticut state senator
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.