Adrian College
Acceptance rate
72.5%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$41,684
$61,944 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
1,673
Student-faculty ratio 16:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
39.8%
4-year; 6-year rate 48.0%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Adrian College, located in Adrian, Michigan, is a private liberal arts college known for its commitment to providing a comprehensive education that emphasizes both academic excellence and personal growth. Established in 1859, the college boasts a rich history and a vibrant campus culture that fosters an inclusive environment for students from diverse backgrounds. The college's motto, "The World is Yours," reflects its dedication to empowering students to pursue their passions and make meaningful contributions to society. Adrian College offers a wide range of undergraduate programs, including majors in business, education, and the arts, allowing students to tailor their educational experiences to their individual interests and career goals.
The campus is well-equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas, which enhance the learning experience. The college also prides itself on its strong emphasis on athletics, with a variety of sports teams competing at the NCAA Division III level. This focus on sports encourages student participation and fosters a sense of community and school spirit among the student body. Additionally, Adrian College has a robust career services department that assists students in securing internships and employment after graduation, contributing to favorable graduate employment rates. With a rich tradition, dedicated faculty, and a supportive environment, Adrian College continues to be a nurturing ground for future leaders and innovators.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Adrian College
Adrian College, a private institution, has shown notable trends in several key metrics over the years. One significant observation is the continuous increase in tuition fees. From 2014 to 2024, the cost for in-state undergraduate tuition has escalated from $30,758 to $40,556, representing a rise of approximately 32%. This consistent increase in tuition poses challenges for students and families, emphasizing the growing concern over college affordability in the United States.
Another critical metric to consider is the graduation rates. In 2023, the on-time graduation rate for undergraduates improved to 44.61%, a notable increase from 30.46% in 2021. This upward trend suggests that Adrian College has made strides in enhancing student support and academic resources, which could positively influence student outcomes and institutional reputation.
Moreover, the student retention rate has seen fluctuations but remains relatively high, with a retention rate of 67.14% reported in 2023. Retention is crucial for institutional stability and reflects student satisfaction and engagement. The college's ability to retain students is vital, especially given the competitive landscape of higher education.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has slightly improved, reaching 16:1 in 2023, which may enhance the quality of education by allowing for more personalized attention and support for students. A lower ratio can lead to better student experiences and outcomes, making Adrian College an attractive option for prospective students.
Overall, while Adrian College faces challenges related to rising tuition, its improvements in graduation rates, retention, and student-faculty ratios indicate a commitment to fostering academic success and enhancing the student experience.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Toledo, about 30 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), about 40 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- United Methodist
- President
- Jeffrey R. Docking (President)
- Phone
- 5172655161
- Address
- 110 South Madison Ave., Adrian, MI 49221-2575
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 52.7%, women 60.6%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Adrian College
Adrian College has experienced notable fluctuations in its admission statistics over the years, reflecting broader trends in higher education. The acceptance rates for both male and female applicants show a gradual decline, suggesting increasing selectivity. For instance, the male acceptance rate dropped from approximately 54% in 2009 to around 67% in 2023, while the female acceptance rate also saw a decrease in the same period.
Interestingly, despite the decreasing admission rates, the enrollment numbers have remained relatively stable, with slight variations. The college enrolled 503 students in 2009 and 507 in 2023, indicating that even with stricter admission criteria, Adrian College has maintained its capacity to attract a consistent number of students.
The number of applicants denied admission has generally increased, peaking in 2017 with over 2,300 denials. This trend aligns with the national narrative of rising competition among prospective college students, particularly in light of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has led to a surge in applications to many institutions.
Moreover, the figures reveal a significant number of students who were deferred, particularly in the years leading up to and during the pandemic. This could indicate that the college is managing its admissions process with an eye towards future enrollment, balancing the need for a diverse student body while addressing potential uncertainties in higher education.
Overall, Adrian College's admission data illustrates a strategic response to both internal and external pressures, positioning itself as a competitive choice for prospective students.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 22% submitted SAT, 5% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Data at Adrian College
The admissions data from Adrian College over the years reveals significant trends in standardized test submissions and performance. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has varied, peaking at 93% in 2023, which indicates a growing reliance on SAT scores as part of the admissions process. This increase contrasts sharply with earlier years, such as 2008, where only 8% of applicants submitted SAT scores.
In terms of performance, the SAT Reading and Math scores have shown fluctuations, with the 25th percentile and 75th percentile scores reflecting a consistent range over the years. The most recent data shows that the middle 50% of admitted students scored between 470 and 580 on the SAT, suggesting that the college is maintaining a competitive admissions standard.
The ACT submissions also present an interesting narrative, with a high submission rate of 97% in 2007, but a notable decrease in subsequent years, indicating a potential shift in applicant preferences or test-taking trends. It is also worth noting that the number of SAT and ACT submissions can correlate with broader educational trends, such as the increasing number of test-optional policies at various institutions.
Overall, Adrian College's admissions data reflects both changing applicant behaviors and the evolving landscape of college admissions, influenced by national trends in standardized testing and evaluation practices. As the admissions landscape continues to evolve, it will be crucial for institutions like Adrian College to adapt and respond to these changes effectively.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 7 in 10
2,486 applicants in 2025, 72.5% admitted
1,803 admitted 683 not admitted Yield 26.3%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's13 (8% international)
- Curriculum and Instruction · Master's10 (20% international)
- Accounting · Master's8 (0% international)
- Sport and Fitness Administration/Management · Master's8 (38% international)
- Health/Health Care Administration/Management · Master's7 (0% international)
- Athletic Training/Trainer · Master's6 (0% international)
Data insights
Trends in Graduates by Major at Adrian College
The data from Adrian College reveals insightful trends regarding graduation numbers across various disciplines. Notably, the most graduates in the Bachelor's category were in Exercise Science and Kinesiology, with 30 students earning their degrees. This reflects a growing interest in health and fitness careers, which is consistent with the broader societal emphasis on wellness and physical health.
In stark contrast, the Criminal Justice major had no bachelor's graduates but saw a substantial master's output, with 10 students graduating, including one international student. This shift could indicate a trend where students are opting for advanced degrees in fields perceived as competitive or requiring specialized knowledge, such as law enforcement.
Interestingly, the data shows a significant number of international students graduating in certain majors, particularly in the Bachelor's and Master's categories. The presence of international students in Exercise Science and Kinesiology and Criminal Justice indicates a diverse academic environment that attracts global talent, enriching the campus culture.
The absence of graduates in several other categories, such as Data Analytics and Health and Physical Education, suggests these programs may require reassessment to enhance enrollment and retention. This aligns with national trends where data-driven fields are witnessing increasing demand.
Overall, the graduation data from Adrian College highlights the evolving landscape of higher education, with a clear preference for health-related fields and advanced degrees, while also pointing to areas that may need strategic focus to foster growth and diversity in academic offerings.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $48,439 | |||
| Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management. | $48,439 | |||
| Project Management. | $48,439 | |||
| Accounting. | $69,491 | |||
| Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies. | - | |||
| Finance, General. | - | |||
| Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General. | - | |||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $53,267 | |||
| Selling Skills and Sales Operations. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $34,599 | |||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $34,599 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | |||
| Curriculum and Instruction. | - | |||
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | - | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | |||
| Mathematics Teacher Education. | $46,684 | |||
| Music Teacher Education. | $46,684 | |||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | $46,684 | |||
| Science Teacher Education/General Science Teacher Education. | $46,684 | |||
| Social Studies Teacher Education. | $46,684 | |||
| Spanish Language Teacher Education. | $46,684 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interior Design. | $38,619 | |||
| Graphic Design. | $38,619 | |||
| Musical Theatre. | - | |||
| Film/Cinema/Media Studies. | - | |||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | |||
| Music Performance, General. | - | |||
| Theatre/Theatre Arts Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $35,365 | |||
| Biochemistry. | - | |||
| Neuroscience. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $42,778 | |||
| Corrections Administration. | $42,778 | |||
| Corrections and Criminal Justice, Other. | $42,778 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | - | |||
| Athletic Training/Trainer. | - | |||
| Public Health, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | - | |||
| Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | |||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Radio and Television Broadcasting Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Japanese Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - | |||
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
1,765 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 57:43 · Freshman retention 65.4%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,046
- First-year undergraduates 475
- Graduate students 92
- Transfers and others 152
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,673)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Adrian College in 2023
Adrian College's student demographics for 2023 present a diverse picture of the student body. The undergraduate freshmen make up a significant portion with 507 students, where 58.4% are male and 41.6% are female. This slightly higher percentage of males reflects a common trend in many colleges where first-year male students often outnumber their female counterparts.
In contrast, the undergraduate juniors exhibit a more balanced gender distribution with 1,118 students, showing that 51.8% are male and 48.2% are female. This shift might indicate a growing trend of female students continuing their education and remaining engaged in their academic pursuits.
The undergraduate transfer students, while fewer in number at 63, also show a male majority at 60.3%. Meanwhile, the graduate student population is relatively small with 74 students and a nearly even gender split of 51.4% male and 48.6% female. This suggests that graduate programs at Adrian College are attracting a diverse group of individuals, potentially reflecting the increasing accessibility and appeal of graduate education across genders.
Additionally, the breakdown of students by ethnicity is noteworthy, particularly for the undergraduate freshmen, where white students represent the largest demographic. Understanding these demographics is crucial for Adrian College as it seeks to foster an inclusive environment and address the varying needs of its students. As educational institutions increasingly focus on diversity and inclusion, the data from Adrian College could serve as a valuable benchmark for future progress in achieving a more balanced and representative student body.
Analysis of Age Distribution at Adrian College in 2023
The age distribution among students at Adrian College for 2023 reveals several interesting trends. The majority of students fall within the 18-19 age group, with a total of 794 students, comprising 415 males and 379 females. This emphasizes the college's appeal to traditional-aged college students, who generally fall within this age range.
The next significant group is the 20-21 age bracket, which includes 661 students (343 males and 318 females). This suggests that many students are continuing their education right after high school, further reinforcing the trend of younger demographics dominating the college population.
As we look at older age groups, there is a noticeable decline in enrollment. The 22-24 age group has a combined total of 262 students, with a higher proportion of males (134) compared to females (100). The drop-off continues in the 25-29 age group, where only 16 students are enrolled, indicating that older students may be less represented at Adrian College.
This trend of decreasing enrollment in older age categories could reflect broader societal changes, such as the increasing number of individuals entering the workforce directly after high school or those opting for online education opportunities.
Overall, the data suggests that Adrian College primarily serves a younger student population, which aligns with many institutions of higher education, indicating a potential area for growth in attracting non-traditional students. This observation aligns with national trends in higher education where diversity in age and background is becoming increasingly essential for fostering a more inclusive educational environment.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
101 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
6 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Adrian College
The data on international student enrollment at Adrian College reveals significant trends over the years. Initially, in 2004, the college had a modest number of international undergraduates, with just 1.26% of the total undergraduate population being international students. This percentage remained relatively low, peaking slightly in 2008 at 3.97%, a notable increase attributed to an expanding global interest in U.S. higher education.
However, after 2008, there was a concerning decline in the number of international undergraduates, reaching an all-time low in 2014 and 2015, where only 0.06% of undergraduates were international students. This decline could reflect broader trends in U.S. immigration policies and global economic conditions that may have deterred international students.
Fortunately, the trend reversed in the following years. By 2022, the percentage of international undergraduates increased to 5.15%, and it rose further to 5.84% in 2023. This resurgence indicates a renewed interest in Adrian College and possibly reflects efforts by the institution to attract a more diverse student body.
On the graduate side, the proportion of international students also witnessed growth, reaching 6.76% in 2023. This growth in both undergraduate and graduate international enrollment is crucial for enhancing cultural diversity on campus and fostering global perspectives among all students. As international enrollment continues to rise, Adrian College may further strengthen its reputation as an inclusive and globally-engaged institution.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$61,944
- Undergraduate tuition
- $41,684
- Room and board
- $20,260
- Graduate tuition
- $21,874
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 24% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 98%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$57.8M
Expenses$54.7M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association
Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 177 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 92 | 72 |
| Baseball | 71 | - |
| Wrestling | 52 | 18 |
| Soccer | 30 | 30 |
| Lacrosse | 32 | 27 |
| Ice Hockey | 28 | 26 |
| Basketball | 28 | 18 |
| Volleyball | 18 | 25 |
| Other Sports | - | 36 |
| Golf | 14 | 17 |
| Tennis | 13 | 12 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Gymnastics | - | 18 |
| Bowling | 8 | 9 |
| Rowing | 5 | 11 |
| Equestrian | - | 10 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 97 | 84 |
| Football | 136 | - |
| Wrestling | 57 | 25 |
| Baseball | 75 | - |
| Soccer | 30 | 26 |
| Ice Hockey | 28 | 27 |
| Lacrosse | 35 | 20 |
| Volleyball | 20 | 29 |
| Other Sports | - | 43 |
| Basketball | 22 | 17 |
| Tennis | 13 | 15 |
| Golf | 11 | 15 |
| Rowing | 13 | 11 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Bowling | 9 | 6 |
| Gymnastics | - | 13 |
| Equestrian | - | 10 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 182 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 88 | 70 |
| Wrestling | 50 | 26 |
| Baseball | 59 | - |
| Other Sports | - | 57 |
| Ice Hockey | 30 | 26 |
| Basketball | 29 | 23 |
| Lacrosse | 32 | 20 |
| Soccer | 30 | 22 |
| Volleyball | 19 | 26 |
| Rowing | 15 | 11 |
| Tennis | 13 | 13 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Golf | 11 | 11 |
| Bowling | 14 | 6 |
| Gymnastics | - | 19 |
| Equestrian | - | 16 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of ToledoToledo · 28.3 mi
U.S. News #299
-
Hillsdale CollegeHillsdale · 29.5 mi
Liberal Arts #47
-
University of Michigan-Ann ArborAnn Arbor · 31.1 mi
U.S. News #25
-
Bowling Green State University-Main CampusBowling Green · 42.2 mi
U.S. News #276
-
University of Detroit MercyDetroit · 59.2 mi
U.S. News #186
-
Wayne State UniversityDetroit · 60.0 mi
U.S. News #186
-
Michigan State UniversityEast Lansing · 61.4 mi
U.S. News #69
-
Kalamazoo CollegeKalamazoo · 83.5 mi
Liberal Arts #74
-
Western Michigan UniversityKalamazoo · 83.9 mi
U.S. News #276
Data insights
Here are some notable schools around Adrian College:
-
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor - Ranked 21st in the 2024 US News rankings, this prestigious research university is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Hillsdale College - A top-ranked liberal arts college, Hillsdale holds the 39th position in the 2024 rankings, celebrated for its classical education and commitment to the principles of liberty.
-
University of Notre Dame - With a rank of 20, Notre Dame is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and strong focus on undergraduate education, along with its rich traditions.
-
Michigan State University - Ranked 60th, this large public research university offers a wide range of programs and is known for its research initiatives and diverse student body.
-
Kalamazoo College - This liberal arts college ranks 70th and is recognized for its strong emphasis on experiential learning and international study programs.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are great options for students considering their higher education paths.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges 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 Adrian College: A Positive Decline
The crime statistics from Adrian College over the past decade reveal a significant decline in criminal activities on campus. In 2013, the average crime rate per 1,000 students was 32.43, which has steadily decreased to an impressive 8.35 in 2023. This downward trend is particularly encouraging, reflecting both improved campus safety measures and a potential increase in community awareness.
Notably, the most pronounced drop in crime rates occurred between 2020 and 2021, where the average rate fell from 8.40 to 5.15. This decline may correlate with the overall reduction in campus activities during the pandemic, which likely limited opportunities for crime. However, the trend has continued, suggesting that safety initiatives implemented by the college and local law enforcement are yielding positive results.
Among the various types of crimes, violent offenses, such as gun-related arrests and domestic violence, have shown fluctuations but remain at lower levels compared to earlier years. The college's focus on prevention and educational programs aimed at addressing these issues could be pivotal in maintaining this positive trajectory.
As crime rates continue to decrease, Adrian College is setting a precedent for other institutions aiming to enhance safety on campus. Ongoing vigilance and proactive measures will be crucial in sustaining these improvements. For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, further insights can be found here: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Adrian College include Mike Rogers (Former US representative and House Intelligence chair), Lucien Baker (U.S. senator from Kansas) and Laurette Spang-McCook (Actress known for original Battlestar Galactica).
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Mike Rogers 1963–
Former US representative and House Intelligence chair
-
Lucien Baker 1846–1907
U.S. senator from Kansas
-
Laurette Spang-McCook 1951–
Actress known for original Battlestar Galactica
-
Henry C. Smith 1856–1911
Michigan politician and lawyer
-
Virgil Bernero 1964–
Former mayor of Lansing, Michigan
-
James Laird 1849–1889
Republican politician and lawyer
-
Rube Kisinger 1876–1941
Baseball pitcher for the Detroit Tigers
-
Pete Lund 1964–
Michigan Republican state representative
Recent News at Adrian College
Summarized daily from the school's official news. Click "Source" for the original story.
-
Adrian College Athletics hired Andrew Cates as the assistant coach of the Adrian College track and field and cross country teams.
Source: adrianbulldogs.com
No updates on this topic in this month.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.