Franklin Pierce University
Acceptance rate
93.5%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$46,442
$62,990 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
997
Student-faculty ratio 13:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
47.2%
4-year; 6-year rate 51.7%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Franklin Pierce University, located in Rindge, New Hampshire, is known for its picturesque campus and strong commitment to academic excellence. Established in 1962, the university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a particular strength in liberal arts, business, and education. The institution is dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, which is reflected in its small class sizes and personalized attention from faculty members. The university's motto, “The Truth Will Make You Free,” underscores its commitment to academic integrity and the pursuit of knowledge, encouraging students to think critically and engage with the world around them.
The university is also recognized for its vibrant campus life, with numerous extracurricular activities and organizations that cater to a diverse student body. Franklin Pierce takes pride in its athletic programs, particularly its NCAA Division II sports teams, which promote teamwork and school spirit among students. The campus is home to various state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, a comprehensive library, and recreational centers that enhance both academic and student life. Graduates of Franklin Pierce University are well-prepared for the workforce, with many finding successful careers in their chosen fields, thanks in part to the university's strong emphasis on experiential learning and internships that connect students with local businesses and organizations.
Tuition Trends and Student Outcomes at Franklin Pierce University
Franklin Pierce University has shown a significant upward trend in tuition fees over the years, reflecting a broader national trend in higher education costs. For instance, undergraduate tuition has increased from $31,000 in 2014 to $44,963 in 2024, marking an increase of approximately 45% in just a decade. This escalation in costs can place a substantial financial burden on students and families, often leading to increased student debt. The rising tuition is coupled with a consistent tuition rate for graduate students, which has also seen an increase from $15,492 in 2014 to $40,049 in 2024, highlighting an alarming trend in graduate education costs.
In terms of student demographics, the undergraduate enrollment has shown a decline, dropping from 1,737 students in 2013 to just 1,118 students in 2023. This trend raises questions about the university's appeal and the impact of rising costs on prospective students. Interestingly, the retention rate has improved slightly, reaching 73.7% in 2023, which may indicate that those who do enroll are satisfied with their experience, despite the rising costs.
Moreover, the graduation rates have exhibited some variability, with the on-time graduation rate fluctuating over the years and reaching 47.3% in 2023. This statistic is critical as it reflects the institution's effectiveness in supporting students through to graduation. The combination of high tuition and modest graduation rates may deter potential students, especially when considering the financial investments they must make.
Overall, Franklin Pierce University illustrates the complex dynamics between rising educational costs, enrollment challenges, and student success metrics, which are increasingly pivotal in shaping the future of higher education institutions in the United States.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Rural, distant
- Nearest major city
- Worcester, about 40 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), about 60 mi
- Also known as
- Franklin Pierce College, Franklin Pierce, FPU, Pierce
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Peter Eden (President)
- Phone
- 6038994000
- City
- Rindge, New Hampshire
- Address
- 40 University Drive, Rindge, NH 03461-0060
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 62.5%, women 69.6%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Franklin Pierce University
The admission data from Franklin Pierce University reveals some interesting trends over the years. Notably, the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants have fluctuated significantly from 2009 to 2023. In 2009, the male acceptance rate was approximately 78.43%, and the female acceptance rate was around 76.24%. Fast forward to 2023, the male acceptance rate has improved to about 93.10%, while the female acceptance rate remains high at 92.41%. Such increases indicate a potential shift in the university's admission policy or an increase in the applicant pool's competitiveness.
The enrollment figures also tell a compelling story, as the university witnessed a peak in enrollment in 2017 with 635 students, despite the lower acceptance rates in the following years. This suggests that even as the university became more selective, it managed to attract a substantial number of students. However, the number of denied applicants rose sharply, peaking in 2018 with 1,330 denials, which could reflect both an increase in applications and a more stringent selection process.
Moreover, the number of students deferring their admission has varied, hinting at changing student priorities or external factors affecting their immediate enrollment decisions. The consistent rise in acceptance rates, particularly in recent years, could suggest that Franklin Pierce University is becoming a more attractive choice for prospective students, potentially as a response to broader trends in higher education, such as increased competition among institutions or shifts in educational demand post-pandemic.
In conclusion, the admission data indicates a positive trend for Franklin Pierce University, suggesting improved opportunities for incoming students while also reflecting the broader dynamics of college admissions in the current educational landscape.
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
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Health Specialty1 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 · 9% submitted SAT, 1% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Test Scores at Franklin Pierce University
The admission data from Franklin Pierce University reveals some interesting trends in standardized test scores over the years, particularly with the SAT and ACT. From 2007 to 2016, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores remained consistently high, often above 90%. However, a significant drop is observed from 2017 onwards, where the submission rate fell dramatically to just 52% in 2017 and has continued at that level through 2022. This decline may reflect broader national trends where many institutions have moved towards test-optional admissions policies, allowing students to apply without standardized test scores.
The score ranges for the SAT reading and math sections show a general trend of stability, with the 25th percentile scores fluctuating between 420 and 480 and the 75th percentile scores ranging from 520 to 610. Notably, the score thresholds seem to have increased slightly over the years, suggesting that while fewer students are submitting scores, those who do tend to perform at a higher level.
Such shifts can have significant implications for the university's admissions strategy and overall academic profile. As the landscape of college admissions evolves, Franklin Pierce University may need to adapt its criteria to attract a diverse pool of applicants while maintaining academic standards. Furthermore, this data underscores the importance of holistic admissions processes that consider a student’s overall potential beyond just test scores, especially in a time when standardized testing is being questioned for its effectiveness and equity.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
2,373 applicants in 2025, 93.5% admitted
2,218 admitted 155 not admitted Yield 13.2%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Physical Therapy/Therapist · Doctoral105 (0% international)
- Physician Assistant · Master's61 (0% international)
- Organizational Leadership · Master's19 (21% international)
- Nursing Practice · Master's12 (0% international)
- Nursing Administration · Master's8 (0% international)
- Sport and Fitness Administration/Management · Master's6 (17% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Franklin Pierce University
The graduation data from Franklin Pierce University highlights several interesting trends across various disciplines for 2023. Notably, the data reveals a strong emphasis on health-related programs, with a significant number of graduates in areas such as Physical Therapy, Health Services, and Nursing. For instance, the Doctorate in Physical Therapy has produced 91 graduates, indicating a robust demand for advanced healthcare professionals in today's job market. This aligns with the ongoing global focus on health and wellness, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Moreover, the data shows that Business Administration remains a popular choice among students, with multiple categories attracting a total of 44 graduates. This reflects a consistent interest in business education, which is likely fueled by the evolving landscape of the job market that favors versatile skill sets in management and operations.
Another noteworthy aspect is the limited number of international students graduating in various programs. For example, while there are a handful of international students graduating in Business Administration and Health Services, most programs do not showcase a significant international presence. This could indicate potential barriers to entry for international students or perhaps a need for improved recruitment strategies to attract a more diverse student body.
Lastly, the absence of graduates in several fields, particularly in the arts and humanities, may suggest a trend away from these disciplines. As the job market increasingly favors STEM and health-related fields, institutions may need to reassess their offerings and support systems to ensure that students in these areas can thrive and find employment after graduation. Overall, the data reflects the university's alignment with market demands while also pointing towards areas that may require strategic development in the future.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | $35,139 | ||||
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | $61,479 | ||||
| Health and Medical Administrative Services, Other. | $61,479 | ||||
| Physician Assistant. | $118,286 | ||||
| Health Services Administration. | - | ||||
| Physical Therapy/Therapist. | $77,038 | ||||
| Nursing Education. | - | ||||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $87,279-$90,871 | ||||
| Nursing Administration. | $87,279-$90,871 | ||||
| Nursing Practice. | $87,279-$90,871 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $49,108-$66,009 | ||||
| Organizational Leadership. | $49,108-$66,009 | ||||
| Accounting. | $56,262 | ||||
| Accounting and Finance. | $56,262 | ||||
| Accounting and Business/Management. | $56,262 | ||||
| Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General. | - | ||||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $37,132 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $40,298 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | $30,217 | ||||
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | - | ||||
| Sports Communication. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | ||||
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | - | ||||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | ||||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | ||||
| English/Language Arts Teacher Education. | - | ||||
| Social Studies Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $40,189 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | $41,462 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Music, General. | - |
Students
1,654 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 52:48 · Freshman retention 74.3%
- Continuing undergraduates 658
- First-year undergraduates 290
- Graduate students 657
- Transfers and others 49
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (997)
Data insights
Student Demographics at Franklin Pierce University in 2023
The student body composition at Franklin Pierce University in 2023 reflects a diverse and evolving academic community. The total enrollment of undergraduate freshmen stands at 318, showcasing a slight male predominance with 50.3% male and 49.7% female students. This balance indicates a welcoming environment for both genders among new entrants, aligning with broader trends in higher education where institutions strive for gender parity.
In contrast, the undergraduate upperclassmen population is significantly larger, comprising 752 students. However, this group exhibits a noteworthy gender imbalance, with males making up 43.9% and females at 56.1%. This shift in gender ratios could be indicative of various factors, including retention rates and the different experiences of male and female students within the university.
The transfer student demographic is considerably smaller, with only 45 students, and a striking majority of 64.4% are female. This may suggest that female students are more likely to pursue transfer opportunities, potentially reflecting broader societal trends where women seek diverse educational paths.
Graduate enrollment stands at 545 students, again skewed towards females at 61.3%. This trend is consistent with national statistics showing that women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees.
Overall, Franklin Pierce University’s student demographics highlight an encouraging trend towards gender diversity and inclusion, particularly among new and transfer students. The university's efforts to foster an equitable educational environment will be crucial in attracting and retaining a diverse student population in the coming years.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Franklin Pierce University
The age demographic data from Franklin Pierce University in 2023 reveals a diverse student body, predominantly consisting of traditional college-age students. The largest group is those aged 18-19, with 238 male undergraduates and 285 female undergraduates, making up a significant portion of the total enrollment. This aligns with trends seen in many universities, where younger students dominate the undergraduate population.
As we examine the age brackets of 20-21 and 22-24, we observe a slight decline in numbers, particularly among males. Interestingly, the 22-24 age group experiences a notable increase in graduate males, indicating a shift towards advanced education as students progress in their academic journeys.
Furthermore, the data demonstrates a steady decline in student numbers as age increases, particularly for those over 30. This trend reflects broader societal dynamics where older individuals may pursue education later in life, often balancing work and family commitments. However, it is encouraging to see representation across all age groups, including a few students over 65, which highlights the inclusivity of educational opportunities.
Overall, the gender distribution is relatively balanced, although there are more females, particularly in the undergraduate category. This trend mirrors growing female participation in higher education, a pattern observed nationally. As institutions continue to adapt to the evolving educational landscape, understanding these demographics will be crucial for developing policies and programs that meet the diverse needs of their student populations.
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.
48 in 2025 · 2.8% in 2016
25 in 2025 · 2.5% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Franklin Pierce University
The data on international student enrollment at Franklin Pierce University reveals significant trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of international undergraduate students has fluctuated, with a notable decrease in the total undergraduate population from 1,591 in 2004 to 1,118 in 2023. Despite this decline, the percentage of international students among undergraduates has shown some resilience, hovering around 3% to 3.5% in recent years. This stability suggests that while overall enrollment may be decreasing, the university is still attracting a consistent number of international students.
In contrast, the enrollment of international graduate students has experienced more variability. The percentage of international students in graduate programs peaked at 8.35% in 2011 but has since declined significantly, reaching as low as 0.37% in 2019. This decline could be attributed to various factors, including changes in immigration policies, global events affecting student mobility, and competition from other institutions.
The recent years, particularly 2022 and 2023, show a slight recovery in the number of international graduate students, with percentages of 5.82% and 4.95% respectively. This could indicate an emerging trend where the university is beginning to regain its appeal to international graduate students after a challenging period.
Overall, Franklin Pierce University has faced challenges in maintaining its international student enrollment, particularly at the graduate level. However, the consistent presence of international undergraduates suggests that the university still holds some attraction for students from abroad. As global conditions continue to evolve, the university may need to adapt its strategies to better support and recruit international students.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$62,990
- Undergraduate tuition
- $46,442
- Room and board
- $16,548
- Graduate tuition
- $41,600
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 39% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 32%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$53.1M
Expenses$54.4M
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 · Northeast 10 Conference
Northeast 10 Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 110 | 65 |
| Football | 99 | - |
| Soccer | 52 | 45 |
| Basketball | 42 | 18 |
| Ice Hockey | 28 | 27 |
| Baseball | 51 | - |
| Lacrosse | 30 | 20 |
| Golf | 17 | 6 |
| Field Hockey | - | 19 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Tennis | 8 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Rowing | - | 10 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 94 | 56 |
| Football | 100 | - |
| Soccer | 48 | 39 |
| Ice Hockey | 33 | 27 |
| Lacrosse | 32 | 23 |
| Baseball | 49 | - |
| Basketball | 22 | 17 |
| Golf | 16 | 9 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Field Hockey | - | 21 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Tennis | 8 | 7 |
| Rowing | - | 11 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 100 | 63 |
| Soccer | 51 | 38 |
| Football | 85 | - |
| Ice Hockey | 30 | 23 |
| Lacrosse | 28 | 24 |
| Baseball | 43 | - |
| Basketball | 22 | 15 |
| Golf | 15 | 10 |
| Field Hockey | - | 22 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Tennis | 9 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Rowing | - | 14 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Amherst CollegeAmherst · 36.6 mi
Liberal Arts #2
-
College of the Holy CrossWorcester · 39.6 mi
Liberal Arts #22
-
Smith CollegeNorthampton · 43.5 mi
Liberal Arts #22
-
Wellesley CollegeWellesley · 51.0 mi
Liberal Arts #10
-
Tufts UniversityMedford · 54.3 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Boston CollegeChestnut Hill · 54.7 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Harvard UniversityCambridge · 55.4 mi
U.S. News #3
-
Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridge · 57.1 mi
U.S. News #1
-
Williams CollegeWilliamstown · 58.3 mi
Liberal Arts #1
Data insights
Here are some notable schools around Franklin Pierce University:
-
University of Massachusetts-Amherst - Ranked 67th in the 2024 US News rankings, UMass Amherst is a comprehensive university known for its research programs and diverse academic offerings.
-
Amherst College - A prestigious liberal arts college, Amherst is ranked 2nd and is renowned for its rigorous academics and strong emphasis on undergraduate education.
-
Worcester Polytechnic Institute - With a rank of 82, WPI is a comprehensive university that specializes in engineering and technology, providing a hands-on approach to learning.
-
Clark University - Ranked 142nd, Clark University is recognized for its strong programs in social sciences and humanities.
-
Smith College - As one of the top liberal arts colleges, ranked 16th, Smith offers a vibrant community and a commitment to women's education.
-
Wellesley College - Wellesley is highly regarded, ranking 4th among liberal arts colleges, and is known for its strong academic programs and influential alumnae.
-
Harvard University - One of the most prestigious universities globally, Harvard is ranked 3rd and offers a wide array of programs across various fields of study.
-
Massachusetts Institute of Technology - MIT is ranked 2nd and is known for its cutting-edge research and innovation in science and technology.
These institutions not only contribute to a rich educational landscape but also offer diverse opportunities for collaboration and advancement in various fields.
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 Trends at Franklin Pierce University
The crime statistics from Franklin Pierce University over the past decade reveal notable fluctuations in the crime rate per 1,000 students. From a peak in 2016, when the average was 97.49 incidents per 1,000 students, there has been a significant decline in recent years, culminating in a low of 16.32 in 2022. This drop is particularly striking, indicating that the university has possibly implemented effective safety measures and community programs that have contributed to a safer campus environment.
Examining specific types of offenses, there has been a marked reduction in severe crimes such as assault and drug-related arrests, which is encouraging. For instance, the data shows no gun-related arrests in the recent years, suggesting a positive trend in campus safety. However, the presence of incidents like domestic violence and stalking remains a concern, albeit at lower rates compared to previous years.
While the overall trend is promising, it is essential to remain vigilant. The figures indicate that crime rates can fluctuate significantly year by year. Continuous efforts to foster a safe campus culture, alongside active engagement with local law enforcement, are vital. Students should also be educated about personal safety and encourage reporting of any suspicious activity.
In conclusion, Franklin Pierce University appears to be moving in a positive direction concerning campus safety, but the community must stay proactive to maintain and improve these results in the future. For further information on how these crime rates are calculated, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Franklin Pierce University include Temple Grandin (Animal scientist and advocate for humane livestock handling), Henry Simmons (Actor in Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and NYPD Blue) and Johannah Leedham (British women's national team basketball player).
-
Temple Grandin 1947–
Animal scientist and advocate for humane livestock handling
-
Henry Simmons 1970–
Actor in Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and NYPD Blue
-
Johannah Leedham 1987–
British women's national team basketball player
-
Rebekah Harkness 1915–1982
Composer, philanthropist, founder of the Harkness Ballet
-
Félix Brillant 1980–
Canadian former soccer player and coach
-
James Thorpe 1985–
Soccer player
-
José Macías 1972–
Panamanian former professional baseball player
-
Seamus Donnelly 1971–
Irish footballer who played in the United States
-
David Bellavia 1975–
Iraq War veteran awarded the Medal of Honor
More alumni (7, by field)
Politics and law
-
Michael Downing 1954–2015
Rockingham County sheriff and former New Hampshire senator
Arts and media
-
Dayton Duncan 1949–
Screenwriter and producer, collaborator of Ken Burns
Sports
-
Mike Lima 1985–
American soccer player
-
Jimmie Hunt 1982–
Professional basketball player
-
CeCé Telfer
Athlete; first openly transgender NCAA champion
-
Chris Joyce 1982–
English footballer
-
Nathalie Geeris 1971–
Dutch women's football player
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.