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Public, 4-year

Keene State College

Keene, New Hampshire · www.keene.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

90.3%

2025

Peer median 80.5%

Out-of-state tuition

$26,840

In-state $14,784

Peer median $17,955

Undergraduates

2,725

Student-faculty ratio 17:1

Peer median 14 : 1

Graduation rate

53.3%

4-year; 6-year rate 59.3%

Peer median 26.9%

“Peers” are all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Keene State College, located in Keene, New Hampshire, is a vibrant institution known for its commitment to providing a holistic educational experience. The college offers a diverse range of undergraduate programs, with a strong emphasis on liberal arts education. Keene State is particularly recognized for its programs in education, environmental studies, and the arts, attracting students who are passionate about making a difference in their communities. The college's campus is characterized by beautiful natural surroundings, which not only enhance the learning environment but also provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities, fostering a strong sense of community among students.

Keene State College prides itself on its strong sense of community and student engagement. The college encourages students to participate in various extracurricular activities, including numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic programs. The school’s motto, "Enter to Learn, Leave to Succeed," reflects its dedication to preparing students for successful careers and active citizenship. With a supportive faculty and robust student services, Keene State ensures that students have access to the resources they need to thrive both academically and personally. The college's commitment to sustainability and social responsibility is evident in its programs and initiatives, making it a progressive choice for students looking to impact the world positively.

Analysis of Key Data Trends at Keene State College

Keene State College has experienced significant shifts in several key areas over the past decade, reflecting broader trends in higher education. One notable aspect is the steady increase in tuition costs, particularly for out-of-state undergraduate students. In 2014, out-of-state tuition was $20,161, while by 2024, it is projected to reach $26,186. This growth of approximately 30% in just ten years poses a financial burden that could deter prospective students, especially in an era where student debt is a growing concern.

Conversely, the number of undergraduate students enrolled has seen a consistent decline, dropping from 4,926 in 2013 to just 2,737 by 2023. This 44% decrease raises questions about the college's appeal and market competitiveness, particularly against a backdrop of rising tuition. The decreasing enrollment may reflect broader demographic trends or shifts in student preferences towards alternative education models.

In terms of student outcomes, retention rates have shown a positive trend, increasing from 76.0% in 2013 to 76.8% in 2023. This improvement suggests that once students are enrolled, they are more likely to continue their education at Keene State, indicating effective support systems and engagement strategies in place. Additionally, graduation rates have remained relatively stable, with the timely graduation rate hovering around 53% in recent years, which is commendable but still leaves room for improvement.

Lastly, the gender ratio among undergraduate students has shifted slightly, with the proportion of male students increasing from around 43% in 2013 to approximately 47% in 2023. This subtle change reflects ongoing efforts to promote gender diversity and may contribute to a more balanced educational environment.

In conclusion, while Keene State College continues to face challenges such as rising tuition and declining enrollment, its focus on retention and gender equity highlights its commitment to improving the student experience. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the college’s future viability and attractiveness to potential students.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Distant town
Nearest major city
Worcester, about 50 mi
Nearest international airport
Bradley International Airport (BDL), about 70 mi
Keene, New Hampshire
Also known as
KSC
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Dr. Melinda Treadwell (President)
Phone
6033521909
City
Keene, New Hampshire
Address
229 Main Street, Keene, NH 03435-1506

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 80.5% · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
88.4%
Women
91.7%

In 2020: men 85.8%, women 90.1%.

Data insights

Trends in Admissions at Keene State College

The admission data for Keene State College over the years reveals significant trends in both male and female acceptance rates, as well as overall enrollment numbers. From 2009 to 2023, the acceptance rates for male applicants have shown a general upward trend, peaking at approximately 88.5% in 2021, while the female acceptance rates have remained consistently higher, reaching around 92.1% in the same year. This disparity could suggest an institutional focus on increasing female enrollment, as seen in many colleges across the United States.
The overall enrollment numbers have fluctuated, demonstrating a peak in 2009 with 2,442 students, but gradually declining to 709 students by 2023. This decline raises questions about the changing landscape of higher education and potential shifts in student preferences or demographics. The significant number of applicants being denied admission each year, particularly in 2011 when 1,973 were rejected, indicates a competitive admissions environment, which could be reflective of broader trends in college admissions nationwide, where institutions are becoming increasingly selective.
Moreover, the data demonstrates a notable increase in the number of deferred applications, which reached as high as 3,890 in 2012. This could imply that the college is adopting a more strategic approach to managing its applicant pool, allowing for flexibility in admissions decisions.
Overall, Keene State College's admission trends reflect the evolving dynamics of higher education, where factors such as gender, selectivity, and enrollment strategies play crucial roles in shaping the student body. As the college navigates these changes, it will be interesting to see how it adapts its policies to meet the demands of prospective students in the coming years.

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

Social Sciences and Humanities1 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

SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.

Data insights

Analysis of SAT and ACT Scores at Keene State College

The data from Keene State College reveals notable trends in standardized testing performance and submission rates from 2007 to 2023. Over the years, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has generally remained high, with figures often reaching above 90%. However, a significant drop is evident in 2022 and 2023, where only 16% of admitted students submitted SAT scores. This could reflect a broader trend in higher education where institutions are increasingly becoming test-optional, a movement accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Looking at the score ranges, the SAT Reading and Math scores have shown slight fluctuations. For instance, the 25th percentile score in 2012 was around 450, but it has improved to 500 by 2022. This upward trend in scores indicates that the quality of applicants may be rising, or that the college is attracting a more academically prepared student body.

Interestingly, the average scores reported for ACT composite, English, and Math have also varied, showing an overall steady performance within the 25th to 75th percentile range. The consistency in these scores suggests that while the demographics of the applicant pool may be changing, the academic readiness of those who do submit scores remains relatively stable.

As colleges and universities continue to adapt their admission policies, the implications of these trends may lead to shifts in how academic performance is evaluated, potentially placing more emphasis on holistic admissions processes rather than solely standardized test results. This could ultimately affect the diversity and academic landscape of institutions like Keene State College in the years to come.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 9 in 10

5,314 applicants in 2025, 90.3% admitted

4,800 admitted 514 not admitted Yield 14.5%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's6796 international (0.9%)
Master's390 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Psychology, General
66
Business Administration and Management, General
61
Occupational Safety and Health Technology/Technician
50
Elementary Education and Teaching
38
Cinematography and Film/Video Production
26
Computer and Information Sciences, General
24
Architecture
23
Exercise Science and Kinesiology
23
Corrections and Criminal Justice, Other
18
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
18

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Occupational Safety and Health Technology/Technician · Master's13 (0% international)
  • Curriculum and Instruction · Master's11 (0% international)
  • Holocaust and Related Studies · Master's6 (0% international)
  • Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's5 (0% international)
  • History, General · Master's4 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduate Degrees at Keene State College

The data from Keene State College reveals some intriguing trends in graduate degrees awarded across various disciplines in 2023. Notably, the field of Psychology stands out with a total of 56 bachelor's degrees conferred, indicating a strong interest in this area among students. This aligns with broader national trends, where psychology consistently ranks as one of the most popular undergraduate majors in the United States, reflecting a growing awareness of mental health issues.

In the realm of international students, Business Administration also shows promise, with one international student graduating with a bachelor's degree. This could suggest an increasing interest in American business education from international students, particularly in light of global economic trends that favor skilled business professionals. The presence of international students in this program could also enhance cross-cultural understanding and collaboration in the business sector.

Interestingly, other fields, such as Elementary Education, Architecture, and Corrections and Criminal Justice, have no advanced degrees awarded, indicating potential gaps in graduate offerings or student demand for further study in these areas. This might suggest that graduates are entering the workforce directly after their undergraduate studies, which could have implications for future educational programming at the institution.

Overall, the data highlights a concentration of graduates in specific fields while revealing areas where further academic development may be beneficial. Understanding these trends can inform curriculum development and support services to better meet the needs of current and prospective students at Keene State College.

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

Visual and Performing artshas 91 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Dance, General.-
Commercial and Advertising Art.$36,830
Graphic Design.$36,830
Technical Theatre/Theatre Design and Technology.$35,315
Acting.$35,315
Film/Cinema/Media Studies.-
Cinematography and Film/Video Production.-
Art/Art Studies, General.-
Fine/Studio Arts, General.-
Music, General.-
Music Performance, General.-
Music Theory and Composition.-
Music Technology.-
Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management, General.-
Engineering technologieshas 85 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Occupational Safety and Health Technology/Technician.$69,475
Construction Engineering Technology/Technician.-
Engineering/Engineering-Related Technologies/Technicians, Other.$53,192
Educationhas 78 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Curriculum and Instruction.-
Educational Leadership and Administration, General.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.$44,520
Secondary Education and Teaching.$44,520
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.$44,520
Mathematics Teacher Education.$41,486
Music Teacher Education.$41,486
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.$41,486
Drama and Dance Teacher Education.$41,486
Businesshas 76 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$51,317
Finance, General.-
Construction Management, General.-
Psychology has 66 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$41,876
Parks, recreation, leisure has 43 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General.$36,694
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.$36,694
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.$36,694
Health professionshas 38 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Health and Wellness, General.$36,669
Substance Abuse/Addiction Counseling.-
Public Health, General.-
Dietetics/Dietitian.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$72,463
Social sciencehas 30 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Economics, General.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.$43,572
Sociology and Anthropology.-
Computer and information sciencehas 28 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Computer and Information Sciences, General.$54,184
Computer Software and Media Applications, Other.-
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 25 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General.-
Holocaust and Related Studies.$37,477
Sustainability Studies.-
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.-
Architecture has 23 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Architecture.$55,083
Communication has 21 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.$48,233
Cultural Journalism.-
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia.$36,314
Public Relations/Image Management.-
Biologyhas 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$42,707
Neuroscience.-
Homeland security has 18 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Corrections and Criminal Justice, Other.$46,622
History has 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
History, General.$39,015
English has 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.$42,798
Natural resources has 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Environmental Studies.$37,136
Physical scienceshas 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.-
Physics, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-
Applied Mathematics, Other.-
Liberal arts has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.-
Legal professionshas 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Legal Studies.-
Foreign languages has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Spanish Language and Literature.-
Science technologies has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Science Technologies/Technicians, General.-

Students

2,848 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 49:51 · Freshman retention 78.7%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,725)

White
2,257 · 82.8%
Hispanic
151 · 5.5%
Unknown
89 · 3.3%
Two or more races
78 · 2.9%
Black
65 · 2.4%
Asian
37 · 1.4%
International
33 · 1.2%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
1.2%
18–19
43.5%
20–21
43.0%
22–24
9.5%
25 and over
2.8%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.0%
22–24
13.8%
25–29
25.2%
30–34
13.0%
35 and over
48.0%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Keene State College in 2023

The student composition at Keene State College for the year 2023 reveals a diverse body of learners, with a total of 2,816 students categorized into various classifications, including undergraduate freshmen, undergraduate upperclassmen, undergraduate transfer students, and graduate students. Among these, undergraduate upperclassmen represent the largest cohort, making up about 67% of the total student body, while undergraduate freshmen account for approximately 25%.

Gender distribution shows a slight female predominance across all categories, with women comprising 54.7% of the overall population. Interestingly, the graduate student category exhibits the highest female representation at 61.5%, suggesting that graduate programs may be particularly appealing to female students. Conversely, undergraduate transfer students have a higher male percentage at 61.1%, which might indicate specific trends in this demographic's educational journey.

The racial and ethnic breakdown of the student body is also noteworthy. While detailed data on the racial composition of each category remains limited, it is evident that the majority of students identify as White. This raises questions about inclusivity and representation, especially in light of ongoing national conversations regarding diversity in higher education.

Overall, Keene State College's demographics reflect a typical pattern seen in many American colleges, where female students often outnumber males, especially at the graduate level. The data underscores the importance of fostering an inclusive environment that supports the diverse needs of all students while actively working towards increasing representation from underrepresented groups.

Age Composition of Keene State College Students in 2023

The age distribution data from Keene State College presents an interesting view of the student demographic for 2023. The majority of students fall into the 18-19 and 20-21 age brackets, with 530 male undergraduates and 681 female undergraduates in the 18-19 category. This reflects a common trend in higher education where younger individuals are typically more represented, as they transition directly from high school to college.

Additionally, the data shows a notable decline in enrollment for students aged 22-24, where there are 173 male undergraduates and 105 female undergraduates. This could suggest that a significant portion of students either graduate within this timeframe or choose to enter the workforce instead of pursuing further education. The presence of graduate students in the 22-24 age group is also minimal, indicating that this age range may not be the most common for pursuing advanced degrees.

Interestingly, the data for older age groups reveals that there are still students pursuing education beyond traditional college years. For instance, there are male and female graduate students aged 30-34 and even a few in the 50-64 bracket. This aligns with the growing trend of lifelong learning, where individuals seek to enhance their skills or shift careers at various life stages.

Overall, Keene State College's student age composition reflects broader trends in higher education, with a strong representation of traditional college-age students, while also highlighting the importance of accommodating non-traditional students. Such diversity in age can enrich the academic environment and promote a culture of shared experiences and knowledge.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Undergraduates1.2%

33 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 0.1%2018: 0.1%2019: 0.2%2020: 0.3%2021: 0.4%2022: 0.4%2023: 0.5%2024: 0.5%2025: 1.2%
2016Peer median 1.4%2025
Graduate students0.0%

0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 0.9%2018: 1.2%2019: 1.5%2020: 0.0%2021: 0.9%2022: 0.0%2023: 3.0%2024: 3.9%2025: 0.0%
2016Peer median 1.0%2025

Data insights

International Student Trends at Keene State College

The data regarding international students at Keene State College reveals significant fluctuations over the years, particularly in undergraduate enrollment. In 2004, international students made up a modest 0.76% of the undergraduate population, but this percentage has dramatically decreased in subsequent years, reaching a low of just 0.02% in 2013. This downward trend continued until 2020, when there was a slight resurgence with 0.33%, showing a potential recovery post-2019.

Interestingly, the graduate student population appears to have a more stable representation of international students, especially in recent years. The percentage of international graduate students peaked at 2.96% in 2023, indicating a growing acceptance and integration of international scholars in the graduate programs, which could be attributed to the global push for diverse academic environments.

This data highlights the challenges faced by institutions in attracting international students, especially during global crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which may have impacted travel and enrollment. It also underscores the importance of targeted recruitment strategies to enhance diversity on campus. As higher education becomes increasingly globalized, institutions like Keene State College must adapt to these changes to foster a vibrant international community that enriches the academic experience for all students. Overall, while there are promising signs of recovery, it remains essential for the college to actively work on increasing its international student enrollment to ensure a well-rounded educational environment.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$40,606

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$26,840
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$14,784
Room and board
$13,766
Graduate tuition
$14,058
Out-of-state tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $29,573 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Tuition rose 26% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 42%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$102M

Auxiliary enterprises
$29.6M29.1%
Government grants and contracts
$29.0M28.5%
Tuition and fees
$27.0M26.6%
Investment return
$8.4M8.3%
Gifts and private grants
$2.7M2.7%
Sales and services of educational activities
$437K0.4%
Other
$4.4M4.4%

Expenses$102M

Instruction
$32.4M31.7%
Auxiliary enterprises
$21.4M20.9%
Student services
$14.7M14.4%
Institutional support
$13.1M12.8%
Academic support
$10.8M10.5%
Research
$9.8M9.5%
Public service
$3K0.0%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

All faculty
$92,611peers $72,709
Professor
$105,271peers $91,112
Associate professor
$87,928peers $77,091
Assistant professor
$73,864peers $65,783
Lecturer
$56,847peers $60,650

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Little East Conference

Little East Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)6879
Lacrosse5220
Soccer3427
Ice Hockey2924
Baseball40-
Basketball1815
Field Hockey-27
Swimming and Diving (combined)-23
Golf1111
Other Sports-20
Softball-19
Volleyball-16
Swimming11-
2024
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)8078
Lacrosse5421
Soccer3127
Swimming and Diving (combined)1921
Baseball37-
Basketball1618
Other Sports1812
Field Hockey-25
Softball-18
Volleyball-17
Golf96
2023
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)5463
Lacrosse5120
Soccer3028
Baseball38-
Basketball1718
Field Hockey-27
Swimming and Diving (combined)-20
Swimming19-
Volleyball-17
Golf86
Softball-13
Other Sports--

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable institutions near Keene State College:

  1. University of Massachusetts-Amherst - Ranked 67th in the 2024 US News rankings, UMass Amherst is a comprehensive university known for its diverse programs and research opportunities.

  2. Amherst College - This prestigious liberal arts college is ranked 2nd in the nation, offering a rigorous academic environment and a strong commitment to undergraduate education.

  3. Smith College - Ranked 16th, Smith College is another leading liberal arts institution for women, providing a rich array of academic programs and a vibrant campus life.

  4. Williams College - Topping the liberal arts college rankings at 1st, Williams College is renowned for its exceptional faculty and strong emphasis on student engagement in learning.

  5. Dartmouth College - With a ranking of 18th, Dartmouth is an Ivy League institution that combines the intimacy of a liberal arts college with the resources of a research university.

  6. Brandeis University - Ranked 60th, Brandeis is a research university with a commitment to social justice and a strong emphasis on liberal arts education.

These schools offer a variety of academic opportunities and are recognized for their excellence in education.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.9 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
935
Drug referrals
363
Liquor arrests
55
Fondling
10
Dating violence
10
Rape
8

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Keene State College

The crime data from Keene State College over the past decade reveals a notable trend in campus safety and student behavior. The average number of infractions per 1,000 students has shown a significant decline from 2013 to 2023. In 2013, the rate was 71.49, which peaked in 2015 at 78.27. However, by 2023, this figure had dropped to 43.66, indicating a commendable effort towards improving campus safety and possibly reflecting enhanced community engagement and support systems.

One of the concerning categories, drug arrests, has seen fluctuations, with a peak in 2015, coinciding with a general trend of rising awareness and stricter policies regarding substance abuse on campuses. The decline in overall crime rates might suggest successful implementation of preventive measures, educational programs, and possibly a shift in student culture towards more responsible behavior.

Domestic violence, assault, and theft also contribute to the overall crime statistics. The reduction in these areas can be attributed to increased awareness, reporting mechanisms, and campus resources geared towards prevention and support for victims.

While the data indicates improvements, continuous monitoring and proactive measures are essential for maintaining a safe educational environment. The transition to a safer campus is a collective responsibility, and as these statistics show, the efforts are indeed making a positive impact. For further understanding of crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Keene State College include Molly Kelly (Democratic New Hampshire state senator), James M. Burt (US Army officer and Medal of Honor recipient) and Ernest Hebert (Author of the Darby Chronicles novel series).

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.