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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Ithaca College

Ithaca, New York · www.ithaca.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

69.0%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$52,616

$68,808 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

4,268

Student-faculty ratio 10:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

69.1%

4-year; 6-year rate 74.3%

Peer median 44.6%

“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Ithaca College, located in the picturesque Finger Lakes region of New York, is renowned for its vibrant campus culture and commitment to a well-rounded education. Established in 1892, the college has grown into a prominent institution that offers a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate programs, with particular strengths in the fields of communication, health sciences, and business. The campus is nestled among beautiful natural scenery, providing students with ample opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration, which contributes to a balanced student lifestyle.

One of Ithaca College's defining features is its strong emphasis on experiential learning. The college encourages students to apply classroom knowledge to real-world situations through internships, research opportunities, and community engagement. This hands-on approach not only enriches students' academic experiences but also enhances their employability upon graduation. Ithaca College's faculty members are dedicated to mentoring students and fostering a supportive learning environment, which is reflected in the school's high retention and graduation rates. The college's mission, "To educate students for lives of purpose, meaning, and active citizenship," encapsulates its commitment to developing well-rounded individuals who are equipped to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.

Analysis of Key Educational Metrics at Ithaca College

Ithaca College, a private institution, has shown notable trends in several important educational metrics over recent years. One of the most striking trends is the increase in tuition fees. For undergraduate students, the tuition has surged from approximately $38,400 in 2014 to around $50,070 in 2024, representing an increase of over 30% in a decade. This rise in costs can significantly impact students’ financial burdens and may affect enrollment rates, particularly for those from lower-income backgrounds.

Another critical aspect is the retention rate of undergraduate students. The retention rate fluctuated between approximately 84% and 87% from 2013 to 2020. However, there was a notable drop to about 77% in 2021, which could be indicative of challenges the institution faced during the pandemic. Fortunately, the retention rate recovered slightly to approximately 83% in 2023. This is vital as higher retention rates are often associated with student satisfaction and institutional stability.

Additionally, the graduation rates have shown a positive trend. The on-time graduation rate rose from around 66% in 2014 to approximately 73% in 2023. This improvement reflects the college's commitment to enhancing student support and academic resources, which are essential for fostering student success.

Lastly, the ratio of male to female students in the undergraduate population has remained relatively balanced, with female students consistently making up a slightly larger percentage. This gender balance is essential for creating a diverse and inclusive academic environment.

In conclusion, while Ithaca College faces challenges related to rising tuition and retention, its improving graduation rates and balanced gender demographics indicate a commitment to student success and equity.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Suburb of a small city
Nearest major city
Syracuse, about 45 mi
Nearest international airport
Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR), about 50 mi
Ithaca, New York
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Dr. La Jerne Terry Cornish (President)
Phone
6072743011
City
Ithaca, New York
Address
953 Danby Road, Ithaca, NY 14850-7002

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
70.8%
Women
67.8%

In 2020: men 72.1%, women 73.2%.

Data insights

Admission Trends at Ithaca College

The admission statistics for Ithaca College over the years reveal intriguing trends in both acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Notably, the acceptance rate for male applicants has fluctuated significantly, peaking at approximately 79.4% in 2022, while the female acceptance rate has generally remained higher, reaching around 76.5% in the same year. This discrepancy points to a trend where female applicants are more likely to be accepted than their male counterparts, a pattern observed in many institutions across the United States.
The total number of enrollments also presents a noteworthy narrative. In 2010, the college enrolled over 2,000 students, but this number has seen a decline in recent years, dropping to just 992 in 2021. Such a reduction may reflect broader demographic shifts, as many colleges and universities have faced declining application pools amid changing population dynamics.
Moreover, the number of denied applications provides insight into the increasing competitiveness of the institution. For instance, in 2015, Ithaca College denied over 7,400 applicants, a number that has remained consistently high in subsequent years. This suggests that while the college is attracting a larger pool of applicants, it is also becoming increasingly selective.
Overall, the data indicates that Ithaca College is navigating a complex landscape of higher education admissions, marked by evolving acceptance rates and fluctuating enrollment figures. As institutions adapt to these changes, it will be crucial to monitor how these trends impact the diversity and quality of the student body 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

Business School#230▼5
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

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 20% submitted SAT, 5% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total1230–1390Peer median 1158
ACT composite27–30
SAT Reading
630–710
600700800
SAT Math
600–680
600700800
ACT composite
27–30
253036

Data insights

Trends in Admission Scores at Ithaca College

The admission data from Ithaca College over the years reflects a noteworthy trend in both the number of applicants submitting standardized test scores and the corresponding score ranges. From 2007 to 2023, the proportion of applicants submitting SAT scores remained high, peaking at 97% in several years, which indicates a strong reliance on standardized tests for admissions decisions during that period. However, by 2023, this figure dropped significantly to 28%, suggesting a shift in admissions strategy potentially influenced by the growing trend of test-optional policies adopted by many colleges and universities nationwide.

The SAT score range also exhibits variability. In the earlier years, the 25th percentile SAT reading score started around 530 and saw fluctuations, reaching up to 613 in 2023. The 75th percentile scores also reflect this upward trend, indicating that while the college maintained a competitive admissions process, the academic profile of admitted students has likely improved over time. The drop in test submissions alongside the increase in score ranges may suggest that Ithaca is diversifying its criteria for evaluating student potential beyond just standardized tests.

This change aligns with broader movements in higher education, where institutions are increasingly recognizing the limitations of standardized testing as predictors of student success. As colleges like Ithaca College adapt their admissions practices, it will be interesting to observe how these policies impact the diversity and academic performance of incoming classes in the coming years.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 7 in 10

12,400 applicants in 2025, 69.0% admitted

8,557 admitted 3,843 not admitted Yield 12.3%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's96338 international (3.9%)
Master's2028 international (4.0%)
Doctoral700 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
75
Cinematography and Film/Video Production
70
Radio and Television
59
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia
44
Psychology, General
40
Physical Therapy/Therapist
39
Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
37
Sports Communication
36
Occupational Therapy/Therapist
33
Film/Video and Photographic Arts, Other
31

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Physical Therapy/Therapist · Doctoral70 (0% international)
  • Occupational Therapy/Therapist · Master's58 (2% international)
  • Physician Assistant · Master's36 (0% international)
  • Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology · Master's30 (13% international)
  • Education/Teaching of Individuals with Speech or Language Impairments · Master's13 (0% international)
  • Communication Sciences and Disorders, General · Master's13 (15% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from Ithaca College 2023

The graduation data from Ithaca College for 2023 reveals interesting trends across various academic disciplines. Notably, in the fields of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy, there is a significant emphasis on doctoral programs, with 90 and 0 individuals graduating respectively at the doctorate level. This suggests a strong focus on advanced education in healthcare professions, which aligns with the growing demand for qualified healthcare practitioners in a post-pandemic world.

Additionally, the Radio and Television program produced 88 bachelor's graduates, indicating a robust interest in media and communication studies. The inclusion of one international student highlights the program's appeal even beyond domestic borders, reflecting the global nature of media industries today. Conversely, the Cinematography and Film/Video Production program graduated 77 bachelor's students with three international students, showcasing a burgeoning interest in the arts and visual media.

Interestingly, several disciplines, including Applied Economics and various language and literature programs, did not report any graduates. This raises questions about student interest and program viability in these areas. As institutions like Ithaca College adapt to evolving job markets, analyzing enrollment trends and graduate outcomes in these fields may provide insights into future curriculum development.

Overall, this data reflects the diverse interests of students and the changing landscape of higher education, particularly in healthcare and media, while also highlighting potential areas for growth and reevaluation in other disciplines.

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

Health professionshas 288 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General.-
Communication Sciences and Disorders, General.-
Physician Assistant.-
Public Health, General.-
Occupational Therapy/Therapist.$67,969-$78,233
Physical Therapy/Therapist.$67,969-$78,233
Therapeutic Recreation/Recreational Therapy.$67,969-$78,233
Visual and Performing artshas 259 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.$32,918
Technical Theatre/Theatre Design and Technology.$32,918
Acting.$32,918
Musical Theatre.$32,918
Film/Cinema/Media Studies.$30,451
Cinematography and Film/Video Production.$30,451
Documentary Production.$30,451
Film/Video and Photographic Arts, Other.$30,451
Fine/Studio Arts, General.-
Art History, Criticism and Conservation.-
Music, General.$39,343
Music Performance, General.$39,343
Music Theory and Composition.$39,343
Jazz/Jazz Studies.$39,343
Theatre/Theatre Arts Management.-
Communication has 210 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.-
Journalism.$43,230
Radio and Television.$36,278
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia.$36,278
Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication.$48,302
Organizational Communication, General.$48,302
Sports Communication.$48,302
Businesshas 112 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Business Administration and Management, General.$58,734
Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other.$58,734
Accounting.-
Finance, General.-
Educationhas 77 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Education, General.-
Education/Teaching of Individuals with Speech or Language Impairments.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
Secondary Education and Teaching.-
Agricultural Teacher Education.$54,086-$62,215
Art Teacher Education.$54,086-$62,215
Health Teacher Education.$54,086-$62,215
Music Teacher Education.$54,086-$62,215
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.$54,086-$62,215
Biologyhas 68 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$39,560
Biochemistry.-
Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology.$35,883
Psychology has 40 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.$34,362
English has 34 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
English Language and Literature, General.$36,915
Creative Writing.$33,740
Computer and information sciencehas 30 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Computer Science.$75,456
Social sciencehas 27 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Anthropology, General.-
Econometrics and Quantitative Economics.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.$40,870
Natural resources has 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Environmental Studies.$22,794
Environmental Science.$22,794
History has 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
History, General.-
Architecture has 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Architecture.-
Legal professionshas 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Legal Studies.-
Physical scienceshas 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Chemistry, General.-
Physics, General.-
Communications technologies has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Recording Arts Technology/Technician.-
Philosophy has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Philosophy.-
Religion/Religious Studies.-
Engineeringhas 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Engineering Physics/Applied Physics.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Mathematics, General.-
Cultural has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Women's Studies.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Cultural Studies/Critical Theory and Analysis.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Studies.-
Foreign languages has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Foreign Languages and Literatures, General.-

Students

4,767 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 46:54 · Freshman retention 84.7%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (4,268)

White
3,030 · 71.0%
Hispanic
487 · 11.4%
Two or more races
197 · 4.6%
Black
191 · 4.5%
International
136 · 3.2%
Asian
130 · 3.0%
Unknown
88 · 2.1%

Data insights

Analysis of Ithaca College Student Demographics in 2023

The student demographic data from Ithaca College for 2023 reveals some interesting insights regarding the composition and gender distribution among different student categories. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 1,311, with a gender distribution of approximately 45.2% male and 54.8% female, indicating a slightly higher representation of female students. Similarly, the undergraduate juniors comprise 3,187 students, also showing a similar gender split, with 44.9% male and 55.1% female.

The data for transfer students shows a smaller cohort of 103 students, maintaining a comparable gender ratio of 45.6% male to 54.4% female. However, the graduate student demographic presents a notable contrast, with only 435 students enrolled and a significantly lower male representation at 24.8%. This disparity highlights a trend where graduate programs may attract a larger percentage of female students, which is consistent with broader educational trends observed across many institutions.

Additionally, while the data includes racial and ethnic breakdowns for undergraduates and some graduate students, the absence of comprehensive data for the current year limits a deeper analysis of diversity. Nonetheless, it is crucial to recognize that Ithaca College, like many universities, continues to strive for a diverse and inclusive environment in its student body. Overall, the gender balance reflects ongoing shifts in higher education demographics, where female representation continues to grow across all levels of study.

Analysis of Age Distribution Among Ithaca College Students in 2023

The age distribution data of students at Ithaca College in 2023 reveals intriguing insights into the demographics of the student body. A significant portion of the undergraduate population falls within the 18-21 age range, with undergraduates aged 18-19 and 20-21 comprising approximately 64% of total enrollment. This trend reflects the national average for many colleges, where young adults transitioning from high school to higher education dominate enrollment figures.

Interestingly, the data indicates a stark contrast in the graduate student demographic, with very few students in the younger age brackets. The highest representation of graduate students is found in the 22-24 age range, comprising just over 29% of the total graduate population. This suggests that most graduate students at Ithaca College are likely to be in their early twenties, often pursuing advanced degrees soon after completing their undergraduate studies.

Moreover, the data shows a notable decline in student numbers in older age brackets, with only a handful of students aged 25 and above. The representation of students over 30 years old is particularly low, which may reflect a trend where older adults face additional challenges in pursuing higher education, such as balancing careers and family responsibilities.

Overall, the age distribution at Ithaca College demonstrates a youthful student body, characteristic of many institutions of higher education in the United States. This demographic profile can influence campus culture, extracurricular activities, and even academic offerings, as the institution tailors its programs to meet the needs of a predominantly younger audience.

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.

Undergraduates3.2%

136 in 2025 · 2.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 2.0%2017: 1.9%2018: 1.7%2019: 1.9%2020: 1.9%2021: 1.7%2022: 2.4%2023: 2.8%2024: 3.1%2025: 3.2%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students4.2%

21 in 2025 · 4.5% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 4.5%2017: 3.3%2018: 2.6%2019: 3.1%2020: 3.9%2021: 2.8%2022: 3.1%2023: 2.5%2024: 3.5%2025: 4.2%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Ithaca College

The data on international student enrollment at Ithaca College reveals a concerning trend over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduate students has shown significant fluctuation, peaking at 3.50% in 2005 and then gradually declining to 2.77% by 2023. This decline indicates challenges in attracting and retaining international students, which can be attributed to various factors such as changes in immigration policies, increasing competition from other institutions, and global events that affect student mobility.

For graduate programs, the situation appears to be similarly troubling. The percentage of international graduate students peaked at 9.20% in 2014 but has since diminished to just 2.53% in 2023. This substantial drop could reflect a broader trend seen across many U.S. colleges and universities, where international student enrollment has been impacted by travel restrictions and a more stringent visa process in recent years.

Moreover, the overall decline in total student enrollment at Ithaca College during this period raises questions about the institution's appeal and the effectiveness of its recruitment strategies. The decreasing numbers may also impact the campus community's diversity, which is an essential aspect of the educational experience.

As higher education institutions adapt to the evolving landscape, it will be crucial for Ithaca College to reassess its approach to international recruitment and support, ensuring that it remains a competitive choice for prospective students from around the world.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$68,808

Undergraduate tuition
$52,616
Room and board
$16,192
Graduate tuition
$33,325
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 29% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 10%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$239M

Tuition and fees
$111M46.5%
Auxiliary enterprises
$62.3M26.1%
Investment return
$46.2M19.3%
Gifts and private grants
$9.6M4.0%
Government grants and contracts
$6.2M2.6%
Sales and services of educational activities
$2.8M1.2%

Expenses$209M

Instruction
$75.5M36.0%
Auxiliary enterprises
$44.4M21.2%
Institutional support
$40.4M19.3%
Student services
$29.7M14.2%
Academic support
$16.7M8.0%
Public service
$2.0M1.0%
Research
$820K0.4%

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.

All faculty
$88,556peers $68,006
Professor
$108,630peers $78,041
Associate professor
$90,648peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$71,674peers $63,827
Instructor
$66,308peers $55,171

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Upstate Collegiate Athletic Association

Upstate Collegiate Athletic Association: football, basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field (Indoor)5755
Football107-
Track and Field (Outdoor)4957
Lacrosse4929
Rowing3536
Soccer2935
Swimming2826
Baseball44-
Basketball1518
Wrestling33-
Cross Country1814
Field Hockey-29
Other Sports-27
Softball-23
Gymnastics-21
Tennis108
Volleyball-18
Diving37
Golf-6
2024
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football116-
Track and Field (Indoor)3651
Track and Field (Outdoor)3846
Lacrosse4727
Swimming and Diving (combined)3334
Soccer3035
Rowing2833
Baseball42-
Wrestling35-
Basketball1516
Field Hockey-27
Cross Country1412
Other Sports-21
Tennis1110
Gymnastics-21
Softball-17
Volleyball-15
Golf-6
2023
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football125-
Track and Field (Indoor)4355
Track and Field (Outdoor)4545
Lacrosse4429
Rowing3039
Swimming and Diving (combined)2939
Soccer3136
Baseball42-
Basketball1716
Cross Country1616
Field Hockey-27
Wrestling26-
Gymnastics-22
Tennis1110
Softball-20
Volleyball-18
Other Sports-15
Golf-4

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools surrounding Ithaca College:

  1. Cornell University - Ranked 12th in the 2024 US News rankings, Cornell is an Ivy League institution known for its diverse programs and research opportunities.

  2. Syracuse University - With a ranking of 67, Syracuse University offers a wide range of programs and is recognized for its research initiatives and vibrant campus life.

  3. University of Rochester - Ranked 49th, the University of Rochester is known for its strong emphasis on research and its notable music program.

  4. Hamilton College - This liberal arts college ranks 16th and is renowned for its rigorous academics and beautiful campus.

  5. Colgate University - With a ranking of 21, Colgate is a prestigious liberal arts institution that emphasizes undergraduate education.

  6. Binghamton University - Ranked 73rd, this university is part of the State University of New York system and is known for its strong academic programs and research.

These institutions offer a variety of educational opportunities and are well-regarded in their respective fields.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
453
Drug referrals
170
Burglary
31
Rape
29
Fondling
26
Domestic violence
23

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Data at Ithaca College

The crime data from Ithaca College reveals a fluctuating trend in the number of incidents per 1000 students over the years. Starting with a rate of 27.79 in 2013, there was a gradual increase until 2015, where it peaked at 31.43, indicating a growing concern for student safety at that time. However, the following years presented a notable decline, particularly in 2021, where the rate dropped to 9.15, which is significantly lower than previous years. This drastic reduction may reflect effective campus safety measures or a shift in student behavior, especially during the pandemic when many students were remote.

The data also highlights specific categories of crime such as drug arrests, alcohol-related incidents, and domestic violence. The absence of on-campus gun arrests in recent years may suggest a positive trend towards a safer environment, particularly in light of national conversations regarding gun control and campus safety. Nonetheless, the presence of other incidents, such as sexual offenses and assaults, indicates that these remain critical issues that require ongoing attention.

Comparatively, the overall crime rates at Ithaca College appear relatively low when juxtaposed with national averages for college campuses, which often report higher incidences. Continuous efforts in education, prevention, and community engagement will be essential in maintaining this downward trend. As college campuses evolve, so do the safety needs of their students, necessitating a proactive approach to crime prevention.

For detailed crime rate calculations, you can visit this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.

Notable Alumni

All 60

Notable alumni of Ithaca College include Bob Odenkirk (Actor, screenwriter and comedian), David Boreanaz (Actor known for Angel and Bones) and Bob Iger (Former CEO of the Walt Disney Company).

See all 60 notable alumni of Ithaca College →

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.