Marietta College
Acceptance rate
79.3%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$39,652
$52,948 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
1,023
Student-faculty ratio 10:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
43.9%
4-year; 6-year rate 50.4%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Marietta College, located in the picturesque town of Marietta, Ohio, is a private liberal arts college known for its rich history and commitment to academic excellence. Established in 1835, it is one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the Northwest Territory. The college prides itself on its strong emphasis on experiential learning, which is evident in its diverse array of programs that encourage students to engage in hands-on experiences, internships, and research opportunities. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, Marietta College fosters a close-knit academic environment where personalized attention and mentorship are paramount.
The college's vibrant campus culture is characterized by a variety of extracurricular activities, including over 100 student organizations, which cater to a wide range of interests and passions. Marietta College is also known for its strong athletic programs, competing at the NCAA Division III level, promoting not only physical fitness but also teamwork and school spirit among students. The institution’s commitment to community service and civic engagement further enriches the student experience, as students are encouraged to participate in volunteer opportunities that enhance their personal growth and community ties. With a stunning campus nestled along the banks of the Ohio River, Marietta College offers a beautiful and inspiring setting for students to thrive academically and socially.
Analysis of Tuition, Enrollment, and Graduation Rates
Marietta College has experienced significant fluctuations in tuition rates and student enrollment over the years. The tuition for in-state undergraduate students has steadily increased from $31,940 in 2014 to $38,874 in 2024. This represents an increase of approximately 21.5% over the decade. Such increases in tuition can be attributed to a variety of factors, including inflation, rising operational costs, and the increasing demand for quality education. This trend is concerning, especially given that many students and families are burdened by student debt, which has become a prominent issue in the current educational landscape.
In terms of enrollment, the number of undergraduate students has seen a significant drop from 1,487 in 2013 to just 1,109 in 2023. This decline in enrollment could be indicative of several issues, including increased competition from other institutions, changes in demographic trends, or even a decrease in the perceived value of the education offered. The declining numbers also raise questions about the sustainability of the institution and its ability to maintain diverse and vibrant academic programs.
Graduation rates provide additional insight into the overall health of the institution. The timely graduation rate for undergraduates has fluctuated, with a peak of 56.5% in 2018, followed by a decline to 50.4% in 2023. This drop in graduation rates could suggest potential challenges in student retention and support services, which are critical for helping students complete their degrees in a timely manner.
Overall, while Marietta College continues to increase tuition, it faces challenges in enrollment and graduation rates, which could impact its long-term viability and reputation. Addressing these issues will be essential for the college to thrive in an increasingly competitive educational environment.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Town near a city
- Nearest major city
- Columbus, about 90 mi
- Nearest international airport
- John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), about 90 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Kathleen Dougherty (President)
- Phone
- 8003317896
- Address
- Irvine Bldg, Marietta, OH 45750
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 71.0%, women 70.6%.
Data insights
Analysis of Marietta College Admission Trends
The admission data for Marietta College reveals intriguing trends over the years. Notably, the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants have fluctuated significantly. For instance, in 2009, the acceptance rate for males was approximately 74.6%, while the female acceptance rate was around 80.1%. This indicates a relatively competitive admission landscape, especially for male applicants.
As we progress through the years, there is a general downward trend in male acceptance rates, hitting a low of about 59.4% in 2017. Meanwhile, female acceptance rates have also shown variability, with a noticeable dip to approximately 64.7% in the same year. The data suggests that as the years pass, Marietta College has become increasingly selective, possibly due to a rise in the number of applications—evidenced by the increasing number of denied applications.
Interestingly, the enrollment numbers have also shifted. The highest recorded enrollment was 393 students in 2013, but by 2023, this number had decreased to 321, indicating a potential decline in attractiveness or a strategic decision to limit enrollment for maintaining educational quality.
Overall, the combination of fluctuating acceptance rates and changing enrollment figures may reflect broader trends in higher education, where institutions balance selectivity with the need to attract a diverse and capable student body. In the context of national discussions about college admissions, these patterns at Marietta College highlight the ongoing challenges and strategic decisions faced by higher education institutions today.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 12% submitted SAT, 49% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Scores at Marietta College
The admission data from Marietta College over the years reveals an intriguing trend in the academic profiles of incoming students. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting standardized test scores has fluctuated significantly, peaking in 2021 when 83% of applicants provided SAT scores. This spike coincides with a national trend of increased test submissions due to the pandemic, where many institutions temporarily adopted test-optional policies.
When examining the SAT reading and math scores, there is a noticeable variation in the 25th and 75th percentile scores across the years. For instance, in 2021, the 25th percentile SAT reading score was at 500, with the 75th percentile reaching 630. This represents a competitive range, indicating that Marietta College attracts a diverse pool of high-achieving students. However, the subsequent years show a decline in both the number of applicants and their corresponding scores, particularly in 2022 and 2023, where the percentage of test-takers dropped to 16% and 19%, respectively.
This decline may reflect broader changes in college admissions strategies, as many institutions continue to evaluate the necessity of standardized tests. As colleges reassess their requirements in light of equity and accessibility, it will be interesting to see how Marietta College adapts to these shifts while maintaining its academic standards. The data suggests a potential challenge in sustaining a strong applicant pool, which may impact the institution's reputation and selectivity in the coming years.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
2,218 applicants in 2025, 79.3% admitted
1,759 admitted 459 not admitted Yield 13.4%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Physician Assistant · Master's34 (0% international)
- Psychology, General · Master's8 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Programs at Marietta College
The data from Marietta College for the year 2023 highlights some significant trends in graduate degree completions across various fields. Notably, the Physician Assistant program stands out with 35 graduates at the master's level, indicating a robust interest and demand for this profession, particularly in the healthcare sector. The absence of bachelor's or doctoral graduates in this field suggests a specialized pathway focused on advanced training rather than undergraduate preparation.
Another interesting observation is in the field of Petroleum Engineering, which produced 27 bachelor's graduates, along with 2 international students. This aligns with the ongoing global energy transition and the increasing demand for skilled professionals in engineering disciplines, especially as the industry adapts to sustainable practices.
In contrast, the data reveals a lack of graduates in fields such as Computer and Information Sciences, Political Science, and Special Education, where the numbers are either zero or non-existent. This could reflect broader trends in job market demands, where certain fields may not attract enough interest or enrollment to produce graduates.
Moreover, the absence of associate degree completions across various programs indicates a possible shift towards more advanced degrees, reflecting a growing emphasis on higher education credentials in the workforce. As the job market evolves, institutions may need to adapt their offerings to better align with student interests and industry needs.
Overall, the trends from Marietta College provide valuable insights into educational pathways and workforce preparation in key sectors, particularly in healthcare and engineering, while also highlighting areas that may require more attention or realignment 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 | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $44,414 | ||
| Accounting. | - | ||
| Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies. | - | ||
| Finance, General. | - | ||
| Actuarial Science. | - | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $48,047 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health and Wellness, General. | - | ||
| Physician Assistant. | $107,566 | ||
| Music Therapy/Therapist. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - | ||
| Journalism, Other. | - | ||
| Communication Management and Strategic Communications. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering. | - | ||
| Petroleum Engineering. | $87,881 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Biochemistry. | - | ||
| Neuroscience. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | - | ||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | ||
| Technical Theatre/Theatre Design and Technology. | - | ||
| Acting. | - | ||
| Musical Theatre. | - | ||
| Fine Arts and Art Studies, Other. | - | ||
| Music, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Planetary Astronomy and Science. | - | ||
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - | ||
| Environmental Science. | - | ||
| Land Use Planning and Management/Development. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - | ||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economics, General. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
Students
1,109 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 53:47 · Freshman retention 69.4%
- Continuing undergraduates 685
- First-year undergraduates 235
- Graduate students 86
- Transfers and others 103
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,023)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Marietta College in 2023
The demographic composition of Marietta College in 2023 reveals intriguing insights into the student population. Among the new undergraduate students, there are 321 enrolled, with a notable male representation of 58.3% compared to 41.7% female. This indicates a slight male majority in this category, which is consistent with trends observed at many institutions where STEM-related fields attract more male students.
The continuing undergraduate students number 724, showing a more balanced gender distribution with 48.5% male and 51.5% female. This shift towards gender parity may suggest an evolving campus culture and a more inclusive environment for all students.
The transfer students, although fewer in number at 19, also exhibit a higher male representation at 52.6%. Meanwhile, the graduate student population, standing at 89, shows a stark contrast, with only 20.2% male students and a significant 79.8% female students. This may reflect broader gender trends in graduate education, where women increasingly pursue advanced degrees, particularly in the humanities and social sciences.
The data highlights a predominance of white students across all categories, with 255 new freshmen identifying as white, alongside 605 continuing students. This demographic trend points to a continued need for diversity initiatives within the college to foster a more inclusive environment for underrepresented groups.
Overall, the student composition at Marietta College presents a complex landscape of gender dynamics and racial demographics, underscoring the importance of ongoing efforts to enhance diversity and support across all levels of education.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Marietta College
The age composition of students at Marietta College reflects a vibrant and diverse academic environment, with the majority of students falling within the traditional undergraduate age range of 18 to 24 years. Notably, the largest cohort comprises students aged 18-19, with 270 male undergraduates and 245 female undergraduates, which illustrates a strong influx of first-year students. This trend is crucial as it indicates the college's ability to attract new talent, especially in these formative years.
Moving to the 20-21 age bracket, there are 204 male undergraduates and 237 female undergraduates. This gender balance suggests that the college is fostering an inclusive environment, particularly at the undergraduate level. However, as students progress into the 22-24 age range, we observe a decrease in overall numbers, with a total of 152 students aged 22-24, indicating potential challenges in retention or shifts toward graduate studies.
Graduate students show a different demographic trend, particularly in the 22-24 age group, with 13 male graduates and 48 female graduates. This may reflect wider societal trends where women increasingly pursue advanced degrees, a phenomenon supported by various studies indicating higher enrollment rates of women in graduate programs nationally.
The presence of older students, particularly those in their thirties and beyond, is minimal, with only a handful of students above the age of 30. This observation aligns with national trends where younger adults dominate college campuses. Overall, Marietta College's student age composition reveals a dynamic educational landscape, underscoring the importance of understanding these demographics to enhance recruitment and retention strategies moving forward.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
26 in 2025 · 13.5% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 1.2% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Marietta College
The data on international student enrollment at Marietta College over the years reveals significant trends and fluctuations that merit discussion. Starting from 2004, the proportion of international undergraduate students has generally increased, peaking at 17.09% in 2018. This growth reflects a broader trend in higher education, where institutions increasingly value diversity and the perspectives that international students bring.
However, the latter years, particularly from 2020 to 2023, show a concerning decline in both the number and percentage of international undergraduates. The percentage fell dramatically from 7.45% in 2020 to just 2.07% in 2023. This decline may be attributed to several factors, including global events that affect student mobility, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions that restrict travel and educational opportunities. The implications of this decrease are significant for the college, as international students often contribute to campus diversity, cultural exchange, and financial stability through tuition fees.
On the graduate level, the data is less consistent, with many years lacking complete figures. Nonetheless, the sparse data suggests that international graduate enrollment has also faced challenges, with a notable increase in 2008, only to see a lack of data in subsequent years. The absence of robust graduate enrollment figures may indicate a need for Marietta College to enhance its recruitment strategies for international graduate students.
In conclusion, while Marietta College has successfully attracted a notable number of international undergraduates in the past, recent trends highlight a pressing need for renewed efforts to bolster international student recruitment and support. This is crucial not only for the institution's diversity goals but also for its overall educational mission.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$52,948
- Undergraduate tuition
- $39,652
- Room and board
- $13,296
- Graduate tuition
- $11,300
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 16% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 23%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$47.0M
Expenses$48.9M
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 · Ohio Athletic Conference
Ohio Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 125 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 60 | 45 |
| Soccer | 36 | 33 |
| Lacrosse | 30 | 20 |
| Baseball | 43 | - |
| Basketball | 21 | 22 |
| Rowing | 30 | 9 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Volleyball | - | 20 |
| Golf | 8 | 8 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 75 | 36 |
| Football | 110 | - |
| Soccer | 35 | 28 |
| Rowing | 39 | 15 |
| Baseball | 47 | - |
| Basketball | 24 | 21 |
| Lacrosse | 23 | 22 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Golf | 10 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Tennis | 5 | 5 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 115 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 54 | 42 |
| Soccer | 32 | 28 |
| Lacrosse | 25 | 23 |
| Rowing | 29 | 16 |
| Basketball | 21 | 20 |
| Baseball | 39 | - |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Tennis | 8 | 10 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Golf | 8 | 8 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Ohio University-Main CampusAthens · 35.3 mi
U.S. News #202
-
Denison UniversityGranville · 72.8 mi
Liberal Arts #31
-
West Virginia UniversityMorgantown · 81.1 mi
U.S. News #227
-
Washington and Jefferson CollegeWashington · 82.7 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
Kenyon CollegeGambier · 83.1 mi
Liberal Arts #41
-
Ohio State University-Main CampusColumbus · 92.1 mi
U.S. News #44
-
College of WoosterWooster · 99.6 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
Robert Morris UniversityMoon Township · 100.6 mi
U.S. News #219
-
Duquesne UniversityPittsburgh · 104.5 mi
U.S. News #156
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Marietta College:
-
Ohio University-Main Campus - Ranked 178 in the 2024 US News rankings, Ohio University is a comprehensive public university located in Athens, Ohio. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Denison University - This liberal arts college is ranked 39th in the 2024 US News rankings. Denison University, located in Granville, Ohio, is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Kenyon College - Another liberal arts college, Kenyon is also ranked 39th in the 2024 US News rankings. Located in Gambier, Ohio, Kenyon is renowned for its rigorous academics and beautiful campus.
-
Carnegie Mellon University - A prestigious institution ranked 24th in the 2024 US News rankings, Carnegie Mellon is located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It is well-known for its programs in engineering, computer science, and the arts.
-
Oberlin College - Ranked 51st in the 2024 US News rankings, Oberlin College is a liberal arts college in Oberlin, Ohio, recognized for its commitment to diversity and social justice in education.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities within a short distance from Marietta College, making the area rich in academic resources.
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
Analysis of Crime Rates at Marietta College
The crime rates at Marietta College have shown significant fluctuations over the years from 2013 to 2023. The average crime rate per 1000 students peaked in 2015 at 29.20, driven by a rise in various offenses, including drug-related arrests and alcohol offenses. This spike could reflect broader trends in campus safety, where increased awareness and reporting of incidents may contribute to higher recorded figures.
Interestingly, in 2018, the average crime rate dropped to 11.70, highlighting a potential improvement in campus safety or a more effective response to such issues. However, this was followed by an uptick in subsequent years, with the rate reaching 31.42 in 2021. This resurgence might correlate with evolving social dynamics and the impact of external factors, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw shifts in behavior among students.
The data also indicates a steady presence of specific offenses, such as assault and theft, which are common in many college settings. The consistent reporting of these incidents emphasizes the need for ongoing community awareness and preventative measures.
Overall, while Marietta College has made strides in managing crime, the fluctuating rates suggest that continuous efforts are necessary to ensure student safety. Understanding these trends can help in formulating strategies to enhance campus security and foster a safer academic environment. For further insights on calculating crime rates, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of Marietta College include Charles G. Dawes (30th US Vice President and Nobel Peace Prize co-recipient), Story Musgrave (Physician and NASA astronaut) and Nick Gehlfuss (Actor known for Shameless and a starring TV role).
-
Charles G. Dawes 1865–1951
30th US Vice President and Nobel Peace Prize co-recipient
-
Story Musgrave 1935–
Physician and NASA astronaut
-
Nick Gehlfuss 1985–
Actor known for Shameless and a starring TV role
-
Carte Goodwin 1974–
2010 US senator from West Virginia
-
William Irwin 1827–1886
13th Governor of California
-
Theodore Earl Butler 1861–1936
Impressionist painter who worked in Paris
-
C. William O'Neill 1916–1978
59th governor of Ohio and judge
-
Bernice Eddy 1903–1989
Virologist known for discoveries on polyomavirus SV40
-
Albert B. White 1856–1941
11th Governor of West Virginia
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.