Central Penn College
Acceptance rate
18.5%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$19,854
$27,435 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
671
Student-faculty ratio 7:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
19.1%
4-year; 6-year rate 20.6%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Central Penn College, located in Summerdale, Pennsylvania, is a private, nonprofit institution dedicated to providing a career-focused education. Established in 1881, it has a rich history of adapting to the evolving needs of its students and the job market. The college is known for its strong emphasis on practical learning and offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly in fields such as business, health sciences, and information technology. Central Penn College prides itself on its supportive and inclusive environment, where students can thrive academically and personally.
The college's motto, "Your Future Begins Here," reflects its commitment to helping students achieve their career aspirations. With a diverse range of student services, including career counseling and internship opportunities, Central Penn College is dedicated to preparing its graduates for the workforce. The institution boasts modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms and technology labs, which enhance the learning experience. Additionally, the college fosters a vibrant campus culture, with various student organizations and activities that encourage engagement and collaboration. This focus on community and student involvement not only enriches the educational experience but also prepares students for successful careers after graduation.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Central Penn College
Central Penn College, a private institution, has displayed notable trends in several critical areas over the years. One area that stands out is tuition costs. Between 2014 and 2023, in-state undergraduate tuition increased from $16,167 to $19,404, representing an increase of approximately 20%. This consistent rise in tuition may reflect broader national trends in higher education, where tuition continues to outpace inflation, raising concerns about affordability for prospective students.
Another significant metric is the retention rate, which has seen fluctuations over the years. Notably, the retention rate for undergraduate students rose sharply to 75% in 2023, indicating an improvement in student satisfaction and support systems. This upward trend is particularly encouraging, as higher retention rates are often linked to better academic outcomes and greater graduation rates.
Speaking of graduation rates, there has been some variability, with the on-time graduation rate showing a recent improvement to approximately 42% in 2023, up from a low of around 29% in 2015. This increase is crucial, as higher graduation rates can enhance the institution's reputation and attract future students.
Finally, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained relatively stable, hovering around 9 to 10 students per faculty member in recent years. This ratio is indicative of the personalized attention students may receive, which could contribute to improved retention and graduation rates.
In summary, Central Penn College's tuition increases, improving retention and graduation rates, along with a stable student-to-faculty ratio, present a mixed yet promising picture of the college's ongoing efforts to enhance educational quality and student support in a challenging economic landscape.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- In Harrisburg
- Nearest international airport
- Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), about 80 mi
- Also known as
- Central Penn
- Academic calendar
- Quarter
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Linda Fedrizzi-Williams (President)
- Phone
- 8007592727
- City
- Summerdale, Pennsylvania
- Address
- 600 Valley Road, Summerdale, PA 17025
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 85.8%, women 83.3%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Central Penn College
The admission data for Central Penn College reveals significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment figures over the years. In 2009, the acceptance rates for males and females hovered around 52% and 50% respectively, indicating a relatively competitive admission process. However, as we move through the years, a notable decline in acceptance rates can be observed, particularly between 2011 and 2013, where the male acceptance rate fell to approximately 32% and the female rate to 36%. This sharp decrease could be attributed to an increase in applications, outpacing the college's capacity to enroll students.
Interestingly, the years following 2013 show a reversal of this trend, with acceptance rates soaring to nearly 98% for both genders by 2016 and 2017. Such high rates suggest that the college may have been attempting to boost enrollment figures after a significant drop, possibly due to economic factors or changing demographics in the applicant pool.
Furthermore, the number of students enrolled has also varied considerably, peaking at 258 in 2009 and then dropping to just 78 by 2021. This decline in enrollment could reflect broader trends in higher education, where many institutions face challenges related to enrollment stability due to factors such as rising tuition costs, shifting student interests, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on college attendance.
It is also noteworthy that the rejection and deferral numbers have shown significant changes throughout the years, with a peak of 1,689 denied admissions in 2012, which aligns with the lowest acceptance rates during that period. This data highlights the dynamic nature of college admissions, emphasizing the need for institutions to adapt their strategies to attract and retain students in an increasingly competitive educational landscape.
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
Trends in Admissions Data at Central Penn College
The admissions data from Central Penn College over the years reveals a notable trend in standardized test score submissions. From 2007 to 2015, there are no reported figures for either SAT or ACT scores, indicating that either the data was not collected or students were not required to submit these scores during that period.
Starting from 2016, the college began to report scores, demonstrating a clear increase in the number of applicants submitting SAT scores. For instance, in 2017, 38% of admitted students submitted their SAT scores, which is a significant jump from the previous years. However, in the following years, the number of submissions remained relatively low, with only 4% of applicants submitting their SAT scores from 2018 onwards. This suggests a potential shift in the college’s admissions strategy or a broader trend in higher education where standardized test scores are becoming less critical for admissions decisions.
Additionally, while the score ranges for SAT reading, mathematics, and ACT composite scores are detailed, they reflect a range of performance among students. The 25th percentile and 75th percentile scores indicate a diverse range of academic preparedness among admitted students, which could be reflective of Central Penn College's approach to inclusivity and accessibility in higher education.
Overall, the data illustrates an evolving landscape in college admissions that aligns with national trends, where the emphasis on standardized testing is increasingly questioned, potentially making way for a more holistic approach to evaluating student potential.
How Hard Is It to Get In
1 in 5
1,208 applicants in 2025, 18.5% admitted
223 admitted 985 not admitted Yield 83.4%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Organizational Leadership · Master's7 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Statistics at Central Penn College in 2023
The data from Central Penn College for 2023 presents interesting insights into the distribution of graduates across various disciplines. Notably, the Business Administration and Management programs emerged as a frontrunner, with 61 bachelor's degrees awarded, indicating a strong interest in business education. This aligns with the current trend where business-related fields are often seen as versatile and lucrative career paths.
In the realm of health-related professions, while there was a significant number of graduates in the associated degree programs, such as 35 in Physical Therapy Assistant and 20 in Medical/Clinical Assistant, there were no international students graduating in these categories. This absence may reflect the challenges faced by international students in healthcare education, possibly due to stringent licensing requirements or limited access to clinical programs.
The Criminal Justice and Safety Studies program also showcased a modest success with 17 bachelor's degrees, indicating a sustained interest in law enforcement and public safety careers, which are increasingly relevant in today’s society. This trend may be influenced by ongoing national dialogues surrounding policing and justice reform.
Interestingly, the institution did not report any international graduates in the master's and doctorate levels across all fields, which raises questions about the college's appeal to international students for advanced studies. This could indicate a potential area for growth, as attracting international talent can enhance the academic diversity and cultural exchange within the college.
Overall, the graduation data reflects both the strengths and areas for potential development within Central Penn College's academic offerings. The emphasis on business and healthcare fields mirrors broader labor market trends in the United States, while the lack of international representation in higher degree programs points to opportunities for strategic recruitment initiatives.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | $55,201 | |||
| Medical/Clinical Assistant. | $43,644 | |||
| Occupational Therapist Assistant. | $43,644 | |||
| Physical Therapy Assistant. | $43,644 | |||
| Surgical Technology/Technologist. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $53,909-$71,815 | |||
| Organizational Leadership. | $53,909-$71,815 | |||
| Accounting. | - | |||
| Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies. | - | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Legal Assistant/Paralegal. | - | |||
| Legal Professions and Studies, Other. | $39,810 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $44,020 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | $56,824 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - |
Students
684 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 34:66 · Freshman retention 64.7%
- Continuing undergraduates 416
- First-year undergraduates 32
- Graduate students 13
- Transfers and others 223
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (671)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Central Penn College (2023)
The student demographic data from Central Penn College for 2023 reveals significant trends in gender and racial diversity among various student categories. The undergraduate freshmen cohort comprises 144 students, with 43.1% being male and 56.9% female. This indicates a slight female majority, which is consistent with national trends in higher education where female enrollment often surpasses that of males.
In the undergraduate junior category, the numbers expand dramatically to 619 students, with a more pronounced gender disparity—31.7% male and 68.3% female. Such a significant female presence in both freshman and junior classes suggests that the college may be attracting a more diverse and gender-balanced student body over time.
The undergraduate transfer students show a different pattern with 81 students, where males constitute 53.1%, indicating a shift towards a more balanced gender ratio. Meanwhile, the graduate student population is predominantly female, with only 20% male representation among 25 students. This trend aligns with the growing number of women pursuing advanced degrees, reflecting broader societal changes.
Racial diversity remains a crucial aspect of student demographics. However, the absence of complete data limits a comprehensive analysis of racial representation within these groups. The available details suggest a majority of white students, particularly in the undergraduate categories, which could indicate a need for further outreach to underrepresented groups.
Overall, Central Penn College's 2023 demographics demonstrate a trend toward increased female enrollment and varying gender distributions across student categories. The college may benefit from strategies aimed at enhancing racial diversity to create a more inclusive educational environment.
Demographic Insights into Central Penn College's Student Age Distribution
The age composition of Central Penn College students reveals a diverse range of ages, with a significant proportion of undergraduates, particularly among younger students. Notably, the age group of 18-19 years old accounts for a substantial number of undergraduates, with 52 male and 68 female students, making up the largest cohort of the college population. This trend is consistent with national data that suggests younger students are increasingly enrolling in higher education immediately after high school.
As we move into the next age bracket of 20-21 years, the numbers remain robust, with 51 males and 61 females. This indicates a continuation of educational paths for young adults, reflecting a societal emphasis on higher education for career advancement. However, the numbers begin to shift as students age, particularly noticeable in the 22-24 age group, where the disparity between male (27) and female (79) undergraduates becomes more pronounced.
Interestingly, the data shows a decline in enrollment numbers for both genders as students progress into their late twenties and beyond. The 25-29 age group has a notable spike in female students (136) compared to male students (58), which could suggest a trend of women returning to education or pursuing advanced degrees later in life.
The participation of older students (30 and above) also reflects changing demographics in higher education, as more adults seek to further their education while balancing work and family responsibilities. In the 35-39 age group, there are 23 males and 60 females, which could indicate a growing trend of mid-career individuals seeking additional qualifications.
Overall, Central Penn College's age distribution highlights the evolving landscape of higher education, where diversity in age can enrich the learning environment and provide varied perspectives in the classroom. This age mix could enhance peer learning opportunities and foster a more inclusive academic community.
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 · 0.0% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Central Penn College
The data from Central Penn College reveals significant shifts in international student enrollment over the years. In 2011, the undergraduate population included only one international student, resulting in a mere 0.07% of the total undergraduate body. This low representation highlights the challenges that institutions may face in attracting international talent at that time.
As the years progressed, there was a noticeable increase in international students, particularly in 2023, where the undergraduate count rose to 32 international students, constituting 3.49% of the total undergraduate population. This increase indicates a growing interest and potential success in the college's efforts to diversify its student body. However, the overall percentage remains relatively low, suggesting that there is still ample room for growth and improvement in attracting more international students.
On the graduate level, the enrollment of international students appears to be more consistent, albeit still modest. In 2017, 6.06% of graduate students were international, which slightly increased to 7.14% in 2018, but then dropped to 4.00% by 2023. This fluctuation may reflect broader trends in graduate education and the varying appeal of specific programs over the years.
Overall, while Central Penn College has made strides in increasing the number of international students, both at the undergraduate and graduate levels, the percentages remain low compared to national averages. Many institutions in the U.S. have reported higher international student enrollments, often exceeding 10% in numerous programs. Therefore, Central Penn College may benefit from implementing targeted recruitment strategies and enhancing support services for international students to further boost these numbers.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$27,435
- Undergraduate tuition
- $19,854
- Room and board
- $7,581
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 12%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$15.3M
Expenses$16.6M
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 NSCAA
| USCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 24 | 13 |
| Baseball | 34 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 10 |
| Cross Country | 5 | 3 |
| Other Sports | 3 | - |
| USCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Basketball | 20 | 13 |
| Baseball | 32 | - |
| Soccer | 18 | 12 |
| Other Sports | 9 | - |
| Cross Country | 7 | - |
| USCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 26 | - |
| Soccer | 20 | - |
| Basketball | 9 | 10 |
| Volleyball | - | 10 |
| Other Sports | 9 | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Dickinson CollegeCarlisle · 15.6 mi
Liberal Arts #54
-
Gettysburg CollegeGettysburg · 36.1 mi
Liberal Arts #54
-
Franklin and Marshall CollegeLancaster · 37.0 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
Bucknell UniversityLewisburg · 45.0 mi
Liberal Arts #29
-
Juniata CollegeHuntingdon · 58.6 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
The Pennsylvania State UniversityUniversity Park · 59.4 mi
U.S. News #55
-
Johns Hopkins UniversityBaltimore · 69.4 mi
U.S. News #9
-
University of Maryland-Baltimore CountyBaltimore · 73.4 mi
U.S. News #137
-
West Chester University of PennsylvaniaWest Chester · 74.7 mi
U.S. News #227
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding Central Penn College:
-
Dickinson College - Ranked 46th in the 2024 US News rankings, Dickinson College is a liberal arts college known for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Franklin and Marshall College - With a rank of 35, this college offers a strong liberal arts education and is recognized for its commitment to undergraduate research and student engagement.
-
Bucknell University - Ranked 30th, Bucknell is a private liberal arts university that provides a comprehensive educational experience with a focus on leadership and service.
-
Gettysburg College - This college is ranked 63rd and is renowned for its historical significance, beautiful campus, and strong emphasis on liberal arts education.
-
Muhlenberg College - With a rank of 70, Muhlenberg is known for its strong theater program and commitment to a liberal arts education that fosters critical thinking and creativity.
-
Lehigh University - Ranked 47, Lehigh is a research university that offers a blend of liberal arts and engineering programs, preparing students for diverse career paths.
-
Villanova University - With a rank of 67, Villanova is known for its strong academic programs and commitment to community service, emphasizing a well-rounded education.
-
Bryn Mawr College - This women's liberal arts college ranks 30th and is known for its rigorous academic standards and commitment to empowering women through education.
These institutions offer a variety of academic programs and vibrant campus communities, making them excellent choices for prospective students.
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 Data at Central Penn College
The crime statistics from Central Penn College over the past decade reveal notable fluctuations in the rates of various offenses per 1,000 students. Initially, in 2013, the average number of offenses stood at 12.52, but a significant spike occurred in 2014, reaching 20.05, which could indicate a potential increase in reported incidents or heightened awareness among the campus community.
The years following showed a general decline in the crime rate, hitting a low of 2.28 in 2021. This might suggest effective crime prevention strategies or improved community safety measures. However, the data for 2022 presents a stark contrast, with the average climbing to 37.04. Such a surge could raise concerns about the campus environment and the factors contributing to this increase, possibly involving external societal influences or changes in campus policy regarding reporting crimes.
It's also essential to highlight that the types of offenses reported include serious matters such as domestic violence and drug-related arrests, which warrant ongoing attention and proactive measures from campus authorities. Such spikes in crime rates should prompt further investigation into their causes and the effectiveness of existing safety protocols.
In summary, while Central Penn College has seen periods of significant improvement in crime rates, the recent increase in 2022 calls for a critical review of campus safety measures and community engagement to ensure a secure learning environment for all students. For more information on how to calculate crime rates, you can visit: Crime Rate Calculation.
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.