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U.S. News #100 Private nonprofit, 4-year

Lycoming College

Williamsport, Pennsylvania · www.lycoming.edu

中文

U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027

#100

Down 4 from 2026

Acceptance rate

74.1%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$49,804

$64,416 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

1,012

Student-faculty ratio 10:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

54.8%

4-year; 6-year rate 63.8%

Peer median 45.1%

“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Lycoming College, located in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, is a distinguished liberal arts institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and a personalized education. Founded in 1812, the college boasts a rich history and a strong emphasis on fostering a close-knit learning community. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1, Lycoming College lays great importance on individual attention, allowing students to engage deeply with their professors and benefit from tailored academic guidance. The faculty members are highly qualified and dedicated, striving to cultivate critical thinking and effective communication skills among students.

The campus culture at Lycoming College is vibrant, characterized by a wide array of student organizations and extracurricular activities that cater to diverse interests. From academic clubs to performing arts, students are encouraged to explore their passions and develop leadership skills outside the classroom. The college also emphasizes the importance of community service, instilling a sense of social responsibility in its students. Moreover, the college's picturesque campus, set along the banks of the Susquehanna River, provides a serene environment conducive to both study and recreation. With a strong emphasis on student engagement, a robust academic framework, and a commitment to preparing graduates for successful careers, Lycoming College stands out as a nurturing environment for aspiring individuals.

Analysis of Key Data Trends at Lycoming College

Lycoming College has demonstrated notable trends in tuition fees, graduation rates, student retention, and gender ratios over the years. The tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students have significantly increased from $33,746 in 2014 to $47,450 in 2024. This represents an increase of nearly 40%, which may raise concerns about affordability for prospective students. The rising costs of higher education are a common theme across many institutions, highlighting the ongoing challenge of balancing quality education with financial accessibility.

Another area of concern is the graduation rates, which have shown a declining trend for timely graduation. The rate fell from approximately 62% in 2013 to about 52% in 2023 for on-time graduates, indicating a potential issue with student support and educational outcomes. This decline could be attributed to various factors, including academic challenges, financial strains, or personal circumstances that affect students' ability to complete their degrees within the expected time frame.

Furthermore, student retention rates have also fluctuated, from 81.25% in 2013 to around 72.1% in 2023. This decrease suggests that a growing number of students are not returning for their second year, which could be linked to the aforementioned tuition hikes and graduation challenges. Retention is a crucial metric for colleges, as it often correlates with student satisfaction and institutional effectiveness.

On a more positive note, the gender ratio in undergraduate enrollment has shown a gradual shift towards gender balance, with women constituting approximately 52.6% of the undergraduate population in 2023. This movement towards a more equitable gender representation is an encouraging trend that reflects broader societal changes regarding gender equity in education.

In summary, while Lycoming College is making strides in gender equity, the rising tuition costs and declining graduation and retention rates warrant further attention. The institution may need to explore strategies to enhance student support services and financial aid options to improve these critical outcomes.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Small city
Nearest major city
Harrisburg, about 70 mi
Nearest international airport
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), about 130 mi
Williamsport, Pennsylvania
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
United Methodist
President
Charles W. Edmonds (President)
Phone
5703214000
City
Williamsport, Pennsylvania
Address
One College Place, Williamsport, PA 17701-5192

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
71.9%
Women
76.4%

In 2020: men 62.2%, women 62.4%.

U.S. News Liberal Arts Colleges · last 10 years
#94 #98 #102 #106 2024: #107 #107 2025: #100 2026: #96 #96 2027: #100 #100 20242027

Best #96, lowest #107, latest #100 over the last ten years.

Data insights

Admission Trends at Lycoming College

The admission data for Lycoming College reveals interesting trends over the years. The acceptance rates for both male and female applicants have fluctuated significantly, indicating a competitive yet dynamic admissions landscape. For instance, in 2009, the acceptance rate for males was approximately 65.9%, while it was 72.7% for females. Fast forward to 2023, the male acceptance rate has risen to about 74.0%, and female acceptance is at 76.4%, reflecting a growing inclusivity in the admissions process.
Enrollment numbers have varied as well, with the highest number of incoming students recorded in 2010 at 386. However, the following years saw a decline, with enrollment dipping to 282 in 2018, before slightly recovering again. The number of denied applications has also seen a rise, peaking at 1208 in 2020, which could correlate with national trends where many colleges faced an influx of applications due to the uncertain educational landscape during the pandemic.
Interestingly, the deferral rates have shown a consistent increase over the years, signaling that applicants may be opting to postpone their college experience, possibly due to economic concerns or shifting priorities. The latest ranking of Lycoming College at 107th further emphasizes the institution's commitment to maintaining its educational standards amidst these changes. Overall, the data indicates a college that is adapting to the evolving demands of higher education and the challenges posed by external factors.

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 19% submitted SAT, 1% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total1080–1300Peer median 1220
SAT Reading
540–650
600700800
SAT Math
540–650
600700800

Data insights

Trends in Admission Test Scores at Lycoming College

The data from Lycoming College over the years presents a notable trend in standardized test scores and the percentage of applicants submitting those scores. From 2007 to 2023, there has been a gradual increase in the SAT reading and math scores for admitted students, reflecting a potential rise in academic preparedness among applicants. For instance, the 25th percentile SAT reading score rose from 460 in 2007 to 530 in 2023, while the 75th percentile increased from 560 to 628 in the same period, indicating that higher-performing students are increasingly applying and being accepted.

However, the proportion of students submitting SAT scores has shown a declining trend. In 2007, 96% of applicants submitted SAT scores, while this figure dropped significantly to only 45% by 2023. This decline may suggest a shift in the admissions strategy or a broader trend in higher education where standardized tests are becoming less central in evaluating candidates.

Moreover, the number of SAT test submissions has also decreased, from 362 in 2007 to just 132 in 2023. This reduction could be attributed to various factors, including the growing acceptance of test-optional policies across many institutions, allowing students to decide whether or not to submit test scores based on their strengths.

Overall, while the quality of admitted students appears to be improving in terms of test scores, the decreasing reliance on standardized testing highlights an evolving landscape in college admissions, reflecting a broader movement towards holistic evaluation methods. This shift is worth monitoring as it may influence not only prospective students’ choices but also institutional strategies in the coming years.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 7 in 10

2,896 applicants in 2025, 74.1% admitted

2,145 admitted 751 not admitted Yield 12.5%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's2236 international (2.7%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
41
Psychology, General
29
Criminology
26
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
20
Business/Corporate Communications, General
14
English Language and Literature, General
11
History, General
10
Art/Art Studies, General
9
Political Science and Government, General
6
Accounting
5

U.S. studentsInternational

Data insights

Analysis of Graduate Degrees at Lycoming College

The data from 2023 indicates a diverse range of disciplines at Lycoming College, with a notable emphasis on social sciences and performing arts. Psychology emerges as the leading major, with 31 graduates, of which one is an international student. This trend aligns with the growing interest in mental health awareness and the increasing demand for psychology professionals in various fields.

Business Administration also shows a strong presence with 29 graduates, reflecting the continuous appeal of business-related programs, especially given the global economic climate. The number of international students in this field, though minimal, highlights the college's role in attracting a global cohort.

Interestingly, the sciences, particularly biology, also contribute significantly, with 18 graduates, two of whom are international students. The increased interest in biological sciences can be linked to advancements in health and environmental sectors, making this a strategic choice for students.

The performing arts, while having fewer graduates, indicate a vibrant creative community at the college. With majors like Musical Theatre and Drama attracting attention, this suggests a focus on the cultural aspects of education that foster creativity and expression.

Overall, the trends in graduate numbers show an evolving educational landscape at Lycoming College, one that aligns with societal needs and the increasing globalization of education. The relatively low numbers of international students across most disciplines suggest potential areas for growth, encouraging the college to enhance its global outreach efforts to attract a more diverse student body.

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

Businesshas 62 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Business Administration and Management, General.$53,419
Accounting.-
Business/Corporate Communications, General.-
Actuarial Science.-
Social sciencehas 39 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Anthropology, General.-
Archeology.-
Criminology.$45,361
Economics, General.$49,553
Econometrics and Quantitative Economics.$49,553
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology and Anthropology.-
Psychology has 29 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Psychology, General.$40,050
Biologyhas 26 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$43,339
Biochemistry.-
Neuroscience.-
Visual and Performing artshas 22 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Technical Theatre/Theatre Design and Technology.-
Acting.-
Musical Theatre.-
Dramatic/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft, Other.-
Film/Cinema/Media Studies.-
Art/Art Studies, General.-
Art History, Criticism and Conservation.-
Music, General.-
Physical scienceshas 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Astronomy.-
Astrophysics.-
Chemistry, General.-
Physics, General.-
English has 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
English Language and Literature, General.-
History has 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
History, General.-
Communications technologies has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects.-
Philosophy has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Philosophy.-
Religion/Religious Studies.-
Foreign languages has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
German Language and Literature.-
Spanish Language and Literature.-
Computer and information sciencehas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Engineeringhas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Engineering Physics/Applied Physics.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Medieval and Renaissance Studies.-
Classical, Ancient Mediterranean, and Near Eastern Studies and Archaeology.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Mathematics, General.-
Financial Mathematics.-

Students

1,012 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 49:51 · Freshman retention 76.1%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,012)

White
629 · 62.2%
Hispanic
131 · 12.9%
Black
116 · 11.5%
Unknown
56 · 5.5%
International
35 · 3.5%
Two or more races
28 · 2.8%
Asian
16 · 1.6%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
1.3%
18–19
44.7%
20–21
45.1%
22–24
7.4%
25 and over
1.6%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Lycoming College in 2023

The composition of students at Lycoming College in 2023 reveals intriguing insights into gender distribution and diversity. Among the incoming freshmen, there is a near-equal gender distribution with 49.7% of males and 50.3% of females. This balance is encouraging, reflecting a trend towards gender parity in higher education where female enrollment has been historically higher than that of males.

In contrast, continuing undergraduate students exhibit a more pronounced gender disparity, with males constituting 46.2% and females 53.8%. This shift in gender dynamics may suggest that females are more likely to persist in their studies at Lycoming College, which aligns with broader national trends where women are increasingly achieving higher retention rates in universities.

The data also indicates a significant difference among transfer students, where males represent a substantial majority at 68.0%. This could imply that male transfer students may seek to change institutions more frequently, highlighting potential challenges they face in adapting to their current environments or a greater willingness to pursue alternative opportunities.

While the data on ethnic diversity remains incomplete, the presence of various student demographics is crucial in fostering an inclusive academic environment. The college's commitment to diversity can enhance the learning experience, preparing students for a globalized world. Overall, these statistics reflect a dynamic student body that embodies both challenges and opportunities for Lycoming College as it continues to develop its educational offerings and support systems for all students.

Age Composition of Students at Lycoming College in 2023

The age distribution of students at Lycoming College presents a clear picture of the demographics within the institution. A significant majority of the undergraduate population falls within the traditional college age range of 18 to 21 years, with 236 male undergraduates and 270 female undergraduates aged 18-19, and 203 males and 239 females in the 20-21 age bracket. This indicates a vibrant and youthful student body, essential for fostering a dynamic academic environment.

Interestingly, as age increases, the number of students decreases sharply. The 22-24 age group shows only 53 male undergraduates and 34 female undergraduates, suggesting a decline in enrollment as students age, which may reflect a trend where students take longer to graduate or choose to enter the workforce instead of continuing their education.

Moreover, the presence of older students in the 25-29 age group is minimal, with only 3 males and 7 females. This trend might indicate that Lycoming College has low participation rates among non-traditional students, which is a key demographic for many institutions nowadays as they seek to diversify their student populations.

The data also reveals no graduate male students, which raises questions about the college's appeal to males pursuing advanced degrees. This gender disparity is noteworthy, as it contrasts with the more balanced numbers seen in the undergraduate population. Overall, Lycoming College shows a youthful demographic with potential areas for growth in attracting diverse age groups and graduate students.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Undergraduates3.5%

35 in 2025 · 5.8% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 5.8%2017: 5.5%2018: 5.3%2019: 6.0%2020: 5.0%2021: 2.8%2022: 3.7%2023: 3.2%2024: 2.5%2025: 3.5%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Lycoming College

The data on international student enrollment at Lycoming College reveals significant fluctuations over the years, particularly in undergraduate programs. Starting from a modest 0.78% representation in 2004, the percentage of international students has seen a remarkable increase, peaking at 5.84% in 2016. This growth highlights the college's expanding appeal to students from diverse backgrounds, which may reflect broader trends in higher education where institutions are actively seeking to attract international talent to enrich their academic communities.

However, the years following 2016 show a noticeable decline in both total enrollment and the percentage of international students. By 2023, the percentage had dropped to 3.21%. Factors contributing to this trend could include the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which may have deterred international students from studying abroad. Furthermore, changes in immigration policies and increasing competition among colleges for international students could also play a role.

In contrast, the data lacks information on graduate student enrollment, leaving a gap in understanding the full scope of international representation at the college. Given the current global landscape, where international education is becoming increasingly competitive, it will be crucial for Lycoming College to adapt its strategies to maintain and potentially grow its international student body. Continued efforts to enhance support services, outreach initiatives, and partnerships with foreign institutions could help revitalize these numbers in the coming years.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$64,416

Undergraduate tuition
$49,804
Room and board
$14,612
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Tuition rose 39% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 34%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$61.6M

Investment return
$27.5M44.6%
Auxiliary enterprises
$13.8M22.4%
Tuition and fees
$11.8M19.1%
Gifts and private grants
$6.1M9.9%
Government grants and contracts
$1.7M2.7%
Other
$833K1.4%

Expenses$52.8M

Instruction
$17.4M32.9%
Student services
$10.4M19.6%
Institutional support
$10.1M19.2%
Auxiliary enterprises
$9.9M18.8%
Academic support
$5.0M9.4%

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.

All faculty
$74,352peers $65,931
Professor
$95,703peers $77,501
Associate professor
$77,292peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$65,269peers $61,725
Lecturer
$58,684peers $60,000

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Landmark Conference

Landmark Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football117-
Soccer3029
Lacrosse2418
Baseball41-
Basketball1715
Wrestling30-
Field Hockey-22
Tennis913
Cross Country1010
Volleyball-18
Softball-15
Swimming67
Golf9-
2024
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football109-
Soccer3432
Lacrosse2218
Baseball36-
Basketball1718
Wrestling31-
Tennis915
Cross Country712
Volleyball-19
Softball-17
Field Hockey-15
Swimming49
Golf7-
2023
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football104-
Soccer3829
Lacrosse3018
Baseball34-
Basketball1715
Wrestling27-
Tennis1013
Softball-20
Swimming99
Cross Country810
Volleyball-16
Field Hockey-14
Golf6-

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools near Lycoming College:

  1. Bucknell University - Ranked 30th in the 2024 US News rankings, Bucknell is a distinguished liberal arts college known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.

  2. Cornell University - A prestigious Ivy League institution, Cornell is ranked 12th in the nation. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is renowned for its research initiatives.

  3. Dickinson College - Ranked 46th, Dickinson is a highly regarded liberal arts college that emphasizes global education and sustainability.

  4. Lehigh University - With a rank of 47, Lehigh is known for its engineering and business programs, providing a blend of liberal arts and professional education.

  5. Franklin and Marshall College - This liberal arts college is ranked 35th and is recognized for its strong academic programs and commitment to undergraduate teaching.

  6. Muhlenberg College - Ranked 70th, Muhlenberg is known for its strong liberal arts curriculum and vibrant campus community.

These institutions provide a wealth of educational opportunities and contribute to the academic landscape surrounding Lycoming College.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
37
Drug referrals
33
Stalking
31
Dating violence
20
Rape
15
Fondling
13

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Lycoming College

The crime rates at Lycoming College have shown notable fluctuations over the years, reflecting broader trends in campus safety and student behavior. From 2013 to 2023, the average number of incidents per 1,000 students has varied significantly, with a peak in 2016 at approximately 37.82 incidents. This spike may correspond to heightened awareness around campus safety or changes in campus policies.

Interestingly, the years 2014 and 2021 recorded the lowest rates, indicating a potential improvement in student conduct or effective crime prevention strategies during those periods. However, the overall trend shows that crime rates have not been consistently declining, which raises concerns about ongoing safety measures.

In terms of specific types of incidents, the data indicates that arrests related to drug offenses, alcohol violations, and campus safety issues such as domestic violence and stalking remain critical areas for intervention. The presence of serious offenses, including assault and robbery, underscores the need for continuous vigilance and robust safety protocols on campus.

Furthermore, it is essential for educational institutions like Lycoming College to engage in proactive measures, including awareness campaigns and support services, to foster a safer environment for their students. The fluctuating crime rates highlight the importance of ongoing evaluation and adaptation of safety policies to meet the needs of the campus community effectively.

For more information on crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.

Notable Alumni

All 24

Notable alumni of Lycoming College include Tom Marino (Former US Representative from Pennsylvania), Peter Onorati (American film and television actor) and Alexander McDonald (US Senator from Arkansas, 1868–1871).

See all 24 notable alumni of Lycoming 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.