Saint Michael’s College
U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027
#116
Down 1 from 2026
Acceptance rate
84.5%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$51,450
$68,520 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
1,120
Student-faculty ratio 10:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
71.2%
4-year; 6-year rate 74.5%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Saint Michael's College, located in Colchester, Vermont, is a private liberal arts college that emphasizes a well-rounded education in a nurturing environment. Founded in 1904, the college is affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church, and its mission is rooted in the values of service, community, and respect for all individuals. The college's motto, "Pro Christo et Patria," translates to "For Christ and Country," reflecting its commitment to serving both faith and community. The picturesque campus, set against the backdrop of the Green Mountains, provides students with an inspiring environment that fosters academic and personal growth.
Saint Michael's College offers a diverse array of undergraduate programs, with notable strengths in the fields of education, business, and the sciences. The college prides itself on its dedicated faculty, who are not only experts in their fields but also deeply committed to student success. With a low student-to-faculty ratio, students benefit from personalized attention and mentorship, which enhances their learning experience. The college also encourages a vibrant campus life, featuring various student organizations, athletic programs, and cultural activities. This engagement helps cultivate a strong sense of community among students, making Saint Michael's College a place where lifelong friendships are formed and meaningful experiences are created.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Saint Michael's College
Saint Michael's College has shown notable trends in several key metrics over the years, particularly in tuition costs, student retention rates, and graduation rates. The cost of attendance has steadily increased, with undergraduate tuition rising from $39,015 in 2014 to $50,040 in 2024, reflecting a significant financial burden on students and their families. This increase, coupled with rising room and board fees, may impact enrollment figures, as more students and families weigh the cost against potential returns on investment in education.
In terms of student retention, there has been a concerning decline. The retention rate for undergraduate students fell from approximately 90% in 2013 to about 79% in 2023. This downward trend suggests that the college may need to enhance its support services to improve student satisfaction and prevent dropouts, especially as financial pressures mount.
On a more positive note, graduation rates have shown some resilience. The on-time graduation rate hovered around 77% in recent years, indicating that a majority of students are still able to complete their degrees within the expected timeframe despite the challenges they face. However, the 150% graduation rate has fluctuated, which may indicate issues with student support and guidance throughout their academic journey.
Furthermore, the gender ratio among undergraduates has remained relatively balanced, with a slight edge for female students. This balance is crucial as it fosters a diverse learning environment, which is essential for enriching the educational experience.
Overall, while Saint Michael's College maintains a commendable graduation rate, the rising tuition coupled with declining retention rates raises concerns about the long-term sustainability of the institution's enrollment and student success. Addressing these issues will be critical for the college to enhance its reputation and attract prospective students in the coming years.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a midsize city
- Nearest major city
- Albany, about 130 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Albany International Airport (ALB), about 120 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Roman Catholic
- President
- Richard Plumb, Ph.D. (President)
- Phone
- 8026542000
- City
- Colchester, Vermont
- Address
- One Winooski Park, Colchester, VT 05439
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 80.6%, women 85.3%.
Best #115, lowest #122, latest #116 over the last ten years.
Data insights
Trends in Admissions at Saint Michael's College
The admission statistics at Saint Michael's College reveal notable trends over the years. From 2009 to 2023, we observe fluctuations in both male and female acceptance rates, with male applicants having a higher acceptance rate compared to their female counterparts in most years. For instance, the male acceptance rate peaked at approximately 81.5% in 2018, while the female acceptance rate reached its highest at around 88.5% in the same year, indicating a consistent pattern of higher female acceptance.
The total enrollment numbers have shown a gradual decline, dropping from 551 in 2009 to a low of 258 by 2023. This decline in enrollment could suggest changing interests among prospective students or increased competition from other institutions. It is worth noting that the number of denied applications has fluctuated significantly, peaking at over 1,100 denials in some years, which raises questions about the college's recruitment strategies and how they align with evolving student demographics.
Furthermore, the college's ranking has also come into focus, as it dropped to 116th in 2024. This shift may reflect broader trends in higher education where many institutions face challenges in maintaining their prestige amid increased scrutiny over their admission practices and outcomes. In conclusion, Saint Michael's College must reassess its strategic approach to admissions and enrollment in light of these trends, ensuring they attract and retain a diverse student body while enhancing their institutional ranking.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 9% submitted SAT, 4% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Test Scores at Saint Michael's College
The admission test score data from Saint Michael's College reveals significant trends over the years. In the early years, particularly from 2007 to 2011, the number of students submitting SAT scores was high, with submission rates reaching upwards of 96-99%. The SAT reading and math scores showed a relatively consistent range, demonstrating a stable applicant pool with competitive scores.
However, a noticeable shift occurred around 2012, where the number of students submitting SAT scores dropped significantly, with only 76% of admitted students providing their scores. This trend continued, with only 63% submission rates from 2014 to 2022. This decline in submission rates may indicate a strategic shift among prospective students towards test-optional policies, which have become increasingly popular across many colleges and universities in recent years.
Interestingly, the scores in 2023 reflect a resurgence in both the number of submissions and the quality of scores, with a higher range in SAT reading and math scores compared to previous years. This could suggest that the institution is regaining interest among high-achieving students or adapting its admission strategies to attract a more competitive applicant pool.
Overall, the data illustrates an evolving landscape in college admissions, highlighting the impact of national trends on local institutions. As colleges re-evaluate their admission criteria in light of changing societal attitudes towards standardized testing, it will be crucial to monitor how these shifts influence both the quality and diversity of incoming classes.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
2,788 applicants in 2025, 84.5% admitted
2,356 admitted 432 not admitted Yield 11.8%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Education, General · Master's36 (0% international)
- Clinical Psychology · Master's11 (0% international)
- Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language/ESL Language Instructor · Master's5 (80% international)
- Multicultural Education · Master's1 (0% international)
- Public Health, Other · Master's1 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Saint Michael's College
The graduation data from Saint Michael's College reveals notable trends across various fields of study for 2023. Business Administration and Management emerges as the most popular program, with 54 graduates, accounting for approximately 27% of the total bachelor’s degrees awarded. This aligns with national trends indicating a growing demand for business-related skills in the workforce, particularly in areas such as finance and management.
Psychology follows closely, with 49 graduates, representing about 24% of the bachelor’s degree recipients. The increasing interest in mental health and well-being has likely spurred this growth, especially as society continues to prioritize psychological services in response to post-pandemic challenges.
In terms of advanced degrees, Education stands out with 32 master's graduates, which signifies a strong commitment to developing educational professionals. The focus on skilled educators is particularly relevant in today’s educational landscape, which demands innovative teaching strategies and adaptability.
Moreover, the presence of international students is noteworthy, especially in the bachelor’s degree programs where five international students graduated in Business Administration and one in Psychology. This reflects the college's appeal to a global audience, and emphasizes the importance of diversity in higher education.
Overall, the data highlights a robust performance in business and psychology, with a significant commitment to education, while also illustrating the college's growing international presence. As industries evolve, these trends suggest that Saint Michael's College is strategically positioned to meet the demands of future job markets.
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. | $56,587 | ||
| Accounting. | $71,380 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | $53,420 | ||
| Multicultural Education. | - | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $46,876 | ||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $46,876 | ||
| Art Teacher Education. | - | ||
| Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language/ESL Language Instructor. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $38,290 | ||
| Clinical Psychology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminology. | - | ||
| Economics, General. | - | ||
| International Relations and Affairs. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $38,993 | ||
| Sociology and Anthropology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Pre-Pharmacy Studies. | - | ||
| Public Health, General. | - | ||
| Public Health, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $48,601 | ||
| Biochemistry. | - | ||
| Neuroscience. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | $35,532 | ||
| Environmental Science. | $35,532 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | $45,189 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | ||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | ||
| Music History, Literature, and Theory. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - | ||
| Computational and Applied Mathematics. | - | ||
| Statistics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | $43,609 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $43,060 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Information Science/Studies. | - | ||
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| French Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cybersecurity Defense Strategy/Policy. | - |
Students
1,323 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 47:53 · Freshman retention 79.9%
- Continuing undergraduates 781
- First-year undergraduates 275
- Graduate students 203
- Transfers and others 64
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,120)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Saint Michael's College for 2023
In 2023, Saint Michael's College showcases a diverse student body across various levels of study. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 258, with a gender distribution that leans slightly towards females, who make up 51.2% of this group. This trend continues for undergraduate seniors, who total 918, with 53.4% being female. The representation of male students is also notable but remains lower than that of their female counterparts.
Interestingly, the data for transfer students reveals a smaller cohort of just 24 students, consisting of 54.2% females. This suggests a potential area for improvement in attracting male transfer students. The graduate student population, consisting of 190 individuals, exhibits a striking gender imbalance, with only 27.9% being male. This could reflect broader trends in higher education where women are increasingly enrolling in graduate programs, particularly in fields traditionally dominated by males.
When examining racial and ethnic diversity, the data indicates that while the majority of students are white, there is a presence of other ethnic groups, including Asian, Latino, and African American students. The college may want to consider initiatives that further enhance diversity and inclusiveness, particularly in the graduate programs where representation appears to be quite limited.
Overall, Saint Michael's College is making strides in gender representation among undergraduates, but there remains a need to address the gender gap within graduate studies, as well as to bolster the diversity of its student body. This analysis can serve as a foundation for future strategic planning to foster an even more inclusive and equitable educational environment.
Analysis of Age Distribution at Saint Michael's College
The age demographic data from Saint Michael's College reveals intriguing insights into the student population. A significant majority of the undergraduate students are concentrated in the 18-21 age range, with 195 male and 247 female students aged 18-19, and 270 male and 340 female students aged 20-21. This indicates that the college predominantly attracts traditional-age students, which is consistent with many undergraduate institutions across the United States.
As we move to the 22-24 age category, there is a notable decline in undergraduate male enrollment, with only 95 male students compared to the earlier age groups. Interestingly, the female undergraduate population in this bracket also decreases, albeit less sharply. This trend may reflect the challenges young adults face in transitioning from college to the workforce or pursuing further education.
The older age groups, specifically those above 25, show a different demographic pattern, with a small number of students. The presence of 14 male and 21 female graduate students aged 25-29 suggests that the college has a modest allure for non-traditional students who may be returning to education to enhance their careers or shift fields.
Overall, the data highlights a clear trend towards a younger student body at Saint Michael's College, which aligns with broader educational trends where institutions often cater to traditional-age students. However, the presence of older students in graduate programs underscores the importance of lifelong learning and the college's role in providing educational opportunities for individuals at various stages of life.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
45 in 2025 · 5.1% in 2016
6 in 2025 · 3.5% in 2016
Data insights
Declining International Student Enrollment at Saint Michael's College
The data from Saint Michael's College reveals a concerning trend in the enrollment of international students over the past two decades. In 2004, the undergraduate international student population was at 5.07%, which, while modest, reflects a more diverse academic environment. However, this percentage has steadily declined, with the most recent data from 2023 showing a drop to 4.38%. This downward trajectory is notable, particularly as many colleges and universities across the U.S. have worked to attract international talent to enrich their campuses and foster global perspectives.
The graduate programs have also experienced fluctuations. In 2004, the percentage of international students was 7.47%, but it has decreased to just 3.68% in 2023. This significant reduction raises questions about the factors influencing students' decisions to study at Saint Michael's College. Possible reasons could include increased competition from other institutions, changes in visa policies, or shifts in global educational trends.
Given the current global climate, where international collaboration and understanding are more important than ever, the declining numbers at Saint Michael's College highlight a critical area for improvement. Addressing this issue could involve enhancing recruitment efforts, improving support systems for international students, and creating partnerships with institutions abroad. By revitalizing its international student body, Saint Michael's College could not only enrich its academic environment but also strengthen its global connections in an increasingly interconnected world.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$68,520
- Undergraduate tuition
- $51,450
- Room and board
- $17,070
- Graduate tuition
- $13,400
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 26% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 56%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$64.5M
Expenses$69.2M
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 · Northeast 10 Conference
Northeast 10 Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 43 | 37 |
| Lacrosse | 49 | 25 |
| Ice Hockey | 29 | 26 |
| Skiing | 22 | 24 |
| Swimming | 24 | 22 |
| Baseball | 43 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 15 |
| Cross Country | 11 | 14 |
| Field Hockey | - | 24 |
| Tennis | 10 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 42 | 34 |
| Lacrosse | 50 | 25 |
| Ice Hockey | 28 | 22 |
| Swimming | 25 | 24 |
| Skiing | 23 | 21 |
| Baseball | 39 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 15 |
| Cross Country | 11 | 17 |
| Field Hockey | - | 22 |
| Tennis | 11 | 10 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Golf | 10 | - |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 35 | 37 |
| Lacrosse | 42 | 27 |
| Ice Hockey | 28 | 21 |
| Swimming | 21 | 19 |
| Skiing | 18 | 19 |
| Baseball | 32 | - |
| Basketball | 14 | 13 |
| Tennis | 10 | 13 |
| Cross Country | 10 | 13 |
| Field Hockey | - | 22 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
| Golf | 6 | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of VermontBurlington · 1.9 mi
U.S. News #133
-
Middlebury CollegeMiddlebury · 33.5 mi
Liberal Arts #19
-
Dartmouth CollegeHanover · 69.8 mi
U.S. News #12
-
Clarkson UniversityPotsdam · 90.9 mi
U.S. News #137
-
St. Lawrence UniversityCanton · 98.4 mi
Liberal Arts #49
-
Skidmore CollegeSaratoga Springs · 101.4 mi
Liberal Arts #41
-
Union CollegeSchenectady · 121.9 mi
Liberal Arts #44
-
Williams CollegeWilliamstown · 123.1 mi
Liberal Arts #1
-
Rensselaer Polytechnic InstituteTroy · 124.6 mi
U.S. News #69
Data insights
Here are some notable colleges and universities near Saint Michael's College:
-
University of Vermont - Ranked 133 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its vibrant campus life and focus on sustainability.
-
Middlebury College - This highly prestigious liberal arts college is ranked 11th. Middlebury is renowned for its strong programs in international studies and languages.
-
Dartmouth College - An Ivy League institution ranked 18th, Dartmouth offers a rigorous academic environment with a strong emphasis on undergraduate education.
-
Williams College - Ranked 1st among liberal arts colleges, Williams is celebrated for its small class sizes and exceptional faculty-student interaction.
-
Amherst College - Ranked 2nd, Amherst is known for its open curriculum and diverse student body, fostering an inclusive and intellectually stimulating environment.
-
Hamilton College - With a ranking of 16, Hamilton is noted for its flexible curriculum and strong emphasis on writing and critical thinking skills.
These institutions are all recognized for their academic excellence and provide a range of opportunities for students in the region.
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
Crime Trends at Saint Michael's College: A Positive Decline
The crime statistics at Saint Michael's College reveal a commendable trend of decreasing crime rates over the past decade. Starting from a high of 66.06 incidents per 1,000 students in 2013, the college has seen a significant decline, reaching a low of 10.44 incidents per 1,000 students in 2021. This gradual reduction in crime is a promising sign, indicating that the college community is becoming safer and that effective measures may be in place to address misconduct.
In particular, the data shows a notable drop in arrests related to weapons and alcohol offenses, which are often prevalent on college campuses. For instance, in 2017, the rate of weapon-related arrests significantly decreased to 17.70 per 1,000 students, a stark contrast to the higher rates observed in previous years. This downward trend continued into 2020, with overall crime rates dropping to 15.25 incidents per 1,000 students.
Moreover, the year 2021 marked an all-time low in crime rates, but there was a slight uptick in 2022, where the rate rose to 36.24 incidents per 1,000 students. This fluctuation suggests that while progress has been made, the college must remain vigilant and proactive in maintaining safety and community awareness.
As colleges across the nation grapple with rising crime rates and the challenges posed by social issues, Saint Michael's College serves as a positive example of how focused efforts and community engagement can lead to a safer environment for students. Continued analysis and responsive strategies will be essential to sustain this positive trend in the years to come.
For further information on crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Saint Michael’s College include Patrick Leahy (Longtime US Senator from Vermont), Joseph F. Dunford, Jr. (19th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff) and Loung Ung (Cambodian-American author and human rights activist).
-
Patrick Leahy 1940–
Longtime US Senator from Vermont
-
Joseph F. Dunford, Jr. 1955–
19th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
-
Loung Ung 1970–
Cambodian-American author and human rights activist
-
Octaviano Ambrosio Larrazolo 1859–1930
Governor of New Mexico and U.S. senator
-
Donato Giancola 1967–
Illustrator of science fiction and fantasy, Middle-earth
-
James H. Fallon 1947–2023
Neuroscientist and UC Irvine professor
-
Sarah Escobar 2002–
Ecuadorian-American skier
-
Robert White 1926–2015
Diplomat, ambassador to Paraguay and El Salvador
-
Martin Hyun 1979–
German ice hockey player and writer
More alumni (12, by field)
Politics and law
-
Christina Reiss 1962–
Chief U.S. district judge for Vermont
-
Vincent Illuzzi 1953–
Vermont lawyer and Republican state senator
-
Thomas W. Costello 1945–
Vermont state representative and lawyer
-
Bernard Joseph Leddy 1910–1972
US district judge in Vermont
-
Robert W. Parker
Retired US Air Force major general
-
Thomas Crowley 1935–2013
Vermont businessman and legislator
Arts and media
-
Tom Caron 1963–
NESN sportscaster and anchor
Sports
-
Tricia Byrnes 1974–
Snowboarder with 15 World Cup halfpipe wins
-
Jean Dubuc 1888–1958
Baseball pitcher, manager and coach
-
Patrick Gardner 1999–
American-Egyptian professional basketball player
-
Matt Bonds 1995–
Basketball player
Other fields
-
Moses Anderson 1928–2013
Auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Detroit
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
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.