University of Mary Washington
U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027
#128
Acceptance rate
79.8%
2025
Peer median 80.5%
Out-of-state tuition
$28,083
In-state $14,905
Peer median $17,955
Undergraduates
3,660
Student-faculty ratio 13:1
Peer median 14 : 1
Graduation rate
59.3%
4-year; 6-year rate 68.8%
Peer median 26.9%
“Peers” are all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The University of Mary Washington (UMW), located in Fredericksburg, Virginia, is a renowned public liberal arts university that emphasizes a strong foundation in the liberal arts and sciences. Established in 1908, the university has built a reputation for academic excellence and a commitment to student-centered education. UMW's picturesque campus is adorned with beautiful historical buildings and modern facilities, providing an inspiring environment for learning and personal growth. The university's motto, "The future is yours," reflects its dedication to empowering students to take charge of their education and career paths.
UMW offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong focus on disciplines such as history, English, business, and environmental science. The university prides itself on small class sizes, allowing for individualized attention from faculty and fostering a close-knit community among students. UMW is also known for its vibrant campus life, with over 150 student organizations and numerous athletic programs, including NCAA Division III sports. The university's commitment to experiential learning encourages students to engage in internships, study abroad, and community service, enhancing their educational experience and preparing them for successful careers. With a strong emphasis on developing critical thinking and communication skills, UMW graduates are well-equipped to excel in various fields and make significant contributions to society.
Trends in Tuition, Enrollment, and Graduation Rates at University of Mary Washington
The University of Mary Washington, a public institution, has experienced significant trends in tuition costs, student enrollment, and graduation rates over the past decade. Tuition fees for in-state undergraduate students have risen from approximately $9,720 in 2014 to $14,559 in 2024, representing an increase of about 50%. For out-of-state students, tuition has surged from $22,590 to $31,479 in the same period. This escalating cost of education may deter potential students, which is reflected in the declining enrollment figures. The number of undergraduate students decreased from 4,515 in 2013 to 3,493 in 2023, indicating a worrying trend for the institution.
In addition to the rise in tuition and the drop in student numbers, the graduation rates have also shown fluctuations. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates has decreased from about 67.9% in 2013 to 54.6% in 2023. This decline in graduation rates can be concerning, as it might suggest that students face increasing challenges in completing their degrees in a timely manner, possibly linked to the rising costs of attendance and other external factors.
Lastly, the retention rate has remained relatively stable, hovering around 83% in recent years. This suggests that while the university is successful in retaining students once enrolled, the growing financial burden may be impacting prospective students' decisions to enroll in the first place. Overall, these trends highlight critical challenges facing the University of Mary Washington that warrant strategic responses to ensure future sustainability and attractiveness to students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a midsize city
- Nearest major city
- Washington, DC, about 50 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), about 45 mi
- Also known as
- Mary Washington College
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Troy Paino (President)
- Phone
- 5406541000
- City
- Fredericksburg, Virginia
- Address
- 1301 College Ave, Fredericksburg, VA 22401-5300
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 80.5% · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 71.8%, women 76.2%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at the University of Mary Washington
The admission trends at the University of Mary Washington over the years reflect a dynamic and competitive landscape. The acceptance rates for both male and female applicants have shown fluctuations, with male acceptance rates peaking at approximately 98% in 2010 and gradually declining to about 84% by 2023. Female acceptance rates, while more consistently high, also experienced a decline, dropping from around 77% in 2012 to approximately 87% in 2023.
Interestingly, the total number of enrolled students has varied, with a notable increase in the number of applicants, particularly in earlier years. For instance, the number of denied applications reached a peak of 1,669 in 2019, suggesting that as the university's reputation grows, so does its applicant pool. The data indicates an increasing selectivity, where the number of students accepted has decreased despite a steady number of applications, highlighting the institution's commitment to maintaining academic standards.
Moreover, the number of students opting for deferred admission has generally risen, indicating that students are considering their options carefully before committing. This trend could correlate with broader societal changes, where students are more inclined to take gap years or explore alternative education paths before entering higher education.
Overall, these trends underscore the competitive nature of college admissions at the University of Mary Washington and reflect broader patterns in higher education, where institutions are increasingly navigating applicant quality and enrollment strategies. As the landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to monitor how these trends impact future admissions and the overall student experience.
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 · 26% submitted SAT, 4% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Data at the University of Mary Washington
The admissions data from the University of Mary Washington over the years reveals a notable trend in both the number of standardized test scores submitted and their corresponding performance metrics. From 2007 to 2023, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has generally decreased, culminating in just 26% of admitted students providing their scores in 2023. This decline could reflect a broader trend in higher education where many institutions are moving towards test-optional policies, allowing students to determine whether standardized tests accurately represent their academic abilities.
Looking at the performance scores, there is a noticeable fluctuation in the 25th and 75th percentile scores for reading and mathematics. The data shows a gradual decrease in the lower thresholds for these subjects, indicating that the pool of admitted students may be scoring lower on average over the years. For example, the 25th percentile SAT reading score dropped from 560 in 2007 to 610 by 2023, while the corresponding 75th percentile scores also exhibited a downward trend.
This combination of decreasing submission rates and shifts in performance metrics raises questions about the factors influencing applicant choices and institutional priorities. As colleges continue to adapt in response to changing educational landscapes, it will be interesting to see how these trends affect the overall academic environment at the University of Mary Washington and similar institutions. The ongoing dialogue around standardized testing, college readiness, and equitable access to education continues to evolve, and these data points highlight the need for further exploration into their implications for future admissions strategies.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
5,124 applicants in 2025, 79.8% admitted
4,088 admitted 1,036 not admitted Yield 17.7%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's59 (0% international)
- Education, General · Master's20 (0% international)
- Geographic Information Science and Cartography · Master's6 (17% international)
- Elementary Education and Teaching · Master's1 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduates by Major at University of Mary Washington
The data from the University of Mary Washington for the year 2023 reveals interesting trends in graduate numbers across various fields of study. Notably, the highest number of undergraduate degrees was awarded in Biology and Psychology, with 84 and 83 graduates respectively. These fields are experiencing a growing interest, likely due to increasing career opportunities in healthcare and mental health, which are critical in today's society.
Education, while showing a distinct presence with 57 master's graduates, is also noteworthy. This reflects a continued demand for skilled educators, particularly in the context of recent educational reforms and the emphasis on quality teaching as a cornerstone for community development and economic growth.
Interestingly, the absence of international students among graduates across all disciplines suggests a potential area for growth. The current global academic landscape is increasingly competitive, and attracting international talent could enhance the university's diversity and global perspective.
Moreover, the data indicates a robust interest in the arts and humanities, with several programs like Communication and Fine Arts producing significant numbers of graduates. This trend aligns with the broader cultural emphasis on creative industries, which are increasingly recognized for their role in economic development and community engagement.
Overall, the data highlights the importance of adapting academic programs to meet the evolving job market demands while considering the potential benefits of a more diverse student body, including international students, to enrich the educational experience.
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. | $55,447-$127,862 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | - | ||
| Economics, General. | $57,873 | ||
| Geography. | - | ||
| Geographic Information Science and Cartography. | - | ||
| International Relations and Affairs. | $45,495 | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $36,585 | ||
| Sociology, General. | $33,928 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $81,367 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $41,411 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $32,747 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | $56,787 | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $55,366 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $88,970 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $41,776 | ||
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other. | $41,776 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visual and Performing Arts, General. | $32,807 | ||
| Art History, Criticism and Conservation. | $37,484 | ||
| Fine Arts and Art Studies, Other. | $37,484 | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | $53,569 | ||
| Physics, General. | - | ||
| Physical Sciences, Other. | $42,079 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $35,588 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Historic Preservation and Conservation, General. | $33,282 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | $35,423 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy and Religious Studies, Other. | $26,983 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | $74,913 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foreign Languages and Literatures, General. | - | ||
| Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, General. | - |
Students
3,826 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 35:65 · Freshman retention 84.4%
- Continuing undergraduates 2,521
- First-year undergraduates 721
- Graduate students 166
- Transfers and others 418
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,660)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at the University of Mary Washington in 2023
The 2023 student composition data from the University of Mary Washington reveals a vibrant and diverse academic environment, particularly in terms of gender representation and ethnic diversity. Among the undergraduate freshmen, females comprise a significant majority at 62.6%, while males account for 37.4%. This trend continues among upperclassmen, where 62.9% are female and 37.1% are male. Such a gender ratio indicates a strong inclination towards female enrollment, reflecting broader trends in higher education where women have increasingly outnumbered men in many institutions across the United States.
In terms of ethnic diversity, while the data presents a comprehensive overview for some categories, it remains incomplete for others, particularly at the graduate level and among upperclassmen. For instance, the majority of undergraduate freshmen identify as white, with additional representation from other racial groups. However, the incomplete data on ethnic composition for upperclassmen and graduate students limits a full understanding of the university's demographic diversity.
Moreover, the presence of international students is noteworthy, emphasizing the university's commitment to fostering a global learning environment. The numbers suggest a growing acceptance and integration of diverse backgrounds, which is crucial for enriching the academic experience.
Overall, the University of Mary Washington showcases a commitment to gender equity and an increasing diversification of its student body, aligning with national trends in higher education. The evolving demographics reflect societal shifts and the university's strategic initiatives to create an inclusive atmosphere for all students.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at the University of Mary Washington in 2023
The age distribution of students at the University of Mary Washington presents an intriguing overview of the demographics within this academic institution. The largest age group among undergraduates falls within the 18-19 category, where there are 357 male students and an impressive 769 female students, reflecting a significant gender disparity that highlights the university's appeal to younger women.
As students progress into their early twenties, the numbers remain robust, with 524 males and 1,014 females aged 20-21. This trend continues to showcase the strong female presence in undergraduate programs, which is a common feature in many universities across the United States. Interestingly, the data reveals a slight drop in the number of students aged 22-24, yet the ratio of females to males remains consistent, indicating ongoing engagement of women in higher education.
The statistics for older age groups show a decline in numbers, particularly for those aged 25 and above, where the total number of students significantly decreases. This trend may reflect a common pattern in higher education, as younger individuals typically pursue academic opportunities more vigorously than older adults. However, the presence of graduate students aged 30-34 and even older suggests that the university does cater to non-traditional students who may be balancing education with professional and personal commitments.
Overall, the data underscores the importance of supporting diverse age groups within the academic environment, particularly as the landscape of education continues to evolve. As institutions like the University of Mary Washington strive to foster inclusive educational experiences, understanding these demographic trends will be crucial in shaping future programs and policies.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
104 in 2025 · 0.9% in 2016
4 in 2025 · 1.2% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at the University of Mary Washington
The data on international student enrollment at the University of Mary Washington reveals significant fluctuations over the years, reflecting broader trends in global education. Notably, the percentage of international undergraduate students has shown a gradual increase, reaching 2.40% in 2023, a marked growth compared to just 0.57% in 2004. This rise can be attributed to the university's efforts to attract diverse student populations and enhance its global presence.
For graduate students, the proportion has remained relatively low, peaking at 2.01% in 2014. This indicates that while the university is successfully increasing its undergraduate international student body, the same cannot be said for graduate programs, which may require more targeted outreach strategies. The total number of graduate students has consistently been lower than that of undergraduates, suggesting that UMW might need to bolster its offerings or marketing to international graduate candidates.
The recent years, particularly post-2020, appear to have been affected by the global pandemic, which disrupted international travel and education. The numbers in 2021 and 2022 show signs of recovery, with a notable spike in undergraduate international enrollment in 2023, indicating renewed interest in studying abroad.
Overall, the trends observed at the University of Mary Washington align with national patterns where institutions are increasingly recognizing the value of international students in enriching the educational environment. As the world emerges from the pandemic, it will be interesting to see how these numbers evolve further, especially in graduate programs, as universities continue to adapt to changing global dynamics.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$42,333
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $28,083
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $14,905
- Room and board
- $14,250
- Graduate tuition
- $23,010
Peer median tuition + room and board $29,573 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 11% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 31%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$152M
Expenses$129M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Other
Other: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 63 | 45 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 29 | 52 |
| Lacrosse | 48 | 28 |
| Soccer | 41 | 31 |
| Baseball | 44 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 15 |
| Field Hockey | - | 28 |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| Tennis | 13 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 20 |
| Equestrian | - | 19 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 70 | 60 |
| Lacrosse | 49 | 29 |
| Soccer | 36 | 33 |
| Swimming | 29 | 29 |
| Baseball | 45 | - |
| Field Hockey | - | 31 |
| Basketball | 17 | 13 |
| Tennis | 12 | 11 |
| Volleyball | - | 23 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Equestrian | - | - |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 49 | 44 |
| Lacrosse | 43 | 29 |
| Soccer | 34 | 29 |
| Swimming | 27 | 27 |
| Baseball | 43 | - |
| Basketball | 14 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Volleyball | - | 21 |
| Field Hockey | - | 19 |
| Tennis | 11 | 8 |
| Equestrian | - | 17 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
George Mason UniversityFairfax · 37.7 mi
U.S. News #121
-
Georgetown UniversityWashington · 47.2 mi
U.S. News #23
-
George Washington UniversityWashington · 47.3 mi
U.S. News #59
-
American UniversityWashington · 48.5 mi
U.S. News #95
-
Howard UniversityWashington · 49.4 mi
U.S. News #73
-
University of RichmondUniversity of Richmond · 50.2 mi
Liberal Arts #21
-
Catholic University of AmericaWashington · 50.7 mi
U.S. News #148
-
University of Maryland-College ParkCollege Park · 55.4 mi
U.S. News #49
-
University of Virginia-Main CampusCharlottesville · 58.8 mi
U.S. News #26
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near the University of Mary Washington:
-
Georgetown University - Ranked 22nd in the 2024 US News rankings, Georgetown University is a prestigious institution located in Washington, D.C. It is known for its strong programs in international relations, law, and business.
-
George Washington University - With a ranking of 67th, George Washington University is situated in the heart of the nation's capital. It offers a diverse array of programs and is particularly recognized for its political science and public policy degrees.
-
University of Virginia-Main Campus - Ranked 24th, the University of Virginia, located in Charlottesville, is renowned for its historic significance and rigorous academic standards, particularly in the humanities and social sciences.
-
Johns Hopkins University - This university is ranked 9th in the nation and is famed for its research programs, particularly in medicine and public health, making it one of the top institutions in the United States.
-
University of Maryland-College Park - Ranked 46th, this university is the flagship institution of the University System of Maryland and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
These universities provide a variety of educational opportunities and are well-regarded in their respective fields.
Peer median 4.9 · all 85 public 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 the University of Mary Washington
The crime statistics at the University of Mary Washington over the past decade reveal a notable downward trend in criminal incidents per 1,000 students. In 2013, the crime rate was 16.57, which peaked in 2018 at 18.76. However, since then, there has been a steady decline, culminating in an impressive low of 5.48 in 2023. This represents a significant improvement in campus safety and may be attributed to various factors such as increased security measures, community awareness programs, and a shift in campus culture towards safety.
Particularly concerning is the arrest rate related to gun possession, which, despite being a serious offense, appears to have remained low on campus. Other offenses like drug-related arrests and alcohol-related incidents have also seen a decrease, suggesting a possible reduction in substance abuse among students.
Moreover, the statistics indicate a decline in violent crimes, including domestic violence and sexual assault, which have been prevalent issues on many college campuses across the United States. This positive trend could reflect not only a safer campus environment but also the effectiveness of educational campaigns aimed at preventing such crimes.
In conclusion, the data from the University of Mary Washington suggests a promising trajectory towards enhanced safety and reduced crime rates, a trend that other institutions may look to emulate. Continued efforts in promoting safety and awareness will be essential in maintaining this progress. For more information on calculating crime rates, please visit: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of University of Mary Washington include Judge Reinhold (Actor, screenwriter and producer), Maggie Stiefvater (Young adult fantasy novelist) and Elizabeth Edwards (Attorney, author and health care activist).
-
Judge Reinhold 1957–
Actor, screenwriter and producer
-
Maggie Stiefvater 1981–
Young adult fantasy novelist
-
Elizabeth Edwards 1949–2010
Attorney, author and health care activist
-
Karen Olsen Beck 1930–2025
Former first lady of Costa Rica and diplomat
-
Rose M. Likins 1959–
Former US Ambassador to Peru
-
Anne Rudloe 1947–2012
Marine biologist, co-founder of Gulf Specimen Marine Laboratory
-
Willie Lee Rose 1927–2018
Historian and Johns Hopkins University professor
-
Kelly Cherry 1940–2022
Writer and former Poet Laureate of Virginia
-
Nan Grogan Orrock 1943–
Democratic Georgia state senator
More alumni (14, by field)
Politics and law
-
Toddy Puller 1945–
Democratic Virginia state senator
-
Teresa A. H. Djuric
Retired US Air Force brigadier general
-
Michèle McQuigg 1947–2017
Former Virginia House of Delegates member
-
Buddy Fowler 1955–
Virginia politician
-
Barbara Halliday
Former mayor of Hayward, California
-
Mark Cole 1958–
Republican member of the Virginia House of Delegates
Business
-
Marion Blakey 1948–
Former Rolls-Royce North America president and CEO
Science and academia
-
Katherine Aaslestad 1961–2021
Historian, professor at West Virginia University
Arts and media
-
Natalie Joy Johnson 1978–
Actress
-
Marguerite Bennett 1988–
Comic book writer
-
Jennifer Bendery 1974–
Political journalist covering Capitol Hill and White House
-
Mathias Svalina 1975–
American poet
-
Janet Doub Erickson 1924–2021
Graphic artist and writer who popularized block printing
-
Carolyn Kreiter-Foronda 1946–
Poet and educator, Poet Laureate of Virginia
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.