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U.S. News #119 Private nonprofit, 4-year

Ripon College

Ripon, Wisconsin · www.ripon.edu

中文

U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027

#119

Acceptance rate

79.8%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$51,900

$62,700 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

696

Student-faculty ratio 12:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

47.2%

4-year; 6-year rate 56.1%

Peer median 45.1%

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

About

Ripon College, located in Ripon, Wisconsin, is a private liberal arts college with a rich history and a commitment to academic excellence. Founded in 1851, the college offers a diverse range of undergraduate programs, with an emphasis on fostering critical thinking, creativity, and leadership skills among its students. The college's motto, "The Truth Shall Make You Free," reflects its dedication to providing an environment where students can explore various disciplines and develop their intellectual capacities. This motto resonates well with the college's mission to nurture not only academic growth but also personal development and social responsibility.

The campus of Ripon College is known for its beautiful natural surroundings and historic buildings, creating a vibrant and engaging learning environment. The college is equipped with modern facilities, including science laboratories, a library with extensive resources, and spaces for artistic expression, catering to a wide array of academic interests. Ripon College emphasizes a strong sense of community, with small class sizes that foster close relationships between students and faculty. This supportive atmosphere encourages active participation in campus life, including a variety of student organizations and athletic programs. Graduates of Ripon College are well-prepared for diverse career paths, and the college boasts a strong network of alumni who have gone on to achieve great success in their respective fields.

Analysis of Key Educational Metrics at Ripon College

Ripon College has experienced notable fluctuations in several key metrics over the years, particularly in tuition costs, student enrollment, and graduation rates. The tuition for in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has seen a significant increase, rising from approximately $31,602 in 2014 to $50,700 in 2024. This increase of over 60% reflects a broader trend in higher education where rising costs can put a strain on both students and families, potentially impacting enrollment rates.

The student enrollment figures tell a concerning story, showing a consistent decline from 931 students in 2013 to just 766 in 2023. This downward trend raises questions about the school's attractiveness to prospective students, especially in a competitive educational landscape. The decline could be attributed to various factors, including financial considerations, changing demographics, or shifts in student interests.

Graduation rates have also shown variability, with the on-time graduation rate fluctuating around 57% to 62% in recent years. Although there was a noticeable dip in 2017, the rates have stabilized somewhat since then. The ability of students to graduate on time is crucial not only for their personal success but also for the institution's reputation.

Another critical factor is the retention rate, which has seen a decline from about 86% in 2013 to around 76% in 2022, before experiencing a slight rise in 2023. This decline could indicate challenges in student satisfaction or support services, suggesting that the college may need to enhance its engagement strategies to keep students enrolled.

In summary, while Ripon College maintains its private institution status, the sharply rising tuition, declining enrollment, and fluctuating graduation and retention rates highlight the challenges it faces in maintaining its appeal and supporting its student body effectively. Addressing these issues will be essential for the college's future success.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Distant town
Nearest major city
Madison, about 60 mi
Nearest international airport
General Mitchell International Airport (MKE), about 80 mi
Ripon, Wisconsin
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Victoria N. Folse (President)
Phone
9207488115
City
Ripon, Wisconsin
Address
300 West Seward Street, Ripon, WI 54971-0248

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

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

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
77.1%
Women
83.5%

In 2020: men 69.2%, women 69.8%.

U.S. News Liberal Arts Colleges · last 10 years
#119Ranked #119 every year from 2027 to 2027

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Ripon College

The admission trends at Ripon College over the years reveal significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Analyzing the data from 2009 to 2023, it is evident that both male and female acceptance rates have shown a general decline, particularly noticeable starting from 2015. For instance, the male acceptance rate dropped from approximately 76.1% in 2009 to about 62.4% in 2017, while the female acceptance rate also reflected a downward trend, highlighting a more competitive admission environment.
Interestingly, despite the declining acceptance rates, the enrollment numbers have not shown a consistent downward trend. The number of students enrolling varied, peaking at 289 in 2011 and then fluctuating around the mid-200s to mid-200s in subsequent years. This implies that the college may be maintaining its enrollment numbers by adjusting the size of its applicant pool or increasing its outreach efforts to attract potential students.
Moreover, the data shows a notable rise in the number of denied applications, particularly in 2016 and 2017, where the number of students denied exceeded 800. This increase aligns with the tightening of admissions standards, reflecting broader trends in higher education where institutions are becoming more selective.
Overall, Ripon College's admission data underscores the increasing competition within higher education, which is likely influenced by various external factors, including changing demographics and the broader economic context. As colleges continue to adapt, it will be crucial for prospective students to remain informed about these trends to navigate the admission process effectively.

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 33% submitted SAT, 35% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total980–1270Peer median 1220
ACT composite21–27
SAT Reading
510–680
600700800
SAT Math
470–590
600700800
ACT composite
21–27
253036

Data insights

Trends in Admissions Data at Ripon College

The admissions data from Ripon College over the years reveals insightful trends regarding the standardized test scores of admitted students. Notably, the SAT reading and math scores show fluctuations, with the 25th percentile starting scores generally ranging from the low 400s to the mid-500s, while the 75th percentile scores have typically reached above 600. This indicates that while some students may struggle with standardized testing, there is a significant portion who excel.

The percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has varied considerably, peaking at 19% in 2019 and 21% in 2020. However, in recent years, the number of applicants submitting scores has decreased significantly, with only 1% in 2023. This decline may reflect a broader national trend as many colleges and universities move towards test-optional admissions policies, particularly in the wake of the pandemic, which disrupted standardized testing opportunities.

Additionally, the ACT scores follow a similar pattern, with the composite scores typically ranging from the mid-20s to the low 30s in the 75th percentile. The commitment to a well-rounded admissions process appears to be in place, where multiple factors beyond test scores are considered, aligning with the growing recognition of diverse talents and potential.

In summary, while the data showcases a diverse range of academic abilities among admitted students, the declining number of test score submissions suggests a shift in the admissions landscape, potentially making Ripon College an increasingly accessible option for a wider array of students. This aligns with the national movement towards inclusivity and equity in higher education.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 8 in 10

1,974 applicants in 2025, 79.8% admitted

1,576 admitted 398 not admitted Yield 10.9%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's1852 international (1.1%)
Master's90 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
18
Psychology, General
17
Political Science and Government, Other
13
Business/Commerce, General
11
Elementary Education and Teaching
11
Chemistry, Other
11
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General
10
History, General
10
Speech Communication and Rhetoric
7
Finance, General
7

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Exercise Science and Kinesiology · Master's9 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from Ripon College

The graduation statistics from Ripon College in 2023 present intriguing insights into the academic trends and student demographics. Notably, the most popular major is Psychology, with 16 graduates, highlighting the increasing interest in mental health and psychological studies, particularly in a post-pandemic world where mental well-being has gained significant attention.

Interestingly, the data reveals a stark absence of international students graduating from various programs, as seen in majors like Education, Sociology, and Business, all registering zero international graduates. This may reflect broader trends in international education, where institutions face challenges in attracting non-native students due to varying visa regulations and global uncertainties.

Moreover, the presence of only one international student graduating in Biology underscores the need for institutions to enhance their global outreach and support systems for international students, which could bolster diversity and enrich the academic environment.

Additionally, the low graduation numbers in specialized fields such as Fine Arts and Computer Science (with only 2 graduates each) may suggest limited interest or capacity in these areas, prompting the college to assess and possibly revamp its curriculum to better align with student interests and job market demands.

Overall, while Ripon College showcases a healthy number of graduates in traditional fields, the lack of international representation and low figures in specialized majors call for strategic interventions to enhance the college's appeal and effectiveness in preparing students for diverse career paths.

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

Educationhas 32 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Elementary Education and Teaching.$35,364
Secondary Education and Teaching.$35,364
Health Teacher Education.-
Music Teacher Education.-
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 25 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General.$46,387
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.$46,387
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.$46,387
Social sciencehas 23 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Anthropology, General.-
Economics, General.-
Political Science and Government, Other.$46,619
Sociology, General.-
Biologyhas 20 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Biomedical Sciences, General.-
Neuroscience.-
Businesshas 18 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business/Commerce, General.-
Finance, General.-
Psychology has 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$38,708
Physical scienceshas 15 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.-
Chemistry, Other.-
History has 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
History, General.-
Communication has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.$43,991
Health professionshas 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Athletic Training/Trainer.-
Visual and Performing artshas 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Fine/Studio Arts, General.-
Music, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-
Natural resources has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Environmental Studies.-
English has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-
Computer and information sciencehas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Computer and Information Sciences, Other.-
Computer Science.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biopsychology.-
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.-
Cultural has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Women's Studies.-
Foreign languages has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Spanish Language and Literature.-

Students

709 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 54:46 · Freshman retention 72.3%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (696)

White
544 · 78.2%
Hispanic
74 · 10.6%
Black
23 · 3.3%
Unknown
22 · 3.2%
International
12 · 1.7%
Two or more races
12 · 1.7%
Asian
9 · 1.3%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
1.6%
18–19
42.4%
20–21
45.0%
22–24
10.3%
25 and over
0.4%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.0%
22–24
84.6%
25–29
15.4%
30–34
0.0%
35 and over
0.0%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Ripon College for 2023

The student demographic data from Ripon College for the year 2023 reveals interesting insights into the composition of the student body. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 196 students, with a nearly balanced gender ratio of 51% male and 49% female. This balance is indicative of an inclusive educational environment that welcomes both genders equally.

For the undergraduate seniors, the total number of students is significantly larger, at 546, with a slightly higher percentage of males (51.6%) compared to females (48.4%). This trend continues to suggest a steady male presence in the college, although the difference is marginal.

When examining transfer students, there are only 12 individuals recorded, with a notable gender imbalance, as males represent 41.7% and females 58.3%. This could reflect broader trends in transfer student demographics, where females are often more represented.

The institution also records students from diverse ethnic backgrounds, with white students being the most prominent group among freshmen and seniors. The data highlights the importance of fostering a diverse and inclusive atmosphere within the college. The representation of various ethnicities can enrich the educational experience, allowing for a multitude of perspectives and backgrounds.

Overall, the demographic landscape at Ripon College in 2023 suggests a commitment to gender balance and diversity, with a significant proportion of female students among the transfer population. Continued efforts to attract and support underrepresented groups will be essential for further enriching the academic community.

Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Ripon College

The age composition of students at Ripon College in 2023 reveals a predominantly young demographic, with the majority of students falling within the traditional college age range of 18 to 21 years. Specifically, 213 male undergraduates and 179 female undergraduates are aged 18-19, while 146 males and 191 females are in the 20-21 age bracket. This data suggests that Ripon College attracts a significant number of first-time college students, which is consistent with national trends showing that most students enter higher education directly after high school.

Interestingly, the number of graduate students is notably absent in the younger age categories, highlighting that Ripon College primarily serves undergraduates. The data also indicates that there are very few students over 22, with only 40 male undergraduates aged 22-24 and a mere 21 female undergraduates in the same age range. This could point to a need for more flexible options in graduate programs or a potential gap in attracting older students.

Moreover, the numbers for students aged 25 and above are quite minimal, with just a couple of students in the 25-29 and 30-34 age groups. This might reflect broader trends in higher education, where older students often face different challenges, such as work and family commitments, that make returning to school less feasible.

Overall, Ripon College’s demographic data suggests a youthful and predominantly undergraduate population, aligning with the college's mission to cater to traditional college-age students while potentially indicating areas for growth in attracting older, non-traditional students.

International Students

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

Undergraduates1.7%

12 in 2025 · 4.2% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 4.2%2017: 4.5%2018: 3.7%2019: 3.0%2020: 2.4%2021: 2.0%2022: 1.6%2023: 1.4%2024: 1.1%2025: 1.7%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Trends at Ripon College

The data regarding international students at Ripon College over the years reveals a notable fluctuation in the numbers and percentages of undergraduate students. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international students within the undergraduate population began at a modest 1.70% and peaked at 4.54% in 2017. This peak indicates a growing acceptance and integration of diverse cultural backgrounds in the college community during that period.

However, the recent years suggest a concerning downward trend, with the percentage of international students decreasing to just 1.44% in 2023. This decline could reflect various factors, including increasing competition among colleges to attract international talent, changes in immigration policies, or even the global impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has significantly affected student mobility worldwide.

Furthermore, the total number of undergraduate students has also seen a decrease from 998 in 2004 to 766 in 2023. The overall decline in student enrollment might contribute to reduced opportunities for international students at Ripon College. As institutions strive to foster a global learning environment, it becomes imperative for Ripon College to reassess its strategies to attract and retain international students, addressing any barriers they may face.

In summary, while the earlier years showed a gradual increase in international student enrollment, the recent data reflects a trend that could hinder the college's diversity initiatives. As higher education increasingly emphasizes global perspectives, Ripon College must consider proactive measures to revitalize its international student population.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$62,700

Undergraduate tuition
$51,900
Room and board
$10,800
Graduate tuition
$8,425
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 42% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 32%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$40.6M

Investment return
$14.4M35.4%
Tuition and fees
$9.8M24.2%
Gifts and private grants
$8.3M20.5%
Auxiliary enterprises
$7.0M17.3%
Government grants and contracts
$677K1.7%
Sales and services of educational activities
$365K0.9%

Expenses$32.7M

Instruction
$10.8M33.1%
Student services
$7.2M21.9%
Institutional support
$5.7M17.5%
Auxiliary enterprises
$5.6M17.1%
Academic support
$1.6M4.8%
Public service
$423K1.3%
Other
$1.4M4.4%

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
$74,767peers $65,931
Professor
$84,747peers $77,501
Associate professor
$73,695peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$58,732peers $61,725

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Midwest Conference

Midwest Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football87-
Soccer4031
Track and Field (Outdoor)4130
Track and Field (Indoor)3829
Basketball2721
Baseball46-
Cross Country1315
Tennis816
Volleyball-18
Swimming and Diving (combined)-17
Softball-16
Swimming5-
2024
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football99-
Soccer3826
Track and Field (Indoor)3225
Baseball45-
Basketball2322
Track and Field (Outdoor)2418
Cross Country2020
Tennis915
Softball-22
Swimming and Diving (combined)-15
Volleyball-14
Swimming6-
2023
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football101-
Track and Field (Indoor)4133
Soccer3828
Track and Field (Outdoor)3729
Basketball2625
Baseball49-
Cross Country2020
Softball-27
Tennis1214
Swimming810
Volleyball-15
Diving-4

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools near Ripon College:

  1. Lawrence University - Ranked 75th in the 2024 US News rankings, Lawrence University is a liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on music and the arts.

  2. University of Wisconsin-Madison - With a rank of 35, this comprehensive university is recognized for its research programs and vibrant campus life.

  3. Marquette University - Ranked 86th, Marquette is a private university located in Milwaukee, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  4. Beloit College - Also ranked 86th, Beloit is a small liberal arts college that emphasizes experiential learning and a diverse student body.

  5. Northwestern University - A prestigious university ranked 9th, Northwestern is known for its rigorous academics and strong programs in journalism, engineering, and the arts.

  6. University of Chicago - Ranked 12th, this elite university is renowned for its strong emphasis on research and critical thinking across various disciplines.

These institutions offer a variety of educational opportunities and contribute to a rich academic landscape surrounding Ripon 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
141
Drug referrals
29
Fondling
10
Burglary
4
Rape
2
Dating violence
1

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Data at Ripon College

The crime statistics at Ripon College over the past decade reveal fluctuations in the average number of incidents per 1,000 students. Notably, the highest rate occurred in 2016, with approximately 6.3% of students experiencing some form of recorded crime, while 2023 shows a significant decline to about 2.3%. This downward trend may suggest improvements in campus safety measures or changes in student behavior and compliance with regulations.

The data highlights specific categories of crime, including arrests related to firearms, drugs, alcohol, and domestic violence. The absence of firearm-related incidents on campus is particularly commendable, as it reflects a safer environment for students. However, the presence of drug and alcohol-related arrests indicates ongoing issues that colleges across the nation are grappling with. These elements are critical in assessing the overall safety and well-being of students.

Moreover, the increase in crime rates in 2020 and 2022 could correlate with broader societal issues, such as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has been known to contribute to heightened stress and behavioral issues among young adults. As we move forward, it is essential for the college administration to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing these challenges through preventive strategies and community support initiatives.

Overall, while Ripon College has seen a decrease in crime rates recently, continuous efforts must be made to foster a safe and supportive environment for all students. For more information on how crime rates are calculated, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

All 24

Notable alumni of Ripon College include Harrison Ford (Actor, nominated for an Academy Award), Spencer Tracy (Film and stage actor) and Al Jarreau (Jazz and pop singer, Breakin' Away).

See all 24 notable alumni of Ripon 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.