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Private for-profit, 4-year

DigiPen Institute of Technology

Redmond, Washington · www.digipen.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

64.4%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$38,950

$58,462 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

1,016

Student-faculty ratio 11:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

44.6%

4-year; 6-year rate 60.1%

Peer median 45.1%

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

About

DigiPen Institute of Technology, located in Redmond, Washington, is a prestigious institution known for its innovative approach to education in the fields of computer science, game design, and digital art. Founded in 1988, DigiPen was one of the first schools in the world to offer a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in video game design and has since evolved into a leader in interactive media and technology education. The institute's unique curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, allowing students to engage in real-world projects and collaborate with peers from diverse disciplines. This focus on practical experience cultivates a dynamic environment where creativity and technical skills flourish.

The campus fosters a rich culture of collaboration and innovation, supported by a faculty comprised of industry professionals with extensive experience in their respective fields. DigiPen is renowned for its rigorous academic standards and a curriculum that is continually updated to reflect the latest technological advancements and industry trends. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced labs and studios equipped with the latest software and hardware. The strong emphasis on teamwork and project-based learning prepares graduates to excel in the competitive job market, with many finding employment at leading companies in the gaming and technology sectors. DigiPen's alumni network boasts numerous successful individuals who have made significant contributions to the industry, further highlighting the institute's reputation as a premier destination for aspiring digital creators and technologists.

Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention

The data from DigiPen Institute of Technology reveals significant trends in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention that merit discussion. From 2014 to 2024, tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has seen a consistent upward trajectory, rising from approximately $26,560 to $37,400. This represents an increase of around 40%, which is a considerable financial burden for students and families. This trend reflects a broader national concern about rising college costs, which can deter potential students from pursuing higher education.

In terms of graduation rates, the statistics indicate a troubling decline over the years. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates dropped from 47% in 2013 to approximately 38% in 2023. This decline could suggest challenges in student support or academic preparedness, prompting concerns about the effectiveness of the institution's educational framework. Furthermore, the 150% graduation rate, which reflects those graduating within six years, has not shown a substantial improvement, hovering around 52% in recent years. This raises questions about whether students are receiving the necessary resources and guidance to complete their degrees in a timely manner.

Retention rates provide additional insight into students' experiences at DigiPen. The retention rate peaked at around 81% in 2018 but has since decreased to 69% in 2023. This downward trend can indicate factors such as academic pressure, financial strain, or lack of engagement with the campus community. Retaining students is critical for maintaining enrollment numbers and ensuring that they complete their educational journeys.

Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio, which has remained relatively stable, reflects the institution's commitment to providing individualized attention. However, the consistency of the ratio at around 10 to 18 students per faculty member suggests that while class sizes may be manageable, the overall educational experience could be affected by declining graduation and retention rates.

In conclusion, while DigiPen Institute of Technology shows a commitment to education through faculty support, the escalating tuition costs and declining graduation and retention rates highlight ongoing challenges that need to be addressed. As higher education continues to evolve, it is imperative for institutions to adapt their strategies to ensure that students are not only enrolling but also succeeding and completing their degrees.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Small city
Nearest major city
Seattle, about 10 mi
Nearest international airport
Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA), about 20 mi
Redmond, Washington
Also known as
DIT, DigiPen
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Jason Chu (Chief Operating Officer - International)
Phone
4255580299
City
Redmond, Washington
Address
9931 Willows Rd NE, Redmond, WA 98052

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

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

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
61.9%
Women
68.9%

In 2020: men 32.3%, women 36.9%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at DigiPen Institute of Technology

The admission statistics from DigiPen Institute of Technology over the years reveal significant trends in gender-specific acceptance rates and overall enrollment numbers. Notably, the male acceptance rate fluctuated from approximately 39% in 2009 to a peak of around 66% in 2014, before stabilizing at about 64% by 2023. Conversely, female acceptance rates show a more consistent trend, with rates varying between 28% and 70% during the same period. The disparity in acceptance rates between genders raises questions about the inclusivity of the admission processes and may suggest that the institution is more selective with male applicants at various points in time.
The overall enrollment figures also tell an evolving story, peaking at 227 students in 2022 before slightly decreasing to 186 in 2023. This decline in numbers, coupled with a high number of denied applicants—such as the 663 denials in 2020—could indicate a growing interest in the programs offered at DigiPen, but also a potential struggle to accommodate the increasing number of applicants.
The shift in denial and deferral rates, notably the significant number of deferrals in 2015 and 2023, reflects possible changes in institutional policy or external factors affecting students' decisions to enroll. This data highlights the competitive nature of admissions at DigiPen and underscores the importance of addressing gender disparities and ensuring that the institution remains an attractive option for all prospective students.

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

Computer Science#541▼71

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 · 25% submitted SAT, 7% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total1150–1400Peer median 1220
ACT composite27–29
SAT Reading
590–700
600700800
SAT Math
560–700
600700800
ACT composite
27–29
253036

Data insights

Trends in Admission Scores at DigiPen Institute of Technology

The admission scores at DigiPen Institute of Technology over the years show a notable trend in both the number of applicants submitting standardized test scores and the associated performance metrics. From 2007 to 2023, there has been a general increase in the minimum and maximum SAT reading scores, reflecting a rising standard among applicants. For instance, the 25th percentile SAT reading score started at 515 in 2007 and has risen to 590 by 2023, indicating that the institution is attracting students with stronger academic backgrounds.

Additionally, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores fluctuated throughout the years, with a peak of 85% in 2021. This spike may correlate with the increasing emphasis on standardized testing in college admissions during that period. However, it is noteworthy that the percentage of submissions dropped to 23% in 2022, possibly influenced by the growing trend of colleges adopting test-optional policies amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Moreover, the data highlight a consistent upward trend in the 75th percentile scores as well, indicating that not only are more students submitting scores, but those scores are also becoming more competitive. This trend aligns with the national movement towards higher academic standards in higher education. Overall, DigiPen's admission data reflects broader trends in education where competition is intensifying, and institutions are continuously striving to attract high-caliber students.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 6 in 10

874 applicants in 2025, 64.4% admitted

563 admitted 311 not admitted Yield 27.2%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's19321 international (10.9%)
Master's114 international (36.4%)
Top 7 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Modeling, Virtual Environments and Simulation
78
Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects
67
Human Computer Interaction
28
Music Technology
10
Artificial Intelligence
5
Computer Software Engineering
4
Computer Engineering, General
1

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Modeling, Virtual Environments and Simulation · Master's10 (30% international)
  • Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects · Master's1 (100% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduate Data from DigiPen Institute of Technology

The graduation data from DigiPen Institute of Technology for 2023 reveals several noteworthy trends across various disciplines. Notably, the Human Computer Interaction program leads with 40 graduates at the bachelor's level, which showcases a robust interest in this interdisciplinary field. This aligns with the growing demand for professionals skilled in designing intuitive user interfaces and enhancing user experiences, especially as technology continues to permeate daily life.

Conversely, the Modeling, Virtual Environments, and Simulation program, while yielding no bachelor's graduates, produced 12 master's graduates, indicating a strong focus on advanced studies within a niche area of technology. This may suggest that students prefer to deepen their expertise through graduate-level education, which is increasingly important in industries like gaming and simulation.

Furthermore, the Animation program also produced graduates at the master's level with four students, highlighting the ongoing popularity of creative digital arts. Interestingly, the presence of international students is minimal, with only one international master's graduate in Animation and one in Modeling, Virtual Environments, and Simulation. This raises questions about the institution's appeal to global talent, especially in specialized fields.

Overall, the data reflects a blend of traditional engineering and innovative creative disciplines, indicating DigiPen's broad educational offering. As the tech industry evolves, these trends may signal shifts in student interests and market demands, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in educational programs.

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

Computer and information sciencehas 93 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Artificial Intelligence.-
Modeling, Virtual Environments and Simulation.$66,593
Communications technologies has 68 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects.$45,096
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 28 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Human Computer Interaction.$49,207
Visual and Performing artshas 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Music Technology.-
Engineeringhas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Computer Engineering, General.-
Computer Software Engineering.-

Students

1,084 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 67:33 · Freshman retention 76.2%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,016)

White
541 · 53.2%
Asian
116 · 11.4%
International
108 · 10.6%
Hispanic
100 · 9.8%
Two or more races
95 · 9.4%
Black
31 · 3.1%
Unknown
21 · 2.1%

Data insights

Diversity and Gender Representation in DigiPen's Student Body

The student demographic data from DigiPen Institute of Technology for 2023 reveals notable trends in both diversity and gender representation. The undergraduate population, which includes new freshmen, continuing students, and transfer students, comprises a significant majority, with 186 new freshmen, 749 continuing students, and 123 transfer students. This distribution suggests a robust influx of new talent into the institution.

In terms of gender representation, there is a distinct male dominance across all categories. For instance, the percentage of male students among new freshmen is 63.4%, while continuing students see an even higher male representation at 69.8%. This pattern continues with transfer students who exhibit a male ratio of 75.6%. Such statistics indicate a potential gender imbalance within the student body, which could affect the overall learning environment and collaboration dynamics.

When considering ethnic diversity, the data suggests that the majority of students in each category are White, followed by Asian and other ethnic groups. However, the exact breakdown of these demographics is not fully available for continuing and transfer students, making it challenging to draw comprehensive conclusions about the ethnic diversity across the board.

Overall, while DigiPen appears to attract a large number of students, the gender disparity raises questions about inclusivity and the potential need for targeted outreach initiatives to encourage greater female participation in STEM fields, especially within a creative and technical environment like DigiPen’s. Furthermore, enhancing ethnic diversity should be a continuous goal for the institution, fostering a more inclusive and representative student body that mirrors the global community.

Age Composition of Students at DigiPen Institute of Technology

The age distribution data from DigiPen Institute of Technology in 2023 reveals some intriguing insights into the demographics of its student body. A significant majority of students fall within the 18-21 age range, with 232 male undergraduates and 112 female undergraduates aged 18-19, and a similarly high representation of 248 male undergraduates and 111 female undergraduates in the 20-21 age category. This suggests that the institution attracts a youthful population, likely composed of those who have recently graduated from high school or those transitioning directly into higher education.

As students progress into the 22-24 age bracket, we see a slight decline in the number of undergraduates, with 162 male and 66 female students. However, the presence of graduate students begins to emerge, indicating that some individuals are continuing their education beyond their undergraduate studies. The representation of older students (ages 25 and above) is notably lower, with significant drops in enrollment numbers, especially among females. For example, in the 25-29 age group, there are only 24 female undergraduates compared to 116 male undergraduates.

The presence of students aged 30 and above is minimal, reflecting a trend seen in many technical fields where younger individuals dominate the population. This demographic trend is consistent with national data showing that younger students are increasingly pursuing degrees in technology and related fields. These insights highlight the need for institutions like DigiPen to create supportive environments that accommodate a diverse age range, especially as it becomes increasingly important to engage non-traditional students who may wish to return for further education or career advancement.

International Students

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

Undergraduates10.6%

108 in 2025 · 12.3% in 2016

0% 10% 20% 2016: 12.3%2017: 8.5%2018: 9.0%2019: 14.9%2020: 11.5%2021: 11.4%2022: 10.7%2023: 12.1%2024: 10.7%2025: 10.6%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025
Graduate students41.2%

28 in 2025 · 52.9% in 2016

0% 37.5% 75% 2016: 52.9%2017: 52.6%2018: 47.3%2019: 66.7%2020: 54.4%2021: 39.0%2022: 30.5%2023: 35.1%2024: 36.2%2025: 41.2%
2016Peer median 1.0%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at DigiPen Institute of Technology

The data reflects a notable trend in international student enrollment at the DigiPen Institute of Technology over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of undergraduate international students has seen a significant increase, from just 8 students in 2004 to 129 in 2023. This rise corresponds with a growth in the total undergraduate population, resulting in an increase in the percentage of international students from 1.53% to 12.09%.

In the graduate program, international enrollment has also demonstrated considerable variation. The percentage of international graduate students peaked at 66.67% in 2019, showcasing an influx of international talent. However, this figure has fluctuated in subsequent years, with a decline to 35.09% in 2023. Such fluctuations may reflect broader trends in global student mobility, influenced by factors such as geopolitical circumstances, visa regulations, and the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The growth in international students at DigiPen is reflective of a broader trend among U.S. institutions, which increasingly value the diversity and global perspectives that international students bring. As the demand for skilled professionals in technology and game design continues to rise, institutions like DigiPen are likely to continue attracting a vibrant international student body. This not only enriches the learning environment but also prepares all students for a globalized workforce, an essential factor in today's interconnected world.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$58,462

Undergraduate tuition
$38,950
Room and board
$19,512
Graduate tuition
$33,910
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 40% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 73%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$41.4M

Tuition and fees
$36.0M87.1%
Auxiliary enterprises
$4.0M9.7%
Investment return
$355K0.9%
Gifts and private grants
$5K0.0%
Sales and services of educational activities
$2K0.0%
Other
$995K2.4%

Expenses$39.6M

Instruction
$15.1M38.2%
Institutional support
$15.0M37.8%
Auxiliary enterprises
$4.2M10.5%
Student services
$3.2M8.0%
Public service
$223K0.6%
Academic support
$148K0.4%
Other
$1.8M4.5%

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
$91,544peers $65,931
Professor
$108,771peers $77,501
Associate professor
$98,020peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$80,154peers $61,725
Lecturer
$78,975peers $60,000

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA

No athlete data available for 2025.

No athlete data available for 2024.

No athlete data available for 2023.

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near DigiPen Institute of Technology:

  1. University of Washington-Seattle Campus - Ranked 40th in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is well-known for its research programs and diverse academic offerings.

  2. Seattle University - With a ranking of 163, Seattle University is a comprehensive institution that emphasizes a holistic education rooted in the Jesuit tradition.

  3. Reed College - This liberal arts college is ranked 67th and is renowned for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus life.

  4. University of Puget Sound - Ranked 89th, this liberal arts college focuses on a personalized education experience and has a strong emphasis on undergraduate research.

  5. Whitman College - With a rank of 46, Whitman College is a prestigious liberal arts college known for its strong academic programs and beautiful campus.

These institutions provide a range of educational opportunities and contribute to the vibrant academic community in the Seattle area.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

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

Incidents, 2023–2025

Motor vehicle theft
27
Domestic violence
6
Burglary
4
Fondling
2
Aggravated assault
2
Drug referrals
2

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Trends at DigiPen Institute of Technology

The crime statistics from DigiPen Institute of Technology reveal significant fluctuations in crime rates over the past decade. Notably, from 2013 to 2020, the average crime rate per 1,000 students remained relatively low, with several years reporting zero incidents. This suggests a generally safe campus environment during those years. However, the data takes a concerning turn in 2023 with a reported crime rate of 16.90 per 1,000 students, indicating a potential surge in criminal activities.

This spike in crime could be attributed to a variety of factors, including changes in campus policies, increased enrollment leading to a larger student body, or perhaps a wider reporting of incidents that were previously unreported. Among the specific crimes reported, firearms-related arrests and drug-related incidents may point to underlying issues that the campus administration will need to address proactively.

The increase in crime rates reflects a trend observed in many educational institutions across the nation, where rising student populations and societal pressures contribute to rising incidents of crime. It is imperative for the institution to enhance security measures, provide resources for mental health and substance abuse, and foster a culture of safety and awareness among students.

The data highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and intervention strategies to ensure the well-being of students. A safe learning environment is crucial for academic success, and the administration must respond to these statistics with actionable plans. For more information on how crime rates are calculated, please refer to this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.

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.