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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Thomas College

Waterville, Maine · www.thomas.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

96.3%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$31,824

$45,914 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

1,526

Student-faculty ratio 20:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

43.3%

4-year; 6-year rate 49.3%

Peer median 44.6%

“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Thomas College, located in Waterville, Maine, is renowned for its commitment to providing a personalized education tailored to the needs of its students. Established in 1894, the college emphasizes experiential learning and practical application, ensuring that students are well-prepared for their future careers. The college motto, "Strive for Excellence," reflects its dedication to fostering a culture of achievement and personal growth. With a focus on small class sizes, students benefit from close interactions with faculty members, who are not only knowledgeable but also dedicated to mentoring their students. This supportive environment has created a strong sense of community on campus, where collaboration and innovation are highly encouraged.

The college offers a variety of programs, including business, criminal justice, and education, allowing students to pursue their passions while gaining valuable skills. Thomas College also emphasizes the importance of extracurricular activities, offering numerous student organizations, athletic programs, and community service opportunities. The campus features modern facilities, including a state-of-the-art library, athletic fields, and student housing, enhancing the overall student experience. Additionally, Thomas College is known for its strong focus on career readiness, with many graduates successfully entering the workforce or pursuing advanced degrees. The college's commitment to student success is demonstrated by its robust career services, which provide resources and connections to help students navigate their post-graduation paths. Overall, Thomas College stands out as a vibrant institution that prepares students for success in an ever-changing world.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Thomas College

The financial burden of attending college has steadily increased over the years at Thomas College, with tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students rising sharply. In 2014, the tuition was approximately $22,770 and has escalated to $30,996 by 2024, marking a significant increase of about 36%. This continuous increase in tuition can be a barrier for many potential students, particularly in the current economic climate where student debt is a growing concern nationwide.

Another critical metric is the retention rate, which reflects the institution's ability to keep students enrolled from one year to the next. The retention rate has shown a generally positive trend, increasing from around 66% in 2013 to approximately 77% in 2023. This improvement suggests that students are finding value in their education and are more likely to continue their studies at Thomas College, which could be indicative of improved student satisfaction or academic support services.

Graduation rates also reveal insights into student success. The on-time graduation rate has improved from about 26% in 2013 to approximately 44% in 2023. This upward trend indicates that a greater proportion of students are completing their degrees within the expected timeframe, which is crucial not only for the students' future employment prospects but also for the institution's reputation.

Lastly, the gender distribution among students indicates a slight shift over the years. The proportion of male undergraduate students decreased from about 44% in 2013 to approximately 45% in 2023, while female students increased from 56% to about 55%. This change may reflect broader societal trends in higher education, where more women are enrolling in and completing college compared to men.

In summary, while Thomas College faces challenges related to rising tuition costs, positive trends in retention and graduation rates, alongside changing gender dynamics, suggest a complex but promising landscape for current and prospective students.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Remote town
Nearest major city
Portland, ME, about 70 mi
Nearest international airport
Portland International Jetport (PWM), about 70 mi
Waterville, Maine
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Jeannine Diddle Uzzi (President)
Phone
2078591111
City
Waterville, Maine
Address
180 W River Rd, Waterville, ME 04901-5097

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
96.0%
Women
96.7%

In 2020: men 82.4%, women 85.1%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Thomas College

The admission statistics from Thomas College reveal interesting trends over the years, particularly in acceptance rates and enrollment numbers. For instance, the acceptance rate for males saw a significant fluctuation, dropping from approximately 88% in 2009 to around 65% in 2013, before climbing back to an impressive 98% by 2023. This suggests a growing selectivity in the admissions process, which may align with the college's efforts to enhance its academic reputation.
On the other hand, female acceptance rates also exhibited variability, starting at about 64% in 2009 and peaking at approximately 93% in 2012, before stabilizing around the mid-80% range in recent years. The consistent enrollment numbers, hovering around 200-270 students annually, indicate a steady interest in Thomas College, even as the college adjusts its admission criteria.
The data also reflects a significant number of students being deferred each year, particularly in 2012 and 2013, which could point to an evolving strategy to manage applicant pools and ensure a diverse and qualified student body. The relatively high number of denials, especially in 2013, may have been a response to increased applications, reflecting a competitive landscape for higher education.
In summary, Thomas College appears to be navigating a complex admission environment, balancing selectivity with a commitment to maintaining robust enrollment figures. As the college continues to adapt to changing trends in higher education, these statistics will be crucial in informing future strategies for recruitment and retention.

Test Scores

SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.

Data insights

Trends in SAT and ACT Scores at Thomas College

The data from Thomas College over the years reveals a notable trend in the SAT and ACT scores among admitted students. The percentage of students submitting SAT scores has remained impressively high, often close to or reaching 99%. This indicates a consistent trend where the majority of applicants are opting to submit standardized test scores, suggesting a strong emphasis on these assessments in the admissions process.

In terms of scores, there is a discernible fluctuation in the SAT reading and math scores over the years, with the 25th percentile starting score for reading and math generally stabilizing around the 390 to 450 range, while the 75th percentile scores have shown some variability, peaking at 520 in certain years. It is noteworthy that the ACT scores have not been mentioned in detail, which could indicate a lesser reliance on ACT scores or a shift in applicant preference towards SAT submissions.

The gradual decline in the lower end of the score range for both SAT sections could reflect a broader trend in college admissions, where institutions are becoming more flexible regarding standardized tests. This aligns with national discussions regarding the fairness and effectiveness of standardized testing as a measure of student capability.

Overall, the data illustrates Thomas College's evolving admissions landscape, mirroring national trends where standardized tests are increasingly scrutinized, yet remain a significant part of the college admissions equation. As more institutions adopt test-optional policies, it will be interesting to see how Thomas College adapts in the coming years.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 10 in 10

974 applicants in 2025, 96.3% admitted

938 admitted 36 not admitted Yield 16.1%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate30 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's1658 international (4.8%)
Master's451 international (2.2%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
30
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration
12
Finance, General
11
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management
10
Accounting
10
Elementary Education and Teaching
10
Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions, Other
9
Forensic Psychology
8
Psychology, General
7
Computer Science
7

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's25 (4% international)
  • Accounting and Business/Management · Master's7 (0% international)
  • Project Management · Master's6 (0% international)
  • Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's5 (0% international)
  • Education, General · Master's1 (0% international)
  • Criminology · Master's1 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Trends at Thomas College in 2023

The graduation data from Thomas College in 2023 reveals notable trends in various academic programs. One standout observation is the significant number of graduates in Business Administration and Management, particularly at the master's level, with 55 students earning their degrees. This could be reflective of the ongoing demand for business professionals in today's job market, driven by the growing complexities of the global economy and the need for adept management skills.

In the realm of education, the data shows a consistent output, highlighting the importance of teaching and educational leadership across multiple programs. For instance, there are 16 graduates in Education, showcasing a commitment to nurturing future educators. This aligns with the increasing emphasis on quality education and teaching standards, especially in light of recent discussions around educational reform and teacher shortages in many regions.

Additionally, the data indicates a rising interest in Criminal Justice and National Security fields, with several graduates completing their studies in these domains. This trend reflects societal concerns about safety and justice, coupled with the demand for professionals equipped to handle these challenges.

Interestingly, the data does not show any international students graduating with bachelor's degrees, suggesting potential barriers or lack of attraction for international students in certain undergraduate programs, which could be an area for the college to explore further.

Overall, the graduation trends at Thomas College not only highlight the popularity of specific fields but also reflect broader societal needs and market demands, positioning the institution as a critical player in shaping the workforce for the future.

All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard

*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes

Businesshas 103 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Business/Commerce, General.-
Business Administration and Management, General.$47,148-$63,762
Project Management.$47,148-$63,762
Accounting.$60,107
Accounting and Business/Management.$60,107
Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies.-
Finance, General.-
Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General.-
International Business/Trade/Commerce.-
Business Statistics.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Educationhas 26 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Education, General.$50,487
Educational Leadership and Administration, General.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.$42,106
Secondary Education and Teaching.$42,106
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.$42,106
Homeland security has 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.$49,110
Homeland Security.-
Forensic Science and Technology.-
Psychology has 15 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$40,252
Forensic Psychology.$38,797
Computer and information sciencehas 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Computer Science.-
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.$49,320
Health professionshas 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions, Other.-
Natural resources has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Environmental Studies.-
Environmental/Natural Resources Law Enforcement and Protective Services.-
Social sciencehas 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Criminology.-
American Government and Politics (United States).-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General.-
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.-
Communication has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia.-
Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication, Other.-
English has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-
Liberal arts has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.-

Students

1,635 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 46:54 · Freshman retention 77.5%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,526)

White
1,184 · 77.6%
Unknown
118 · 7.7%
Two or more races
81 · 5.3%
Black
52 · 3.4%
International
46 · 3.0%
Asian
20 · 1.3%
Hispanic
14 · 0.9%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
53.2%
18–19
23.7%
20–21
18.8%
22–24
3.6%
25 and over
0.7%

Graduate students

Under 22
1.8%
22–24
51.4%
25–29
17.4%
30–34
6.4%
35 and over
22.9%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Thomas College in 2023

The student population at Thomas College in 2023 showcases a diverse mix of undergraduate and graduate students, with a total of 1,737 enrolled. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 234 students, with a notable gender distribution of 44% male and 56% female, indicating a slight predominance of female students in this group. The undergraduate juniors represent the largest cohort with 416 students, displaying a balanced gender ratio of approximately 50% for both males and females, suggesting an inclusive environment for both genders.

In contrast, the transfer undergraduates consist of only 23 students, with a majority female representation at 52.2%. This may reflect the challenges faced by transfer students in adjusting to a new academic environment, potentially influencing their demographic characteristics. The graduate student population is comprised of 114 individuals, with 43% male and 57% female, reflecting similar gender trends observed in the undergraduate groups.

The overall demographic makeup emphasizes a significant proportion of white students across all categories, which aligns with broader national trends in higher education demographics. Furthermore, the gender ratios highlight an encouraging trend towards gender parity, especially among juniors. This data is crucial for the college to understand its student body better and to develop policies that promote diversity and inclusion. As higher education institutions increasingly emphasize the importance of diverse student experiences, Thomas College's demographic trends will be vital in shaping its future initiatives and strategies.

Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Thomas College 2023

The age composition of students at Thomas College in 2023 presents insightful trends regarding the demographic diversity of the student body. A significant majority of students fall within the <18 and 18-19 age categories, with 165 male undergraduates and 250 female undergraduates under 18, alongside 244 male undergraduates and 270 female undergraduates aged 18-19. This suggests a robust influx of traditional-age college students, which is often indicative of a healthy recruitment strategy.

As we move into the 20-21 age range, the numbers begin to decline, particularly among male undergraduates, whose representation drops to 145. This could reflect a national trend where students take gap years or shift their educational paths, possibly influenced by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The slight increase in graduate students aged 22-24 may suggest that students are increasingly pursuing further education immediately after their undergraduate studies.

Interestingly, the cohort of students aged 25-29 and beyond shows a blend of both undergraduate and graduate students, with a notable presence of older students seeking education later in life. This aligns with reports highlighting the rising trend of adult learners returning to higher education for career advancement or personal development.

The gender distribution also presents a noteworthy point of discussion, with a higher number of female students across most age categories, particularly in the under 18 and 18-19 groups. This trend could reflect broader societal shifts in educational engagement among women, as more females are pursuing higher education than ever before.

Overall, the data from Thomas College illustrates a diverse student demographic, with opportunities for growth in attracting non-traditional students, ultimately enriching the campus community and fostering a multifaceted learning environment.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Undergraduates3.0%

46 in 2025 · 1.7% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.7%2017: 2.0%2018: 1.4%2019: 1.5%2020: 0.9%2021: 0.6%2022: 0.9%2023: 1.6%2024: 2.3%2025: 3.0%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students0.9%

1 in 2025 · 1.3% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.3%2017: 3.4%2018: 2.9%2019: 0.0%2020: 0.0%2021: 0.0%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.0%2024: 1.1%2025: 0.9%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Trends at Thomas College

The data from Thomas College reveals a nuanced trend in the enrollment of international students over the years. From 2004 to 2023, undergraduate enrollment saw a steady increase, culminating in a total of 1,623 students in 2023, with 26 of them being international students, representing approximately 1.60% of the undergraduate population. This is a significant rise compared to the earlier years, where the percentage of international students was as low as 0.14% in 2004.

In contrast, the graduate program demonstrates a more fluctuating trend, with the highest international student representation recorded at 3.38% in 2017, albeit with a declining trend in subsequent years. The absence of data for several years indicates potential challenges in attracting graduate-level international students, which could be attributed to various factors, including changes in global policies, economic conditions, and competition from other institutions.

The overall increase in the percentage of undergraduate international students reflects a growing recognition of the importance of diversity in higher education, enhancing the learning environment for all students. However, the variability in graduate student numbers underscores the need for targeted recruitment strategies to bolster this segment.

In the current global context, where many universities worldwide are striving to improve their international presence, Thomas College's data suggests both progress and areas that require attention. It is crucial for the institution to leverage its strengths while addressing the challenges that may hinder its graduate programs from attracting a more diverse student body.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$45,914

Undergraduate tuition
$31,824
Room and board
$14,090
Graduate tuition
$31,824
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 31% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 35%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$27.6M

Tuition and fees
$7.7M27.9%
Auxiliary enterprises
$7.2M25.9%
Gifts and private grants
$5.1M18.6%
Investment return
$4.8M17.5%
Government grants and contracts
$2.5M8.9%
Other
$321K1.2%

Expenses$24.8M

Student services
$7.0M28.3%
Instruction
$5.1M20.5%
Auxiliary enterprises
$4.8M19.5%
Institutional support
$4.8M19.4%
Academic support
$2.4M9.6%
Public service
$661K2.7%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

All faculty
$68,624peers $68,006
Professor
$80,788peers $78,041
Associate professor
$66,633peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$58,169peers $63,827
Instructor
$53,382peers $55,171

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · North Atlantic Conference

North Atlantic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer3627
Track and Field (Outdoor)3119
Lacrosse3019
Track and Field (Indoor)2817
Basketball2617
Baseball42-
Ice Hockey22-
Field Hockey-21
Softball-21
Tennis127
Cross Country86
Volleyball-12
Golf8-
Other Sports--
2024
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer3926
Track and Field (Outdoor)3320
Track and Field (Indoor)3118
Basketball2523
Lacrosse2516
Baseball35-
Other Sports35-
Field Hockey-25
Tennis910
Softball-17
Cross Country89
Golf13-
2023
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer3324
Track and Field (Indoor)2924
Track and Field (Outdoor)2622
Lacrosse2016
Baseball33-
Basketball1617
Field Hockey-24
Softball-23
Tennis88
Cross Country610
Golf11-
Other Sports--

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools surrounding Thomas College:

  1. Colby College - Ranked 25th in the 2024 US News rankings, Colby College is a liberal arts college known for its rigorous academic programs and beautiful campus in Waterville, Maine.

  2. Bates College - With a rank of 24, Bates College offers a distinctive liberal arts education, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and civic engagement in a supportive environment.

  3. Bowdoin College - Ranked 9th, Bowdoin College is known for its strong emphasis on the liberal arts and commitment to social responsibility, fostering a vibrant community of learners.

  4. Dartmouth College - A prestigious Ivy League institution, Dartmouth is ranked 18th and is renowned for its unique combination of liberal arts and research opportunities, set against the backdrop of New Hampshire's scenic landscapes.

  5. Tufts University - With a ranking of 40, Tufts is recognized for its innovative programs and global perspective, providing students with diverse opportunities to engage in learning beyond the classroom.

These institutions contribute to the rich educational landscape surrounding Thomas College, offering a variety of programs and experiences for students.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
46
Drug referrals
11
Residence hall fires
2
Rape
1

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Thomas College

The data from Thomas College reveals significant fluctuations in crime rates over the past decade. Notably, the average number of offenses per 1,000 students peaked in 2017 at 26.62, a stark contrast to the low of 2.65 recorded in 2023. This decline suggests improved campus safety measures and a more vigilant community.

Throughout these years, various types of crimes were recorded, including arrests related to firearms, drugs, and alcohol, as well as incidents of domestic violence and sexual offenses. The spike in crime rates during 2015 to 2017 could be attributed to a number of factors, including changes in campus policies, increased reporting, or possibly a rise in criminal activity that coincided with that period.

The significant drop in 2023, with only 4.6 offenses per 1,000 students, indicates a positive trend. This could reflect the impact of enhanced security protocols or increased awareness and prevention programs within the college community. Furthermore, ongoing national discussions regarding campus safety and sexual violence prevention may have influenced these dynamics.

In summary, while Thomas College experienced higher crime rates in the mid-2010s, recent data suggests a notable improvement in campus safety. Continuous monitoring and community engagement will be crucial in maintaining this downward trend. For those interested in understanding the calculation of crime rates, detailed methodologies can be found at the following link: Crime Rate Calculation.

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.