Private nonprofit Institution

Dickinson College — Carlisle, Pennsylvania

Annual Tuition $63,475

Estimated Out-of-Pocket

Acceptance 43.1%

Selective

Enrollment 2,157

Active Students

Avg. Salary $70,204

After 10 Years

Institutional Profile

Location Carlisle, Pennsylvania
Institution type Private nonprofit
Accreditation Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Founded 12/1/1965

Academic Mission & Environment

"Dickinson College stands as a pillar of higher education in Carlisle, providing a robust academic foundation for 2,157 students. The institution is recognized for its dedication to career-ready outcomes and community impact."

Campus Setting Urban Campus
Student Focus High Employment ROI

What programs does Dickinson College offer?

Discover the most popular degrees and fields of study at Dickinson College. These programs represent the institution's primary areas of academic focus and professional preparation.

Social Sciences
20.2%

Enrollment Share

Biological Sciences
12.9%

Enrollment Share

Business & Marketing
11.9%

Enrollment Share

English
5.7%

Enrollment Share

Psychology
5.7%

Enrollment Share

Ethnic & Gender Studies
5.4%

Enrollment Share

Institutional Choice

Best Social Sciences College

The Social Sciences program at Dickinson College provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited
Institutional Choice

Best Biological Sciences College

The Biological Sciences program at Dickinson College provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited
Institutional Choice

Best Business & Marketing College

Positioned as a premier hub for future executives...

Strategic Profile Audited
Institutional Choice

Best English College

The English program at Dickinson College provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited
Institutional Choice

Best Psychology College

Our Psychology program offers deep insights into human behavior...

Strategic Profile Audited
Institutional Choice

Best Ethnic & Gender Studies College

The Ethnic & Gender Studies program at Dickinson College provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited

What is the acceptance rate at Dickinson College?

Admissions & Selectivity Dashboard — 2026

Acceptance 43.1%
Difficulty Moderate

Dickinson College maintains an acceptance rate of 43.1%, reflecting its status as a selective institution. The admissions process evaluates academic potential alongside standardized testing trends to ensure a balanced student body.

Test Requirement SAT/ACT scores are considered but not required.

Student Body Composition

Men Enrollment 39.8%
Women Enrollment 60.2%

Open Pathway Confirmed

Dickinson College follows an open admission policy. Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) are typically not part of the mandatory evaluation process, ensuring broader access to academic programs.

Start Your Journey Today

Unlock access to Dickinson College's high-demand programs without the stress of standardized testing benchmarks.

Official Admission Portal

How much does Dickinson College cost in 2026?

In-State Tuition $63,475
Out-of-State Tuition $63,475

Financial Support Snapshot

Pell Grant Rate 13.7%
Median Student Debt $19,000

ROI Insight

With a tuition of only $63,475, graduates see a median starting salary of $70,204, making it one of the most affordable pathways in Pennsylvania.

What salary can Dickinson College graduates expect?

Avg. Early Career Salary $70,204

10 years after entry

Graduation Rate 83.4%

Investment Analysis & ROI

Average Net Price $32,191
Median Salary (6yr) $57,110
Earnings-to-Debt Ratio Above Average
Career Stability Index High

What is student life like at Dickinson College in Carlisle?

2,157 Students

Gender Comparison

39.8% Men
60.2% Women
Male Enrollment Female Enrollment

Retention & Enrollment

88.7%
Retention First-year
0%
Full-time Enrollment

Diversity & Ethnicity

Pacific Islander
0.1%
Asian
5.1%
Black
3.9%
White
65%
Unknown
0.9%
Hispanic
7.5%
Two or More Races
4.3%
International
13.3%

Campus Demographics

🎂
Avg. Age at Entry 19
🎓
First-Generation 12.2%
💰
Receive Pell Grant 29.2%

Student Economic Background

Median Household Income $80,466
Average Family Income $123,362
Median Family Income $100,109

Faculty Profile

Faculty Gender

52%
48%
Women Men
Premium Campus Location

Explore the Carlisle Campus Environment

Located at College and Louther Streets, Dickinson College offers a strategic urban setting that connects students with the economic and cultural heart of Pennsylvania. Use our verified map utility to plan your visit or explore nearby professional hubs.

Campus Setting Urban / Metropolitan
Access High Connectivity

Common Questions about Dickinson College

Is Dickinson College a good college in Carlisle, Pennsylvania?
Dickinson College is a recognized institution in Carlisle with an enrollment of 2,157 students. It is accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education and offers a robust ROI for students in Pennsylvania based on Department of Education data.
Is Dickinson College worth attending in 2026?
Yes, Dickinson College offers exceptional value with an average net price of $0 and median graduate earnings of $70,204. The institution's focus on professional outcomes makes it a strong investment for 2026.
How much does Dickinson College cost for Pennsylvania residents in 2026?
For the 2026 academic year, in-state tuition at Dickinson College is approximately $63,475. In addition, out-of-state tuition is $63,475. Financial aid and Pell Grants significantly reduce this cost for most local residents.
What is the real cost of Dickinson College after financial aid and FAFSA?
The real cost of attending Dickinson College for most students is its average net price of $0. Approximately 29.2% of students receive Pell Grants and FAFSA-based aid to offset costs.
Is Dickinson College good for Social Sciences and Biological Sciences programs?
Dickinson College is highly regarded for its Social Sciences and Biological Sciences programs. These tracks are among the most popular, preparing students for immediate career entry.
What career can I get after attending Dickinson College?
Graduates of Dickinson College often transition into high-demand roles in fields like Social Sciences. With a median salary of $70,204, the college provides a clear pathway to professional advancement.
What are the admission requirements for Dickinson College?
Dickinson College operates with a Selective policy. This typically includes a simplified application process focused on accessibility and student success regardless of past standardized test scores.
Does Dickinson College require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
No, Dickinson College follows a test-optional approach for the 2026 cycle. Standardized test scores like the SAT or ACT are not required for general admission.
What salary can Dickinson College graduates expect after 10 years?
Graduates of Dickinson College earn a median salary of $70,204 after 10 years. This demonstrates long-term professional stability and growth.
Is Dickinson College a good investment compared to other PA colleges?
Dickinson College stands out as a high-value investment in Pennsylvania. With an average net price of only $0, it offers one of the most affordable pathways to a degree and a professional career in the state.
Where is Dickinson College located and what is the campus like?
Dickinson College is located at College and Louther Streets in Carlisle, PA. The campus provides a dynamic environment serving a diverse student body of 2,157 learners.
Who typically attends Dickinson College in Carlisle, PA?
The student body at Dickinson College is diverse and career-focused. Approximately 12.2% are first-generation students, reflecting a community of motivated, real-world learners.
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