Clark University
The Vibe Check
Clark University feels like an intimate, intellectually charged community where students are encouraged to be active participants rather than passive learners. The urban campus fosters a close-knit atmosphere where professors know your name and collaboration is the norm. There's a palpable sense of social responsibility and a drive to apply knowledge to real-world problems.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
Clark is renowned for its pioneering 'Liberal Education and Effective Practice' (LEEP) framework, which integrates rigorous classroom learning with hands-on professional experience. The university excels in psychology, social sciences, and environmental science, offering significant research opportunities even for undergraduates through its well-funded programs. Small class sizes ensure direct mentorship from dedicated faculty who are leaders in their fields.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Worcester
Worcester is New England's second-largest city, offering a gritty, authentic urban experience with a burgeoning food scene, live music venues, and a minor league baseball team. Students enjoy exploring the city's diverse neighborhoods, hiking at nearby Green Hill Park, or taking a short train ride to Boston for a day trip. Campus events, student organizations, and local cafes provide plenty of social opportunities right outside the university gates.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($62,381):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
Clark University has its own dedicated, professional campus police force that provides 24/7 patrols and emergency response services. The campus is located in a vibrant, well-lit urban neighborhood of Worcester, and the university actively fosters a safe environment through community partnership and comprehensive safety awareness programs.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ The innovative LEEP program guarantees practical, professional experience integrated into the curriculum.
- ✓ A strong commitment to social justice and environmental sustainability permeates campus culture.
- ✓ Small class sizes and accessible faculty provide a supportive and personalized academic environment.
- ✓ Location in Worcester offers urban amenities and internship opportunities without the high cost of a major metro like Boston.
Cons
- ✗ The urban setting may not appeal to students seeking a traditional, self-contained college campus.
- ✗ While below the national average, the sticker price is still high, requiring careful financial planning.
- ✗ Worcester's social scene is less vibrant than that of larger cities like Boston or New York.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Clark University is most famous for being the first university in the U.S. to offer a graduate program in psychology and for establishing the first PhD program in the country. Today, it is renowned for its pioneering 'Liberal Education and Effective Practice' (LEEP) curriculum, which combines a traditional liberal arts foundation with hands-on professional experience, and for its strong emphasis on social justice and environmental science.
Clark University has an acceptance rate of approximately 42%, making it a moderately selective institution. The middle 50% of admitted students typically have an SAT score between 1240 and 1410. While it is not as exclusive as the most elite universities, successful applicants generally demonstrate strong academic performance, compelling essays, and a clear fit with the university's mission and values.
Campus life at Clark is characterized by a close-knit, collaborative, and socially conscious community. Students are highly engaged in a wide range of clubs, Division III athletics, and community service initiatives. The urban location in Worcester provides easy access to off-campus entertainment, while a robust series of on-campus events ensures a vibrant and active student experience.
For many students, Clark University is a worthwhile investment due to its strong ROI and unique academic model. The LEEP program's focus on practical skills and internships directly enhances post-graduation employability, which is reflected in a solid 10-year median earnings figure of $62,381. Furthermore, the average net price is significantly lower than the sticker price, making it more financially accessible for many families.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 2,494
- In-State Tuition $55,160
- Zip Code 01610
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $27,711, Clark presents a more accessible financial option than its sticker price suggests, especially after institutional aid and grants. The 10-year median earnings of $62,381 for graduates indicate a solid return on investment, particularly for degrees in high-demand fields like psychology and business. For students who actively leverage the LEEP program for internships and networking, the financial value of a Clark degree is significantly enhanced.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.