Hood College
The Vibe Check
Hood College offers a close-knit, supportive community where students are known by name, not just a number. The 50-acre campus blends historic Gothic architecture with modern science labs, creating a cozy yet academically rigorous atmosphere. It feels like a place where professors genuinely care about your success and you’re never just a face in the crowd.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Optional
This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
Estimate your admission chances
⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
Hood College is recognized for strong programs in business, biology, and education, with a focus on hands-on learning and undergraduate research. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention from faculty who are dedicated teachers first. Students have access to unique opportunities like the Hodson Science and Technology Center and partnerships with local biotech firms.
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 Frederick
Frederick offers a vibrant downtown scene just a short walk from campus, filled with eclectic restaurants, breweries, and boutique shops. Students enjoy exploring the Carroll Creek Linear Park, attending local festivals, and taking advantage of the city's proximity to both Washington D.C. and Baltimore for weekend trips.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).
Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($57,089):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
Hood College is located in a safe, walkable urban area of Frederick with a low crime rate. The campus has its own campus safety department with 24/7 patrols and emergency call boxes.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Personalized attention from professors due to small class sizes.
- ✓ Prime location in Frederick offering urban amenities and career opportunities.
- ✓ Strong focus on undergraduate research and hands-on learning.
- ✓ Beautiful campus with a mix of historic and modern facilities.
Cons
- ✗ Tuition is high, requiring significant financial aid to be affordable.
- ✗ Graduation rate is below the national average.
- ✗ Smaller enrollment means fewer large-scale university events compared to bigger schools.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Hood College is known for its strong programs in Business & Marketing, Biology & Biomedical Sciences, and Education. It emphasizes a hands-on learning approach, offering students numerous opportunities for undergraduate research and internships, particularly in the growing bioscience industry of Frederick and the greater D.C. area.
Hood College has an acceptance rate of 78.13%, making it generally accessible. While it is not highly selective, applicants should still have a solid high school GPA and a well-rounded application. Meeting the average test scores and demonstrating interest in specific programs can strengthen your candidacy.
Campus life at Hood is defined by a tight-knit community feel with over 80% of students living on campus. Students can engage in a variety of clubs, NCAA Division III athletics, and events in downtown Frederick. The proximity to a bustling city center allows for a blend of traditional campus living and urban exploration.
Hood College can be worth the cost depending on your financial aid package and major choice. With an average net price of $23,707 and median early-career earnings of $57,089, the ROI is competitive for a private college, especially in fields like Business and Computer Science. However, students should prioritize graduating on time to maximize the financial value of the degree.
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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 1,268
- In-State Tuition $45,870
- Zip Code 21701
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a sticker price over $45k, the net price of $23,707 is more manageable, especially for in-state students utilizing aid. The 10-year median earnings of $57,089 suggest a solid return on investment for a private college, particularly for high-demand majors like Computer Science and Business. However, the 58% graduation rate means students must be proactive to ensure they finish on time and maximize value.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.