Dean College
Franklin, United States
Dean College
Franklin, United States
Founded
1865
Institution Type
Private
Total Students
1,150+
Acceptance Rate
74%
Discover Dean College: A Supportive New England Learning Community
Discover Dean College: A Supportive New England Learning Community
Dean College is a private, residential college located on a picturesque 100-acre campus in Franklin, Massachusetts, approximately 30 miles from both Boston and Providence, Rhode Island. Founded in 1865 by Oliver Dean as a co-educational academy, the college has grown into a nationally recognized institution offering bachelor's degrees, associate degrees, and certificates across more than 50 programs and specializations.
What sets Dean College apart is its deeply personalized approach to education. With a student-faculty ratio of 15:1 and no lecture halls or teaching assistants, every student receives individualized attention from professors and advisors who are committed to helping them succeed both academically and personally.
Dean College has been nationally recognized as a Top College in the North and a Best Value School by U.S. News & World Report. The college is also known for one of the most comprehensive programs for students with diagnosed learning differences in the country, and has been a nationally recognized educational center for the performing arts for more than 50 years.
Key Milestones
- 1865: Founded by Oliver Dean as Dean Academy, a co-educational institution on nine acres of donated land in Franklin, Massachusetts.
- 1941: The school transitioned to higher education and was renamed Dean Junior College, marking a new chapter in its academic mission.
- 1994: Renamed Dean College and began expanding its bachelor's degree programs and academic offerings significantly.
- 2020: Granted full NCAA Division III membership, providing 16 athletic programs eligibility for NCAA postseason championships.
Academic Schools and Programs at Dean College
Academic Schools and Programs at Dean College
Dean College offers bachelor's degree and associate degree programs within four academic schools, each providing hands-on learning, small class sizes, and strong industry connections. With over 50 programs and specializations, students can explore diverse fields while receiving the personalized support that defines the Dean experience.
School of the Arts
The School of the Arts offers programs in theatre, musical theatre, communications, and media production. Students gain real-world experience through campus productions, the college radio station Power 88 WGAO, and video broadcast studios.
- Theatre Arts
- Musical Theatre
- Communications
Dean R. Sanders '47 School of Business
The School of Business prepares students for careers in management, marketing, sport management, and entertainment through coursework combined with internship opportunities at organizations like Kraft Sports + Entertainment.
- Business Management
- Sport Management
- Marketing
Joan Phelps Palladino School of Dance
One of the most respected collegiate dance programs in the nation, the School of Dance offers rigorous training in multiple dance styles with performance opportunities and professional preparation for careers in dance and related fields.
- Dance Performance
- Dance Education
- Dance Studies
School of Liberal Arts
The School of Liberal Arts provides a broad foundation in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, preparing students for diverse career paths and graduate study through critical thinking and analytical skills.
- Psychology
- Criminal Justice
- Biology
Arch Learning Community
A nationally recognized program providing comprehensive academic support to students with diagnosed learning disabilities and differences. The Arch Learning Community embeds strategies and skills into a traditional first-semester experience to build lifelong success.
- Individualized Academic Support
- Skills Development Workshops
- Peer Mentoring and Tutoring
Continuing and Professional Studies
Dean College offers part-time and continuing studies options for adult learners and working professionals who wish to pursue their education on a flexible schedule, including evening and online course offerings.
- Part-Time Degree Programs
- Certificate Programs
- Online Learning Options
Admission Requirements for Dean College
Admission Requirements for Dean College
Undergraduate Admissions
- ApplicationCommon Application or Dean College Application (free to apply)
- High School RecordOfficial high school transcript with college-preparatory coursework
- Standardized TestsTest-blind policy; SAT/ACT scores are not required or considered
- RecommendationLetter of recommendation from a guidance counselor or teacher
- International StudentsTOEFL or equivalent English proficiency test; International FOCUS program available
Transfer Admissions
- ApplicationCommon Application or Dean College Application (free to apply)
- College TranscriptsOfficial transcripts from all previously attended institutions
- Minimum GPA2.0 cumulative GPA from prior institution
- Credit TransferGenerous transfer credit policy to maximize credits transferred to Dean
- ScholarshipsTransfer merit scholarships up to USD 35,500 awarded automatically
Apply by December 1 to receive a USD 2,000 Early Action Scholarship automatically.
Dean College uses rolling admissions, accepting applications throughout the year until capacity is reached.
Transfer applications are accepted on a rolling basis for both fall and spring semesters.
International students should apply early to allow time for visa processing and the International FOCUS orientation program.
Tuition, Fees, and Scholarship Opportunities
Tuition, Fees, and Scholarship Opportunities
Dean College is committed to making a private college education affordable. All applicants are automatically considered for merit scholarships, and 96% of enrolled students receive some form of grants or scholarships. The college has been recognized as a 2025-2026 Affordable College of Distinction.
| Cost Category | Annual Cost | After Avg. Aid |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | USD 48,678 | USD 48,678 |
| Room & Board | USD 20,660 | USD 20,660 |
| Books & Supplies | USD 1,000 | USD 1,000 |
| Personal & Transportation | Varies | Varies |
| Total | ~USD 70,338 | ~USD 70,338 |
Oliver Dean Merit Scholarship
Recognizes outstanding academic accomplishment in high school. All applicants are automatically considered based on the academic and extracurricular information provided in their admission application.
- Award Range: Up to USD 30,000 per year
- Eligibility: All admitted first-year students
- Renewable: Yes, with satisfactory academic progress
Performing Arts Scholarship
Recognizes outstanding achievement in dance or theatre. These awards are reserved for candidates applying directly to the Dance or Theatre programs at Dean College.
- Eligibility: Dance or Theatre program applicants
- Application: No separate application required
- Note: Award may be revised if student changes major
Campus and Facilities at Dean College
Campus and Facilities at Dean College
Dean College's 100-acre campus in Franklin, Massachusetts features a blend of historic and modern facilities. The college has invested over USD 60 million in campus improvements in recent years, including new academic buildings, a campus center, library learning commons, and athletic field renovations.
The college's oldest and most iconic building, housing classrooms, offices, athletics facilities, and the campus radio station Power 88 WGAO.
A state-of-the-art academic hub providing collaborative study spaces, research resources, and technology for student learning.
Unveiled in 2011, the campus center serves as the social hub of student life with dining, meeting spaces, and student organization offices.
Housing & Dining
Residence Life
Dean College offers 13 different residence halls on campus, including furnished condominiums in downtown Franklin, suite-style living, and traditional residence halls.
- Co-ed, all-female, and all-male housing options
- Approximately 1,000 beds available on campus
- Furnished condominiums in downtown Franklin
Dining & Wellness
Campus dining facilities provide meal plan options for residential students, and the college offers a variety of fitness and wellness resources for all students.
- On-campus dining hall with flexible meal plans
- Two gymnasiums and fitness facilities
- Mental health and wellness counseling services
Student Life at Dean College
Student Life at Dean College
With more than 40 on-campus clubs and organizations, 16 NCAA Division III athletic programs, and a vibrant performing arts community, Dean College offers a rich and engaging student experience. The close-knit campus community ensures that every student can find their place and build lasting connections.
Franklin, Massachusetts: A Safe and Connected College Town
Franklin, Massachusetts: A Safe and Connected College Town
Life in Franklin
Franklin is a charming suburban town in Norfolk County, Massachusetts, with a population of approximately 33,000. Ranked among the safest cities in America, it offers a welcoming small-town atmosphere while providing convenient access to major metropolitan areas via the MBTA commuter rail.
Proximity to Boston
Franklin is approximately 30 miles southwest of Boston, easily accessible via the MBTA commuter rail from the Dean College/Franklin Station located steps from campus.
Proximity to Providence
Providence, Rhode Island is also about 30 miles away, giving students access to two major cities for internships, cultural events, and entertainment.
Public Transportation
The MBTA commuter rail station named Dean College/Franklin Station is located right next to campus, providing direct train service to Boston's South Station.
Airport Access
Students can reach Boston Logan International Airport and T.F. Green Airport in Providence within approximately 45 minutes by car or public transit.
Career Outcomes and Notable Alumni
Career Outcomes and Notable Alumni
Where Dean Graduates Work
Practical Information for Prospective Students
Practical Information for Prospective Students
For International Students
Dean's International FOCUS program accepts a wide range of English proficiency test scores and embeds English language skill development into required college courses specifically designed for international students.
International students are eligible for merit-based scholarships ranging from USD 5,000 to USD 21,500 per year. No additional application is required; all applicants are automatically evaluated.
New international students are invited to campus early for an orientation program that introduces them to academic life, social activities, campus resources, and ongoing support from an international student advisor.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Dean College Rankings and Recognition
Dean College Rankings and Recognition
Dean College has earned recognition from multiple national ranking organizations for its commitment to student success, value, and supportive learning environment. As a smaller private institution, Dean is ranked among regional colleges in the northeastern United States.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Dance | Nationally recognized performing arts center for over 50 years | Nationally Recognized |
| Sport Management | Top-awarded bachelor's degree program with Kraft Sports + Entertainment partnership | Top Program |
| Learning Differences Support | Arch Learning Community recognized as one of the most comprehensive programs in the country | Nationally Recognized |
| Theatre Arts | Strong performing arts tradition with dedicated facilities and production opportunities | Notable Program |
Features
Dean College, founded in 1865, is a private, residential institution located in Franklin, Massachusetts. Serving approximately 1,151 undergraduates (1,083 full-time; 68 part-time), the college offers associate and bachelor's degrees with no graduate programs. There are about 135 instructional staff (faculty) and 361 non-instructional staff, yielding a student-to-faculty ratio of around 15:1. Career outcomes are strong: 84% of the Class of 2023 were employed or in graduate school within six months, and 96% of bachelor's degree recipients find placement within a year. The college holds a ranking of #32 in Regional Colleges North by U.S. News & World Report. With under 2% international enrollment, Dean remains a tightly-knit, undergraduate-focused community.
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
November - December
Location
99 Main St, Franklin, MA 02038
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