College of the Atlantic
About College of the Atlantic
Overview, location, and what makes it stand out
College of the Atlantic in Bar Harbor, Maine, awards a single degree, in human ecology, and lets each student design their own course through it. It sits on the edge of Acadia National Park and keeps two island field stations and a working farm.
Founded
1969
Location
Bar Harbor, Maine
Students
358
Institution
Private
Known For
Key Stats
A quick snapshot of what matters most
Acceptance Rate
70.2%
Moderately selective
Graduation Rate
68.3%
Near national average
Tuition
$47,997
Per year
Avg Net Price
$25,184
After financial aid
SAT Average
1370
Out of 1600
Median Earnings
$40,264
10 years after enrollment
Admissions
How competitive is getting in?
Selectivity
Selective
70.2 out of 100 applicants get in
How to Apply
Test Policy
Test Optional
Application Fee
Free
Early
Nov 15
Regular
Feb 1
College of the Atlantic accepts 70.2% of applicants and doesn't require standardized tests. Focus on your grades and personal statement, and you have a solid chance.
SAT Scores
1370/ 1600
ACT Scores
30/ 36
Academics
How strong is the academic experience?
Student Success
Average
68.3% complete their degree within six years
Retention
85%
4-Year Grad
53%
6-Year Grad
67%
Teaching Quality
10:1
Student-Faculty Ratio
Full-Time
100%
$/Student
$18.2K
Class Size
Small
While 53% finish in 4 years, 85% of freshmen do return for sophomore year. Many students here may take a bit longer, but they stick with it.
Tuition & Costs
What will you actually pay?
Tuition & Fees
$47,997
Annual Tuition
Tuition and mandatory fees only, does not include housing or meals
Room & Board
$10,404
Books & Supplies
$600
Total Cost of Attendance
$58,266
After Financial Aid
$25,184
Average Net Price
Average amount students actually pay after grants and scholarships
Net Price (family income <$30K)
$20,415
Receive Grants
28.1%
Take Loans
53.1%
The total cost of attendance runs about $58,266/yr, including $10,404 for room and board. After financial aid, the average student pays $25,184.
Financial Aid
Who gets aid and what happens after
Financial aid comes in two forms: grants and scholarships (free money you don't repay) and loans (borrowed money you pay back after graduating). Here's how students at College of the Atlantic fund their education.
While in School
28.1%
Get Grants
Free money
53.1%
Take Loans
Must repay
$57,786
Median Family Income
After Graduation
$25,050
Median Debt at Graduation
Total federal loan balance when students graduate
$266/mo
Monthly Payment
0%
LowDefault Rate
The $25,050 median debt is above average, but graduates earn $40K within ten years. The numbers suggest the investment pays off for most students.
Student Body
Diversity, gender, and enrollment
From gender balance and racial diversity to age and background, here's a look at who attends College of the Atlantic.
Gender
72.2%
Female
28%
Male
Female to Male Ratio
Race & Ethnicity
Enrollment
353
Undergraduate Students
Student Profile
5
Graduates
N/A
First-Gen
20 yrs
Avg Age
6.4%
Age 25+
Women make up the majority at 72% of the student body. 21.5% international students bring global perspectives to campus life.
Campus Life
What it's like to be a student here
Campus Setting
Rural: Remote
Campus Quick Facts
353
Students
private
Institution
Small
Campus Size
Liberal Arts
Classification
What This College Offers
Trimester calendar
Study Abroad
Yes
AP Credit
No
Teacher Cert
Yes
ROTC
No
Evening College
No
Online Programs
No
Job Placement
Yes
Career Counseling
Yes
After Graduation
What can you earn with this degree?
How much do graduates of College of the Atlanticearn, and what do they study? Here's a look at outcomes and popular programs.
Earnings Trajectory
$40,264
Median Earnings · 10 Years After
Popular Programs
Top 1Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
—
93 grads
Graduates earn about $40K ten years out, above the national average. Your specific major will heavily influence where you land in that range.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about College of the Atlantic
What is the acceptance rate at College of the Atlantic?▾
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Data sourced from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard Some figures may reflect prior academic years. Our editorial team reviews and updates college profiles to ensure accuracy. If you notice outdated information, please let us know.