Campus Vibe
Known for biology — close-knit campus
Houghton University is a private institution in Houghton with particular strength in biology and business. With an average SAT of 1297, the school attracts a broad applicant pool.
A small campus of 867 undergraduates with a 13:1 student-faculty ratio. The rural location provides a peaceful, focused academic environment.
65% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $46,721 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $21,148.
Plan Your Visit
News & Alerts
Houghton University Launches New Data Science Minor
Starting Fall 2026, students can pursue an interdisciplinary data science minor combining CS, statistics, and domain courses.
Tuition Increase Announced for 2026-27
The board of trustees approved a 3.2% tuition increase for the upcoming academic year, in line with peer institutions.
Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1297
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Financial Aid
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
44.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
3.2%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$20,313
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
5
Peer Average
3
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus security, emergency notification system
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Academics
Programs (45)
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
77%
- •77% first-year retention rate
- •Active student organizations
- •Engaged campus community
Mental Health Services
Counselor Ratio
1:350
24/7 Crisis Line
Yes
Free Sessions
12 per year
Avg Wait
5 days
Walk-in hours available weekdays
Disability Services
ADA-compliant campus with ongoing accessibility improvements
Dining
Rating
★★★★☆
Score
4/5
Meal Plan
$6,200/yr
Multiple dining halls with farm-to-table options
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Rankings
More About This School
History & Fun Facts
- •History Houghton University began in 1883 as Houghton Seminary, a coeducational high school founded by Willard J.
- •In 1899, the first few college classes were offered.
- •Luckey was appointed president in 1908 and Houghton College received its provisional charter from New York in 1923.
- •A permanent charter was granted in 1927, and accreditation by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools came in 1935.
Source: Wikipedia
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Housing and food costs are higher than national average