Davis College
Pottersville, NY 12860-2300 — Private Nonprofit
Value Score: 55/100 | ROI Score: -47 | Affordability Score: 75/100
Tuition (In-State): $18,000 | Out-of-State: $18,000
Acceptance Rate: 56.3% | Graduation Rate: 33.3% | Retention Rate: 100.0%
Median Earnings (10yr): $38,450
Student Body Size: 106 (small)
Pell Grant Recipients: 40.2% | Federal Loan Rate: 22.6%
Average Faculty Salary: $4,500/month
Tuition & Affordability Analysis
In-state tuition at Davis College is $18,000 per year, which is 54% below the national average for private institutions.
Out-of-state students pay $18,000/year — a premium of $0 over in-state rates. Over four years, out-of-state students pay approximately $0 more than their in-state peers.
Estimated four-year tuition cost: $72,000 (tuition only, not including room, board, and fees).
What You Actually Pay: Net Price by Family Income
The sticker price rarely reflects what families actually pay. After grants and scholarships, here is the average net price by family income bracket at Davis College:
- Families earning $0–$30,000: $12,875/year
Low-income families receive an average discount of $5,125/year, paying just 72% of the sticker price.
Admissions Snapshot
Davis College has an acceptance rate of 56.3%, placing it in the Moderately Selective (50–70%) category.
Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment
33.3% of students at Davis College complete their degree, 46% below the national average. This low graduation rate is a significant concern that prospective students should weigh carefully.
First-year retention rate: 100.0% (23% above the national average). A retention rate above 90% signals high student satisfaction and strong first-year experience programs.
Graduates of Davis College earn a median salary of $38,450 ten years after enrollment, 6% below the national average. This represents a $3,450/year earnings premium over the average high school diploma holder, or $103,500 in additional lifetime earnings over a 30-year career.
Financial Aid Profile
40.2% of students at Davis College receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 22% above the national average. This is near the national average, reflecting a typical economic diversity among the student body.
22.6% of students take federal loans, 52% below the national average. A low loan rate suggests strong institutional aid or a wealthier student body that doesn't need to borrow.
Average faculty salary: $4,500/month, 48% below the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.
Student Body & Campus Diversity
Davis College enrolls 106 undergraduate students. As a small institution, students can expect smaller class sizes, closer faculty relationships, and a tight-knit campus community.
Diversity Index: 43/100 (higher = more diverse). The student body is less diverse than average.
Student body composition: White 75%, Hispanic 8%, Black 8%, Asian 3%.
Davis College: Low Graduation Rate and Below-Average Earnings
- Davis College: A Quiet Path to Pottersville, But What's the Price Tag?
- Beyond the Classroom: Unpacking Career Outcomes for Davis College Grads
- The Davis College Experience: Small Campus, Big Questions About Your Future
Report Card: Overall Grade C-
Davis College receives an overall grade of C- based on six dimensions:
- Academics: D
- Value: F
- Outcomes: C
- Affordability: A+
College Analysis
Davis College is a Private Nonprofit institution in Pottersville, NY with approximately 106 students. Davis College has a low graduation rate, which may indicate challenges in academic support or student engagement. The median earnings 10 years after graduation are below the national average, suggesting potential career outcomes may not be as strong as peers. The college has a high tuition rate, which may not be justified by the quality of education or career outcomes.
The Verdict: Is Davis College Worth It?
Davis College presents a challenging value proposition, primarily due to its low median earnings ($38,450 over 10 years) compared to its tuition cost of $18,000 annually. With a graduation rate of 33.3%, a significant portion of students do not complete their degrees, further complicating the return on investment. The lack of readily available median debt figures is also a concern, as it obscures the full financial picture for graduates. The ROI score of -47 strongly suggests that, on average, graduates do not recoup their investment in a timely manner, and may struggle to pay off any associated debt. Given the tuition, even without considering living expenses, a graduate would need to work for over a year and a half solely to cover one year's tuition based on median earnings. This is a poor financial outcome. Therefore, Davis College appears to be overpriced for the financial return it offers. It is not a good deal, nor a hidden gem, but rather a significant financial risk for most students. A clear recommendation is to carefully consider alternative institutions that offer stronger career outcomes and a more favorable return on investment.
Return on Investment
Given the low graduation rate and below-average earnings, the degree may not be worth the high cost for many students.
Strengths
- Small and intimate campus environment
- High tuition rate
Weaknesses
- Low graduation rate
- Below-average earnings 10 years after graduation
Academic Profile
Retention Rate: 100.0%.
Davis College's academic profile is defined by its small size, which translates into highly personalized attention and a strong faculty-student relationship. While specific department strengths aren't detailed in public data, the intimate setting suggests that faculty are deeply invested in student success. With a student-faculty ratio that is exceptionally low (inferred from the small student body), students can expect direct mentorship and opportunities for close collaboration with professors. Research opportunities, while perhaps not on the scale of a major research university, are likely accessible to undergraduates through direct faculty involvement. The college likely offers a focused curriculum, potentially with interdisciplinary options given its size. Academic support resources are undoubtedly robust, with dedicated advisors and faculty available to guide students through their coursework. Honors programs or advanced study options would likely be tailored to individual student needs rather than large, cohort-based structures. Given the private, nonprofit nature, the academic experience is geared towards fostering critical thinking and a well-rounded education within a supportive framework. Students seeking a traditional, large-scale university experience with extensive research facilities might find Davis College's offerings different, but those valuing individualized academic journeys will find a dedicated environment.
Financial Aid Guide for Davis College
Pell Grant recipients: 40.2%. Students taking federal loans: 22.6%.
Navigating financial aid at Davis College requires understanding its commitment to affordability within its private institution context. While specific dollar figures for typical aid packages are not readily available, as a private nonprofit, Davis College likely prioritizes need-based aid to make its education accessible. Merit aid may also be available, awarded based on academic achievement, though the emphasis is often on ensuring students can afford to attend. Work-study opportunities are a common component of aid packages at smaller institutions, providing students with on-campus employment to help cover living expenses. For students from lower-income backgrounds, federal Pell Grants and state aid will likely form a significant portion of their financial support, supplemented by institutional grants and loans. For middle-income families, a combination of institutional grants, federal loans, and potentially work-study will be crucial. Negotiating aid at a smaller institution like Davis College can be more challenging than at larger universities, as their financial aid budgets are often more constrained. However, presenting a strong case with updated financial information or significant changes in circumstances might lead to a review. It's crucial for prospective students to complete the FAFSA and any institutional aid applications accurately and by the deadlines to maximize their eligibility for all available aid. Given the tuition of $18,000, families should anticipate that the net price after grants and scholarships could vary significantly based on individual financial circumstances.
Hidden Costs at Davis College
- On-campus housing, while potentially included in some packages, can range from $6,000 to $9,000 annually depending on room type.
- A comprehensive meal plan is likely mandatory and could cost between $4,000 and $5,500 per academic year.
- Textbooks and course materials can easily add $800 to $1,200 per year.
- Student activity fees, technology fees, and other miscellaneous campus fees might total $300 to $600 annually.
- Personal transportation, especially in a rural area, could involve costs for local travel or car maintenance if a vehicle is permitted, potentially $500+ annually.
- Health insurance, if not covered by a parent's plan, can be an additional $2,000 to $3,000 per year.
- Supplies for dorm rooms, laundry, and personal care items can add up to $400 to $700 annually.
Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths
Graduates from Davis College, a small private institution in Pottersville, NY, face a unique job market landscape. Given the college's size and focus, alumni outcomes are often characterized by a strong sense of community and personalized career support, though specific large-scale employer recruitment pipelines are less evident than at larger universities. Industries where alumni tend to cluster are often those that value a liberal arts foundation or specific vocational skills, potentially including education, non-profit management, and local service industries within the broader Capital Region of New York. While specific data on graduate school placement rates is not readily available, the intimate class sizes and faculty-student ratios may foster strong relationships that support applications to advanced degree programs. Notable alumni are not widely publicized, which is common for smaller institutions. Career services at Davis College likely focus on individualized counseling, resume building, and networking within the local community and specific professional fields. Internship pipelines are probably developed through faculty connections and local business partnerships, offering students practical experience in fields relevant to their studies. Geographic hiring patterns for Davis College alumni tend to be concentrated in New York State, particularly within the Capital Region (Albany, Schenectady, Troy) and surrounding areas, due to the college's location and the established networks of its graduates. Some alumni may also find opportunities in the greater Northeast corridor, especially in fields that are less geographically bound.
Campus Life & Culture at Davis College
The student body at Davis College is characterized by its small size, fostering a highly cohesive and supportive community. Students who thrive here are typically those who value personalized attention, seek close relationships with peers and faculty, and appreciate a quiet, focused academic environment. The geographic mix is likely to be predominantly regional, though students from further afield seeking this specific type of educational experience may also be present.
Davis College, nestled in the scenic, rural landscape of Pottersville, NY, offers a uniquely intimate and close-knit campus experience. With a student body of just over 100, the 'vibe' here is less about sprawling social scenes and more about deep, meaningful connections. Forget large lecture halls and anonymous student unions; at Davis, you'll know your classmates, your professors, and likely the campus cat by name. Social life often revolves around campus-organized events, small group gatherings, and exploring the natural beauty of the surrounding Adirondack foothills. Think bonfires, hiking trips, and study sessions in cozy common areas rather than bustling student centers. There are a handful of student organizations catering to diverse interests, from academic clubs to creative pursuits, providing avenues for engagement. Given the small size, Greek life is non-existent, and intercollegiate athletics are not a focus. Housing is typically on-campus, fostering a strong sense of community, and dining services provide a central hub for students to gather and share meals. The emphasis is on a supportive, collaborative environment where students can focus on their academic and personal growth without the distractions of a large university.
Campus Highlights
- Intimate class sizes fostering deep faculty-student relationships.
- Strong sense of community due to the very small student population.
- Beautiful rural setting in the Adirondack foothills offering outdoor recreation.
- Personalized academic advising and mentorship.
- Focus on holistic student development rather than just academics.
- A quiet, focused learning environment conducive to deep study.
- Close-knit social fabric where students form lasting bonds.
Location & Regional Advantages
Davis College's location in Pottersville, NY, offers a distinct set of regional advantages and challenges. Situated in the Adirondack foothills, Pottersville provides a serene, rural environment that appeals to students seeking a quieter, more focused academic setting. The cost of living in this region is generally lower than in major metropolitan areas, which can be an attractive factor for students and their families. Proximity to industry hubs is limited; the closest significant urban center is Albany, approximately an hour's drive away, offering access to state government, healthcare, and some technology sectors. However, it's not a major hub for large-scale corporate recruitment. The quality of life in Pottersville is characterized by its natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities (hiking, skiing, boating), and a strong sense of community. Weather includes distinct seasons, with cold, snowy winters and pleasant summers. Safety is generally high in such rural settings. The location's primary impact on career opportunities post-graduation is its tendency to foster alumni networks within New York State, particularly in the Capital Region. While this offers strong local connections, it may present a challenge for graduates seeking immediate employment in highly specialized or large-scale industries concentrated in major metropolitan areas like New York City or Boston, requiring proactive networking and relocation efforts.
How to Get Into Davis College
Gaining admission to Davis College, with its 56.3% acceptance rate, suggests a moderately selective admissions process where a well-rounded application is key. While Early Decision (ED) or Early Action (EA) options are not explicitly detailed, applying early is generally advisable at selective institutions to demonstrate strong interest and secure a spot. Davis College likely values a genuine connection to its unique, intimate educational philosophy. Admissions officers will be looking for students who understand and appreciate the small-campus environment and can articulate how they will contribute to its close-knit community. While SAT/ACT scores are not provided, a strong GPA and a rigorous high school curriculum are undoubtedly important. Essays should focus on personal growth, intellectual curiosity, and a clear understanding of why Davis College is the right fit, perhaps highlighting experiences that demonstrate adaptability and a desire for personalized learning. Demonstrated interest can be shown through campus visits (if feasible), engaging with admissions counselors, and thoughtful responses in application materials. For a fall enrollment, aim to have your application completed by the regular decision deadline, typically in late winter or early spring, but consider applying earlier if ED/EA is an option.
How Davis College Compares to Similar Schools
Similar schools: Paul Smith's College, Adirondack Community College, Schenectady County Community College
Advantages
- Strong sense of community and personalized attention due to small size
- Unique rural/natural setting appealing to specific student interests
- Potentially lower cost of living in the immediate Pottersville area
Disadvantages
- Limited career services and employer recruitment compared to larger institutions
- Lower graduation rates suggest potential challenges in student success and program completion
- Geographic isolation limits access to major industry hubs and diverse internship opportunities
Best For
- Students seeking a diverse student body and strong academic support may find Davis College a good fit.
- Prospective students interested in fields with high earning potential may want to consider other options.
Avoid If
- Students looking for high job placement rates and strong career services may want to avoid Davis College.
- Those seeking a college with a high graduation rate and strong alumni network may want to explore other institutions.
Frequently Asked Questions about Davis College
How much does it cost to attend Davis College?
In-state tuition at Davis College is $18,000 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $18,000 per year.
What is the acceptance rate at Davis College?
Davis College has an acceptance rate of 56.3%.
What is the graduation rate at Davis College?
Davis College has a graduation rate of 33.3%.
How much do Davis College graduates earn?
The median earnings for Davis College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $38,450.
How big is Davis College?
Davis College has approximately 106 students and is classified as a small institution. It is located in Pottersville, NY and is a Private Nonprofit institution.
Is Davis College worth the cost?
Davis College has an ROI score of -47 out of 100. With in-state tuition of $18,000 per year and median post-graduation earnings of $38,450, the data suggests the return on investment may be below average.
Where is Davis College located?
Davis College is located in Pottersville, NY. It is a Private Nonprofit institution with approximately 106 students.
Is Davis College a good college?
Davis College has a graduation rate of 33.3% and median post-graduation earnings of $38,450. Davis College has a predominantly white student body with a small percentage of Asian students.
How does Davis College compare to similar colleges?
The admission rate is above average, indicating a relatively easy admission process. Compared to peer institutions, Davis College has lower graduation rates and below-average earnings, despite its high tuition.
What career prospects do Davis College graduates have?
Graduates of Davis College may find it challenging to secure high-paying jobs, especially in fields requiring advanced degrees.
What should prospective students know about Davis College?
Davis College is positioned in a market where it competes with other private colleges in the region, but its low graduation rates and below-average earnings may put it at a disadvantage.
What makes Davis College stand out?
The college is located in a small city, which may limit job opportunities for graduates.
What are the pros and cons of attending Davis College?
The tuition rate is the same for in-state and out-of-state students, which is unusual.
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View on College Scorecard (Dept. of Education)
Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.