Private university in rural New Hampshire combining liberal arts with professional preparation since 1962.
Franklin Pierce offers undergraduate programs in arts, sciences, and professional disciplines, complemented by master's degrees, doctoral degrees, and graduate certificates in business, education, and health sciences. The university has been accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) since 1968. A new Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology was announced for Fall 2026. The institution maintains a 13:1 faculty-to-student ratio and is recognized as the #2 online four-year school in New Hampshire.
The main Rindge campus spans 1,200 acres overlooking Pearly Pond with Mount Monadnock nearby. Key facilities include the Frank S. DiPietro Library, Fitzwater Communication Center, Pappas Health Science and Athletic Training Center, Emily Flint Campus Center, and the Grimshay-Gudewik Activity Center ("The Bubble"). Students live in diverse residence halls ranging from dormitory-style to apartment-style housing. Nearly 30 clubs and organizations support academic, community service, and performing arts interests, with the Pierce Media Group operating student newspaper, radio station, and television outlets.
Franklin Pierce accepts both on-campus and online undergraduate applications, as well as graduate applications. The university offers automatic admission to Anna Maria College students in good standing and operates a streamlined application process. Transfer students are welcomed through the New Hampshire Transfer Guarantee program. International student services are available. Admissions contact: (800) 437-0048 for undergraduate; (800) 325-1090 for graduate/online.
Franklin Pierce competes in NCAA Division II (23 varsity teams primarily in the Northeast-10 Conference) and NCAA Division I women's ice hockey (NEWHA). The university also sponsors men's and women's rugby at the club level. The Grimshay-Gudewik Activity Center provides recreation facilities including cardio/strength areas, free weights, tennis courts, basketball/volleyball courts, turf field, and track.