Mills College at Northeastern University
General Information about Mills College at Northeastern University
About (Overview)
Mills College at Northeastern University represents the merger between the historic Mills College and Northeastern University, completed in 2022. This union created a dynamic institution that combines Mills’ long-standing legacy of women’s leadership, social justice, and liberal arts with Northeastern’s reputation for experiential learning, research, and global engagement. Founded in 1852 as a young ladies’ seminary, Mills became one of the most respected liberal arts colleges for women on the West Coast before embracing coeducation and inclusion for nonbinary and transgender students.
The Oakland campus, set on 135 acres, now serves as Northeastern’s West Coast hub, providing students with interdisciplinary academic opportunities, research collaborations, and access to Northeastern’s global network. The merger preserved Mills’ historical emphasis on equity and empowerment while expanding its academic offerings to include Northeastern’s diverse range of programs. Students at Mills College at Northeastern benefit from small class sizes, close faculty mentorship, and a campus culture grounded in creativity, inclusion, and community engagement.
Contact Information
Address:
5000 MacArthur Boulevard
Oakland, California 94613
Phone number: 510.430.2255
Email: General inquiries handled through Mills College at Northeastern University administrative offices.
School Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding Year (Original Mills) | 1852 |
| Merger with Northeastern | 2022 |
| Campus Size | 135 acres |
| Type / Control | Private University |
| Motto / Values | Social justice, leadership, inclusion, experiential learning |
| Undergraduate Enrollment | Approximately 542 students |
| Graduate Enrollment | Approximately 489 students |
| Accreditation | New England Commission of Higher Education |
Mills College at Northeastern University Rankings
| Level | Ranking / Position |
|---|---|
| Northeastern University (U.S. News) | 46th in National Universities |
| Northeastern University (QS World) | 384th in World University Rankings |
| Legacy Mills College (Education Category) | 121st globally |
| Legacy Mills College (Forbes) | 343rd globally / 290th in USA |
Mills College at Northeastern University Academics
Mills College at Northeastern University Faculties / Departments
- Education and Educational Leadership
- Early Childhood Education
- Multiple Subject and Single Subject Education
- Liberal Arts and Humanities
- Psychology and Sociology
- Fine Arts and Performing Arts
- Natural and Health Sciences
- English and Literature
- Gender and Women’s Studies
Mills College at Northeastern University Courses and Programs / Majors
- Master of Arts in Educational Leadership
- Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education
- Master of Arts in Multiple Subject Education
- Master of Arts in Single Subject Education
- Undergraduate Liberal Arts Programs
- Psychology and Sociology
- Fine Arts and Visual Arts
- English Literature and Writing
- Biology and Environmental Studies
- Child Development and Health Policy
Online Learning
Mills College at Northeastern University currently offers limited online programs. Among its graduate offerings, select education degrees include distance or hybrid options that allow students to balance academic and professional commitments. As integration with Northeastern’s global campus system continues, online and hybrid opportunities are expected to grow. Northeastern’s established online learning infrastructure provides a foundation for Mills to expand flexible education options in the coming years, enabling broader accessibility for students from various regions and backgrounds.
Average Test Scores (SAT, ACT, GRE, etc.)
| Test | Reported Range / Notes |
|---|---|
| SAT / ACT | Approximately 28% of first-time students submitted SAT scores; detailed percentiles not published |
| GRE | Required for select graduate programs; varies by department |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Mills College at Northeastern University has a graduation rate of around 62 percent within 150 percent of normal completion time. Approximately 47 percent of students graduate within the standard timeframe, while retention data is still stabilizing as the merger matures. The university’s strong student advising and mentoring systems aim to improve these figures by providing academic support, experiential opportunities, and community resources that encourage timely completion and long-term success.
Mills College at Northeastern University Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Mills College at Northeastern University uses a holistic review process, with GPA and test scores serving as just one part of the evaluation. Historically, admitted students have demonstrated GPAs in the A to B+ range. The institution is test-optional, meaning standardized test scores are not required for most applicants. Only a small percentage of students submit SAT or ACT results, and those who do typically score within competitive mid-range levels.
Mills College at Northeastern University Acceptance Rate
| Year | Applications | Accepted | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 17,177 | 2,841 | 16.5% |
Mills College at Northeastern University Application Requirements
Applicants are required to submit official academic transcripts, a personal essay, and at least two letters of recommendation. Standardized test scores are optional, though some graduate programs may request GRE results. Additional materials such as portfolios are necessary for applicants in creative or arts-based disciplines. Graduate students applying to education programs must demonstrate relevant experience and submit a statement of purpose outlining academic and professional goals. Mills College at Northeastern values authenticity, community involvement, and leadership potential, seeking students who embody its values of equity and innovation.
Application Process
- Complete and submit the online application form
- Provide official high school or college transcripts
- Submit optional SAT, ACT, or GRE scores
- Provide two or more letters of recommendation
- Write a personal essay or statement of purpose
- Submit creative portfolios if applicable
- Attend interviews or additional assessments if required
- Await notification of admission decision
Mills College at Northeastern University Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Deadline Type | Typical Date / Period |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate Fall Admission | January to February |
| Graduate Program Applications | Varies by program (typically late winter) |
| Financial Aid and Scholarship Applications | February to March |
| Admission Notifications | Spring to Early Summer |
Essay Prompt
Applicants may be asked to respond to essay questions reflecting Mills College at Northeastern University’s values and mission. A common essay prompt might be: “Describe a moment or challenge that shaped your personal or academic growth. How will your experiences and goals contribute to the Mills College at Northeastern community?” This essay allows applicants to showcase their individuality, leadership, and passion for creating positive change.
Mills College at Northeastern University Scholarships
Mills College at Northeastern University offers a variety of scholarships to recognize academic achievement, leadership, and community service. Examples include the Presidential Scholarship, Faculty Eucalyptus Scholarship, and Harriet Fitzgerald Scholarship. Additional aid is available through need-based grants, federal assistance, and state programs such as Cal Grants. Students may also qualify for Northeastern’s broader merit-based awards as part of the integrated university network.
Mills College at Northeastern University Tuition and Fees
| Category | Amount / Estimate |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition | Approximately $62,000 per year |
| Average Net Price (After Aid) | Around $25,000 per year |
| Financial Aid Recipients | Approximately 92% of students |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
Mills College at Northeastern University maintains a diverse student body reflecting Oakland’s cultural and social diversity. The student population includes approximately 32 percent Asian students, 21 percent White, 11 percent Hispanic or Latino, 5 percent identifying as multiracial, and nearly 5 percent Black or African American. The institution continues to honor its heritage as a women-centered college but now admits all genders, fostering an inclusive environment for nonbinary and transgender students as well. Most undergraduate students fall between 18 and 24 years old, while graduate programs attract a broader age range of adult learners pursuing advanced studies and professional credentials.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Mills College at Northeastern University upholds a strong commitment to accessibility and equity. The institution offers extensive financial aid options to support low-income students, including grants, scholarships, and federal assistance. Support for students with disabilities includes accommodations, counseling, and accessible campus facilities. Advisors and specialized staff ensure all students have equal access to academic and extracurricular opportunities, emphasizing Mills’ dedication to inclusion, empowerment, and academic success for all.
Student Body (Total Students, International Students, etc.)
| Category | Number / Percentage |
|---|---|
| Total Students | Approximately 658 |
| Graduate Students | Approximately 489 |
| International Students | About 4% of total enrollment |
| Racial and Ethnic Diversity | Highly diverse, majority students of color |
University Diversity
Diversity remains a cornerstone of Mills College at Northeastern University’s identity. The institution fosters a welcoming environment where students from various cultural, racial, and socioeconomic backgrounds engage in shared learning experiences. Programs and events on campus promote cross-cultural understanding and social advocacy. Mills continues to champion underrepresented voices, including first-generation college students, students of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and international scholars. The university actively cultivates a community that encourages open dialogue, mutual respect, and academic collaboration rooted in social justice and inclusivity.
Average Earnings
Graduates from Mills College at Northeastern University report strong career outcomes, with median earnings around $92,000 several years post-graduation. These figures highlight the impact of combining a liberal arts foundation with Northeastern’s global experiential learning opportunities. Many alumni pursue successful careers in education, public policy, healthcare, and the arts, while others leverage Northeastern’s extensive network to enter business, research, and technology sectors. This demonstrates the institution’s ability to prepare students not only for meaningful work but also for leadership in diverse professional environments.
Mills College at Northeastern University Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The university employs a diverse and highly qualified faculty, including professors, instructors, and administrative staff dedicated to academic excellence and student support. Current figures include approximately 34 full professors, 17 associate professors, and several instructors across disciplines. Non-instructional staff members provide academic advising, library services, business operations, and student engagement support. Faculty and staff collaborate closely to enhance teaching quality and foster interdisciplinary learning, blending Mills’ liberal arts heritage with Northeastern’s research and innovation model.
Faculty Profiles (Expertise, Achievements)
Mills College at Northeastern University’s faculty represents a distinguished blend of scholars, researchers, and artists. Historically, the institution has been home to influential figures in music, dance, literature, and social sciences. Today, faculty expertise spans educational leadership, gender studies, environmental science, creative arts, and public policy. Many professors have received national recognition for their contributions to social equity, community engagement, and interdisciplinary research. The faculty’s ongoing collaboration with Northeastern’s global network expands opportunities for cross-campus research, student mentorship, and innovation-driven teaching.
Mills College at Northeastern University Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
The Oakland campus of Mills College at Northeastern University offers an engaging residential experience within a peaceful, park-like setting. Students can choose from several residence halls that provide a variety of room types, from traditional dormitories to suite-style accommodations. Campus housing encourages a strong sense of community and inclusivity, with spaces dedicated to collaborative learning, wellness, and cultural engagement. Security personnel and ID-based entry systems ensure a safe residential environment. The campus also features dining halls, recreation centers, and arts facilities that create a vibrant, student-centered atmosphere.
Transportation
Mills College at Northeastern University’s Oakland campus is conveniently located near major highways and public transportation. Students can easily access campus by car, local bus routes, or the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system. The university provides shuttle services and encourages sustainable transportation through pedestrian-friendly pathways and bike accessibility. On-campus mobility is well supported, with clear signage, safety patrols, and accessibility options for all students. The location offers both the tranquility of a private campus and easy connections to the broader San Francisco Bay Area, making it ideal for study, work, and exploration.