Want to know more about the Best Liberal Arts Colleges In the US and make an informed decision? Here is a good place to start.
Are you in the process of deciding where to attend college and considering a liberal arts education? Or perhaps you’re simply curious about what these institutions have to offer. Either way, you’ve come to the right place.
In this post, we’ll take a closer look at what makes a liberal arts college special, highlighting some of the country’s top schools.
So, this blog post is for you whether you’re a high school student, a transfer student, or just someone considering your options. Let’s get started on your journey to finding the perfect liberal arts college.
Please note that the order in this list might vary by ranking criteria and sources. Please see our criteria at the bottom.
Table of Contents
#25. Berea College
- Acceptance rate: 33%
- Average entry score: 20-30 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 10:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $56,068
- Average earning potential for graduates: $27,000 (College Factual)
Berea College is a private liberal arts college located in Berea, Kentucky. The school was founded by abolitionists in 1855 and remains committed to educating low-income students today.
This college has a strong focus on community service and sustainability, with many students participating in volunteer projects or internships. Berea College is known for its excellent liberal arts programs.
And as one of the first interracial colleges in the South, Berea College has a long history of social activism.
#24. Harvey Mudd College
- Acceptance rate: 10%
- Average entry score: 1490-1570 SAT or 34-36 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 9:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $82,236
- Average earning potential for graduates: $68,100 (College Simply)
Located in California, Harvey Mudd College is a small liberal arts college with an undergraduate student population of only 905. It’s known for its strong engineering programs and high-quality faculty, who are often recruited from top universities such as Caltech or Stanford.
The college has a strong focus on project-based learning and students are required to complete at least one major project during their time at Harvey Mudd. This college’s curriculum is also unique in that it requires every student, regardless of major, to take classes in both the humanities and sciences.
Learning facilities at Harvey Mudd are state of the art, with labs and classrooms that have been designed to enhance and encourage student learning. The college also has a strong focus on innovation. Many students take part in projects and research that aim to solve real-world problems.
#23. Colorado College
- Acceptance rate: 14.3%
- Average entry score: 1250-1455 SAT or 29-33 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 10:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $78,080
- Average earning potential for graduates: $34,200 (College Simply)
Colorado College has a rich history that dates back to 1874, when it was founded by Thomas Nelson Haskell. The college itself is located in Colorado Springs, which sits at the base of Pikes Peak and boasts beautiful views.
This academic institution has a strong focus on creating an environment for students to learn and grow. Many of the college’s facilities are designed in such a way that they encourage collaboration between people from different fields.
The liberal Arts programs at Colorado College give students a solid foundation in the liberal arts and a broad range of subjects. Students can also choose from an impressive array of majors and minors that cover topics ranging from business to computer science.
#22. Bates College
- Acceptance rate: 17.3%
- Average entry score: 1260-1470 SAT or 30-34 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 10.1%
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $77,870
- Average earning potential for graduates: $61,900 (College Simply)
Bates College is a liberal arts college in Lewiston, Maine. It is well-known for its academic rigor and commitment to undergraduate research. The college’s facilities are designed to foster an intimate learning environment.
This includes small class sizes and faculty-student interaction. The college also has a reputation for being socially progressive and environmentally friendly.
Bates College’s liberal arts curriculum emphasizes depth over breadth. This is a distinguishing characteristic of the liberal arts tradition. Students can choose from more than 40 majors and minors.
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#21. Colby College
- Acceptance rate: 8.9%
- Average entry score: 1400-1530 SAT or 32-34 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 10.1%
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $79,165
- Average earning potential for graduates: $49,500 (College Simply)
Ranked 24th for its liberal arts programs by the US News, Colby College is a highly selective private liberal arts college located in Waterville, Maine. This college provides students with an excellent education that focuses on intellectual rigor and a solid foundation in the liberal arts.
Colby’s reputation is built on its small class sizes. This allows students to form close bonds with professors and peers. In addition, the college offers more than 40 majors and minors, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests.
Also, the Colby college’s beautiful campus is surrounded by lush green lawns and wooded areas. This picturesque scenery provides a welcome contrast to Colby’s busy academic life.
#20. Wesleyan College
- Acceptance rate: 19.4%
- Average entry score: 1300-1510 SAT or 31-34 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 8:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $82,395
- Average earning potential for graduates: $41,100 (College Simply)
This Georgia-based college is known for the strength of its academic programs. Wesleyan is committed to providing a top-notch education that prepares students for their future careers.
At this college, students are encouraged to explore their interests and develop a strong foundation in the liberal arts.
While there are plenty of opportunities for students to participate in extracurricular activities, this college also encourages them to spend time on campus developing their skills and talents.
#19. University of Richmond
- Acceptance rate: 28.8%
- Average entry score: 1290-1460 SAT or 31-34 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 8:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $74,590
- Average earning potential for graduates: $50,000 (Career Services, University of Richmond)
The University of Richmond is a private, four-year liberal arts college located in the state of Virginia. This school is known for its rigorous academic programs and its quality of life.
The university offers more than 80 majors, minors, and specializations as well as an array of pre-professional programs in law, medicine, engineering, business administration, and more.
This institution’s liberal arts programs focus on broadening students’ mindsets and developing their intellectual abilities. The interdisciplinary approach to academics encourages students to explore their interests and gain a well-rounded education.
This university has an open campus and a friendly environment where students can feel comfortable studying. The school’s strong academic reputation attracts high-achieving students from around the world.
#18. Haverford College
- Acceptance rate: 17.8%
- Average entry score: 1420-1540 SAT or 33-35 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 9:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $81,522
- Average earning potential for graduates: $39,300 (College Simply)
Haverford College is a small, highly selective liberal arts college located just outside of Philadelphia. It’s known for the personalized and supportive environment it offers to students.
Haverford is an excellent choice for students who want a small campus that feels like home. Its tight-knit community fosters deep relationships among students.
This college offers a wide range of academic opportunities, including more than 50 majors, minors, and concentrations. Students can choose from a wide variety of academic programs, including pre-professional and interdisciplinary studies.
Haverford’s small size makes it easy for students to get involved in the community, whether by joining the many clubs on campus or taking part in one of the college’s renowned student organizations.
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#17. Colgate University
- Acceptance rate: 17.2%
- Average entry score: 1340-1500 SAT or 31-34 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 9:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $80,160
- Average earning potential for graduates: $66,400 (College Simply)
Located in Madison County, New York, Colgate University is a private liberal arts college that offers more than 56 majors and pre-professional programs.
The school’s curriculum provides students with a strong foundation in the liberal arts and sciences while also offering opportunities for students to tailor their degrees to their interests.
At Colgate, students are exposed to a range of experiences that help them develop into well-rounded individuals. This college is also home to several organizations which provide opportunities for students to build lasting friendships and become involved in campus life.
Colgate University is strongly committed to diversity, which is reflected in its student body. The college’s goal is to create an environment where people from all backgrounds can come together and learn from one another.
#16. Hamilton College
- Acceptance rate: 14.1%
- Average entry score: 1410-1540 SAT or 33-35 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 9:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $77,000
- Average earning potential for graduates: $55,400 (College Simply)
Hamilton College is a liberal arts college located in Clinton, New York. This school offers students the opportunity to make a big impact on campus.
From its close-knit community of students and faculty to its commitment to environmental sustainability, Hamilton College provides an excellent learning environment for students interested in pursuing their passions.
Liberal arts programs are designed to provide students with broad-based knowledge and skills that can be applied across a wide range of fields. At Hamilton College, students can choose from different liberal arts programs.
Overall, Hamilton College provides a strong education in a supportive environment. The school boasts an excellent academic reputation, with the Princeton Review ranking it as one of America’s Best Colleges.
#15. Grinnell College
- Acceptance rate: 10.5%
- Average entry score: 1370-1530 SAT or 30-34 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 9:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $75,698
- Average earning potential for graduates: $39,900 (College Simply)
Grinnell College offers a liberal arts program that allows students to explore their passions and develop the skills they need to succeed in any field.
This Iowa-based school also offers students access to world-class facilities. The school’s academic reputation is excellent, with the US News ranking it as one of America’s Best Colleges. Grinnell College also offers students a top-notch liberal arts education at an affordable price.
At Grinnell College, one can study the sciences, the arts, business and more. The school’s strong academic reputation makes it an attractive option for students who want to pursue any career path.
#14. Davidson College
- Acceptance rate: 17.8%
- Average entry score: 1330-1490 SAT or 30-33 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 9:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $73,000
- Average earning potential for graduates: $64,400 (College Simply)
Davidson College is a private liberal arts college located in Davidson, North Carolina. As one of the most prestigious colleges in the state, Davidson provides an exceptional academic experience to students from all backgrounds.
With over 40 majors, students can find a program that is right for them. The college also offers students the opportunity to study abroad, intern and participate in research.
Its small class sizes make it unique in comparison to other schools. Students are able to build relationships with faculty members that would otherwise be impossible at larger institutions.
Davidson College has an impressive graduation rate, which is a testament to the quality of education it provides.
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#13. Barnard College
- Acceptance rate: 11.5%
- Average entry score: 1340-1520 SAT or 32-34 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 10:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $80,693
- Average earning potential for graduates: $46,300 (College Simply)
Located in New York, Barnard College is a private women’s liberal arts college. It was established to provide women with the opportunity to receive a college education and has been in operation since 1889.
The liberal arts programs at Barnard are focused on developing students’ abilities to think critically, communicate effectively and solve problems. Students develop their own interests and passions through the study of a wide range of subjects.
The school has consistently been ranked among the top liberal arts colleges in the country by U.S News & World Report as well as other publications that rank colleges.
#12. Vassar College
- Acceptance rate: 20.1%
- Average entry score: 1420-1540 SAT or 32-34 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 8:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $81,280
- Average earning potential for graduates: $50,200 (College Simply)
The Dutchess County-based college is known for its academic rigor, which has led to high graduation rates and a reputation as one of the top liberal arts colleges in the country. Vassar College also has an excellent record when it comes to preparing students for graduate school and career placement.
Vassar College has a proud tradition of providing an excellent education to its students. It is one of the two colleges to grant degrees to women in the United States.
The college offers over 35 majors and pre-professional programs in fields such as biology, chemistry, computer science and psychology. Students enrolled at Vassar College also have access to student groups, including cultural organizations. This allows students to learn more about their interests and make new friends.
#11. Smith College
- Acceptance rate: 29.9%
- Average entry score: 1370-1530 SAT or 31-34 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 9:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $78,404
- Average earning potential for graduates: $47,400 (College Simply)
Smith College is a private, independent women’s college located in Northampton, Massachusetts. The school was founded in 1871 and currently has about 2,600 students enrolled each year. Smith College offers more than 50 majors and pre-professional programs to its students.
Students at Smith College have access to modern facilities. This encourages students to learn as much as possible, preparing them for their careers.
Smith College stands out as one of the best colleges in the United States. The school’s commitment to fostering a community that encourages students to learn more about themselves makes it an ideal place for women to pursue their dreams.
#10 Washington and Lee University
- Acceptance rate: 18.8%
- Average entry score: 1410-1530 SAT or 32-35 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 8:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $80,300
- Average earning potential for graduates: $56,300 (College Simply)
Washington and Lee University is another excellent college in Virginia. The school’s academic programs, as well as its extracurricular activities, are designed to help students develop skills that will serve them throughout their lives.
Washington and Lee University is also known for its commitment to diversity, which makes it an ideal place for people from all backgrounds.
This institution boasts an experienced and dedicated faculty, as well as a beautiful campus that is located in the heart of Virginia.
As a liberal arts college, Washington and Lee University’s curriculum focuses on the development of critical thinking skills. The school also offers a wide variety of majors, as well as minors and concentrations.
This school’s competitive admissions process and small class sizes ensure that students receive the attention they need to succeed. Washington and Lee University is a great choice for students who want the benefits of a small liberal arts college but with all the resources of a large research university.
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#9. Middlebury College
- Acceptance rate: 13.4%
- Average entry score: 1360-1530 SAT or 32-34 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 9:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $79,020
- Average earning potential for graduates: $39,700 (College Simply)
Middlebury College is a small, private liberal arts college in Vermont that offers an excellent education at an affordable price.
The school’s goal is to provide students with a unique educational experience by encouraging them to pursue a broad range of interests and expand their minds through a variety of extracurricular activities.
This school’s liberal arts courses give students a broad foundation in the liberal arts and sciences. The college’s professors are known for their dedication to teaching and mentoring students. Here, you also take advantage of small class sizes to receive individualized attention from instructors.
#8. Claremont McKenna College
- Acceptance rate: 11.2%
- Average entry score: 1420-1530 SAT or 32-35 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 8:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $78,717
- Average earning potential for graduates: $42,417 (Payscale)
Claremont McKenna College is an excellent choice for students who are looking for a liberal arts college that offers them plenty of opportunities to engage in new experiences and gain leadership skills.
At Claremont McKenna College, students can choose from over 30 majors and minors. The school offers students plenty of opportunities to engage with one another and enhance their leadership skills. Students can participate in clubs, intramural sports, and other activities.
What’s it like to study liberal arts at Claremont McKenna College?
#7. Carleton College
- Acceptance rate: 17.5%
- Average entry score: 1410-1550 SAT or 31-35 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 8:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $78,326
- Average earning potential for graduates: $51,200 (College Simply)
Carleton College is a private liberal arts college that was founded in Northfield, Minnesota. It is one of the top colleges in the country and has been consistently ranked as one of the best liberal arts colleges by U.S. News & World Report.
Carleton College is known for its strong academic programs and excellent student life opportunities. The school’s student-to-faculty ratio ensures that students receive a high level of individualized attention.
This college has a strong liberal arts tradition, and students can take courses in the sciences, social sciences, humanities, and fine arts. The school also offers many majors that are interdisciplinary in nature.
What’s it like to study liberal arts at Carleton College?
#6. Bowdoin College
- Acceptance rate: 8.8%
- Average entry score: 1320-1520 SAT or 31-34 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 9:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $76,310
- Average earning potential for graduates: $55,600 (College Simply)
Bowdoin College is a liberal arts college that was founded in 1794. It is located in Brunswick, Maine, and has a student body of about 1,951 students. The school offers 43 majors and provides its students with a number of opportunities for research and study abroad.
Bowdoin is known for its rigorous academic standards and its commitment to liberal arts education. Students can take advantage of a wide range of opportunities at Bowdoin.
What’s it like to study liberal arts at Bowdoin College?
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#5. Wellesley College
- Acceptance rate: 16.2%
- Average entry score: 1400-1540 SAT or 31-35 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 7:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $82,090
- Average earning potential for graduates: $67,800 (College Simply)
Wellesley College is a women’s liberal arts college that was founded in 1870. It is located in Wellesley, Massachusetts, just outside of Boston. The school has an undergraduate enrollment of 2,461. This paints a picture of an institution that is both small and intimate but also academically rigorous.
Wellesley College has a strong focus on research and academics, which is reflected in its high rankings. The school has a number of highly-ranked programs, including psychology, biological sciences, and mathematics.
In addition to its academic offerings, Wellesley College is also known for being an LGBT-friendly institution. The school has a vibrant community of students and faculty who are highly supportive of the LGBT community.
What’s it like to study liberal arts at Wellesley College?
#4. Swarthmore College
- Acceptance rate: 7.8%
- Average entry score: 1390-1540 SAT or 31-34 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 8:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $75,356
- Average earning potential for graduates: $65,800 (After 10 years, College Simply)
Located in the suburbs of Philadelphia, Swarthmore College is a small liberal arts institution with a focus on research. The school is known for its excellent academic offerings and vibrant student life. The school has a number of highly ranked programs, including religious studies and mathematics.
At Swarthmore College, students can choose from over 40 majors and minors. The school is also known for its excellent facilities and state-of-the-art academic resources.
As a small liberal arts college, Swarthmore has a relatively low student-to-faculty ratio. This gives students the opportunity to work closely with their professors and get a personalized education.
What’s it like to study liberal arts at Swarthmore College?
#3. Pomona College
- Acceptance rate: 6.6%
- Average entry score: 1470-1570 SAT or 33-35 ACR
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 8:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $78,310
- Average earning potential for graduates: $51,000 (College Simply)
Pomona College is a highly selective, private liberal arts college located in Claremont, California. The school offers students a wide range of academic programs, including more than 50 majors and interdisciplinary studies.
Pomona College has been recognized as one of the top schools in the country for its innovative curriculum. Its strong focus on the arts and humanities makes it an excellent choice for students who want to pursue a liberal arts degree.
At Pomona College, students are able to pursue their passions and interests in a supportive, close-knit community. It’s located near Southern California’s entertainment industry, making it an ideal choice for students interested in pursuing careers in film or television.
What’s it like to study liberal arts at Pomona College?
#2. Amherst College
- Acceptance rate: 8.7%
- Average entry score: 1440-1570 SAT or 32-35 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 7:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $80,060
- Average earning potential for graduates: $66,700 (College Simply)
Amherst College is one of the best schools in America. It’s a private liberal arts college that was founded in 1821 and is located in Amherst, Massachusetts.
The school has been recognized as one of the top colleges in the country by U.S. News & World Report and Princeton Review for its commitment to providing an exceptional liberal arts education.
Amherst College students are known for their academic excellence and extracurricular pursuits. The college offers more than 40 majors, including interdisciplinary programs in environmental studies, comparative literature, and film studies.
Although Amherst College is a small school, it has one of the highest rates of student participation in undergraduate research. The school also offers a unique curriculum that allows students to design their own educational path by selecting courses from across disciplines.
What’s it like to study liberal arts at Amherst College?
#1. Williams College
- Acceptance rate: 8.8%
- Average entry score: 1460-1560 SAT or 33-35
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 7:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $78,060
- Average earning potential for graduates: $73,500 (College Simply)
Williams College is the best liberal arts college in Massachusetts and one of the best in the U.S. It offers a rigorous curriculum that combines a wide range of liberal arts courses with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies. The school offers more than 40 majors, including programs in neuroscience and environmental science.
Williams College has one of the most prestigious academic reputations in the world. It is consistently ranked among the top liberal arts colleges in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges rankings. The school is known for its excellent faculty, small class sizes, and beautiful campus.
This is an excellent school for students who want to get a top-notch education while also getting involved in their community. Williams College is a highly competitive school that accepts about 15% of applicants. To apply, students must submit an application and high school transcripts. The school also requires SAT or ACT scores for admission.
What’s it like to study liberal arts at Williams College?
Conclusion
Liberal arts colleges in the United States offer a unique and valuable form of education that emphasizes a well-rounded curriculum, small class sizes, and close student-faculty interactions.
Williams College, Amherst College, and Swarthmore College are consistently ranked as the top liberal arts colleges in the country, but there are many other excellent options available as well.
You should consider where the college is located, how big it is, what programs are offered, and whether you’ll fit in with the culture on campus when choosing a liberal arts college.
Ultimately, the right college for you is the one where you feel the most comfortable and where you can see yourself thriving academically and personally. With a liberal arts education, you will be well-prepared for a wide range of career opportunities and life experiences.
Selection Criteria
Here is a list of the criteria we used to select the 25 best schools for liberal arts in America:
- Reputation and ranking of the school: We considered schools with a strong reputation and high ranking in the field of liberal arts.
- Faculty expertise and specialization: We researched the faculty member’s areas of expertise to ensure that the liberal arts department has experts in all major fields.
- Facilities, resources, and access to technology: Our team considered the quality of the school’s facilities and resources, including access to libraries.
- Cost and financial aid: Our research took into account both the cost of attendance and the availability of financial aid for students.
- Diversity and inclusivity: We considered the school’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity as we made our decision. We believe that an inclusive environment will contribute to your overall learning experience at this institution.
- Graduation and placement rate: Our research team looked at the school’s graduation and placement rates to determine how well students fared after graduation.
- Extracurricular activities: We evaluated the availability of clubs and other activities that would appeal to you.
- Alumni network and post-graduation support: We considered the school’s alumni network and its post-graduation support services when we evaluated. These are important factors in finding jobs and receiving mentorship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What are the top liberal arts colleges in the US?
According to U.S. News & World Report, the top liberal arts colleges in the US for 2021 are Williams College, Amherst College, and Swarthmore College. Other highly ranked liberal arts colleges include Wellesley College, Pomona College, and Middlebury College.
Q2. What are the differences between liberal arts colleges and universities?
A liberal arts college typically focuses on undergraduate education and provides a broad curriculum in the liberal arts and sciences. A liberal arts college typically offers small class sizes, individualized attention, and a close-knit community.
In contrast, a university generally offers graduate and professional programs along with undergraduate education.
Q3. What are the benefits of attending a liberal arts college?
Liberal arts colleges offer smaller class sizes, close student-faculty interactions, a strong sense of community, and the opportunity to explore a wide range of academic disciplines. They also aim to provide a well-rounded education that will prepare students for a variety of careers.
Q4. What are the most popular majors at liberal arts colleges?
It varies from college to college, but some of the most popular majors at liberal arts colleges are English, History, Psychology, and Political Science.
Q5. What are the career prospects for graduates of liberal arts colleges?
Graduates of liberal arts colleges have a wide range of career options available to them. Many go on to pursue careers in fields such as business, law, education, and government, while others may use their skills and knowledge in other fields.
Liberal arts colleges also offer career services and resources to assist students in finding employment after graduation.
References
[1] Official Websites
[2] Salary Data from Glass Door, College Factual; College Simply
[3] Ranking references including news media such as the USNews.com https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/national-liberal-arts-colleges
