50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students

Badge for BEST IN THE-US LIBERAL ARTS COLLEGES &-UNIVERSITIES
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Jenn Finley
Updated:

Key Takeaways

  • The best liberal arts colleges offer a great education that will result in a well-rounded, educated person.
  • The best liberal arts colleges offer smaller class sizes and more opportunities for interaction with professors.
  • The smaller, intimate environment present in the best liberal arts colleges help students to mature and go into their careers confident in the skills they’ve acquired.

10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in 2025

  1. Wesleyan University
    +1
  2. Brooklyn College
    +4
  3. Amherst College
    +1
  4. Swarthmore College
    –3
  5. United States Military Academy
    +2
  6. Williams College
    –1
  7. Smith College
    +7
  8. Oberlin College
    +1
  9. Wellesley College
    –1
  10. Barnard College

2025 Ranking Update

Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.

The top 10 best liberal arts colleges shuffled significantly between 2024 and 2025. The standout performers were Brooklyn College and Smith College. Smith was the biggest mover, climbing 7 positions to the number 7 spot, while Brooklyn College climbed 4 spots, moving from the 6th spot up to the number 2 position.

Brooklyn College has expanded their online and hybrid learning options, helping the school to gain steam in our ranking this year. They have also added new academic majors in high-demand fields like data science, healthcare administration, and digital media, providing students with more career-oriented opportunities.

Smith College has made several key improvements for the 2025 school year that are likely to appeal to students. One significant change is the college’s elimination of loans from financial aid packages, replacing them with grants. This initiative helps ensure that students graduate with minimal debt, making education more accessible regardless of family financial background. Additionally, Smith offers startup grants to low-income students to assist with early expenses like dorm furnishings and personal needs, further enhancing student support.

Featured Programs

What is a liberal arts college?

A liberal arts college is a school that puts a premium on undergraduate studies and offers a broad range of subjects for students to study. Top liberal arts colleges typically require students to select a major while simultaneously completing a wide array of courses in both the humanities and the sciences. The point of a liberal arts education is not just to learn deeply about some specialized area, but to emerge as a well rounded, broadly educated person with a fuller appreciation of life and the world.

A liberal arts college typically provides smaller class sizes, more direct engagement with professors, and, most importantly, the opportunity to sample a wide range of subject areas on the way to a bachelor’s degree. Liberal arts colleges are often referred to as “teaching colleges”, because of their focus on the students’ needs.

The value of liberal arts colleges is difficult to describe. Smaller campuses, smaller student bodies, more personal attention from professors, and more tightly knit cohorts are a few of the commonly mentioned benefits of liberal arts colleges. What is hard to articulate is that liberal arts students feel known by their professors and school administrators. This “being known” feeling is what keeps alumni feeling a part of their school decades after graduating, and for many alumni, the relationships formed with professors means they could comfortably call a former professor years after graduating.

Liberal arts colleges are not smaller colleges because they’ve been less successful at growing into large universities. Liberal arts colleges do not have second-rate professors who couldn’t get jobs at larger schools. The intentions of liberal arts colleges are to hire faculty who care for students over their own research, and to create an environment that allows them to continue investing in students, helping them mature and go confidently into the workforce.

The following list of the best arts liberal colleges and universities is composed entirely of four-year undergraduate schools. We’ve identified 1,240 liberal arts colleges in the US. In order to be included in this list of the best liberal arts colleges and universities, a school must be fully accredited non-profit institution.

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50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities in the US

  1. #1

    Wesleyan University

    Middletown , CT
    #2 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Connecticut 2025 #1 Best Small Colleges in Connecticut 2025 #2 Best Private Colleges in Connecticut 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $64K

    Acceptance

    14%

    Graduation

    93%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1415/32

    Career Outlook for degree at Wesleyan University

    Cost of Degree: $67,016
    Expenses: $21,704
    Starting Salary: $63,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Wesleyan University known for?

    Wesleyan University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  2. #2

    Brooklyn College

    Brooklyn , NY
    #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New York 2025 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in New York 2025 #4 Best Public Colleges in New York 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    55%

    Graduation

    55%

    Student body

    19K

    Career Outlook for degree at Brooklyn College

    Cost of Degree: $7,452
    Starting Salary: $48,800
    What is Brooklyn College known for?

    Brooklyn College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  3. #3

    Amherst College

    Amherst , MA
    #3 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #5 15 Colleges with the Happiest Freshmen #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #1 Best Small Colleges in Massachusetts 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $64K

    Acceptance

    7%

    Graduation

    92%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1485/33

    Career Outlook for degree at Amherst College

    Cost of Degree: $67,280
    Expenses: $20,360
    Starting Salary: $83,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Amherst College known for?

    Amherst College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  4. #4

    Swarthmore College

    Swarthmore , PA
    #4 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #1 Best Small Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #3 Best Private Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $59K

    Acceptance

    7%

    Graduation

    94%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1500/33

    Career Outlook for degree at Swarthmore College

    Cost of Degree: $62,412
    Expenses: $21,691
    Starting Salary: $70,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Swarthmore College known for?

    Swarthmore College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  7. #6

    Williams College

    Williamstown , MA
    #5 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #2 Best Small Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #7 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $62K

    Acceptance

    8%

    Graduation

    95%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1525/34

    Career Outlook for degree at Williams College

    Cost of Degree: $64,860
    Expenses: $20,000
    Starting Salary: $89,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Williams College known for?

    Williams College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  8. #7

    Smith College

    Northampton , MA
    #6 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #3 Best Small Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #7 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $59K

    Acceptance

    23%

    Graduation

    89%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1445/32

    Career Outlook for degree at Smith College

    Cost of Degree: $61,568
    Expenses: $24,462
    Starting Salary: $51,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 22 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Smith College known for?

    Smith College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  9. #8

    Oberlin College

    Oberlin , OH
    #7 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #1 Best Small Colleges in Ohio 2024 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Ohio 2025 #2 Best Private Colleges in Ohio 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $62K

    Acceptance

    35%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1445/31

    Career Outlook for degree at Oberlin College

    Cost of Degree: $64,646
    Expenses: $22,758
    Starting Salary: $45,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 23 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Oberlin College known for?

    Oberlin College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  10. #9

    Wellesley College

    Wellesley , MA
    #9 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #4 Best Small Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #10 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $62K

    Acceptance

    14%

    Graduation

    90%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1490/34

    Career Outlook for degree at Wellesley College

    Cost of Degree: $64,320
    Expenses: $21,970
    Starting Salary: $71,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Wellesley College known for?

    Wellesley College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  12. #10

    Barnard College

    New York , NY
    #10 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #2 Best Small Colleges in New York 2025 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New York 2025 #10 Best Private Colleges in New York 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $63K

    Acceptance

    9%

    Graduation

    92%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1495/33

    Career Outlook for degree at Barnard College

    Cost of Degree: $66,246
    Expenses: $23,562
    Starting Salary: $69,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Barnard College known for?

    Barnard College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  13. #11

    Hunter College

    New York , NY
    #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New York 2025 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in New York 2025 #7 Best Public Colleges in New York 2024 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Nursing Degrees

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    48%

    Graduation

    56%

    Student body

    29K

    Career Outlook for degree at Hunter College

    Cost of Degree: $7,382
    Expenses: $16,658
    Starting Salary: $51,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Hunter College known for?

    Hunter College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  15. #13

    Vassar College

    Poughkeepsie , NY
    #11 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #3 Best Small Colleges in New York 2025 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New York 2025 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degrees 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $65K

    Acceptance

    19%

    Graduation

    92%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1482/33

    Career Outlook for degree at Vassar College

    Cost of Degree: $67,805
    Expenses: $19,665
    Starting Salary: $61,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 20 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Vassar College known for?

    Vassar College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  16. #14

    Bard College

    Annandale-On-Hudson , NY
    #13 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #4 Best Small Colleges in New York 2025 #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New York 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $61K

    Acceptance

    46%

    Graduation

    72%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for degree at Bard College

    Cost of Degree: $63,612
    Expenses: $21,240
    Starting Salary: $43,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 23 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Bard College known for?

    Bard College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  18. #15

    Bryn Mawr College

    Bryn Mawr , PA
    #14 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #3 Best Small Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #4 Best Private Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $59K

    Acceptance

    31%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1387/31

    Career Outlook for degree at Bryn Mawr College

    Cost of Degree: $62,560
    Expenses: $20,690
    Starting Salary: $61,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Bryn Mawr College known for?

    Bryn Mawr College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  19. #16

    San Francisco State University

    San Francisco , CA
    #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2025 #9 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2025 #9 Best Public Colleges in California 2025 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Social Work Degrees

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    94%

    Graduation

    55%

    Student body

    30K

    Career Outlook for degree at San Francisco State University

    Cost of Degree: $7,424
    Expenses: $23,032
    Starting Salary: $54,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is San Francisco State University known for?

    San Francisco State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  20. #17

    Reed College

    Portland , OR
    #1 Best Colleges and Universities by Academic Stewardship #17 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #1 Best Small Colleges in Oregon 2024 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Oregon 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $65K

    Acceptance

    31%

    Graduation

    80%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1410/31

    Career Outlook for degree at Reed College

    Cost of Degree: $67,020
    Expenses: $19,520
    Starting Salary: $52,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 21 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Reed College known for?

    Reed College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  21. #18

    Mount Holyoke College

    South Hadley , MA
    #18 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #6 Best Small Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #11 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Education Degrees

    Tuition + fees

    $58K

    Acceptance

    40%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1445/32

    Career Outlook for degree at Mount Holyoke College

    Cost of Degree: $64,142
    Expenses: $20,838
    Starting Salary: $53,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 21 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Mount Holyoke College known for?

    Mount Holyoke College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  22. #19

    Haverford College

    Haverford , PA
    #20 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #2 Best Small Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $64K

    Acceptance

    14%

    Graduation

    91%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1485/34

    Career Outlook for degree at Haverford College

    Cost of Degree: $68,020
    Expenses: $22,082
    Starting Salary: $75,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Haverford College known for?

    Haverford College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  24. #20

    Pomona College

    Claremont , CA
    #21 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #2 Best Small Colleges in California 2025 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2025 #4 Best Private Colleges in California 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $59K

    Acceptance

    7%

    Graduation

    95%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1520/34

    Career Outlook for degree at Pomona College

    Cost of Degree: $62,326
    Expenses: $22,974
    Starting Salary: $77,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Pomona College known for?

    Pomona College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  25. #21

    Baruch College

    New York , NY
    #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New York 2025 #8 Most Affordable Colleges in New York 2025 #9 Best Public Colleges in New York 2024 #9 Most Affordable Master's in Counseling Degree Programs Ranked for 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    50%

    Graduation

    74%

    Student body

    24K

    Career Outlook for degree at Baruch College

    Cost of Degree: $7,464
    Expenses: $24,018
    Starting Salary: $63,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Baruch College known for?

    Baruch College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  26. #22

    San Jose State University

    San Jose , CA
    #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2025 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice Degrees #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2025 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degrees 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    77%

    Graduation

    68%

    Student body

    41K

    Career Outlook for degree at San Jose State University

    Cost of Degree: $7,992
    Expenses: $24,318
    Starting Salary: $63,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is San Jose State University known for?

    San Jose State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  27. #23

    Washington and Lee University

    Lexington , VA
    #22 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Virginia 2025 #1 Best Private Colleges in Virginia 2025 #1 Best Small Colleges in Virginia 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $62K

    Acceptance

    17%

    Graduation

    95%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1471/33

    Career Outlook for degree at Washington and Lee University

    Cost of Degree: $64,525
    Expenses: $22,475
    Starting Salary: $93,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Washington and Lee University known for?

    Washington and Lee University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  28. #24

    Queens College, City University of New York

    Queens , NY
    #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New York 2025 #9 Most Affordable Colleges in New York 2025 #10 Best Public Colleges in New York 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    69%

    Graduation

    56%

    Student body

    22K

    Career Outlook for degree at Queens College, City University of New York

    Cost of Degree: $7,538
    Expenses: $21,798
    Starting Salary: $52,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Queens College, City University of New York known for?

    Queens College, City University of New York’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  30. #25

    College of the Holy Cross

    Worcester , MA
    #1 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2025 #22 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #23 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #2 Best Christian Colleges in Massachusetts 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $58K

    Acceptance

    36%

    Graduation

    91%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1345/30

    Career Outlook for degree at College of the Holy Cross

    Cost of Degree: $60,850
    Expenses: $19,650
    Starting Salary: $88,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is College of the Holy Cross known for?

    College of the Holy Cross’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  31. #26

    Morehouse College

    Atlanta , GA
    #2 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2024 #24 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Georgia 2025 #1 Best Small Colleges in Georgia 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $29K

    Acceptance

    60%

    Graduation

    59%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for degree at Morehouse College

    Cost of Degree: $31,725
    Expenses: $19,898
    Starting Salary: $49,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Morehouse College known for?

    Morehouse College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  32. #27

    Bowdoin College

    Brunswick , ME
    #25 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #1 Best Private Colleges in Maine 2025 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Maine 2025 #1 Best Small Colleges in Maine 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $62K

    Acceptance

    9%

    Graduation

    94%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1510/34

    Career Outlook for degree at Bowdoin College

    Cost of Degree: $64,910
    Expenses: $20,190
    Starting Salary: $83,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Bowdoin College known for?

    Bowdoin College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  33. #28

    Middlebury College

    Middlebury , VT
    #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #2 Best Private Colleges in Vermont 2025 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Vermont 2025 #2 Best Small Colleges in Vermont 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $62K

    Acceptance

    13%

    Graduation

    94%

    Student body

    5K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1482/34

    Career Outlook for degree at Middlebury College

    Cost of Degree: $65,280
    Expenses: $20,600
    Starting Salary: $71,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Middlebury College known for?

    Middlebury College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  34. #29

    Union College, New York

    Schenectady , NY
    #6 Best Small Colleges in New York 2025 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New York 2025 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2025 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Engineering Degrees 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $64K

    Acceptance

    47%

    Graduation

    85%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1400/31

    Career Outlook for degree at Union College, New York

    Cost of Degree: $66,456
    Expenses: $18,414
    Starting Salary: $80,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Union College, New York known for?

    Union College, New York’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  36. #30

    Colgate University

    Hamilton , NY
    #7 Best Small Colleges in New York 2025 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Education Degrees #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Anthropology Degrees #12 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for History Degrees

    Tuition + fees

    $64K

    Acceptance

    12%

    Graduation

    91%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1470/33

    Career Outlook for degree at Colgate University

    Cost of Degree: $67,024
    Expenses: $20,046
    Starting Salary: $81,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Colgate University known for?

    Colgate University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  38. #32

    Carleton College

    Northfield , MN
    #1 Best Small Colleges in Minnesota 2025 #1 Best Private Colleges in Minnesota 2024 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Minnesota 2025 #2 Best Colleges in Minnesota 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $63K

    Acceptance

    17%

    Graduation

    91%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1490/33

    Career Outlook for degree at Carleton College

    Cost of Degree: $65,457
    Expenses: $19,436
    Starting Salary: $67,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Carleton College known for?

    Carleton College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  39. #33

    California State University, Northridge

    Northridge , CA
    #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2025 #2 Best Online Colleges in California 2024 #5 Best Online Master’s in Human Services #6 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    91%

    Graduation

    56%

    Student body

    43K

    Career Outlook for degree at California State University, Northridge

    Cost of Degree: $7,095
    Expenses: $17,176
    Starting Salary: $49,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is California State University, Northridge known for?

    California State University, Northridge’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    California State University, Northridge’s Online Degrees

    BA in Liberal Studies
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Public Sector Management
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  40. #34

    Hampshire College

    Amherst , MA
    #4 Best Colleges and Universities by Academic Stewardship #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #8 Best Small Colleges in Massachusetts 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $54K

    Acceptance

    69%

    Graduation

    60%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Hampshire College

    Cost of Degree: $56,630
    Expenses: $17,644
    Starting Salary: $39,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 23 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Hampshire College known for?

    Hampshire College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

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  42. #35

    University of Richmond

    University of Richmond , VA
    #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Virginia 2025 #2 Best Private Colleges in Virginia 2025 #2 Best Small Colleges in Virginia 2025 #7 Best Colleges in Virginia 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $60K

    Acceptance

    24%

    Graduation

    88%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1464/33

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Richmond

    Cost of Degree: $62,600
    Expenses: $18,720
    Starting Salary: $78,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Richmond known for?

    University of Richmond’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  43. #36

    Occidental College

    Los Angeles , CA
    #3 Best Small Colleges in California 2025 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2025 #10 Best Private Colleges in California 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $61K

    Acceptance

    39%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1440/32

    Career Outlook for degree at Occidental College

    Cost of Degree: $63,446
    Expenses: $21,354
    Starting Salary: $59,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 20 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Occidental College known for?

    Occidental College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  44. #37

    Kenyon College

    Gambier , OH
    #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Ohio 2025 #3 Best Small Colleges in Ohio 2024 #4 Best Private Colleges in Ohio 2024 #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $66K

    Acceptance

    34%

    Graduation

    87%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1432/32

    Career Outlook for degree at Kenyon College

    Cost of Degree: $69,330
    Expenses: $18,260
    Starting Salary: $54,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 21 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Kenyon College known for?

    Kenyon College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  45. #38

    Colorado College

    Colorado Springs , CO
    #1 Best Small Colleges in Colorado 2024 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Colorado 2025 #2 Best Private Colleges in Colorado 2025 #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $65K

    Acceptance

    16%

    Graduation

    86%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1370/31

    Career Outlook for degree at Colorado College

    Cost of Degree: $67,932
    Expenses: $19,196
    Starting Salary: $49,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 22 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Colorado College known for?

    Colorado College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  46. #39

    California State University, Los Angeles

    Los Angeles , CA
    #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    51%

    Student body

    30K

    Career Outlook for degree at California State University, Los Angeles

    Cost of Degree: $6,818
    Expenses: $26,527
    Starting Salary: $49,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is California State University, Los Angeles known for?

    California State University, Los Angeles’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  48. #40

    Harvey Mudd College

    Claremont , CA
    #5 Best Colleges and Universities by Academic Stewardship #4 Best Small Colleges in California 2025 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2025 #15 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Engineering Degrees 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $63K

    Acceptance

    13%

    Graduation

    92%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1520/35

    Career Outlook for degree at Harvey Mudd College

    Cost of Degree: $66,255
    Expenses: $23,910
    Starting Salary: $104,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Harvey Mudd College known for?

    Harvey Mudd College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  49. #41

    California State University, Long Beach

    Long Beach , CA
    #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2025 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice Degrees #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2025 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degrees 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    40%

    Graduation

    73%

    Student body

    44K

    Career Outlook for degree at California State University, Long Beach

    Cost of Degree: $7,008
    Expenses: $21,408
    Starting Salary: $53,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is California State University, Long Beach known for?

    California State University, Long Beach’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  50. #42

    California State University, Fullerton

    Fullerton , CA
    #9 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2025 #4 Best Online Colleges in California 2024 #7 Best Online Master’s in Information Technology 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    67%

    Graduation

    69%

    Student body

    46K

    Career Outlook for degree at California State University, Fullerton

    Cost of Degree: $7,073
    Expenses: $23,567
    Starting Salary: $51,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is California State University, Fullerton known for?

    California State University, Fullerton’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    California State University, Fullerton’s Online Degrees

    BA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 54
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Humanities and Social Sciences
    • Required Credits: 51
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Sociology
    • Required Credits: 51
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  51. #43

    Dickinson College

    Carlisle , PA
    #4 Best Small Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $61K

    Acceptance

    35%

    Graduation

    84%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Dickinson College

    Cost of Degree: $63,450
    Expenses: $19,752
    Starting Salary: $64,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Dickinson College known for?

    Dickinson College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  52. #44

    Denison University

    Granville , OH
    #2 Best Small Colleges in Ohio 2024 #3 Best Private Colleges in Ohio 2024 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Ohio 2025 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $60K

    Acceptance

    22%

    Graduation

    85%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1365/30

    Career Outlook for degree at Denison University

    Cost of Degree: $64,000
    Expenses: $17,900
    Starting Salary: $57,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 20 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Denison University known for?

    Denison University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  54. #45

    Claremont McKenna College

    Claremont , CA
    #5 Best Small Colleges in California 2025 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2025 #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Psychology Degrees #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degrees 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $61K

    Acceptance

    10%

    Graduation

    91%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1495/34

    Career Outlook for degree at Claremont McKenna College

    Cost of Degree: $64,150
    Expenses: $22,350
    Starting Salary: $93,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Claremont McKenna College known for?

    Claremont McKenna College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  55. #46

    Fairleigh Dickinson University

    Teaneck , NJ
    #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New Jersey 2025 #1 Best Small Colleges in New Jersey 2025 #4 Best Private Colleges in New Jersey 2024 #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    84%

    Graduation

    51%

    Student body

    9K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1044/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Fairleigh Dickinson University

    Cost of Degree: $37,686
    Expenses: $22,692
    Starting Salary: $54,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Fairleigh Dickinson University known for?

    Fairleigh Dickinson University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  56. #47

    Macalester College

    Saint Paul , MN
    #7 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2025 #1 Best Christian Colleges Minnesota 2025 #2 Best Small Colleges in Minnesota 2025 #2 Best Private Colleges in Minnesota 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $63K

    Acceptance

    28%

    Graduation

    88%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1420/32

    Career Outlook for degree at Macalester College

    Cost of Degree: $64,908
    Expenses: $18,083
    Starting Salary: $55,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 20 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Macalester College known for?

    Macalester College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  57. #48

    Suffolk University

    Boston , MA
    #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice Degrees #11 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2025 #5 Best Online MBA Programs in Massachusetts

    Tuition + fees

    $43K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    60%

    Student body

    7K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1190/27

    Career Outlook for degree at Suffolk University

    Cost of Degree: $45,380
    Expenses: $22,860
    Starting Salary: $59,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Suffolk University known for?

    Suffolk University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  58. #49

    Willamette University

    Salem , OR
    #2 Best Small Colleges in Oregon 2024 #2 Best Private Colleges in Oregon 2024 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Oregon 2025 #6 Best Colleges in Oregon 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $45K

    Acceptance

    81%

    Graduation

    76%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Willamette University

    Cost of Degree: $48,268
    Expenses: $19,233
    Starting Salary: $57,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Willamette University known for?

    Willamette University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  60. #50

    Calvin University

    Grand Rapids , MI
    #6 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #13 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2025 #1 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2024 #1 Best Small Colleges in Michigan 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $39K

    Acceptance

    74%

    Graduation

    77%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1245/27

    Career Outlook for degree at Calvin University

    Cost of Degree: $38,670
    Expenses: $16,250
    Starting Salary: $48,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Calvin University known for?

    Calvin University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
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The best liberal arts colleges offer an intimate, but supportive learning environment. Upon graduation, successful students will go into their careers confident in the well-rounded education they’ve received.

If attending a liberal arts school that is close to home is also important to you, check out our Complete List of Colleges and Universities by State.

Photo Credit: Swarthmore College, by Ugen64 at English Wikipedia - Transferred from en.wikipedia to Wikimedia Commons. Public Domain.

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