50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
Featured Programs
Best Small Colleges and Universities
- California Institute of Technology
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 3 to 1
- Wesleyan University
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 7 to 1
- Amherst College
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 7 to 1
- Oberlin College
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 9 to 1
- Williams College
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 6 to 1
- Swarthmore College
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 8 to 1
- Smith College
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 8 to 1
- Wellesley College
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 7 to 1
- Bryn Mawr College
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 8 to 1
- Vassar College
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 7 to 1
Key Takeaways
- A higher learning institution with no more than 5,000 students is considered a small college or university.
- The best small colleges and universities offer students a tight-knit community and the opportunity to get to know their professors and peers.
- Small colleges tend to invest more time in each student’s success than a larger university is able to.
Top 10 Small Colleges and Universities in 2025
2025 Ranking Update
As we get closer to the 2025 school year, we see considerable movement in our ranking of the top small colleges in America. The school that made the most improvement was Yeshiva University, which broke into the top 10 after gaining 4 ranking positions. Swarthmore College, Smith College, and Barnard College all gained positions as well.
Why did Yeshiva University improve? One of the most significant developments is YU’s new Health Sciences Campus at Herald Square in Midtown Manhattan. This state-of-the-art, 160,000-square-foot facility is set to dramatically expand YU’s healthcare programs, offering new opportunities in fields like Nursing, Occupational Therapy, and Speech-Language Pathology. This expansion aligns with the growing demand for healthcare professionals and showcases YU’s commitment to leadership in health sciences education.
Small colleges are a great option for students interested in a more intimate campus experience, more personal attention from excellent professors, and more immediate access to support services. Whether the focus is on the technical (as at Caltech) or on the liberal arts (as at Sarah Lawrence), small colleges give you the chance to pursue a well-rounded education while working closely with classmates and professors in a dynamic community atmosphere.
When comparing a big college campus to a small college campus, consider that the latter offers more individualized experiences, including opportunities for illuminating classroom discussions, independent research, and one-on-one relationships with your instructors.
Small Schools, Big Success
Many students are drawn to the experience that a small college and university can give, while others may yearn for vast campuses and the anonymity of a bustling student population. However, small universities may not receive the same exposure as their larger counterparts and have diverse student organizations due to size and budgetary differences. But even so, going to a small institution or university has many advantages.
Different kinds of small colleges offer undergraduate and graduate-level degrees. Before enrolling in one, students should know the differences between them.
Major Types of Small Colleges
Liberal Arts College
These universities provide a wide range of liberal arts courses, covering subjects like literature, history, languages, arithmetic, and the social sciences. The majority are private and provide four-year bachelor’s degree programs. These institutions can help you get ready for a range of jobs or graduate school.
However, a private liberal arts college may cost more than public technical schools. Thankfully, many private and national liberal arts colleges, such as Washington and Lee University, Union College, Mount Holyoke College, Swarthmore College, and Smith College, provide financial aid opportunities for students interested in pursuing liberal arts education.
Public And Private Colleges
Public universities receive funding from local and state governments and frequently charge less for tuition than private institutions, particularly for students who live in the state where the college is located. On the other hand, tuition, fees, and private money are the primary sources of funding for private colleges. Sometimes large financial aid packages for students are made possible by private donations.
Historically Black Colleges and Universities
A historically black university gives black children the chance to experience an educational community where they are finally the majority and celebrate African-American culture and empowerment.
Spelman College ranks as a leading Historically Black College and University. This small college is one of the few small HBCU colleges that produced African-American females who completed doctoral degrees.
Our ranking of the best small colleges and universities is composed mainly of four-year undergraduate schools (though many offer graduate programs). We’ve identified 1,069 small colleges in the US. In order to be included in this list of best small colleges and universities, a school must be a fully accredited non-profit institution, and must have a student body of 5,000 or fewer students.
The Best Small Colleges and Universities
- #8 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #12 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #12 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #12 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
Tuition + fees
$61K
Acceptance
3%
Graduation
94%
Student body
3K
Career Outlook for degree at California Institute of Technology
Cost of Degree: $63,255Expenses: $23,631Starting Salary: $106,300Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is California Institute of Technology known for?
California Institute of Technology’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Popularly known as CalTech, the California Institute of Technology is regarded as one of the world’s best universities for the pure and applied sciences.
What we love about Yeshiva University:
Its high proportion of graduate students exposes students to a lot of collaboration and advanced knowledge.
California Institute of Technology is ideal for students who:
Are highly intelligent in and passionate about the sciences.
California Institute of Technology may not be ideal for students who:
Don’t handle high-pressure academic workloads well.
- #1 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #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: $67,016Expenses: $21,704Starting Salary: $63,400Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Wesleyan University known for?
Wesleyan University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Philosophy
- Literature
- Psychology
- History
- Economics
- Political Science
- Sociology
- Physics
- Education
- Religious Studies
Most Influential Alumni
Established as a men’s college by the Methodist Episcopal Church, Wesleyan University currently operates as a co-educational and secular institution.
What we love about Wesleyan University:
It’s academic excellence across all its fields of discipline.
Wesleyan University is ideal for students who:
Want a top-performing school that has a close-knit and welcoming community.
Wesleyan University may not be ideal for students who:
Might be looking for a school in a more vibrant location, perhaps.
- #3 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #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: $67,280Expenses: $20,360Starting Salary: $83,300Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Amherst College known for?
Amherst College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Economics
- Literature
- Law
- Political Science
- Education
- Sociology
- Chemistry
- History
- Religious Studies
- Mathematics
Most Influential Alumni
Amherst College has exclusively four-year undergraduate offerings. Its roster of decorated alumni includes Nobel Prize laureates and Pulitzer Prize recipients.
What we love about Amherst College:
It’s a member of the Five College Consortium, which lets students take courses across member campuses, including UMass Amherst.
Amherst College is ideal for students who:
Are looking to study particularly in the literary and creative arts.
Amherst College may not be ideal for students who:
Might find its location too quiet or dreary, culturally.
- #4 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #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: $62,412Expenses: $21,691Starting Salary: $70,000Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Swarthmore College known for?
Swarthmore College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Economics
- Philosophy
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Political Science
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Communications
- Literature
Most Influential Alumni
Swarthmore College joins Haverford and Bryn Mawr Colleges as a member of the Tri-College Consortium. It is highly selective, and is one of the most prestigious small colleges in the country.
What we love about Swarthmore College:
Getting into Swarthmore opens students up to many golden academic opportunities.
Swarthmore College is ideal for students who:
Want an ideal environment that lets them explore their interests and passions.
Swarthmore College may not be ideal for students who:
Don’t have a clear idea yet of what they are curious about/passionate about.
- #6 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #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: $64,860Expenses: $20,000Starting Salary: $89,800Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Williams College known for?
Williams College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Economics
- Political Science
- History
- Physics
- Religious Studies
- Chemistry
- Anthropology
- Philosophy
- Sociology
Most Influential Alumni
A liberal arts college in Williamstown, Williams College almost exclusively offers undergraduate degrees, with the exception of a couple of master’s degrees.
What we love about Williams College:
Its location which sees it surrounded by mountains and forests.
Williams College is ideal for students who:
Genuinely enjoy intellectual discussions and pursuits.
Williams College may not be ideal for students who:
Are looking to study in an Engineering field.
- #7 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #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: $61,568Expenses: $24,462Starting Salary: $51,100Cost Recoup Time: 22 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Smith College known for?
Smith College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Social Work
- Literature
- Sociology
- Psychology
- Education
- Political Science
- History
- Physics
- Anthropology
- Philosophy
Most Influential Alumni
Smith College is a women’s liberal arts college and a member of the Seven Sisters Consortium. It has produced numerous distinguished alumnae throughout its history, including two US First Ladies.
What we love about Smith College:
It’s beautiful campus and overall quiet town location.
Smith College is ideal for students who:
Are looking for a close-knit, inclusive, and supportive learning environment.
Smith College may not be ideal for students who:
Aren’t too great at dealing with an academically stressful environment.
- #8 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #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: $64,646Expenses: $22,758Starting Salary: $45,500Cost Recoup Time: 23 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Oberlin College known for?
Oberlin College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Philosophy
- Literature
- Political Science
- Religious Studies
- Sociology
- Psychology
- History
- Physics
- Biology
- Economics
Most Influential Alumni
Aside from being a conservatory of music, Oberlin College holds the distinction of being the country’s oldest co-ed liberal arts college. Its conservatory is also the oldest continuously operating in the country.
What we love about Oberlin College:
Mostly free concerts almost daily, courtesy of the Oberlin Conservatory of Music.
Oberlin College is ideal for students who:
Want a supportive community of academically-driven peers.
Oberlin College may not be ideal for students who:
Might find an issue with its location and school culture.
- #20 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #1 Best Small Colleges in New York 2025 #6 Best Private Colleges in New York 2024 #8 Best Colleges in New York 2024
Tuition + fees
$49K
Acceptance
63%
Graduation
85%
Student body
6K
Median SAT/ACT
1375/29
Career Outlook for degree at Yeshiva University
Cost of Degree: $49,900Expenses: $21,650Starting Salary: $78,800Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Yeshiva University known for?
Yeshiva University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Yeshiva University primarily caters to the Orthodox Jewish community, though it has no acceptance restrictions. Yeshiva comes from the Hebrew word for “academy.”
What we love about Yeshiva University:
It has produced a majority of Jewish secular and religious leaders for decades now.
Yeshiva University is ideal for students who:
Want the best education in the Orthodox Jewish framework.
This may not be ideal for students who:
Might not conform to the school’s rules aimed at the Jewish community.
- #9 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #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: $64,320Expenses: $21,970Starting Salary: $71,800Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Wellesley College known for?
Wellesley College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Sociology
- Philosophy
- Literature
- Political Science
- Physics
- Education
- Economics
- History
- Psychology
- Anthropology
Most Influential Alumni
Wellesley College is a women’s liberal arts college and began life in 1870 as a female seminary. It is part of the Seven Sisters Colleges (an informal grouping).
What we love about Wellesley College:
It’s a great environment for future women leaders and change-makers to get their start.
Wellesley College is ideal for students who:
Are looking for a close-knit, passionate, and driven learning community
Wellesley College may not be ideal for students who:
Might find an all-women student body somehow lacking or not comforting.
- #10 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #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: $66,246Expenses: $23,562Starting Salary: $69,700Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Barnard College known for?
Barnard College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Anthropology
- Sociology
- Economics
- Education
- Political Science
- History
- Psychology
- Philosophy
- Physics
Most Influential Alumni
Barnard College is a women’s liberal arts college affiliated with Columbia University. It is a member of the Seven Sisters grouping of liberal arts colleges.
What we love about Oberlin College:
Its innovative and flexible Foundations Curriculum.
Oberlin College is ideal for students who:
Want a fulfilling and intellectually stimulating academic journey.
Oberlin College may not be ideal for students who:
May be unwilling to venture out of their comfort zones.
- #13 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #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: $67,805Expenses: $19,665Starting Salary: $61,500Cost Recoup Time: 20 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Vassar College known for?
Vassar College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Computer Science
- Education
- Communications
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Physics
- Philosophy
- History
- Psychology
Most Influential Alumni
While Vassar College was one of the earliest women’s colleges in the country and is currently a Seven Sisters group of colleges) member. It became co-educational in 1969.
What we love about Vassar College:
The campus is a designated arboretum with its ecological preserve.
Vassar College is ideal for students who:
Want a school that gives them a lot of academic flexibility.
Vassar College may not be ideal for students who:
Might find the school too small, population-wise.
- #1 Best Small Colleges in Illinois 2025 #3 Best Private Colleges in Illinois 2025 #4 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2025 #4 Best Colleges in Illinois 2025
Tuition + fees
$51K
Acceptance
61%
Graduation
75%
Student body
7K
Median SAT/ACT
1315/30
Career Outlook for degree at Illinois Institute of Technology
Cost of Degree: $50,917Expenses: $21,228Starting Salary: $78,000Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Illinois Institute of Technology known for?
Illinois Institute of Technology’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Engineering
- Economics
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
- Business
- Law
- Social Work
- Political Science
Most Influential Alumni
Illinois Institute of Technology, or Illinois Tech, was formed through a merger in 1940 of its two parent institutions: the Armour Institute (est. 1890) and the Lewis Institute (est. 1895).
What we love about the Illinois Institute of Technology:
Well-connected since it’s in the city but still quiet and safe.
Illinois Institute of Technology is ideal for students who:
Want to study engineering or architecture.
Illinois Institute of Technology may not be ideal for students who:
Are looking to study the arts or social sciences.
- #14 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #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: $63,612Expenses: $21,240Starting Salary: $43,700Cost Recoup Time: 23 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Bard College known for?
Bard College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #15 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #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: $62,560Expenses: $20,690Starting Salary: $61,000Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Bryn Mawr College known for?
Bryn Mawr College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Anthropology
- Mathematics
- Philosophy
- History
- Sociology
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Social Work
- Political Science
Most Influential Alumni
Bryn Mawr College, a women’s liberal arts college, is one of the Seven Sisters. Bryn Mawr is a Welsh word that literally translates to “large hill.”
What we love about Bryn Mawr College:
Its proximity to a major city, with its associated academic opportunities.
Bryn Mawr College is ideal for students who:
Want a small and vibrant learning community (think school traditions).
Bryn Mawr College may not be ideal for students who:
Might prefer a co-educational college.
- #13 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Small Colleges in DC 2024 #3 Best Christian Colleges in DC 2025 #5 Best Research Universities in DC 2025
Tuition + fees
$54K
Acceptance
86%
Graduation
76%
Student body
5K
Career Outlook for degree at The Catholic University of America
Cost of Degree: $55,834Expenses: $21,950Starting Salary: $60,500Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is The Catholic University of America known for?
The Catholic University of America’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Nursing
- Law
- Philosophy
- Communications
- Physics
- Social Work
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Anthropology
Most Influential Alumni
The Catholic University of America is the only higher education institution founded by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and remains closely affiliated with the Catholic Church.
What we love about The Catholic University of America:
Its location gives access to a lot of culturally significant areas and sites.
The Catholic University of America is ideal for students who:
Value a faith-focused learning environment and the personal development it gives.
The Catholic University of America may not be ideal for students who:
Don’t like the rules and customs associated with Catholic schools.
- #5 Best Small Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #9 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2025 #10 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2025
Tuition + fees
$52K
Acceptance
50%
Graduation
76%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1340/30
Career Outlook for degree at Clark University
Cost of Degree: $55,160Expenses: $13,540Starting Salary: $54,700Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Clark University known for?
Clark University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Clark University is unique, having started as an all-graduate institution before accepting undergraduates in 1902. It is named after Jonas Gilman Clark, who gave the seed endowment.
What we love about Clark University:
Its campus is compact and architecturally cohesive.
Clark University is ideal for students who:
Genuinely want to make an impact on the world.
Clark University may not be ideal for students who:
Don’t find the New England weather agreeable.
- #1 Best Colleges and Universities by Academic Stewardship #17 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #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: $67,020Expenses: $19,520Starting Salary: $52,700Cost Recoup Time: 21 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Reed College known for?
Reed College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Anthropology
- Psychology
- Mathematics
- Philosophy
- Literature
- Physics
- Economics
- Sociology
- Computer Science
- Chemistry
Most Influential Alumni
A private liberal arts college in Portland, Reed College is well-renowned for having a very high proportion of its graduates eventually earning post-graduate & terminal degrees.
What we love about Reed College:
It is a strong contender for one of the most beautiful campuses of colleges its size.
Reed College is ideal for students who:
Want the perfect blend of excellent academics and a quiet and beautiful environment.
Reed College may not be ideal for students who:
Might not keep up with the school’s rigorous academics.
- #18 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #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: $64,142Expenses: $20,838Starting Salary: $53,900Cost Recoup Time: 21 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Mount Holyoke College known for?
Mount Holyoke College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Education
- Sociology
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Political Science
- History
- Chemistry
- Psychology
- Anthropology
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$61K
Acceptance
50%
Graduation
72%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1355/31
Career Outlook for degree at Sarah Lawrence College
Cost of Degree: $63,678Expenses: $18,946Starting Salary: $48,000Cost Recoup Time: 22 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Sarah Lawrence College known for?
Sarah Lawrence College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #19 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #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: $68,020Expenses: $22,082Starting Salary: $75,100Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Haverford College known for?
Haverford College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Mathematics
- Literature
- Physics
- Philosophy
- Chemistry
- Economics
- History
- Psychology
- Political Science
Most Influential Alumni
Haverford College is a liberal arts college founded by the Quakers. It is a member of the Quaker Consortium along with Bryn Mawr and Swarthmore Colleges, as well as the University of Pennsylvania.
What we love about Haverford College:
Its Honor Code that governs its unique student life.
Haverford College is ideal for students who:
Like close-knit and welcoming college environments.
Haverford College may not be ideal for students who:
Prefer larger and more bustling universities.
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- Required Credits: 128
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- Required Credits: 128
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
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- Engineering
Pomona College
Career Outlook for degree at Pomona College
What is Pomona College known for?
Pomona College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Among liberal arts colleges in the country, Pomona College is one of the most prestigious and has the lowest acceptance rate.
What we love about Pomona College:
Its need-blind financial aid and opportunities for low-income students.
Pomona College is ideal for students who:
Want an all-around good school with sunny weather to boot.
Pomona College may not be ideal for students who:
Might want somewhere with far more diversity of opinions
Washington and Lee University
Career Outlook for degree at Washington and Lee University
What is Washington and Lee University known for?
Washington and Lee University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
College of the Holy Cross
Career Outlook for degree at College of the Holy Cross
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
A Jesuit liberal arts institution, the College of the Holy Cross is one of the oldest Catholic educational institutions in the country.
What we love about the College of the Holy Cross:
It’s one of the Hidden Ivies, a collection of highly regarded liberal arts colleges and universities.
College of the Holy Cross is ideal for students who:
Want a top-tier, well-rounded college education.
College of the Holy Cross may not be ideal for students who:
Might have issues with it being a Catholic school.
Morehouse College
Career Outlook for degree at Morehouse College
What is Morehouse College known for?
Morehouse College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Bowdoin College
Career Outlook for degree at Bowdoin College
What is Bowdoin College known for?
Bowdoin College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Middlebury College
Career Outlook for degree at Middlebury College
What is Middlebury College known for?
Middlebury College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Middlebury College is the first college/university in Vermont, established back in 1800. It currently offers both undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
What we love about Middlebury College:
It serves as a strong support system for first-generation college students.
Middlebury College is ideal for students who:
Want a top-tier school that has the practicalities of college life covered.
Middlebury College may not be ideal for students who:
Might prefer a more urban/big-city campus.
Union College, New York
Career Outlook for degree at Union College, New York
What is Union College, New York known for?
Union College, New York’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Colgate University
Career Outlook for degree at Colgate University
What is Colgate University known for?
Colgate University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Carleton College
Career Outlook for degree at Carleton College
What is Carleton College known for?
Carleton College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Spelman College
Career Outlook for degree at Spelman College
What is Spelman College known for?
Spelman College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Hampshire College
Career Outlook for degree at Hampshire College
What is Hampshire College known for?
Hampshire College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
University of Richmond
Career Outlook for degree at University of Richmond
What is University of Richmond known for?
University of Richmond’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Occidental College
Career Outlook for degree at Occidental College
What is Occidental College known for?
Occidental College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Kenyon College
Career Outlook for degree at Kenyon College
What is Kenyon College known for?
Kenyon College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Trinity College
Career Outlook for degree at Trinity College
What is Trinity College known for?
Trinity College ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Colorado College
Career Outlook for degree at Colorado College
What is Colorado College known for?
Colorado College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Grinnell College
Career Outlook for degree at Grinnell College
What is Grinnell College known for?
Grinnell College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Harvey Mudd College
Career Outlook for degree at Harvey Mudd College
What is Harvey Mudd College known for?
Harvey Mudd College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Bucknell University
Career Outlook for degree at Bucknell University
What is Bucknell University known for?
Bucknell University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Dickinson College
Career Outlook for degree at Dickinson College
What is Dickinson College known for?
Dickinson College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Denison University
Career Outlook for degree at Denison University
What is Denison University known for?
Denison University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
University of Tulsa
Career Outlook for degree at University of Tulsa
What is University of Tulsa known for?
University of Tulsa’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Claremont McKenna College
Career Outlook for degree at Claremont McKenna College
What is Claremont McKenna College known for?
Claremont McKenna College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Fairleigh Dickinson University
Career Outlook for degree at Fairleigh Dickinson University
What is Fairleigh Dickinson University known for?
Fairleigh Dickinson University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Samford University
Career Outlook for degree at Samford University
What is Samford University known for?
Samford University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Samford University’s Online Degrees
BA in Liberal Studies
BA in Organizational Leadership
Macalester College
Career Outlook for degree at Macalester College
What is Macalester College known for?
Macalester College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Willamette University
Career Outlook for degree at Willamette University
What is Willamette University known for?
Willamette University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Calvin University
Career Outlook for degree at Calvin University
What is Calvin University known for?
Calvin University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Hope College
Career Outlook for degree at Hope College
What is Hope College known for?
Hope College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Ashland University
Career Outlook for degree at Ashland University
What is Ashland University known for?
Ashland University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
How to Choose the Best Small College or University For You
The decision of which college or university to attend is important. Many high school students may feel overwhelmed by the process due to the overwhelming number of schools to consider. Here are some crucial considerations to remember so you can choose wisely.
- The major you plan to pursue.
- Visit the campus and tour the university.
- Know the academic level and college requirements.
- Don’t reject a college based only on the cost of tuition.
- Explore financial aid options.
- Ask about internship and job placement opportunities
- Review graduation rates
Remember that you want to be a fantastic fit while selecting a college. You should pick an institution that aligns with your values and who you are. You can attend a college that best suits your needs by using the following advice to organize your goals and interests.
Pros and Cons of Attending the Best Small Colleges and Universities
Attending a small college has both advantages and disadvantages. You must choose what matters most to you: culture, resources, or staff.
Cons:
- Fewer party scenes
- Limited resources and small facilities
- Small colleges are mostly private and thus more expensive
Pros:
- Smaller class size
- Greater flexibility
- Less competition
- You won’t feel lost in the crowd
Looking for a small college or university in your state?
You know by now that the best large universities are not always the best learning environment for students who prefer smaller, more personal settings.
If you want a top-notch education from a small college, but would like a school that is close to home, check out our list of the best colleges and universities in each state.
Find the Best Small Colleges and Universities in Your Area of Interest
Check out the College Admissions Process Guide for additional tips on finding, applying to, and getting into the college of your choice.
See our Resources Guide for much more on studying, starting your job search, and more.
Photo Credit: California Institute of Technology, Beckman Institute. By Canon.vs.nikon, via CC BY-SA 3.0.