Key takeaways
- Liberal arts colleges are 4-year higher educational institutions that offer undergraduate education in the arts, humanities, and sciences.
- Generally small schools, liberal arts colleges offer students small class sizes, tight knit communities, and close relationships with professors.
- Financial aid can lower the cost of going to a liberal arts college.
- Graduates gain skills that get them ready for careers or graduate school.
When students think about higher education, large universities and Ivy League schools often come to mind first. But small, liberal arts colleges offer a different, and often overlooked, college experience. These schools focus on hands-on, participative learning, close faculty relationships, and a strong sense of community.
Wondering how this type of college compares to larger universities? If you think it might be the right fit for your goals, this guide will walk you through what makes small liberal arts colleges worth considering.
What is a Liberal Arts College?
Liberal arts colleges are 4-year, usually undergraduate programs that offer majors in four big categories: the arts, natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities. This could be anything from biology to English and from math to languages.
But these schools offer education beyond the major. They offer students a chance to become more knowledgeable about all subjects, not just their choice of study. This allows those who graduate to develop skills they may not have had otherwise and leave with a well-rounded education.
What are some top small liberal arts colleges?
There are plenty of public and private liberal arts colleges that can be found across the country. In fact, here’s a list of our picks for the very Best Liberal Arts Colleges in the US:
- Swarthmore College, Swarthmore, PA
- Pomona College, Claremont, CA
- Bowdoin College, Brunswick, ME
- Williams College, Williamstown, MA
- Amherst College, Amherst, MA
- Hillsdale College, Hillsdale, MI
- Washington and Lee University, Lexington, VA
- Wellesley College, Wellesley, MA
- Harvey Mudd College, Claremont, CA
- Barnard College, New York, NY
- Soka University of America, Aliso Viejo, CA
- Claremont McKenna College, Claremont, CA
- United States Naval Academy, Annapolis, MD
- Hamilton College, Clinton, NY
- Carleton College, Northfield, MN
What are the benefits of going to a small liberal arts college?
Small liberal arts colleges have many benefits that appeal to students who want a more personal college experience.
- Smaller classes sizes. Instead of sitting in large lecture halls, students learn in classrooms with lower student to faculty ratios where discussion is encouraged. This makes it easier to ask questions, share ideas, and stay engaged in class.
- Strong relationships with professors. Professors often know students by name. They are more available to help with classes and give advice about careers or graduate school. These close relationships can make a big difference during and after college.
- A supportive campus community. Because there are fewer students, campuses often feel more close-knit. Students may find it easier to make friends, join clubs, and feel like they belong. Many students say this strong sense of community helps them feel supported both academically and socially.
- A well-rounded education. Small liberal arts colleges encourage students to study a variety of subjects. This helps them gain a deeper understanding of the world. They also build important skills like critical thinking, writing, and problem-solving, which are helpful in many jobs.
What majors and programs do small liberal arts colleges offer?
Small liberal arts colleges offer many different majors, even though they are smaller schools. Students can choose from subjects like:
- Biology
- Computer science
- English
- Environmental science
- History
- Math
- Media studies
- Political science
- Psychology
Because these colleges encourage exploration, many students take classes in different subjects before choosing a major. They often have flexible graduation requirements, which gives students more freedom in what they study. This flexibility also makes it easier for students to explore their interests or even double major.
What is the learning environment like?
Liberal arts colleges are designed to support students both inside and outside the classroom.
Hands-on learning opportunities
Many smaller liberal arts colleges offer hands-on learning opportunities and encourage participation in classroom discussions. Examples include internships, service projects, study abroad programs, and undergraduate research. Students usually have the chance to work closely with professors on research or projects. Sometimes, they can do this as early as their first or second year.
Close faculty support
Professors work closely with students and are often very involved in their academic progress. Faculty members can help students choose classes and explore career paths. They can also help prepare them for graduate school or job applications.
How can you choose the right liberal arts college?
Choosing the right college is an important decision, and there are several things to think about. When looking into small liberal arts colleges, think about:
- Location and campus setting
- Majors and academic programs offered
- Class sizes and student-to-faculty ratio
- Campus culture and student life
- Cost, tuition, and financial aid options
Visiting campuses, taking virtual tours, and talking with students can help make it easier to see which school feels like the best fit.
What financial aid options are available at liberal arts colleges?
Many students worry about costs. But liberal arts colleges can have strong financial aid packages. These can include scholarships, grants, and need-based aid that help lower the cost. Filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is an important first step. Many colleges use it to determine eligibility for financial aid.
Some colleges offer merit scholarships based on academic achievement, and others use need-blind admissions. This means your financial situation does not affect your chance of being accepted. When comparing schools and offer letters, it’s important to look at the cost after financial aid, not just the tuition.
How can you make the most of your experience?
Students who get involved often have the best college experience. Joining clubs, student organizations, and intramural sports can help them meet new people. Study abroad programs and internships provide real-world experience along with exposure to different cultures and career paths.
How can you prepare for life after graduation?
Graduates of small liberal arts colleges are often well prepared for life after college. The skills they build are useful in many careers.
Ways students can get ready for the future include building a strong resume, networking with students and professors, getting internship experience, and connecting with alumni. All these steps can help make it easier to get a job or go to graduate school.
Discover your perfect liberal arts college match
Liberal arts colleges give students a friendly and supportive college experience. Classes are small, professors get to know students, and it’s common to explore different subjects. These schools help students grow in and outside of the classroom.
If you want a close-knit community and well-rounded education, a small liberal arts college may be right for you. Not sure which one fits your goals and budget? Use College Raptor’s FREE College Match tool to explore schools based on your interests and financial needs.
