What Is a Liberal Arts College and Why You Should Consider One?

When exploring colleges, “liberal arts” is a term that pops up often. But what exactly is a liberal arts college, and how is it different from other colleges and universities? If you’ve heard the term but are not sure what it means or are wondering whether this kind of school is the right choice for you, here’s what a liberal arts college really is and what makes it unique.

What is a liberal arts college?

A liberal arts college is an undergraduate institution that focuses on providing a broad education across various subjects. These schools emphasize a “liberal arts” approach, meaning students get a chance to explore different fields in humanities (like literature and history), social sciences (like psychology and sociology), natural sciences (like biology and chemistry), and fine and applied arts (like film and graphic design).

At a liberal arts college, you won’t just be taking courses specific to your major. While engaging with different subjects, you’ll be encouraged to think critically, communicate effectively, and solve problems creatively – valuable skills no matter what career path you choose later. In short, rather than focusing solely on one discipline, these schools are all about well-rounded education, providing students not only with practical knowledge but also with soft skills that can be applied across various fields.

Key features of a liberal arts college

Liberal arts colleges share several key features that distinguish them from universities, other colleges, and more specialized institutions, including:

Focus on undergraduate education: Unlike large universities that offer undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs, liberal arts colleges focus primarily on undergraduate education.

Broad curriculum: Liberal arts colleges encourage students to make connections between different fields of study and take courses across multiple disciplines before and after declaring a major. This isn’t just to keep you busy – the goal is to produce well-rounded graduates who can think across fields, gain versatile skills, and adapt to various challenges and careers.

Small class size: Liberal arts colleges usually have a smaller student body (typically 1,000 to 3,000 students) and smaller class sizes (usually 10 to 30 students). With fewer students per class, you’ll get more personalized attention from professors and have more opportunities to participate in discussions. Smaller student bodies also mean it’s easier to make friends and get involved in campus life.

Strong focus on teaching: Unlike some larger research universities where professors may be focused on research rather than teaching, liberal arts colleges are known for placing a strong emphasis on quality teaching. This means you’ll have professors passionate about the subjects they teach and invested in your academic success.

Emphasis on critical thinking and communication: A liberal arts education prioritizes developing critical thinking, effective communication, and analytical skills. Courses are designed to help you think independently, reason analytically, and express your ideas clearly.

Best liberal arts colleges

There are many excellent liberal arts colleges across the country, but here are a few that really stand out for their academics, campus vibe, and all-around student experience:

Williams College	Located in Williamstown, Massachusetts, Williams is known for its strong academic programs and scenic campus. It has a long-standing tradition of excellence and consistently ranks as one of the top liberal arts colleges in the country.
Amherst College	Another Massachusetts-based school, Amherst offers an open curriculum, allowing students to create their own academic path. It’s known for its rigorous academics and alumni network that can open doors for graduates in many fields.
Pomona College	Situated in Claremont, California, Pomona is part of a consortium of colleges that allows students to take courses across multiple institutions. It offers diverse academic programs and is considered one of the most prestigious liberal arts colleges.
Swarthmore College	Located in Pennsylvania, Swarthmore is a small college with a big reputation. It offers a challenging curriculum and strongly focuses on social justice and ethical leadership. Swarthmore’s Honors Program is particularly notable.
Harvey Mudd College	As part of the Claremont Colleges in California, Harvey Mudd is unique among liberal arts schools due to its focus on science, engineering, and math. It’s a top choice for students interested in a liberal arts environment that’s also STEM-focused.

FAQs about liberal arts colleges

Are liberal arts colleges just for artsy students?

Not at all! Liberal arts colleges have great programs in the sciences, business, and many other fields beyond the arts. They’re called “liberal arts” because they focus on broad education—not because they’re limited to art-related fields. You can major in anything from biology to economics and still get the well-rounded education that defines the liberal arts approach.

What can you do with a liberal arts degree?

Some worry that a liberal arts degree won’t lead to a specific job or will limit their career options, but that’s often a myth. A liberal arts degree equips students for diverse paths, and graduates find work in various fields, from tech to business to education. Plus, many of these colleges have strong career services and alumni networks to help students find internships and job placements.

Are liberal arts colleges expensive?

Liberal arts colleges tend to be expensive. While tuition can be high, many of these colleges have substantial financial aid programs. Some even meet the full demonstrated financial need of admitted students. It’s always worth looking into the scholarships and grants available.

So, is a liberal arts college right for you?

Choosing a college is a big decision, and while liberal arts colleges have their strengths, they might not be the right fit for everyone. Think about what matters most in your college experience. Do you like small classes, working closely with professors, and the freedom to explore a bunch of different fields? If that sounds like you, then a liberal arts college could provide a strong foundation for wherever you want to go later— whether that’s grad school, a specific career, or a path you haven’t even discovered yet.

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