Best Liberal Arts Schools in US

The United States is home to many prestigious liberal arts colleges, which focus on providing a well-rounded undergraduate education with an emphasis on critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills. These institutions are designed to foster intellectual curiosity, academic rigor, and personal development, preparing students for diverse career paths and active citizenship. The U.S. News & World Report rankings are widely recognized as a comprehensive guide to evaluating the best liberal arts colleges in the country. The rankings for 2009 identified several institutions as standouts, including Wheaton College, Connecticut College, Agnes Scott College, Oberlin College, Bowdoin College, and Grinnell College. Each of these schools is highly regarded for its academic excellence, faculty resources, campus culture, and overall reputation.

Wheaton College, located in Illinois, was ranked 56th nationally among liberal arts colleges by U.S. News & World Report in 2009. It is the highest-ranked liberal arts college in the state and stands out as one of the most popular schools in the country. Wheaton College is notable for its strong commitment to both academic rigor and faith-based education, with a Christian mission that underpins its approach to learning. The college's emphasis on integrating faith with intellectual inquiry provides students with a unique educational experience that prepares them for leadership roles in both secular and religious contexts. Wheaton College’s robust academic programs are complemented by its vibrant campus life and numerous opportunities for community engagement, including service projects, internships, and research opportunities. Its strong reputation is further bolstered by the school's ranking as the 7th most popular liberal arts college in the U.S., according to U.S. News & World Report.

Beyond its ranking, Wheaton College also excels in the area of faculty quality, which is a critical component of any liberal arts education. The college's professors are known for being highly accessible, offering personalized attention and mentorship to students. Wheaton also offers a variety of interdisciplinary programs, allowing students to explore different fields of study and gain a well-rounded education. These factors contribute to Wheaton's strong position among the nation’s top liberal arts colleges.

Connecticut College, located in New London, Connecticut, was ranked 42nd nationally by U.S. News & World Report in 2009. Known for its academic rigor and its commitment to diversity and inclusivity, Connecticut College provides a strong liberal arts education within a supportive and dynamic campus community. The college is highly regarded for its programs in the arts, humanities, and social sciences, and it offers students the opportunity to engage in global studies and community-based learning. Connecticut College is also noted for its outstanding career services and job placement assistance, ranking 19th among all colleges and universities for these services, according to The Princeton Review.

Additionally, Connecticut College is recognized as a “best value” school by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance, ranking 31st in the top 50 private colleges. The college is dedicated to providing an affordable, high-quality education, making it an attractive option for students seeking excellent academic opportunities without incurring significant debt. Connecticut College's commitment to diversity and inclusion further enhances its reputation as a leading liberal arts institution. Students from a wide range of backgrounds come together on its picturesque campus to engage in a rigorous intellectual community that fosters both personal and academic growth.

Agnes Scott College, located in Decatur, Georgia, was ranked 60th nationally among liberal arts colleges by U.S. News & World Report in 2009. As the top-ranked liberal arts college in Georgia, Agnes Scott offers students a strong academic foundation along with a commitment to empowering women. The college is particularly recognized for its emphasis on leadership development, providing students with numerous opportunities to engage in internships, service learning, and study abroad programs. Agnes Scott College’s focus on developing students as leaders extends beyond the classroom, with a range of programs designed to prepare young women for success in their careers and communities.

Agnes Scott is also known for its stunning campus, which earned the college a 4th-place ranking for “Most Beautiful Campus” by The Princeton Review in 2007. The college's commitment to creating a welcoming and vibrant environment for learning is reflected in its beautiful architecture and well-maintained facilities. Agnes Scott is also recognized for its excellent dormitories, earning an 8th-place ranking for “Dorms Like Palaces” in the same Princeton Review listing. The college’s strong academic programs, emphasis on leadership, and beautiful campus make it an appealing choice for students seeking a transformative liberal arts education.

Oberlin College, located in Oberlin, Ohio, was ranked 20th nationally among liberal arts colleges by U.S. News & World Report in 2009. Known for its rich history and commitment to social justice, Oberlin is one of the oldest liberal arts colleges in the United States. Founded in 1833, Oberlin College has a long-standing tradition of progressive ideals, including its role as one of the first colleges in the U.S. to admit African Americans and women. The college’s commitment to diversity and inclusion remains a core aspect of its identity today. Oberlin is also renowned for its exceptional programs in music, arts, and humanities, with the Oberlin Conservatory of Music being one of the top conservatories in the country.

In addition to its academic excellence, Oberlin College is also highly regarded for its career services and job placement assistance, ranking 36th in Kiplinger’s 2008-2009 list of Best Values in Private Colleges. The college's strong connections with alumni and the broader professional world provide students with numerous opportunities for internships, jobs, and postgraduate success. Oberlin’s unique blend of academic rigor, social responsibility, and artistic excellence make it a standout among liberal arts colleges.

Bowdoin College, located in Brunswick, Maine, was ranked 6th nationally among liberal arts colleges by U.S. News & World Report in 2009. Known for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to social responsibility, Bowdoin College is one of the top liberal arts institutions in the United States. The college offers a wide range of programs in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and arts, with a particular focus on interdisciplinary study. Bowdoin’s faculty are renowned for their expertise and dedication to teaching, and the college’s small class sizes ensure that students receive individualized attention.

Bowdoin College is also notable for its emphasis on civic engagement and public service. Many students participate in community service projects and internships that allow them to make a positive impact on society. The college's commitment to environmental sustainability is another key feature, with many students and faculty actively engaged in research and initiatives aimed at addressing climate change and promoting sustainability. Bowdoin's outstanding academic programs, commitment to public service, and beautiful campus make it one of the most respected liberal arts colleges in the country.

Grinnell College, located in Grinnell, Iowa, was ranked 14th nationally by U.S. News & World Report in 2009. Known for its rigorous academics and commitment to social justice, Grinnell College is one of the top liberal arts colleges in the Midwest. The college offers a wide range of programs in the arts, humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences, with a strong emphasis on independent research and critical thinking. Grinnell’s faculty are known for being highly accessible and supportive, and the college’s small class sizes ensure that students receive personalized attention.

Grinnell College is also recognized for its excellent financial aid programs, which help make a liberal arts education accessible to students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. The Princeton Review ranked Grinnell as one of the Top 10 Best Values in Private Colleges, reflecting its commitment to providing an affordable, high-quality education. Grinnell’s emphasis on academic rigor, social responsibility, and financial accessibility make it an excellent choice for students seeking a transformative liberal arts experience.

In conclusion, the U.S. News & World Report rankings for 2009 highlight some of the best liberal arts colleges in the United States, including Wheaton College, Connecticut College, Agnes Scott College, Oberlin College, Bowdoin College, and Grinnell College. These institutions are highly regarded for their academic excellence, faculty resources, campus culture, and commitment to providing students with a well-rounded education. Whether students are seeking rigorous academic programs, opportunities for leadership development, or a commitment to social responsibility, these top liberal arts colleges offer a diverse range of options for students pursuing higher education.