Top National Liberal Arts Colleges by US News

In 2017, the U.S. News & World Report released its highly anticipated list of the top liberal arts colleges in the United States. Among these institutions, Williams College stood out as the number one liberal arts college in the nation, a position it has held for several years. Following Williams College were Amherst College in second place and Wellesley College in third.

Williams College

Williams College, located in Williamstown, Massachusetts, maintained its top spot as the number one liberal arts college in the U.S. for the 2017 ranking. The college is renowned for its rigorous academic programs, commitment to undergraduate teaching, and strong emphasis on fostering intellectual curiosity and critical thinking. Williams College boasts an impressive student-faculty ratio, which allows for small class sizes and personalized learning experiences. This emphasis on individual attention ensures that students have meaningful interactions with their professors and benefit from a learning environment that encourages deep exploration of ideas.

Williams' commitment to providing a high-quality liberal arts education is evident in its diverse range of programs and its focus on preparing students for life beyond college. The college has been consistently recognized for the quality of its faculty, which is one of the most highly educated and dedicated in the nation. Students at Williams also have access to research opportunities, study abroad programs, and internships that complement their academic experiences and help them build valuable skills for the future.

Amherst College

Amherst College, also located in Massachusetts, was ranked second in the U.S. News National Liberal Arts Colleges Rankings for 2017. Known for its strong emphasis on academic freedom and a unique open curriculum, Amherst College allows students to tailor their education according to their interests and career goals. The college's commitment to a well-rounded education is reflected in its diverse academic offerings, which span the humanities, sciences, and social sciences.

Amherst College is particularly well-regarded for its exceptional faculty and small class sizes, which foster meaningful interactions between students and professors. The college's emphasis on critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and independent research equips students with the skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Furthermore, Amherst’s dedication to creating a supportive and inclusive community has helped it maintain its position as one of the most respected liberal arts colleges in the United States.

Wellesley College

Wellesley College, ranked third, is a leading institution in the field of liberal arts education and is one of the most prestigious women’s colleges in the country. Located in Wellesley, Massachusetts, the college is known for producing highly accomplished graduates who go on to make significant contributions in various fields, including business, politics, and academia. Wellesley College has a reputation for academic rigor, an exceptional student-faculty ratio, and a strong emphasis on empowering women through education.

The college’s commitment to leadership development, coupled with a robust support system for its students, contributes to a dynamic and enriching educational experience. Wellesley is also celebrated for its strong alumni network, which plays a significant role in providing mentorship and career opportunities for current students.

Claremont McKenna College

Claremont McKenna College (CMC), located in Claremont, California, was ranked ninth among the best liberal arts colleges in the nation. CMC is particularly recognized for its outstanding faculty resources, ranking fifth in this category. The college boasts an impressive 8 to 1 student-faculty ratio, ensuring that students have significant access to professors and can participate in small, interactive classes. Approximately 84% of CMC’s classes have fewer than 20 students enrolled, while only 1% have 50 or more students, underscoring the institution’s focus on personalized education.

CMC is known for its strong emphasis on leadership, economics, and government studies, preparing students for impactful careers in both public and private sectors. The college’s strategic location within the Claremont Colleges Consortium offers students the opportunity to take courses and collaborate with peers from other top institutions, enriching their academic experience and fostering a multidisciplinary approach to learning.

Pitzer College

Pitzer College, a member of the Claremont Colleges, experienced significant growth in the 2017 rankings, rising to 32nd among the top liberal arts colleges. This marked an improvement from its previous position of 36th in 2016 and highlighted Pitzer’s commitment to academic excellence and social responsibility. The college is particularly known for its progressive approach to education, which emphasizes social justice, environmental sustainability, and cross-cultural learning.

Pitzer College has also been recognized as one of the top 20 liberal arts colleges in the country for campus ethnic diversity, reflecting its dedication to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for students of all backgrounds. The college’s focus on fostering diversity and promoting social engagement has resonated with students and contributed to its rise in the rankings over the past years.

Wofford College

Wofford College, a smaller institution located in Spartanburg, South Carolina, showed progress in the 2017 U.S. News & World Report rankings, moving up from 82nd to 77th among national liberal arts colleges. This improvement was a testament to the college’s dedication to enhancing the quality of its programs and the overall student experience. Wofford has also been ranked 80th in the "High School Counselors Ranking of Liberal Arts Colleges," further solidifying its reputation as a strong educational institution.

Wofford College is known for its commitment to providing students with a comprehensive liberal arts education that emphasizes leadership development, critical thinking, and service to the community. The college’s nurturing environment and small class sizes allow for close relationships between students and faculty, fostering academic achievement and personal growth.

The University of Minnesota, Morris

The University of Minnesota, Morris (UMN Morris) is ranked seventh among the top public liberal arts colleges and holds the 140th position on the national liberal arts colleges list. UMN Morris has gained recognition for its dedication to providing a high-quality education with an emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility. The college has also been included on the "A-Plus Schools for B Students" list, which highlights schools that consider a variety of factors in their admissions process, rather than solely focusing on standardized test scores and class standing. This approach underscores the college's commitment to evaluating students holistically and providing opportunities for those who may not fit the traditional mold of elite applicants.

Author

Kelvin Wong Loke Yuen is a seasoned educator and writer, distinguished by his certifications, including the Certified Microsoft Innovative Educator designation. His academic credentials are equally impressive, with an MBA and Postgraduate Diploma from Heriot-Watt University, a leading institution in the UK, and a BCom degree from Adelaide, a member of Australia’s prestigious Group of Eight. Follow: LinkedIn

Popular Articles

Browse by Category