Hendrix College Rankings & Ratings

Hendrix College, established in 1876, is a private liberal arts institution located in Conway, Arkansas. Known for its academic rigor and commitment to fostering personal growth in students, Hendrix College has earned a reputation as one of the top liberal arts colleges in the United States. The college’s rich history, stellar academic programs, and strong emphasis on community and service have contributed to its recognition as a leader in higher education. With accreditations from prestigious organizations such as the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools, the University Senate of the United Methodist Church, and the National Association of Schools of Music, Hendrix College has long been regarded as a beacon of academic excellence in the region.

Over the years, Hendrix College has consistently been recognized in numerous national rankings for its academic achievements and innovative approach to liberal arts education. In 2009, U.S. News & World Report ranked Hendrix College 77th among the top liberal arts colleges in the United States, placing it alongside some of the most prestigious institutions in the country. This ranking reflects the college’s ongoing commitment to providing a high-quality education that prepares students for success in their careers and personal lives. Hendrix’s strong academic reputation is not limited to a single ranking, as it was also ranked 71st in the U.S. News & World Report’s 2008 edition, further solidifying its place among the country’s top liberal arts colleges.

In addition to its consistently high rankings, Hendrix College earned special recognition in the 2009 edition of U.S. News & World Report as one of the nation’s top “Up-and-Coming” liberal arts colleges. This designation is particularly significant because it highlights the college’s ongoing efforts to make innovative changes in academics, faculty, students, campus facilities, and overall student experience. Hendrix College is one of just 13 liberal arts colleges recognized for making the most promising and forward-thinking changes in higher education. The focus on continuous improvement and a commitment to adapting to the evolving needs of students has made Hendrix a leader in liberal arts education, ensuring that it remains relevant and responsive to the needs of the modern world.

Beyond rankings from U.S. News & World Report, Hendrix College has received recognition from other prestigious sources as well. In The Princeton Review’s 2010 edition of its guidebook "The Best 371 Colleges," Hendrix College was named one of the best institutions for undergraduate education in the United States. This honor is a testament to the quality of Hendrix’s academic programs, faculty, and campus life. Additionally, Hendrix College was recognized for its exceptional campus facilities, ranking among the top for “Best Athletic Facilities.” These accolades showcase the college’s commitment to providing students with a well-rounded college experience that balances academic excellence with opportunities for physical wellness, extracurricular activities, and personal growth.

Hendrix College’s commitment to providing an outstanding education is also reflected in its rankings in other categories. In the 2006 Washington Monthly College Rankings, the college was rated 40th among liberal arts colleges, underscoring its strong reputation for academic achievement and student engagement. This ranking is particularly notable because Washington Monthly places a premium on colleges and universities that contribute to the public good through service, civic engagement, and commitment to producing well-rounded graduates. Hendrix College has long been committed to fostering a sense of social responsibility and leadership among its students, preparing them to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.

In addition to these rankings, Hendrix College has earned a place in The Princeton Review’s 2008 college guide, “The Best 366 Colleges,” where it was featured among the top 20 colleges in four categories. Hendrix College was ranked 11th in both the “Professors Get High Marks” and “Best Classroom Experience” categories, which are a reflection of the college’s outstanding faculty and the high level of interaction between students and professors. The personalized attention that students receive from faculty members, combined with the college’s focus on fostering critical thinking and intellectual curiosity, creates an environment in which students are challenged to think deeply and explore their academic interests.

In addition to its recognition for academic excellence, Hendrix College was also ranked 16th for “Best College Theater” and 20th for “Lots of Race/Class Interaction.” These rankings highlight the college’s commitment to providing a rich, diverse, and inclusive campus environment in which students from all backgrounds can thrive. Hendrix College’s emphasis on diversity and inclusion is reflected in its various programs and initiatives designed to foster cross-cultural understanding and promote dialogue among students from different racial, socioeconomic, and cultural backgrounds. These efforts help prepare students to become global citizens who can navigate an increasingly interconnected and diverse world.

Hendrix College’s recognition in Loren Pope’s influential book “Colleges That Change Lives” further highlights the transformative impact the college has on its students. The book, which identifies 40 colleges and universities that offer a unique and life-changing educational experience, featured Hendrix College in its 2006 edition. The inclusion of Hendrix College in this prestigious guide is a testament to the college’s ability to foster a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment that empowers students to grow personally, academically, and professionally.

One of the reasons for Hendrix College’s inclusion in “Colleges That Change Lives” is its commitment to providing a personalized education in which students have the freedom to pursue their academic interests and develop their intellectual passions. Hendrix College offers a flexible curriculum that encourages students to explore a wide range of subjects before settling on a major. This approach allows students to take ownership of their education and tailor their academic experience to their interests and goals. The college also provides students with numerous opportunities for research, internships, study abroad programs, and community engagement, all of which contribute to the development of well-rounded, informed, and capable individuals.

Hendrix College’s commitment to providing an excellent education at an affordable price has earned it recognition as one of the nation’s top “Best Buy” colleges and universities. In the Fiske Guide to Colleges 2008 edition, Hendrix College was named one of 45 national “Best Buy” colleges, an honor reserved for institutions that provide exceptional academic programs at a reasonable cost. This recognition is particularly important for students and families who are looking for a college that offers outstanding value without compromising on the quality of education. Hendrix College’s strong financial aid programs, including scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities, help ensure that a Hendrix education is accessible to students from diverse economic backgrounds.

The college’s commitment to providing a comprehensive and transformative education is reflected not only in its academic programs but also in its extracurricular activities and campus culture. Hendrix College offers a wide range of student organizations, leadership opportunities, and community service initiatives that allow students to get involved and make a positive impact on campus and in the surrounding community. From the arts and athletics to student government and service clubs, there are countless opportunities for students to engage in activities that enrich their college experience and prepare them for life beyond graduation.

Hendrix College’s emphasis on personal growth, intellectual development, and social responsibility makes it an ideal choice for students seeking a liberal arts education that prepares them to make meaningful contributions to society. The college’s commitment to excellence, its strong academic programs, and its innovative approach to higher education ensure that it remains a leader in the field of liberal arts education. Whether through its high rankings, its recognition as a “Best Buy” college, or its focus on fostering a diverse and inclusive campus community, Hendrix College continues to offer an exceptional educational experience that empowers students to succeed both academically and personally.

In conclusion, Hendrix College stands out as one of the top liberal arts colleges in the United States, offering an outstanding education that fosters intellectual growth, personal development, and a commitment to social responsibility. With its strong academic programs, high rankings, and commitment to providing value for its students, Hendrix College remains a leader in higher education. The college’s focus on innovation, diversity, and inclusion ensures that it will continue to evolve and provide a transformative educational experience for future generations of students.