Liberal Arts College Rankings by US News

According to the U.S. News & World Report's 2012 rankings of National Liberal Arts Colleges, several institutions stand out for their academic excellence, rigorous programs, selective admissions, and unique institutional strengths. These colleges are distinguished by their exceptional faculty, high graduation rates, and a commitment to student success. Here, we will explore some of the top-ranked liberal arts colleges in the United States, examining their academic environments, distinctive features, and the factors that contribute to their top-tier rankings.

Claremont McKenna College (CMC), ranked 9th among the nation's liberal arts colleges in 2012, is one of the most prestigious and selective institutions in the country. Located in Claremont, California, CMC stands out for its high rankings in several key areas. The college is ranked 6th in admission selectivity, meaning that it accepts only a small percentage of applicants, making it highly competitive. This selectivity is a testament to the caliber of students who apply, with many of them having exceptional academic records and extracurricular achievements. CMC is also ranked 4th in graduation and retention rates, which reflects its strong ability to support students throughout their academic careers, ensuring that they not only complete their degrees but also succeed in doing so with distinction. Furthermore, CMC ranks 8th in faculty resources, indicating that the college invests heavily in its faculty members, ensuring that students receive a high-quality education from experts in their respective fields.

One of the distinguishing features of Claremont McKenna College is its interdisciplinary approach to education. The college is part of the Claremont Colleges consortium, a group of five institutions that allows students to take courses across the different colleges and participate in collaborative academic projects. This consortium enhances the academic experience at CMC, giving students access to a diverse range of disciplines and perspectives. The college is particularly renowned for its programs in economics, government, public policy, and international relations, making it a popular choice for students who wish to pursue careers in business, law, public service, or academia. With a rigorous academic environment, a strong commitment to faculty development, and an emphasis on collaborative learning, CMC is a prime example of a top-tier liberal arts institution that consistently ranks among the best in the nation.

Another institution that stands out in the 2012 rankings is the University of North Carolina at Asheville (UNC Asheville), which is ranked as the 8th best public liberal arts college in the nation. UNC Asheville, located in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, offers a strong liberal arts education with a particular emphasis on sustainability and environmental studies. The university is known for its affordability, ranking 22nd among 252 private and public national liberal arts colleges for the least student debt among graduates in 2010. This affordability, combined with its high academic standards, makes UNC Asheville an attractive option for students seeking a quality education without accumulating significant student debt. The university’s strong commitment to environmental studies is reflected in its academic programs, community outreach, and campus initiatives, making it a leader in sustainability efforts among liberal arts colleges.

In addition to its affordability, UNC Asheville also excels in creating a supportive and engaging learning environment. The university is known for its close-knit community, where students are encouraged to engage in meaningful discussions, conduct research, and pursue internships and study abroad opportunities. UNC Asheville’s faculty members are deeply committed to the success of their students, and the university’s relatively small size allows for more personalized attention and mentorship. As a public liberal arts institution, UNC Asheville is dedicated to providing students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world, making it an excellent choice for students who are passionate about social responsibility, environmental sustainability, and academic excellence.

Westminster College, ranked 3rd among National Liberal Arts Colleges in graduation rate performance in the 2012 U.S. News rankings, also stands out as one of the best liberal arts colleges in the country. Westminster’s 79% graduation rate was 13% higher than predicted, placing it among the top institutions for student retention and success. The college’s impressive graduation rate reflects its strong academic support systems, student engagement initiatives, and commitment to helping students achieve their academic goals. Westminster’s strong showing in this category places it alongside some of the most elite liberal arts colleges in the nation.

Westminster College’s high graduation rate can be attributed to its rigorous academic programs, small class sizes, and close student-faculty relationships. The college emphasizes a well-rounded education that prepares students not only for successful careers but also for meaningful lives of service and leadership. Westminster is known for its focus on civic engagement, and students are encouraged to take on leadership roles both on campus and in the broader community. The college offers a wide range of academic programs, with particular strengths in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Westminster’s commitment to creating a supportive and enriching academic environment has earned it a place among the top liberal arts colleges in the country.

Allegheny College, ranked among the top 100 liberal arts colleges in the U.S., is another institution that has gained recognition for its rising reputation and academic improvements. Located in Meadville, Pennsylvania, Allegheny is the only college in western Pennsylvania to be ranked among the top 100 liberal arts colleges. The college’s recognition as an “Up-and-Comer” highlights its rapid growth and ongoing efforts to improve both its academic offerings and student support services. Allegheny is known for its interdisciplinary approach to education, which encourages students to explore a wide range of academic fields and to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills that will serve them well in their future careers.

Allegheny’s academic programs span the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, and the college is particularly known for its strong programs in environmental science, political science, and economics. Allegheny is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community where students from all backgrounds can thrive. The college is also deeply engaged in community service and social justice initiatives, and students are encouraged to participate in service-learning opportunities both on and off campus. As an “Up-and-Comer,” Allegheny College is making a name for itself as a place where students can receive a top-notch education while also contributing to the greater good.

Lawrence University, ranked 60th among national liberal arts colleges in the U.S. News & World Report rankings, is a private institution located in Appleton, Wisconsin. Lawrence is known for its strong academic programs, particularly in the arts and sciences. The university had strong showings in several categories used in the rankings methodology, including the percentage of incoming students who ranked in the top 10% of their high school class (43%), its freshman retention rate (88%), and its graduation rate (73%). Lawrence also boasts a high level of faculty engagement, with 93% of classes being taught by full-time faculty members. This emphasis on faculty involvement ensures that students receive personalized attention and guidance throughout their academic careers.

One of the distinctive features of Lawrence University is its combination of liberal arts education with a conservatory of music. The conservatory offers a rigorous music program that attracts students from across the country and around the world. This blend of liberal arts and music makes Lawrence a unique institution, and it allows students to explore a wide range of academic interests while pursuing their passion for music. In addition to its strong academic programs, Lawrence is also known for its commitment to sustainability, diversity, and community engagement, making it an excellent choice for students who seek a well-rounded education that fosters intellectual, artistic, and personal growth.

These top-ranked liberal arts colleges represent some of the best educational institutions in the United States. Each of them excels in key areas such as selectivity, academic rigor, graduation rates, faculty resources, and student engagement. Claremont McKenna College, with its interdisciplinary programs and emphasis on economics and government, is an ideal choice for students interested in pursuing careers in business, public policy, and international relations. The University of North Carolina at Asheville, with its focus on sustainability and affordability, offers students a chance to receive a high-quality education while minimizing student debt. Westminster College’s exceptional graduation rate and commitment to student success make it an excellent choice for those seeking a supportive and rigorous academic environment. Allegheny College’s growth and commitment to interdisciplinary education offer students a dynamic and diverse learning experience, while Lawrence University’s unique combination of liberal arts and music makes it an ideal choice for students with a passion for the arts.

Ultimately, these colleges represent a diverse array of educational experiences, but they all share a commitment to providing students with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in the modern world. Whether through selective admissions, strong graduation rates, or specialized programs, these liberal arts colleges are shaping the future leaders of our society and preparing students for successful careers and meaningful lives.