Stonehill College Ranking Profile

Stonehill College, founded in 1948, is a selective Catholic liberal arts institution located in North Easton, Massachusetts. Over the past several decades, Stonehill has established itself as a leader in higher education, offering students a well-rounded and enriching educational experience grounded in Catholic values, academic rigor, and community engagement. The college provides a broad array of academic programs, including departments in the sciences, humanities, social sciences, business, and the arts, all designed to nurture intellectual curiosity, personal growth, and ethical leadership.

Stonehill College was founded with the mission of providing a high-quality liberal arts education in a Catholic environment. Its commitment to this mission is reflected in its curriculum, which emphasizes the development of the whole person. Students at Stonehill are encouraged to think critically, engage with diverse ideas, and cultivate a sense of social responsibility that is rooted in Catholic teachings. The college’s academic programs are designed to not only provide students with a deep understanding of their chosen fields but also to prepare them to address the moral, social, and ethical challenges facing society today.

One of the key features of Stonehill’s academic offering is its commitment to small class sizes and a low student-to-faculty ratio, which fosters close relationships between students and professors. This environment allows for more individualized attention, dynamic classroom discussions, and a deeper engagement with course material. The college’s academic departments are diverse and include majors in fields such as Biology, Business Administration, Chemistry, Communication, Computer Science, Economics, Education, English, Foreign Languages, History, Mathematics, Philosophy, Physics and Astronomy, Political Science, Psychology, Religious Studies, Sociology and Criminology, and Visual and Performing Arts. Each of these programs is designed to provide students with both theoretical and practical knowledge, preparing them for careers in their respective fields or further study in graduate school.

In addition to its academic offerings, Stonehill College is deeply committed to the personal development of its students. The college places a strong emphasis on fostering a supportive campus environment, which is reflected in its high rankings for student satisfaction and engagement. In the 2010 edition of The Princeton Review’s Best 371 Colleges, Stonehill ranked 7th on the list of "Happiest Students." This ranking highlights the college's success in creating a campus community where students feel valued, supported, and connected. Stonehill's students are known for their academic achievements, social engagement, and active participation in campus life, contributing to the college’s vibrant and inclusive atmosphere.

Stonehill’s emphasis on student happiness is closely tied to its commitment to providing a supportive and enriching campus environment. The college has earned high marks in national surveys for its commitment to academic excellence, community service, and the personal development of its students. According to the 2008 National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE), Stonehill is ranked in the top 10% of colleges nationwide for offering enriching educational experiences. This recognition speaks to the college’s focus on providing students with opportunities for intellectual exploration, personal growth, and meaningful social interactions. Stonehill is also recognized for its strong academic challenge, with students encouraged to engage deeply with course content, and its supportive campus environment, which provides ample resources to help students succeed both academically and personally.

Stonehill College’s commitment to community service is another defining feature of the institution. The college has consistently been recognized for its efforts to make a positive impact in the surrounding community and beyond. In fact, the Corporation for National and Community Service named Stonehill to the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll with Distinction for its exemplary service efforts. This honor reflects the college’s strong tradition of service learning, where students are encouraged to participate in community service projects and internships that align with their academic interests and personal values. Stonehill’s emphasis on service to others aligns with its Catholic mission and the college’s belief in the importance of developing ethical leaders who are committed to making a difference in the world.

Stonehill College’s commitment to community service extends to its study abroad programs as well. The college offers a range of study abroad opportunities, and in fact, Stonehill’s semester-long study abroad programs were ranked 13th in the nation among baccalaureate institutions by the Institute for International Education. These programs give students the opportunity to immerse themselves in different cultures, gain new perspectives, and deepen their understanding of global issues. Study abroad experiences are an integral part of the Stonehill experience, providing students with the chance to develop intercultural competencies, enhance their academic knowledge, and broaden their worldview.

Stonehill College’s academic rigor, supportive campus environment, and commitment to service are reflected in its impressive rankings and recognition by various national organizations. The U.S. News & World Report ranked Stonehill College 112th among Tier 1 National Liberal Arts Colleges in 2012, and the college has consistently ranked in the top tier of liberal arts colleges. In addition to its academic rankings, Stonehill College has been recognized for its engaging and supportive environment, which contributes to the overall success and well-being of its students. The college’s emphasis on student satisfaction and happiness, combined with its academic rigor and commitment to service, makes it an attractive choice for students seeking a well-rounded and impactful college experience.

Stonehill College’s reputation as one of the top liberal arts colleges in the region is also reflected in its inclusion in the Colleges of Distinction guide. The guide recognizes Stonehill as one of the "best bets" in American higher education, highlighting the college’s engaged students, great teaching, vibrant community, and successful outcomes. This recognition underscores Stonehill’s commitment to providing a high-quality education that prepares students for success in their careers and in life.

In conclusion, Stonehill College stands out as a premier liberal arts institution that combines academic excellence, a supportive and engaging campus environment, and a strong commitment to community service. The college’s impressive rankings, recognition for student satisfaction, and emphasis on personal growth and development make it an excellent choice for students seeking a well-rounded and enriching college experience. Stonehill’s dedication to fostering ethical leadership, promoting academic achievement, and encouraging service to others ensures that its graduates are well-equipped to make a positive impact in their communities and the world at large. As a Catholic liberal arts college, Stonehill continues to uphold its mission of providing a transformative education that prepares students for the challenges and opportunities of the future.