Top 15 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in the Southeast
The Southeast region of the United States is home to top liberal arts colleges known for academic excellence and vibrant campus life. These institutions offer ... read more...a well-rounded education and diverse opportunities for student development. Toplist has compiled a list of these dynamic and enriching colleges in the Southeast, that you can refer to.
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Harvey Mudd College, well-known for its expertise in science and engineering, places a high value on liberal arts education. The curriculum incorporates humanities, social sciences, and the arts, offering a well-rounded education for those pursuing STEM disciplines. Harvey Mudd encourages students to investigate numerous subjects such as philosophy, psychology, political science, sociology, literature, music, photography, and media studies as part of their dedication to developing well-rounded persons.
By allocating a significant percentage of class time to HSA themes, the college hopes to inculcate in students a strong grasp of social impact and cultivate leaders who recognize the larger implications of their work. The faculty at Harvey Mudd and the nearby Claremont Colleges offer a diverse range of courses, enabling an environment in which students can delve into their areas of interest, resulting in a well-rounded educational experience.
DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1955
- Phone: 909.621.8000
- Cost: $33,838 / year
- Students: 902 Undergrads
- Address: 301 Platt Blvd., Claremont, CA
- Website: https://www.hmc.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harveymuddcollege
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harvey_mudd/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/HarveyMuddCollege
Ranking:
- Best Value Colleges in America: 1 of 1,482
- Best Small Colleges in America: 1 of 968
- Best Liberal Arts Colleges in America: 1 of 309
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Pomona College, nestled in Claremont, California, is renowned for its dedication to fostering a transformative liberal arts education. This close-knit community of scholars, scientists, and artists advocates a multi-disciplinary approach, enabling students to explore diverse academic fields.
Classes are intentionally small, fortifying faculty-student relationships and serving as a catalyst for in-depth research opportunities. Over half of the students engage in research projects, furthering their academic pursuits with financial and academic support.
The college's emphasis on living on campus for all four years enhances collaborative experiences, as professors actively engage with students beyond traditional classroom settings. Moreover, Pomona's commitment to intellectual advancement and a caring community reinforces its standing as a premier liberal arts institution, aligning with its mission to empower students to make significant contributions to the world.
DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1887
- Phone: (909) 621-8000
- Cost: $17,000 / year
- Students: 1,770 Undergrads
- Address: 333 N. College Way Claremont, CA
- Website: https://www.pomona.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pomonacollege
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomonacollege/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/pomonacollege
Ranking:
- Most Diverse Colleges in America: 1 of 1,517
- Best Liberal Arts Colleges in America: 2 of 309
- Best Small Colleges in America: 3 of 968
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Claremont McKenna College (CMC) is a distinguished institution renowned for its commitment to liberal arts education. CMC's liberal arts curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, effective communication, and interdisciplinary learning, preparing students for impactful careers and engaged citizenship.
The college's Open Academy focuses on instilling qualities essential for responsible leadership in business, government, and the professions, aligning with its mission to educate future leaders. With an emphasis on the liberal arts, CMC offers a comprehensive range of academic programs, faculty research opportunities, and initiatives such as the Presidential Initiative on Anti-Racism and the Black Experience in America.
The college's commitment to sustainability and a focus on global education further enrich the liberal arts experience at CMC, fostering well-rounded individuals ready to address complex societal challenges. Through a liberal arts lens, CMC's dedication to nurturing critical thinking and ethical leadership is evident in all aspects of its academic and institutional endeavors.
DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1946
- Phone: 909.621.8000
- Cost: $21,663 / year
- Students: 1,411 Undergrads
- Address: 888 Columbia Avenue Claremont, CA
- Website: https://www.cmc.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ClaremontMcKennaCollege
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/claremontmckennacollege/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/ClaremontMcKenna1
Ranking:
- Best Liberal Arts Colleges in America: 3 of 309
- Best Small Colleges in America: 4 of 968
- Best Value Colleges in America: 6 of 1,482
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Trinity University is a prominent institution dedicated to providing a comprehensive liberal arts education. Their liberal arts program emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and a broad understanding of diverse disciplines. With over 110 majors and minors, students have the opportunity to tailor their academic journey, fostering a well-rounded education.
Trinity's committed faculty ensures students engage in hands-on learning, undergraduate research, and internships, preparing them to tackle real-world challenges. The university's emphasis on perpetual discovery and a dynamic learning environment nurtures curiosity and innovation.
Trinity's impactful liberal arts curriculum empowers students to question answers, developing a holistic understanding of the world. Through its strong foundation in the liberal arts and sciences, Trinity University equips students with the skills and knowledge to excel in their chosen professions, fostering a community of creative explorers ready to make a positive impact on the world.
DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1869
- Phone: 210-999-7011
- Cost: $27,356 / year
- Students: 2,471 Undergrads
- Address: One Trinity Place, San Antonio, TX
- Website: https://www.trinity.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TrinityUniversity/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trinityu/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/trinityuniversitysa
Ranking:
- Best Colleges with No Application Fee in America: 4 of 684
- Best Liberal Arts Colleges in America: 19 of 309
- Best Small Colleges in America: 20 of 968
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Colorado College, a private liberal arts college in Colorado Springs, was established in 1874 and is affiliated with the Associated Colleges of the Midwest. The institution enrolls approximately 2,000 undergraduates and offers 42 majors, 33 minors, and specialized programs, including Southwest studies, feminist and gender studies, and neuroscience.
The college's academic offerings also include a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, the institution provides a personalized learning environment. Notably, Colorado College is known for its strong emphasis on the liberal arts, fostering education in fields like economics, political science, environmental science, psychology, and more. The college's commitment to liberal arts education is reflected in its diverse and geographically representative student body, making it a standout institution in the realm of liberal arts education.
DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1874
- Phone: +1 719-389-6000
- Cost: $30,200 / year
- Students: 2,145 Undergrads
- Address: 14 East Cache la Poudre St.Colorado Springs, CO
- Website: https://www.coloradocollege.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coloradocollege
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coloradocollege/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/coloradocollegeweb
Ranking:
- Best Colleges with No Application Fee in America: 10 of 684
- Best Liberal Arts Colleges in America: 26 of 309
- Best Small Colleges in America: 27 of 968
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Occidental College, located in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, offers a dynamic liberal arts experience. Embracing a 9:1 student-to-faculty ratio and an average class size of 18, Occidental provides an environment conducive to personalized learning and close mentorship.
With over 40 majors and programs, including Critical Theory & Social Justice, Cognitive Science, and Urban & Environmental Policy, the college fosters academic rigor in various forms. Their exceptional faculty of scholars, teachers, and mentors play a central role in shaping the intellectual experience, transcending boundaries and nurturing a well-rounded education.
Situated in the heart of Los Angeles, students have access to top-tier internships and research opportunities, leveraging the city's rich cultural and intellectual resources. Occidental College represents a unique fusion of small college intimacy and the creative dynamism of a global city, offering a stimulating and transformative educational journey.
DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1887
- Phone: (323) 259-2500
- Cost: $43,047 / year
- Students: 1,938 Undergrads
- Address: 1600 Campus Road, Los Angeles, California
- Website: https://www.oxy.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/occidental
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/occidentalcollege/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/OccidentalCollege
Ranking:
- Best Colleges for Kinesiology and Physical Therapy in America: 19 of 591
- Best Colleges for Film and Photography in America: 27 of 285
- Best Small Colleges in America: 31 of 968
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Scripps College, nestled in the heart of the Claremont Colleges, offers a distinguished liberal arts education on the West Coast. With a 10:1 student-faculty ratio and an average class size of 16, Scripps prioritizes personalized learning and close collaboration between students and professors. The college also emphasizes practical experience, with 85% of students completing at least one internship during their academic journey. This commitment to experiential learning prepares graduates for success in a dynamic world.
Scripps College's location, just 35 miles from Los Angeles, provides an enriching backdrop for students to engage with vibrant cultural and professional opportunities. As the only women's college among the Claremont Colleges, Scripps empowers its students to make a meaningful impact through an inclusive and supportive community of scholars. The college's robust approach to liberal arts education and emphasis on real-world experience equip graduates to thrive in their chosen career paths.DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1926
- Phone: (909) 621-8000
- Cost: $44,770 / year
- Students: 1,095 Undergrads
- Address: 1030 Columbia Avenue Claremont, CA
- Website: https://www.scrippscollege.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scrippscollege
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scrippscollege/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/scrippscollege
Ranking:
- Best Women's Colleges in America: 8 of 22
- Best Colleges for Global Studies in America: 49 of 202
- Best Liberal Arts Colleges in America: 62 of 309
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The University of Pikeville (UPIKE) offers a dynamic liberal arts program designed to foster critical thinking, creativity, and a well-rounded education for students. UPIKE's liberal arts curriculum provides students with a broad knowledge base, emphasizing interdisciplinary learning and the development of valuable skills applicable across various professional fields.
Students participate in a variety of academic activities that prepare them for a constantly changing global context, with a focus on promoting intellectual discovery and cultural appreciation. UPIKE provides students with the capabilities they need to adapt to change, communicate effectively, and solve difficult challenges via innovative teaching techniques and a dedication to academic success. UPIKE's liberal arts curriculum represents the university's objective of providing students with the information and skills they need to prosper in an ever-changing society.
DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1889
- Phone: +1 606-218-5250
- Cost: $13,987 / year
- Students: 975 Undergrads
- Address: 147 Sycamore Street Pikeville, Kentucky
- Website: https://www.upike.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UPIKE/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upike_bears/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/upikebears
Ranking:
- Safest College Campuses in America: 28 of 1,306
- Best Christian Colleges in America: 95 of 333
- Best Liberal Arts Colleges in America: 123 of 309
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The New College of Florida, established in Sarasota in 1960, stands as a prestigious public liberal arts college and the Honors College of Florida. Distinguished for its commitment to academic excellence and individualized education, New College offers over 50 undergraduate majors spanning arts, humanities, and sciences, together with a pioneering data science master's program and certificates in technology, finance, and business skills.
The institution holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and is proudly affiliated with the Council of Public Liberal Arts College (COPLAC), Consortium for Innovative Environments in Learning (CIEL), and Ecoleague Consortium. New College elevates students by integrating rigorous academics with career-focused experiences, fostering an environment conducive to personal and intellectual growth, and emphasizing a deep-rooted commitment to sustainability.
DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1960
- Phone: +1 941-487-5000
- Cost: $9,727 / year
- Students: 615 Undergrads
- Address: 5800 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL
- Website: https://www.ncf.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newcollegeofflorida
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newcollegeoffl/
- YouTube: https://shorturl.at/eBSUW
Ranking:
- Best Colleges with No Application Fee in America: 64 of 684
- Best Liberal Arts Colleges in America: 64 of 309
- Best Small Colleges in America: 100 of 968
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Berea College, a renowned liberal arts institution, has a rich history and a unique approach to education. Established in 1855 by abolitionists, it was the first interracial and coeducational college in the South. The college's commitment to inclusivity is rooted in its founding motto, "God has made of one blood all peoples of the earth," reflecting its vision for an open and diverse student body.
One exceptional aspect of Berea's educational model is its work program, where students gain valuable work experience while pursuing their degrees. This combination of rigorous academics and practical work experience equips graduates with not only a degree but also essential soft skills and real-world knowledge, giving them a competitive edge in the professional world.
Furthermore, Berea College's numerous accolades and rankings underscore its commitment to excellence and social mobility. Through its supportive environment and holistic approach to education, Berea College continues to set a high standard for liberal arts institutions.
DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1855
- Phone: +1 859-985-3000
- Cost: $3,354 / year
- Students: 1,432 Undergrads
- Address: 101 Chestnut St, Berea, KY
- Website: https://www.berea.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bereacollege
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bereacollege/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/berea
Ranking:
- Best Liberal Arts Colleges in America: 66 of 309
- Best Colleges with No Application Fee in America: 68 of 684
- Best Colleges for Global Studies in America: 75 of 202
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Located in the breathtaking setting of Santa Barbara, Westmont College stands as a premier institution for holistic education and Christian liberal arts. With a rich history spanning 86 years, Westmont emphasizes the integration of faith and knowledge, fostering a community dedicated to learning, leadership, and service.
The college's commitment to keeping Christ preeminent permeates every aspect of its academic and communal life. Through rigorous training in various fields and a deep love for God, students are encouraged to lead lives of significance. The college's academic excellence, cohesive community, and leadership development have distinguished it as one of the top Christian liberal arts colleges in the Western U.S. and the country at large.
At Westmont, students engage their intellectual and spiritual curiosities in a culturally vibrant environment, supported by engaging professors and small classes. This unique combination enables students to flourish and pursue a deeper purpose at one of the most beautiful campuses in the country.
DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1937
- Phone: 805-565-6000
- Cost: $33,554 / year
- Students: 1,233 Undergrads
- Address: 955 La Paz Road Santa Barbara, CA
- Website: https://www.westmont.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/westmont/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/westmontcollege/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/WestmontTV
Ranking:
- Most Conservative Colleges in America: 65 of 100
- Best Colleges for Kinesiology and Physical Therapy in America: 71 of 591
- Best Christian Colleges in America: 104 of 333
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Centre College, a reputable private institution founded in 1819, is known for its strong focus on providing a comprehensive liberal arts education. The college, with a stellar undergraduate enrollment of 1,357, offers a vibrant academic environment in a city setting spanning a 178-acre campus.
Embracing a 4-1-4 academic calendar, Centre College has been ranked #51 in the 2024 edition of Best National Liberal Arts Colleges. Its commitment to ensuring students engage in studying abroad, internships, and timely graduation underscores its dedication to providing a well-rounded collegiate experience. Campus life is vibrant, offering an array of extracurricular activities, including over 100 clubs and a popular Greek system.
Likewise, Centre College's varsity teams compete in the NCAA Division III Southern Athletic Association, providing ample opportunities for student-athletes. With a robust emphasis on experiential learning and a myriad of notable alumni, Centre College stands as a premier institution for liberal arts education in Danville, Kentucky.
DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1819
- Phone: +1 859-238-5200
- Cost: $22,470 / year
- Students: 1,320 Undergrads
- Address: 600 West Walnut Street Danville, KY
- Website: https://www.centre.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/centre/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/centrecollege/
- YouTube: https://shorturl.at/vEFHX
Ranking:
- Best Christian Colleges in America: 76 of 333
- Best Colleges for International Relations in America: 99 of 405
- Best Liberal Arts Colleges in America: 106 of 309
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Transylvania University, located in the vibrant city of Lexington, Kentucky, prides itself on offering top-notch liberal arts education. With a focus on personalized learning, the university provides a diverse range of 48 majors and additional minors, empowering students to tailor their academic journey to their interests and career aspirations.
Committed to accessibility, Transylvania awards a wide range of scholarships and financial aid, ensuring that 99% of students can pursue their educational goals without financial burden. The campus is not only known for academic excellence but also for its successful student-athletes and thriving campus community.
Transylvania's value-centric approach, with 99% of students receiving gift aid and a Pioneer Pledge guaranteeing graduation in four years, solidifies its standing as one of the top liberal arts colleges in the U.S. As students embark on their Transy experience, they find themselves in a supportive environment that fosters critical thinking, and creativity, and prepares them for a successful future.
DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1780
- Phone: +1 859-233-8300
- Cost: $26,271 / year
- Students: 964 Undergrads
- Address: 300 North Broadway Lexington, KY
- Website: https://www.transy.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/transylvaniauniversity
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/transylvaniauniversity/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/TransylvaniaUniv
Ranking:
- Best Christian Colleges in America: 80 of 333
- Best Liberal Arts Colleges in America: 111 of 309
- Best Colleges with No Application Fee in America: 164 of 684
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Berry College, situated in Mount Berry near Rome, Georgia, is a renowned private liberal arts institution with a rich history dating back to 1902. Founded on Christian principles by Martha Berry, the college has evolved from the Boys Industrial School to the Martha Berry School for Girls, eventually becoming known as Berry Schools.
Today, it offers various academic programs, including Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Music, Bachelor of Science, Master of Business Administration, Master of Education, and Education Specialist degrees. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), Berry College boasts a campus spread across more than 27,000 acres, making it the largest contiguous college campus globally. With a commitment to academic excellence and a student-faculty ratio of 11:1, Berry College ranks impressively in the 2021 Best Colleges, reflecting its dedication to providing a top-notch liberal arts education.
DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1902
- Phone: 706.232.5374
- Cost: $24,741 / year
- Students: 2,157 Undergrads
- Address: 2277 Martha Berry Hwy NWMount Berry, GA
- Website: https://berry.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/berrycollege
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/berrycollege/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/berryweb
Ranking:
- Best Liberal Arts Colleges in America: 110 of 309
- Best Colleges for Sports Management in America: 112 of 454
- Best Colleges with No Application Fee in America: 163 of 684
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Covenant College, established in 1955, is a distinguished Christian liberal arts institution located on Lookout Mountain, Georgia. Embracing the motto "In all things, Christ is preeminent," the college is committed to glorifying and proclaiming the name of Jesus Christ.
Grounded in Reformed theology, Covenant offers a holistic liberal arts education, integrating faith into all aspects of learning. The academic curriculum encompasses a broad range of disciplines, honoring God through the pursuit of knowledge in the sciences, arts, humanities, and more. Covenant aims to transform students into Christ-centered individuals, prioritizing their spiritual growth alongside academic and career success.
The college community fosters a vibrant, supportive environment, uniting around shared beliefs and deep gospel-rooted love. Covenant's dedication to integrating faith and learning, alongside its robust academic offerings, provides students with a distinctive and enriching liberal arts experience.
DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1955
- Phone: +1 706-820-1560
- Cost: $25,536 / year
- Students: 804 Undergrads
- Address: 14049 Scenic Hwy, Lookout Mountain, GA
- Website: https://covenant.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/covenant.edu/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/covenantcollege/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CovenantCollege
Ranking:
- Best Christian Colleges in America: 119 of 333
- Best Liberal Arts Colleges in America: 142 of 309
- Best Colleges for Economics in America: 203 of 554