“Discover how Vassar College offers a premier liberal arts education, a focus on social responsibility, and a dynamic arts community in the scenic Hudson Valley.”
When I recently discussed the merits of Vassar with a family, the first response from the parents was, “Isn’t that a women’s college?” Over 50 years ago, indeed, Vassar was a women’s college, but it has been coed since then.
Vassar is a highly selective, small, coeducational liberal arts college, located just 70 miles north of New York City and known for its liberal traditions. Vassar prides itself on curricular flexibility, tolerance, and diversity.
Multidisciplinary studies have been a distinctive feature of academic life at Vassar for several decades, fostering an intellectual environment that thrives on crossing disciplinary boundaries. A great example of this academic freedom and mindset is the Interdisciplinary Robotics Research Laboratory, created by five professors in biology, psychology and computer science where students can investigate with physical robots as well as computer simulations of virtual robots.
The college’s 1,000-acre campus, just outside Poughkeepsie, New York, is decorated with predominantly neo-Gothic architecture. And yes, the library does look like a scene from Harry Potter.
Vassar College acceptance rate: 19%
Freshmen retention: 95%
Freshmen from out of state: 73%
4-year Graduation rate: 88%
Student to Faculty Ratio: 8 to 1
Most popular majors: economics, political science, biology
Vassar began as a women’s college in 1861 and went coed in 1968. There is no core curriculum and no general education or distribution requirements. Academic flexibility is paramount. That said, all students must take a Freshman Course, a small seminar emphasizing oral and written expression, as well as one course that requires significant quantitative analysis (similar to Hamilton College, also in New York).
More than half the students at Vassar double-major, with the most popular majors being English, political science, psychology, economics, and biological sciences. 70% of Vassar students go to graduate school, with medical school being the largest percent. Absolutely love that all freshmen have their own librarian.
Vassar is known for its innovative curriculum across multiple disciplines and was the first college to offer an undergraduate degree in cognitive science.
The typical Vassar student is creative, proud of individuality, and has an independent spirit. Likewise, those natural inclinations match Vassar’s open curriculum well. This “open curriculum” means that there are no core or required courses that all students must take. Instead, Vassar students must fulfill a language requirement, take a writing course during freshman year, and complete 1 quantitative course before graduation.
This type of program of study then frees students to design the plan of study that best matches their unique interests. The flexibility of an open curriculum allows over half of Vassar students to graduate with two majors. Upon graduation, a strong 70% of Vassar undergrads go to graduate school, with most going to medical school.
Given its 2,500 student body, introductory courses, often taken in freshman year have an average class size of 21 students. All classes are small seminars. When it’s time to do research or get help with a project, each student is matched with his/her librarian. Art majors get their own studio in senior year, which can be a huge time-saving perk.
In terms of freshman year, a unique offering at Vassar is that freshmen are assigned to a group of 10 fellow classmates, which is led by an upperclassman leader to help with the transition.
Vassar doesn’t have a Greek system, so social life revolves around films, lectures, parties, concerts, and the like. With its strong theatrical department, Vassar has 50+ theatre productions per year. A senior remarked that, “There are more than 1,000 events registered on the campus every year, which is nearly 40 events a week.” Student Association, WVKR radio station, Vassar Greens, and ultimate Frisbee are influential in student social life. Popular events include Spring Concert, Founder’s Day, and All Campus Halloween Party.
Located in the scenic Hudson Valley, Vassar College offers a vibrant and inclusive campus life. The picturesque campus, with its historic buildings and expansive green spaces, provides an inspiring setting for both academic and social activities.
Vassar’s community is characterized by a strong sense of inclusivity and engagement. With over 100 student organizations, there are countless ways for students to get involved and pursue their passions. The college’s diverse cultural organizations and affinity groups provide support and community for students from all backgrounds.
The arts are a central part of campus life at Vassar, with numerous opportunities for students to participate in music, theater, dance, and visual arts. The Vassar Repertory Dance Theatre, the Philharmonia, and various student-run theater groups are popular among students. The college’s location also provides access to the vibrant arts scene in nearby New York City.
Athletics are an important part of life at Vassar, with the Brewers competing in the NCAA Division III Liberty League. The college offers 23 varsity sports, as well as numerous club and intramural sports, providing students with ample opportunities to stay active and engaged.
Vassar’s commitment to social responsibility is reflected in its various community service programs and sustainability initiatives. The Office of Community-Engaged Learning supports student involvement in local and global service projects, while the Sustainability Office promotes environmentally friendly practices on campus.
On-campus student housing is guaranteed for four years. Interestingly, 70% of faculty also live on campus. Each residence hall has one or two faculty members as house fellows.
Vassar meets 100% of need for domestic and international students for all 4 years. In addition, there’s a low or no-loan policy for lower income families. Attendance costs $73,000, with 60% of students receiving a range of scholarships from $1,200 to $60,000. The average aid package is $52,000.
Similar Colleges to Consider:
Amherst, Brown, Columbia, Pomona, Swarthmore, Tufts, Wesleyan
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