Edited by: Dr. Paul Sparacio
Last Updated: 10/31/2024
Quick Highlights:
- Our #1 ranked most liberal college in the US is San Francisco State University, followed by Sarah Lawrence College.
- Many liberal colleges are known for political activism and have histories of student involvement in social justice.
- These colleges offer a wide range of academic programs but often emphasize liberal arts, equality, and creative expression.
- Campuses are typically engaged in various progressive movements, attracting students who value similar political and social viewpoints.
Since the 2016 presidential campaign, college students have become more involved in politics than before, according to a survey from the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC). Additionally, these findings correlate with an increased political activism at 52% of high schools in America.
Naturally, college seekers may choose schools that support their political leanings and ideologies. Many factors influence a college’s political leanings, including location, administration, and faculty. Some institutions simply have a history of being more liberal or conservative, and such legacies are often determined by its founders and values.
While you’ll likely find Republicans, Democrats, and everything in between at college, attending a college that’s aligned with your beliefs can ensure you’re surrounded by professors and classmates who think similarly.
If you’re a Democratic voter who is passionate about learning from left-leaning viewpoints, here’s a look at the most liberal colleges in America.
San Francisco State University
Similar to Portland State University, San Francisco State University is a public university that’s known for having strong political leanings toward the left. SF State is one of the best liberal colleges in California and is home to the nation’s first College of Ethnic Studies.
San Francisco State University’s Tuition Costs for the 2024-2025 Academic Year:
- In-State Tuition: $7,950 per year.
- Out-of-State Tuition: $19,830 per year.
SF State belongs to the California State University system, which comprises 23 campuses across the state. San Francisco State offers a wide range of majors and has a lower cost than most other schools on this list, making it a solid choice for liberal students who want an interdisciplinary education for a great value.
The student body is around 25,917, making it considerably larger than most liberal arts schools. To date, more than 280,000 graduates across the globe are making a difference in science, public service, business, and more. Notable alumni include:
- Danny Glover, actor and director
- Dana Carvey, comedian, actor, and producer
- Annette Bening, actress
- Rebecca Solnit, writer
- Kirk Hammett, musician
What do students think about SF State? Students at SFSU often highlight the university’s diverse and inclusive environment, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of San Francisco. The campus is known for its vibrant atmosphere, with numerous student organizations and activities that cater to a wide array of interests. Academically, SFSU offers a broad spectrum of programs, with the College of Liberal & Creative Arts standing out for its interdisciplinary approach and dedicated faculty.
Many students appreciate the university’s commitment to social justice and community engagement, which are integral to its liberal arts education. However, some reviews mention challenges such as large class sizes in introductory courses and the high cost of living in San Francisco. Overall, SFSU is praised for providing a well-rounded education in a dynamic urban setting.
Sarah Lawrence College
Sarah Lawrence College is among the best liberal colleges located outside of New York City in Bronxville, New York. Sarah Lawrence is also known for being one of the best colleges to attend for creative writing, but it also offers a range of study areas in the social and life sciences.
Sarah Lawrence College boasts one of the most intimate student-to-faculty ratios of all college campuses, with a 9:1 ratio. This makes it a great choice for liberal arts students longing for personalized study and guidance from dedicated faculty members. Students who want to work closely with experts in their fields, especially in the visual and performing arts, will likely succeed at Sarah Lawrence.
Sarah Lawrence College’s Tuition Costs for the 2024-2025 Academic Year:
- Tuition: $63,520 per year.
Sarah Lawrence was at one time a women’s school and continues to maintain more female students than men, but it’s open to all genders. Some famous Sarah Lawrence College alumni include:
- Barbara Walters, journalist, and author
- Alice Walker, novelist, poet, and social activist
- Ann Patchett, author
- Yoko Ono, multimedia artist and singer
- Carly Simon, singer, songwriter, and author
- Jordan Peele, actor, and comedian
- Louise Gluck, poet, and essayist
What do students think about Sarah Lawrence College?Sarah Lawrence College is renowned for its unique educational approach, emphasizing individualized study and close faculty-student collaboration. Students often highlight the college’s seminar-style classes and the “don” system, where each student is paired with a faculty advisor for personalized guidance.
The liberal arts curriculum is flexible, allowing students to design their own academic paths, which fosters creativity and independent thinking. The campus community is described as tight-knit and supportive, with a strong emphasis on the arts and humanities. However, some students note that the self-directed nature of the academics requires a high level of self-motivation and discipline. Overall, Sarah Lawrence offers a distinctive and immersive liberal arts experience for those seeking a personalized education.
Portland State University
Portland State University (PSU) is one of a handful of public research universities that are considered exceptionally liberal. Likewise, U.S. News & World Report ranks PSU as one of the nation’s most innovative universities.
Portland is one city that’s passionate about doing good in the world, and its university demonstrates this ethos. While Portland’s admissions rate is fairly high, students at PSU will be challenged to think critically in new ways.
PSU is also less of a party school, and both students and faculty members are focused on enacting positive change through environmentalism, social justice, and redefining what it means to be an American university in the current era.
Portland State University’s Tuition Costs for the 2024-2025 Academic Year:
- In-State Tuition: $10,386 per year
- Out-of-State Tuition: $29,286 per year
Portland State University is located in the heart of Portland, Oregon, yet students still have access to traditional campus elements like rolling green lawns and elegant libraries. Famous PSU alumni include:
- Carolyn Davidson, graphic designer (designed the Nike Swoosh logo!)
- Holly Madison, American television personality
- Clint Didier, American football player and politician
- Mike Richardson, professional football player
What do students think about PSU? PSU is celebrated for its urban campus located in the heart of downtown Portland, providing students with ample opportunities for internships and community engagement. The university offers a diverse range of programs, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and social responsibility. Students often praise the flexible scheduling options, including evening and online classes, which cater to non-traditional students and those balancing work commitments.
The campus culture is described as inclusive and progressive, with a commitment to diversity and equity. However, some students mention that the large student population can make it challenging to receive personalized attention in certain courses. Overall, PSU provides a dynamic and adaptable liberal arts education within a vibrant urban setting.
Mills College at Northeastern University
Mills is a top liberal college in Oakland, California. This liberal arts school is for women and gender non-binary students, but accepts graduate students of all gender identities. Mills is less selective than other schools on this list, making it a great option for students applying to multiple schools.
Mills students often attend to study social sciences, marketing, business, management, English, and interdisciplinary studies. Mills College is also often ranked highly for its value, as it offers a high-quality education at a relatively low price, especially in comparison to other liberal arts schools.
Mills College at Northeastern University’s Tuition Costs for the 2024-2025 Academic Year:
- Tuition: $45,319 per year.
Students at Mills can choose to create their own individualized major. This path enables undergraduates to explore a range of interests and passions outside the traditional realm of majors. American politician Barbara Lee, radio personality and broadcaster Renel Brooks-Moon, and singer and actress Joanna Newsom are all notable Mills College alumni.
What do students think about Mills College? Mills College, now integrated with Northeastern University, offers a unique blend of a liberal arts education within a larger university framework. Students appreciate the small class sizes and personalized attention from faculty, fostering a close-knit academic community.
The merger with Northeastern has expanded opportunities, including access to a broader range of courses and resources. However, some students have expressed concerns about the transition and its impact on campus culture. Overall, Mills College at Northeastern University is praised for maintaining its commitment to social justice and empowering underrepresented groups within a dynamic academic setting.
Bryn Mawr College
Bryn Mawr is another women’s liberal arts college that belongs to the Seven Sister college consortium. This school has a reputation for being highly liberal, and it’s known for focusing on public engagement and academic excellence. Bryn Mawr students can take classes at Haverford, Swarthmore, and the University of Pennsylvania.
Each freshman student at Bryn Mawr college attends the Emily Balch seminars, which prepare students to take a probing, thoughtful approach to both academics and the world beyond. Students can choose from a wide range of liberal arts majors, including:
- Economics
- Comparative literature
- Film studies
- Women’s studies
- Romance languages
Bryn Mawr students are encouraged to choose a niche area of study, but explore different fields and interests for a well-rounded education. Popular alumni include:
- Katharine Hepburn, actress
- Emily Green Balch, economist, and sociologist
- Edith Hamilton, educator, and author
- Maggie Siff, actress
- Marianne Moore, poet, and editor
What do students think about Bryn Mawr? Bryn Mawr College, located in Pennsylvania, is renowned for its rigorous academics and empowering environment for women. Students often highlight the supportive community and the strong emphasis on critical thinking and intellectual growth. The college’s affiliation with the Tri-College Consortium allows students to take courses at Haverford and Swarthmore Colleges, broadening academic opportunities.
The campus is described as picturesque, with Gothic architecture and lush greenery. Traditions play a significant role in campus life, fostering a sense of belonging and continuity. While the academic workload is demanding, students feel well-prepared for future endeavors. Overall, Bryn Mawr offers a transformative liberal arts education within a close-knit and supportive community.
Bard College
Bard College is located in Upstate New York, in Annandale-on-Hudson in Dutchess County and is one of the most liberal colleges in America. Known as “a private college for the public good,” Bard College is passionate about fostering civic participation and political activism. Bard College was also the first higher education institution to offer a major in human rights.
Bard students can choose from 40 different majors across Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees, but the most popular disciplines are English, social sciences, performing arts, and multidisciplinary studies. Entrepreneurship and policy are additional popular study areas that Bard College encourages students to pursue.
Bard College’s Tuition Costs for the 2024-2025 Academic Year:
- Tuition: $60,000 per year.
The campus is within the Hudson River Historic District, a national public landmark, and students have access to thousands of historic documents and volumes at the Charles P. Stevenson library. Notable alumni include:
- Donald Fagen, musician
- Chevy Chase, actor and comedian
- Ronan Farrow, journalist
- Blythe Danner, actress
- Ali Wentworth, actress, comedian, producer
- Gia Coppola, screenwriter and film director
What do students think about Bard College? Bard College, situated in Annandale-on-Hudson, New York, is celebrated for its progressive approach to liberal arts education. Students value the college’s commitment to interdisciplinary studies and the freedom to design individualized academic paths. The campus, overlooking the Hudson River, offers a tranquil and inspiring setting for learning.
The student body is described as creative and intellectually curious, with a strong engagement in the arts and social activism. The college’s emphasis on critical inquiry and civic engagement prepares students for thoughtful participation in the broader world. Some students note that the rural location can feel isolating, but many appreciate the close-knit community it fosters.
Wesleyan University
Wesleyan University is among America’s top liberal colleges and located in Middletown, Connecticut, which is about 2.5 hours driving distance to New York City. Wesleyan has a low acceptance rate and is known for promoting independent study and interdisciplinary learning.
Wesleyan University is known for creative majors like:
- Psychology
- Visual and performing arts
- English literature
- Gender and culture studies
More than 70% of Wesleyan students study language, which often leads to studying abroad. In fact, more than 300 students study abroad each year.
Wesleyan University’s Tuition Costs for the 2024-2025 Academic Year:
- Tuition: $69,652 per year
The university part of the Little Three, which is a trio of prestigious regional liberal arts schools (alongside Williams and Amherst). This designation belongs to a greater group of institutions called the Little Ivies, which includes a handful of the most liberal colleges across the Northeast, including Colgate, Middlebury, and Swarthmore.
Wesleyan students can join student groups like Artifex Magazine, the on-campus literary magazine, and the Natural Science and Mathematics Coalition, among nearly 300 groups total. Notable Wesleyan alumni include:
- Lin-Manuel Miranda, actor, producer, and musician
- Joss Whedon, filmmaker and comic book writer
- Santigold, singer and songwriter
- Majora Carter, urban revitalization strategist
- Matthew Weiner, television writer, director, and producer
What do students think about Wesleyan University? he campus community is described as dynamic and inclusive, with a strong emphasis on social activism and progressive values. Small class sizes and close relationships with faculty enhance the personalized learning experience. However, some students note that the rigorous academics require strong time-management skills. Overall, Wesleyan offers a rich liberal arts education within a supportive and engaged community.
Oberlin College
Founded in 1833, Oberlin College is a liberal arts school and conservatory that emphasizes individualism and creativity. This college was one of the first in the United States to admit African Americans and women, and it continues to lead in equality and activism. Oberlin College is located in Oberlin, Ohio and is known for having liberal students focused on political activism, equality, and LGBTQ rights.
Oberlin College’s Tuition Costs for the 2024-2025 Academic Year:
- Tuition: $64,646 per year
Oberlin’s conservatory is the oldest operating conservatory in America and is highly selective. There are many other ways students can pursue musical and artistic passions at Oberlin outside the conservatory. For example, the art department is home to majors like art history, studio art, and visual art. Of the 44+ majors, common areas of study at Oberlin include:
- Biology
- History
- Environmental studies
- Literature
With a total undergraduate enrollment of just 2,846, Oberlin is one of the smaller college campuses on our list. Oberlin has graduated several notable individuals, including Mary Church Terrell, the first African American woman to earn a college degree who became a civil rights activist.
Other notable Oberlin alumni include:
- James McBride, author and jazz musician
- Lena Dunham, writer
- Josh Ritter, singer, songwriter, and musician
- Avery Brooks, actor, director, and singer
What do students think about Oberlin College? Oberlin College, located in Oberlin, Ohio, is renowned for its commitment to social justice and a strong emphasis on the arts. The college’s Conservatory of Music is particularly esteemed, attracting talented musicians globally. Students praise the collaborative and inclusive campus culture, which encourages activism and community engagement. The academic environment is rigorous, with a focus on critical thinking and interdisciplinary studies. Some students mention that the rural location can feel isolating, but many appreciate the close-knit community it fosters.
Mount Holyoke College
Founded in 1837, Mount Holyoke is a private liberal arts college located in South Hadley, Massachusetts. As a women’s college, Mount Holyoke belongs to the Seven Sisters program, founded by Mary Lyon to provide equal access to education for women.
The Mount Holyoke student body can take a range of classes across three core categories: humanities, science and math, and social sciences. This college is particularly liberal because it’s rooted in the belief that women can and should make a difference in the world, and they’re taught how to break down traditional structures of oppression by championing equality for all.
Mount Holyoke College’s Tuition Costs for the 2024-2025 Academic Year:
- Tuition: $66,780 per year
Mount Holyoke also partners with Amherst College, Smith College, Hampshire College, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst (as part of the Five College Consortium), so students can enroll in courses at these institutions as well. Students can get involved in a range of on-campus activities and clubs, including art, club sports, politics, performing arts, and religion.
Mount Holyoke is known for having numerous quirky traditions, like other liberal arts schools. Take the Canoe Sing, for example, where graduating seniors decorate canoes with lanterns and sing songs. Famous alumni include:
- Emily Dickinson
- Elaine Chao
- Frances Perkins
What do students think about Mount Holyoke College? The college’s affiliation with the Five College Consortium allows students to take courses at nearby institutions, broadening academic opportunities. The campus is described as picturesque, with a blend of historic and modern architecture. Traditions play a significant role in campus life, fostering a sense of belonging and continuity. While the academic workload is demanding, students feel well-prepared for future endeavors.
University of California, Berkeley
There are good reasons why UC Berkeley is ranked No. 1 Public University and fourth best globally by the U.S. News & World Report. The University of California at Berkeley is one of the most liberal colleges in the United States due to its history of anti-war and anti-racist political activism.
Founded in 1868, UC Berkeley is the oldest institution in the University of California college network and is often considered a public Ivy, meaning it upholds similar academic standards to private Ivy League schools. The student body at Berkley is large, with 35,000 undergrads and roughly 12,000 graduate students.
University of California, Berkeley’s Tuition Costs for the 2024-2025 Academic Year:
- In-State Tuition: $14,226 per year
- Out-of-State Tuition: $44,008 per year
Out of the 184 academic programs, the most popular majors at Berkeley are in sciences, with engineering, computer science, political science, biology, and economics topping the list. Yet Berkeley itself is an artistic town, and there’s a range of art museums and cultural centers that creative students can peruse.
Berkley is known for its successful athletics department, and students on campus can participate in programs or attend sporting events. Notable alumni include:
- Steve Wozniak
- Joan Didion
- Rube Goldberg
- Chris Pine
- Gregory Peck
What do students think about UC Berkley? Student Reviews: UC Berkeley, located in Berkeley, California, is renowned for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus life. Students often highlight the diverse range of programs and the opportunity to engage in groundbreaking research. The campus is described as energetic, with numerous student organizations and a strong culture of activism. However, some students note that the large class sizes can make it challenging to receive personalized attention. Overall, UC Berkeley offers a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment for those seeking a comprehensive liberal arts education.
Choosing From the Most Liberal Colleges in the US
From coast to coast, there are various top liberal arts schools students can choose from. However, each school has its own unique offerings, and it’s important to think about elements like campus life, extracurricular opportunities, and location.
For more information on school rankings, including how to choose the best college and major for you, visit CollegeRank.
FAQs on Liberal Colleges
If you’re not sold on the liberal arts college experience, check out these frequently asked questions below. They may help you decide if a liberal college is the right choice for you!
1. How do liberal arts colleges support individualized learning, and what does that look like for students?
Liberal arts colleges emphasize small class sizes, averaging around 15-20 students per class, allowing for personalized attention from professors. This setting supports individualized learning through one-on-one advising, where faculty members help students design unique academic pathways based on their interests. For instance, Sarah Lawrence College pairs each student with a “don” (advisor) who guides them academically and personally, allowing students to shape their education in a way that aligns with their personal goals and career ambitions.
2. What career outcomes can I expect with a liberal arts degree?
Graduates of liberal arts colleges tend to perform exceptionally well in various career fields, including business, education, law, and healthcare. A Georgetown University study found that liberal arts majors earn a median salary of around $65,000 by mid-career. The adaptability of a liberal arts education is also reflected in high levels of job satisfaction; liberal arts graduates are often better equipped to switch careers due to their diverse skills. Notably, 93% of employers value critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills, which are hallmarks of a liberal arts education.
3. Are liberal arts colleges as academically rigorous as larger research universities?
Absolutely. Liberal arts colleges often emphasize intensive writing and critical analysis, which can make for a challenging academic environment. For example, students at Williams College participate in a tutorial system where two students meet with one professor each week to defend their ideas and receive immediate feedback. This rigorous structure cultivates strong reasoning skills and builds intellectual confidence, resulting in a dynamic and challenging academic experience that rivals the rigor of larger research institutions.
4. What percentage of liberal arts students pursue graduate studies, and how successful are they in getting accepted to top programs?
A significant number of liberal arts graduates go on to pursue advanced degrees. For instance, approximately 70% of graduates from Swarthmore College attend graduate school, many at top-tier institutions like Harvard, MIT, and Yale. The critical thinking, research, and writing skills developed at liberal arts institutions make these graduates competitive applicants for highly selective programs. According to data from the Council of Independent Colleges, liberal arts graduates are admitted to top law, medical, and business schools at higher rates than their counterparts from other institutions.
5. How does a liberal arts education foster a sense of community?
Liberal arts colleges are known for fostering tight-knit communities due to their smaller student populations and residential campuses. For example, at Mount Holyoke College, around 90% of students live on campus, allowing them to form close connections with their peers. Many liberal arts colleges also emphasize traditions—such as Bryn Mawr College’s annual May Day celebration—that create a unique and lasting bond among students. These traditions help develop a sense of belonging and community that many graduates cite as among the most memorable parts of their college experience.
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