New Mexico is home to a variety of private colleges and universities that offer unique educational experiences and opportunities for students. Known for its rich cultural history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant arts scene, New Mexico also provides a distinctive academic atmosphere. The state’s private institutions are known for their small class sizes, personalized attention, and in some cases, faith-based education.
St. John’s College (Santa Fe)
Overview
St. John’s College, located in Santa Fe, is one of the oldest and most respected liberal arts colleges in the United States. Founded in 1696 and re-established in its current form in 1937, St. John’s is known for its unique Great Books curriculum, which emphasizes reading and discussion of classical texts in philosophy, literature, science, and political theory. The college offers a distinctive educational experience that focuses on the development of critical thinking, communication, and intellectual inquiry.
Academic Programs
St. John’s College offers a single, integrated undergraduate degree in liberal arts. The curriculum is centered around the study of great works of Western civilization, with a focus on reading primary texts and engaging in Socratic-style seminars.
- Great Books Program: A rigorous curriculum that covers philosophy, literature, history, mathematics, science, theology, and the arts.
- Graduate Institute: Offers master’s programs in liberal arts, Eastern Classics, and the classics of Western literature and philosophy.
Notable Programs:
- Philosophy
- Classical Literature
- History of Science
- Political Theory
- Mathematics
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 400 students at the Santa Fe campus.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 7:1, fostering close interaction between students and faculty.
- Extracurricular Activities: Includes student government, hiking and outdoor clubs, art collectives, and student-run publications.
Great Books and Intellectual Exploration
St. John’s College is renowned for its Great Books curriculum, which allows students to explore timeless works of literature, philosophy, and science. The college emphasizes intellectual discovery and dialogue, creating a close-knit community of scholars. The campus’s location in Santa Fe, known for its rich artistic and cultural heritage, provides students with additional opportunities to engage in local cultural events and outdoor activities.
University of the Southwest
Overview
University of the Southwest (USW), located in Hobbs, New Mexico, is a private Christian university that emphasizes leadership, service, and faith-based education. Founded in 1962, USW offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs with a focus on career preparation, ethical leadership, and community service.
Academic Programs
USW provides undergraduate, graduate, and online degrees in various fields of study:
- College of Arts and Sciences: Psychology, Criminal Justice, General Studies, History
- School of Business Administration: Business Management, Accounting, Marketing, Finance
- School of Education: Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education, Educational Leadership
- School of Health and Human Services: Kinesiology, Healthcare Administration, Counseling
Notable Programs:
- Business Administration
- Education
- Counseling and Psychology
- Healthcare Administration
- Criminal Justice
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 1,200 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1, allowing for personalized instruction and mentorship.
- Athletics: The USW Mustangs compete in NAIA athletics, with strong programs in baseball, basketball, and soccer.
- Extracurricular Activities: Includes student government, Christian fellowship groups, and service clubs.
Faith-Based Education and Leadership
University of the Southwest integrates Christian values into its educational philosophy, encouraging students to develop their faith alongside their academic and professional skills. The university emphasizes ethical leadership and service, preparing students for meaningful careers in their chosen fields while fostering a commitment to community involvement. USW’s small, supportive campus environment allows students to build strong relationships with faculty and peers.
Southwestern College (Santa Fe)
Overview
Southwestern College, located in Santa Fe, is a private institution focused on holistic education and counseling. Established in 1976, the college offers unique graduate programs in counseling, art therapy, and related fields, all designed with an emphasis on integrative healing and personal development. Southwestern College is known for its holistic, experiential approach to education.
Academic Programs
Southwestern College offers master’s degree programs and certificate programs that focus on mental health, integrative healing, and social justice:
- Master of Arts in Counseling: Specializing in mental health counseling and licensure preparation.
- Master of Arts in Art Therapy/Counseling: Combines art therapy with counseling for mental health professionals.
- Certificate Programs: Including trauma, grief, and loss counseling, applied intercultural arts, and transformational eco-psychology.
Notable Programs:
- Counseling
- Art Therapy
- Trauma Counseling
- Social Justice and Advocacy
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 200 graduate students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 8:1, providing individualized attention and mentorship from faculty.
- Extracurricular Activities: The college emphasizes self-care and wellness, with activities including mindfulness groups, yoga, and community arts projects.
Holistic Education and Experiential Learning
Southwestern College focuses on a holistic, experiential approach to education, particularly in the fields of counseling and therapy. The college integrates spirituality, creativity, and self-awareness into its programs, preparing students for careers in mental health and social services. The Santa Fe location provides a rich environment for personal growth, cultural engagement, and outdoor exploration.
Navajo Technical University
Overview
Navajo Technical University (NTU), located in Crownpoint, New Mexico, is a tribal college that primarily serves the Navajo Nation and surrounding communities. Founded in 1979, NTU has grown from a vocational school to a fully accredited university, offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. NTU emphasizes the integration of traditional Navajo values with modern education.
Academic Programs
NTU offers a variety of associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs in areas such as science, technology, and the liberal arts:
- School of Engineering, Technology, and Business: Engineering, Information Technology, Digital Manufacturing
- School of Liberal Arts and Humanities: Navajo Language, Creative Writing, Law Advocacy
- School of Veterinary Science: Veterinary Technician, Animal Science
- School of Applied Technology: Welding, Automotive Technology, Construction
Notable Programs:
- Engineering and Computer Science
- Veterinary Science
- Law and Advocacy
- Digital Manufacturing
- Navajo Language and Culture
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 1,500 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1, providing personalized instruction and community-focused learning.
- Extracurricular Activities: Includes student clubs related to STEM fields, Native culture, language revitalization, and service learning.
Cultural Integration and Technical Education
Navajo Technical University integrates Navajo traditions and values into its curriculum, offering programs that are culturally relevant while preparing students for success in modern industries. The university provides hands-on learning opportunities in fields like engineering, veterinary science, and digital manufacturing, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the workforce. NTU is committed to serving the Navajo Nation and preserving Native culture, while also advancing economic development and sustainability.
Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA)
Overview
The Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA), located in Santa Fe, is a renowned institution that specializes in Native American art, design, and cultural studies. Founded in 1962, IAIA offers programs that emphasize creative expression, cultural preservation, and the advancement of contemporary Native arts. The institute has become a global center for Indigenous art and education.
Academic Programs
IAIA offers undergraduate and graduate programs focused on the arts and Native American culture:
- School of Art: Painting, Sculpture, Photography, Printmaking
- School of Cinematic Arts and Technology: Filmmaking, Screenwriting, Animation
- School of Creative Writing: Fiction, Poetry, Nonfiction
- Indigenous Liberal Studies: Cultural Studies, Indigenous Leadership
- MFA in Creative Writing: A low-residency program that fosters the development of Native and Indigenous voices in literature.
Notable Programs:
- Visual Arts
- Cinematic Arts
- Creative Writing
- Indigenous Liberal Studies
- Museum Studies
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 500 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9:1, allowing for close mentorship and personalized artistic guidance.
- Extracurricular Activities: Includes arts collectives, cultural events, gallery exhibitions, and student-run film festivals.
Artistic Expression and Cultural Preservation
The Institute of American Indian Arts is dedicated to promoting and preserving Indigenous culture through art, design, and creative expression. IAIA plays a vital role in advancing contemporary Native arts, offering students the opportunity to engage in cultural dialogue while developing their artistic skills. With its strong emphasis on creativity, innovation, and cultural preservation, IAIA prepares students for careers in the arts and cultural advocacy.
Southwest University of Visual Arts (Albuquerque)
Overview
Southwest University of Visual Arts (SUVA), located in Albuquerque, is a private art and design university that focuses on providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue careers in the creative industries. Founded in 1983, SUVA offers a hands-on, studio-based education in fields like graphic design, fine arts, and animation.
Academic Programs
SUVA offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in various fields of visual arts and design:
- School of Design: Graphic Design, Advertising, Web Design, User Experience Design
- School of Fine Arts: Painting, Drawing, Sculpture, Photography
- School of Animation: 2D and 3D Animation, Visual Effects
- School of Illustration: Digital Illustration, Comic Book Art, Concept Art
Notable Programs:
- Graphic Design
- Animation and Visual Effects
- Fine Arts
- Illustration
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 200 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 6:1, offering personalized instruction and studio mentorship.
- Extracurricular Activities: Includes student art exhibitions, film screenings, design competitions, and collaborative projects.
Creative Innovation and Career Readiness
SUVA emphasizes creative innovation and professional preparation, providing students with the technical and conceptual skills needed to succeed in the competitive world of art and design. The university’s studio-based approach allows students to develop a strong portfolio and gain hands-on experience in their chosen field. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, SUVA creates a supportive environment for aspiring artists and designers.