Vermont is known for its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and dedication to education. Despite its small size, Vermont is home to several prestigious private colleges and universities that offer a wide range of academic experiences. These institutions emphasize a liberal arts education, personalized learning, and community engagement. Vermont’s private colleges offer students small class sizes, close interactions with faculty, and a strong sense of community, making them attractive options for those seeking a well-rounded and personalized academic experience.
Middlebury College
Overview
Middlebury College, located in Middlebury, Vermont, is one of the most prestigious liberal arts colleges in the United States. Founded in 1800, Middlebury is known for its strong academic programs, commitment to sustainability, and global focus. The college offers a rigorous liberal arts education, with a particular emphasis on foreign languages, environmental studies, and international programs. Middlebury’s commitment to academic excellence and global citizenship has earned it a reputation as one of the top liberal arts colleges in the country.
Academic Programs
Middlebury offers more than 40 majors across the arts, humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The college also has a number of interdisciplinary programs that allow students to explore connections between different fields of study.
- Arts and Humanities: Programs in English, history, philosophy, and studio art.
- Social Sciences: Offers majors in political science, economics, sociology, and anthropology.
- Natural Sciences: Includes biology, chemistry, environmental science, and physics.
- Foreign Languages: Middlebury is renowned for its language programs, offering instruction in over a dozen languages, including Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Japanese, and Spanish.
- Interdisciplinary Programs: Includes environmental studies, international and global studies, and neuroscience.
Notable Programs:
- Environmental Studies
- Political Science and International Relations
- Foreign Languages and Literatures
- Economics
- Biology
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 2,500 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 8:1, ensuring small class sizes and close interaction with faculty.
- Athletics: The Middlebury Panthers compete in NCAA Division III, particularly excelling in sports like skiing, soccer, and lacrosse.
- Extracurricular Activities: Over 200 student organizations, including academic clubs, performing arts groups, and service organizations.
Global Focus and Environmental Leadership
Middlebury College is known for its commitment to global education and environmental sustainability. The college’s Middlebury Language Schools and C.V. Starr Schools Abroad offer immersive language and cultural experiences around the world. Additionally, Middlebury has been a leader in sustainability efforts, with a carbon-neutral campus and strong environmental programs. The college’s Franklin Environmental Center and Environmental Studies Program prepare students to tackle global environmental challenges through interdisciplinary learning and hands-on research.
Champlain College
Overview
Champlain College, located in Burlington, Vermont, is a private college known for its innovative and career-focused education. Founded in 1878, Champlain offers a unique blend of liberal arts and professional programs designed to prepare students for the workforce. The college is particularly known for its programs in business, technology, and creative media, and it has a strong emphasis on experiential learning, internships, and real-world experience. Champlain’s commitment to hands-on education has earned it a reputation as a forward-thinking institution.
Academic Programs
Champlain College offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs through its academic divisions:
- Robert P. Stiller School of Business: Includes programs in business administration, marketing, accounting, and finance.
- Division of Information Technology & Sciences: Offers degrees in computer science, cybersecurity, data analytics, and game programming.
- Division of Communication and Creative Media: Includes programs in digital filmmaking, graphic design, broadcast media production, and professional writing.
- Division of Education and Human Studies: Provides degrees in social work, education, psychology, and criminal justice.
- Champlain College Online: Offers flexible online degree programs in business, IT, and healthcare.
Notable Programs:
- Game Programming and Design
- Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics
- Business Administration
- Digital Filmmaking and Media
- Accounting and Finance
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 2,200 undergraduate students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1, allowing for personalized instruction and mentorship.
- Athletics: Champlain does not have an NCAA athletic program but offers club sports and intramural activities, including soccer, basketball, and ultimate frisbee.
- Extracurricular Activities: Over 60 student organizations, including business clubs, creative arts groups, and community service organizations.
Innovation and Career-Focused Learning
Champlain College stands out for its Upside-Down Curriculum, which allows students to begin taking courses in their major from their first year. This approach gives students an early start on their career path and provides them with practical skills from the outset. Champlain’s Center for Experiential Learning and Career Collaborative help students secure internships, co-op experiences, and job placements in their fields. With strong ties to industries such as technology, business, and media, Champlain prepares graduates to succeed in a competitive job market.
Norwich University
Overview
Norwich University, located in Northfield, Vermont, is the oldest private military college in the United States, founded in 1819. It is recognized as the birthplace of the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) and continues to provide a military education alongside its civilian programs. Norwich offers a rigorous academic environment with a focus on leadership, discipline, and service. The university’s blend of military and civilian programs creates a unique and diverse campus community.
Academic Programs
Norwich University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees in fields such as engineering, business, cybersecurity, and the social sciences. It is particularly known for its military leadership programs and its emphasis on preparing students for public service and leadership roles.
- School of Engineering: Offers programs in civil engineering, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering.
- School of Business & Management: Includes degrees in business administration, management, and accounting.
- School of Cybersecurity, Data Science & Computing: Known for its programs in cybersecurity, information technology, and computer science.
- School of Justice Studies & Sociology: Offers programs in criminal justice, political science, and sociology.
- Graduate Programs: Includes online master’s degrees in military history, public administration, and business.
Notable Programs:
- Military Leadership and ROTC
- Cybersecurity and Information Assurance
- Criminal Justice
- Civil Engineering
- Political Science
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 3,000 students, including both civilian and military cadets.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1, offering a supportive academic environment.
- Athletics: The Norwich Cadets compete in NCAA Division III athletics, with strong programs in ice hockey, rugby, and wrestling.
- Extracurricular Activities: Includes over 80 student organizations, such as the Corps of Cadets, leadership clubs, and service organizations.
Leadership and Military Education
Norwich University’s focus on leadership and military training is central to its mission. Students in the Corps of Cadets participate in a structured program that emphasizes discipline, honor, and service, while civilian students have the option to pursue leadership and service opportunities through various campus organizations. Norwich’s ROTC program is one of the largest and most respected in the nation, preparing students for careers in the U.S. military or public service. The university’s strong tradition of producing leaders in both the military and civilian sectors sets it apart from other institutions.
Bennington College
Overview
Bennington College, located in Bennington, Vermont, is a small liberal arts college known for its progressive approach to education. Founded in 1932, Bennington is famous for its student-centered curriculum, which allows students to design their own academic programs based on their interests and goals. The college encourages creative exploration, independent thinking, and interdisciplinary study. Bennington’s emphasis on the arts, writing, and social sciences makes it a hub for students seeking a non-traditional and highly personalized education.
Academic Programs
Bennington College offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, with a focus on the liberal arts and creative disciplines. The college’s Plan Process allows students to work closely with faculty to develop a personalized course of study that integrates multiple disciplines.
- Arts: Programs in dance, drama, music, visual arts, and creative writing.
- Humanities: Includes majors in literature, philosophy, history, and languages.
- Social Sciences: Offers programs in anthropology, political science, sociology, and psychology.
- Natural Sciences: Includes biology, chemistry, mathematics, and environmental studies.
- Graduate Programs: Offers MFA programs in writing and visual arts.
Notable Programs:
- Creative Writing and Literature
- Visual Arts and Studio Art
- Dance and Theatre
- Environmental Studies
- Political Science and Social Sciences
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 800 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9:1, providing a highly personalized learning experience.
- Athletics: Bennington does not compete in NCAA athletics, but offers club sports and fitness activities such as yoga, hiking, and soccer.
- Extracurricular Activities: Over 50 student-led organizations, including art collectives, literary groups, and activist organizations.
Self-Directed Learning and Creativity
Bennington College’s Plan Process is one of its defining features, allowing students to create their own academic paths with the guidance of faculty advisors. This approach encourages students to think critically, take ownership of their education, and explore new ways of learning. Bennington’s commitment to the arts is also evident in its MFA in Writing Program, which attracts prominent writers and artists to the campus. The college’s strong emphasis on creativity, interdisciplinary study, and social responsibility makes it a dynamic and forward-thinking institution.
Saint Michael’s College
Overview
Saint Michael’s College, located in Colchester, Vermont, is a private Catholic liberal arts college founded in 1904 by the Society of Saint Edmund. The college is known for its close-knit community, strong liberal arts education, and commitment to service and social justice. As a Catholic institution, Saint Michael’s emphasizes ethical leadership, spiritual growth, and community service. The college offers a wide range of academic programs, with an emphasis on critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and personal development.
Academic Programs
Saint Michael’s College offers undergraduate degrees in the arts, humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and professional fields. The college also offers graduate programs in education, clinical psychology, and teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL).
- Humanities: Programs in English, history, religious studies, and philosophy.
- Social Sciences: Includes majors in sociology, political science, psychology, and anthropology.
- Natural Sciences: Offers degrees in biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science.
- Business Administration and Accounting: Provides students with a strong foundation in business theory and practice.
- Graduate Programs: Includes master’s degrees in education, clinical psychology, and TESOL.
Notable Programs:
- Business Administration
- Environmental Science
- Psychology
- Education
- Political Science
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 1,500 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1, ensuring personalized attention and mentorship from faculty.
- Athletics: The Saint Michael’s Purple Knights compete in NCAA Division II, with strong programs in basketball, soccer, and lacrosse.
- Extracurricular Activities: Over 60 student organizations, including campus ministry, academic clubs, and service organizations.
Service and Social Justice
Saint Michael’s College places a strong emphasis on service and social justice, encouraging students to engage in volunteer work, community service, and global outreach. The college’s Mobilization of Volunteer Efforts (MOVE) program allows students to participate in service projects both locally and internationally. Saint Michael’s also offers numerous opportunities for spiritual growth through its campus ministry, retreat programs, and social justice initiatives. The college’s commitment to ethical leadership and community service prepares students to make a positive impact in their careers and communities.
Landmark College
Overview
Landmark College, located in Putney, Vermont, is a private college dedicated to serving students with learning differences, such as dyslexia, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorder. Founded in 1985, Landmark College is a pioneer in providing an accessible and supportive learning environment for students with learning disabilities. The college offers a range of academic programs designed to meet the unique needs of its students, with a strong emphasis on individualized instruction and personal growth.
Academic Programs
Landmark College offers associate and bachelor’s degrees in a variety of fields, with a focus on helping students develop the skills they need to succeed in higher education and beyond.
- Associate Degrees: Includes programs in liberal studies, business studies, and life sciences.
- Bachelor’s Degrees: Offers degrees in liberal studies, psychology, and computer science.
- Graduate Certificates: Provides programs in learning disabilities and neurodiversity.
Notable Programs:
- Psychology
- Computer Science
- Business Administration
- Liberal Studies
- Life Sciences
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 500 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 6:1, providing highly personalized instruction and support.
- Extracurricular Activities: Includes student government, service groups, and recreational activities designed to foster social interaction and personal development.
Supportive Learning Environment
Landmark College’s mission is to provide students with learning differences the tools and support they need to succeed academically and personally. The college’s small class sizes, individualized instruction, and comprehensive support services create an environment where students can thrive. Landmark’s focus on learning strategies, self-advocacy, and personal growth helps students develop the confidence and skills they need to achieve their goals.