30 Best Medium Sized Colleges in the US at all Levels

Many Ivy League colleges in the US are regarded as medium-sized universities, in case you aren’t aware. The Carnegie Classification of Colleges and Universities states that mid-size universities enroll between 5,000 and 15,000 students.

Numerous esteemed academic institutions, such as Duke University and MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology), also fall under this group.

However, you might wish to look past these names and consider equally good mid-size universities for your graduate studies! You’ll probably discover that there is, in fact, value in choosing the less-traveled route while still enjoying the trip to your goal—a graduate degree from a reputable university.

This article seeks to uncover the 30 best medium-sized colleges across the United States that excel at providing an exceptional educational experience at all levels. Let us check them out.

30 Best Medium-Sized Colleges in the US at All Levels
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
References
Recommendations

30 Best Medium-Sized Colleges in the US at All Levels

Here are the best medium-sized colleges in the US:

1. Colgate University

Colgate University, located in Hamilton, New York, is a prestigious liberal arts college popular for its academic excellence and beautiful campus. With a focus on undergraduate education, Colgate offers a wide range of majors and a strong emphasis on critical thinking and intellectual exploration.

The campus features stunning architecture, expansive green spaces, and a tight-knit community atmosphere. Students at Colgate benefit from small class sizes, engaged faculty, and numerous opportunities for research and extracurricular involvement.

The university prides itself on fostering a close-knit community where students can develop academically and personally, creating a vibrant and enriching college experience. However, it is still one of the best medium-sized colleges in the U.S. at all levels.

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2. Davidson College

Davidson College, located in Davidson, North Carolina, is a highly regarded liberal arts college popular for its exceptional academic programs and tight-knit community. With a focus on undergraduate education, Davidson offers a rigorous curriculum that encourages critical thinking and intellectual exploration.

The college’s small class sizes and dedicated faculty foster an intimate learning environment. Davidson’s picturesque campus features beautiful Georgian architecture and a strong sense of tradition. Students at Davidson benefit from a strong sense of community, collaborative learning opportunities, and a wide range of extracurricular activities.

The college emphasizes personal growth, intellectual curiosity, and ethical leadership, providing students with a well-rounded education and a supportive community.

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3. Vassar College

Vassar College, located in Poughkeepsie, New York, is a prestigious liberal arts college popular for its academic excellence and commitment to diversity and inclusion. It offers various majors and interdisciplinary programs that encourage critical thinking and creativity.

The campus is popular for its stunning architecture, including its iconic Main Building and beautiful grounds. Students at Vassar benefit from small class sizes, close interactions with professors, and a vibrant intellectual community.

The college strongly emphasises social justice and activism, fostering a supportive environment where students can grow both academically and personally. Vassar College is one of the best medium-sized colleges in the U.S. at all levels.

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4. Carleton College

Carleton College, located in Northfield, Minnesota, is a prestigious liberal arts college renowned for its academic rigour and intellectual engagement. With a commitment to a well-rounded education, Carleton offers a diverse range of majors and encourages interdisciplinary exploration.

The campus is popular for its picturesque beauty, featuring lush green spaces and unique architectural designs. Carleton’s small class sizes foster close relationships between students and faculty, promoting collaborative learning and personal growth. The college strongly emphasises critical thinking, writing skills, and experiential learning opportunities.

Carleton College offers a vibrant community where students can thrive academically and develop a deep appreciation for knowledge and inquiry.

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5. Hamilton College

Hamilton College, located in Clinton, New York, is a prestigious liberal arts college popular for its rigorous academic programs and tight-knit community. The school offers a wide range of majors and encourages students to explore various disciplines.

The campus boasts a picturesque setting with charming buildings and beautiful green spaces. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, Hamilton provides a supportive learning environment where students receive personalized attention and engage in lively discussions.

The college emphasizes critical thinking, writing skills, and hands-on learning experiences. Hamilton College is committed to fostering intellectual curiosity, personal growth, and community among its students.

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6. Wesleyan College

Wesleyan College, located in Macon, Georgia, is a historic women’s college popular for its rich academic tradition and empowering environment. The college offers diverse majors and programs, providing students with a well-rounded education. It is one of the best medium-sized colleges in the U.S. at all levels.

The campus has beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere, providing a peaceful learning and personal growth setting. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, Wesleyan offers a supportive community where students can thrive academically and intellectually.

The college encourages independent thinking, creativity, and leadership skills, preparing students for successful careers and positively impacting their communities.

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7. Oberlin College

Oberlin College, located in Oberlin, Ohio, is a renowned liberal arts college with a rich academic excellence and social activism history. Known for its strong commitment to social justice and diversity,

Oberlin offers various majors and programs that foster intellectual exploration and personal growth. The campus is popular for its beautiful architecture and lush green spaces, creating a vibrant and inspiring learning environment.

With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, Oberlin provides a supportive community where students pursue their passions and engage in meaningful discussions. The college values creativity, critical thinking, and positively impacting society.

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Check out: Latest Purdue Acceptance Rate By Major In 2024

8. Pomona College

Pomona College, located in Claremont, California, is a prestigious liberal arts college popular for its exceptional academics and vibrant campus community. With a strong emphasis on undergraduate education, Pomona offers a diverse range of majors and interdisciplinary programs that encourage intellectual curiosity and critical thinking.

The campus also popular for its stunning Spanish Renaissance architecture and picturesque surroundings. Students at Pomona benefit from small class sizes, close faculty mentorship, and a collaborative learning environment.

The college values interdisciplinary approaches to learning, cultural diversity, and social responsibility, fostering a well-rounded education that prepares students for success and meaningful contributions to society. Pomona College is one of the best medium-sized colleges in the U.S. at all levels.

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9. Haverford College

Haverford College, located in Haverford, Pennsylvania, is a prestigious liberal arts college popular for its rigorous academics and tight-knit community. The school offers a wide range of majors and interdisciplinary programs that encourage critical thinking and intellectual exploration.

The campus is also popular for its beautiful green spaces and historic buildings, creating a serene and inspiring environment for learning. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, Haverford provides a supportive community where students can engage in meaningful discussions and receive personalized attention.

The college values ethical and social responsibility, promoting a culture of integrity and collaboration. Haverford College offers a transformative educational experience that prepares students for lifelong success.

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10. Claremont McKenna College

Claremont McKenna College, located in Claremont, California, is a distinguished liberal arts college renowned for its strong emphasis on economics, government, and public affairs. With a focus on social sciences, Claremont McKenna offers a rigorous and intellectually stimulating academic environment.

The campus is popular for its beautiful architecture and scenic surroundings, providing an inspiring backdrop for learning. With small class sizes and accomplished faculty, Claremont McKenna fosters close-knit relationships and interactive learning experiences.

The college strongly emphasises leadership, ethics, and social responsibility, preparing students to make a positive impact in their chosen fields and society as a whole.

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11. Smith College

Smith College, located in Northampton, Massachusetts, is a renowned women’s college that offers a transformative educational experience. With a solid commitment to empowering women, Smith College provides various academic programs and majors that encourage intellectual curiosity and personal growth.

The campus is popular for its stunning architecture and picturesque surroundings, creating an inspiring and supportive environment for learning. Smith College emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and social responsibility, nurturing students to become independent thinkers and leaders.

With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, Smith College fosters a vibrant community where women can thrive academically and develop lifelong connections. It is one of the best medium-sized colleges in the U.S. at all levels.

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12. Bates College

Bates College is a small liberal arts college located in Lewiston, Maine. Established in 1855, it offers a high-quality education to undergraduate students. With a picturesque campus spanning 133 acres, Bates provides a close-knit and vibrant community.

The college is popular for its rigorous academic programs, fostering critical thinking and intellectual curiosity. Bates encourages students to engage in various disciplines and offers majors in arts, humanities, sciences, and social sciences.

The college emphasizes experiential learning, research opportunities, and community service, preparing students for meaningful careers and a lifelong pursuit of knowledge. The supportive and inclusive environment at Bates College promotes personal growth and cultivates well-rounded individuals.

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13. Wellesley College

Wellesley College is a prestigious women’s liberal arts college in Wellesley, Massachusetts. Founded in 1870, the college provides a top-notch education to its undergraduate students. Wellesley is on a beautiful campus of 500 acres and offers a vibrant and intellectually stimulating environment.

The college is renowned for its rigorous academic programs across various disciplines, including arts, humanities, sciences, and social sciences. Wellesley promotes critical thinking, leadership skills, and global perspectives. It encourages students to engage in research, internships, and community service. With a strong emphasis on empowering women, Wellesley College prepares its graduates for successful careers and instils a lifelong passion for learning.

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14. Colorado College

Colorado College is a small liberal arts college in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Founded in 1874, it offers a unique academic experience to undergraduate students. With a stunning campus nestled in the Rocky Mountains, Colorado College provides a close-knit and scenic environment for learning.

The college follows a unique Block Plan, where students focus on one intensive course at a time for three and a half weeks. This concentrated approach fosters deep engagement and allows for immersive learning experiences. Colorado College is one of the best medium-sized colleges in the U.S. at all levels.

Colorado College offers a wide range of disciplines and encourages interdisciplinary studies. The college promotes critical thinking, creativity, and a sense of social responsibility, preparing students for diverse career paths and lifelong learning.

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15. Grinnell College

Grinnell College is a small liberal arts college located in Grinnell, Iowa. Established in 1846, the college offers a high-quality education to undergraduate students. With a picturesque campus spread over 120 acres, Grinnell provides a close-knit and supportive community.

The college is popular for its rigorous academic programs, emphasizing critical thinking, creativity, and intellectual exploration. Grinnell encourages students to pursue their passions and offers various majors and interdisciplinary studies.

The college values experiential learning, research opportunities, and community engagement. Grinnell College prepares students for meaningful careers and lifelong learning, fostering personal growth and a commitment to social justice.

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16. Macalester College

30 Best Medium Sized Colleges in the US at all Levels

Macalester College is a small liberal arts college in St. Paul, Minnesota. Established in 1874, the college provides high-quality education to undergraduate students. Situated on a beautiful campus, Macalester offers a close-knit and inclusive community.

The college is popular for its rigorous academic programs across various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and fine arts. Macalester emphasizes critical thinking, global perspectives, and cultural diversity.

The college encourages students to engage in research, internships, and community service, fostering practical skills and social responsibility. Macalester College prepares students for successful careers and lifelong learning, nurturing their intellectual curiosity and personal development.

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17. Bowdoin College

Bowdoin College is a small liberal arts college located in Brunswick, Maine. Established in 1794, the college provides high-quality education to undergraduate students. Nestled in a picturesque New England setting, Bowdoin offers a close-knit and welcoming community.

Bowdoin values intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and civic engagement. The college encourages students to explore diverse perspectives, research, and participate in community service.

Bowdoin College prepares students for meaningful careers and fosters a lifelong commitment to learning and social responsibility. It is also one of the best medium-sized colleges in the U.S. at all levels.

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18. Whitman College

Whitman College is a small liberal arts college in Walla Walla, Washington. Established in 1882, the college offers a high-quality education to undergraduate students. With a charming campus nestled in the Pacific Northwest, Whitman provides a tight-knit and supportive community. The college is popular for its rigorous academic programs, emphasizing critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and interdisciplinary studies.

Whitman encourages students to explore various disciplines and engage in experiential learning opportunities. The college values community engagement, global perspectives, and social responsibility.

Whitman College prepares students for successful careers and lifelong learning, fostering personal growth and a commitment to positively impacting the world.

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19. Franklin and Marshall College

Franklin and Marshall College is a small liberal arts college in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Founded in 1787, the college offers a high-quality education to undergraduate students. Franklin and Marshall provide a tight-knit and vibrant community on a beautiful campus.

The college is popular for its rigorous academic programs across various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and the arts. Franklin and Marshall promote critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and interdisciplinary studies. The college encourages students to engage in research, internships, and community service.

Franklin and Marshall College prepares students for successful careers and cultivates a lifelong passion for learning and leadership.

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20. College of the Holy Cross

The College of the Holy Cross is a small liberal arts college in Worcester, Massachusetts. Established in 1843, the college provides high-quality education to undergraduate students. With a beautiful campus set on a hill overlooking the city, Holy Cross offers a close-knit and welcoming community.

Holy Cross values critical thinking, intellectual inquiry, and ethical engagement. The college encourages students to explore diverse perspectives, engage in community service, and develop leadership skills. Holy Cross College prepares students for successful careers and fosters a commitment to social justice and the common good.

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21. Lafayette College

Lafayette College is a small liberal arts college located in Easton, Pennsylvania. Established in 1826, the college offers a high-quality education to undergraduate students. Lafayette’s picturesque campus in the Lehigh Valley provides a close-knit and engaging community.

Lafayette promotes critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and interdisciplinary studies. The college encourages students to engage in research, internships, and community service.

Lafayette College prepares students for successful careers and fosters a lifelong passion for learning and leadership, equipping them with the skills to impact the world positively.

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22. Barnard College

Barnard College is a prestigious women’s liberal arts college in New York City. Established in 1889, the college offers a high-quality education to undergraduate women. Situated in the vibrant neighbourhood of Morningside Heights, Barnard provides a diverse and intellectually stimulating environment.

The college is known for its rigorous academic programs across various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and the arts. Barnard emphasizes critical thinking, feminist perspectives, and global engagement.

The college encourages students to pursue their passions, engage in research, and participate in internships. Barnard College prepares women for successful careers and empowers them to become strong leaders and advocates for change. This college is one of the best medium-sized colleges in the U.S. at all levels.

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23. Dickinson College

Dickinson College is a small liberal arts college located in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. Established in 1783, the college offers a high-quality education to undergraduate students. With a picturesque campus and rich history, Dickinson provides a close-knit, intellectually engaging community.

Dickinson promotes critical thinking, global perspectives, and sustainability. The college encourages students to engage in experiential learning, research, and community service.

Dickinson College prepares students for successful careers and fosters a lifelong commitment to civic engagement and positively impacting the world.

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24. Kenyon College

Kenyon College is a small liberal arts college located in Gambier, Ohio. Established in 1824, the college offers a high-quality education to undergraduate students. Situated on a beautiful campus surrounded by rural landscapes, Kenyon provides a close-knit and intellectually vibrant community.

The college is known for its rigorous academic programs across various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and the arts. Kenyon values critical thinking, creative expression, and interdisciplinary studies.

The college encourages students to engage in research, internships, and community service. Kenyon College prepares students for successful careers and fosters a lifelong love for learning and a deep appreciation for the arts.

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25. Mount Holyoke College

Mount Holyoke College is a renowned women’s liberal arts college in South Hadley, Massachusetts. Established in 1837, the college offers a top-quality education to undergraduate women. Mount Holyoke is nestled in a picturesque setting and provides a supportive and empowering community.

The college is known for its rigorous academic programs across various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and the arts. Mount Holyoke emphasizes critical thinking, global perspectives, and social justice. The college encourages students to explore diverse interests, engage in research, and participate in internships.

Mount Holyoke College prepares women for successful careers and fosters leadership skills, creating a lifelong network of accomplished alumnae.

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26. Reed College

Reed College is a small liberal arts college located in Portland, Oregon. Founded in 1908, the college offers a distinctive educational experience to undergraduate students. With a beautiful campus surrounded by lush greenery, Reed College provides a tight-knit, intellectually stimulating community.

The college is known for its rigorous academic programs, emphasizing critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and independent inquiry. Reed’s unique academic structure allows students to design their curriculum and explore various disciplines deeply.

The college encourages students to engage in research, seminar-style classes, and intellectual debates. Reed College prepares students for diverse career paths and fosters a lifelong passion for philosophical exploration.

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27. Scripps College

Scripps College is a renowned women’s liberal arts college in Claremont, California. Founded in 1926, the college offers a top-quality education to undergraduate women. With a picturesque campus in the Claremont Colleges consortium, Scripps provides a close-knit and intellectually vibrant community. The college is known for its rigorous academic programs across various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and the arts.

Scripps values critical thinking, interdisciplinary studies, and global perspectives. The college encourages students to engage in research, internships, and community service. Scripps College prepares women for successful careers and empowers them to become thoughtful leaders and agents of change.

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28. Trinity College

Trinity College is a prestigious liberal arts college located in Hartford, Connecticut. Established in 1823; the college offers a high-quality education to undergraduate students. Trinity’s beautiful campus in a vibrant city provides a diverse and intellectually stimulating environment.

The college is known for its rigorous academic programs across various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and the arts. Trinity promotes critical thinking, global perspectives, and community engagement. It is also one of the best medium-sized colleges in the U.S. at all levels.

The college encourages students to pursue research, internships, and study abroad opportunities. Trinity College prepares students for successful careers and fosters a lifelong commitment to intellectual growth and civic responsibility.

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Check out: Latest Purdue Acceptance Rate By Major In 2024

29. Union College

Union College is a prestigious liberal arts college in Schenectady, New York. Established in 1795, the college offers a high-quality education to undergraduate students. With a historic campus and a strong sense of community, Union provides a nurturing and intellectually stimulating environment.

The college offers various academic programs across disciplines such as humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering. Union values critical thinking, experiential learning, and interdisciplinary studies.

The college encourages students to engage in research, internships, and community service. Union College prepares students for successful careers and cultivates a lifelong passion for learning and innovation.

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30. University of Richmond College

The University of Richmond is a prestigious liberal arts college in Richmond, Virginia. Founded in 1830, the university provides top-quality education to undergraduate students. Set on a beautiful campus with a mix of historic and modern buildings, the University of Richmond offers a close-knit and intellectually engaging community.

The university is known for its vital academic programs across various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and business. The University of Richmond values critical thinking, global perspectives, and experiential learning.

The university encourages students to engage in research, internships, and community service. It prepares students for successful careers and fosters a lifelong commitment to intellectual growth and civic responsibility.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What defines a mid-sized college?

Mid-sized colleges typically have a student population ranging from a few thousand to around 15,000 students. They offer a balance between personalized attention and a diverse range of academic and extracurricular opportunities.

How were the colleges selected for the list?

The colleges on the list were selected through a meticulous evaluation process that considered factors such as academic reputation, student-faculty ratio, available resources, extracurricular activities, and overall student satisfaction.

Are these colleges suitable for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs?

Yes, the list includes colleges that offer a comprehensive range of programs at all levels, including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. Each institution has demonstrated excellence in providing quality education across these levels.

Do these mid-sized colleges provide personalized attention to students?

One of the advantages of mid-sized colleges is their ability to offer personalized attention to students. With smaller class sizes and a strong focus on student-faculty interaction, these colleges create an environment where students can receive individualized support and guidance from their professors.

Can I find colleges that cater to specific academic interests or career goals on the list?

Absolutely! The list of 30 best mid-sized colleges encompasses a wide range of academic disciplines and fields of study. Whether you’re interested in science, arts, business, or social sciences, there are colleges on the list that cater to diverse academic interests and provide opportunities for students to pursue their desired career paths.

Conclusion

Choosing the right college is a significant decision that can shape your future. As we conclude our exploration of the 30 best medium-sized colleges in the United States, we hope to have provided you with a valuable resource to aid in your quest for higher education excellence.

These institutions have demonstrated their commitment to nurturing students’ academic, personal, and professional growth. With their optimal blend of individualized attention and a vibrant community, they create an environment where students can thrive and flourish.

From small class sizes that foster meaningful interactions with professors to various extracurricular activities that cater to diverse interests, these mid-sized colleges offer a holistic college experience that extends far beyond the classroom.