What is a liberal arts college? A guide for students

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Key takeaways about liberal arts colleges

Liberal arts colleges focus on a well-rounded education, emphasizing critical thinking and communication.
They tend to have smaller class sizes, meaning more one-on-one time with professors.
Admission is often holistic, meaning it considers more than just grades and test scores.
A liberal arts degree can be a path to diverse careers, including business, education, healthcare, tech, and more.
Employers value liberal arts grads for their ability to think critically, communicate, and adapt to different challenges.

So, what exactly is a liberal arts college?

Liberal arts colleges might not get as much hype as big universities, but they offer a unique and powerful education.

If you're wondering what sets apart liberal arts colleges and whether they’re right for you, you’re in the right place. Think of this as your crash course in liberal arts education, minus the books and lectures.

What does it mean to get a liberal arts education?

A liberal arts education doesn't mean studying art (though you totally can). It’s about learning across multiple disciplines—humanities, sciences, social sciences, and the arts—so you graduate with a broad skill set.

Instead of learning just one specialized subject, you gain knowledge in various areas, sharpening your critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability.

Common liberal arts degrees include psychology, political science, history, English, biology, and philosophy, and there are many more.

What makes liberal arts colleges different?

Liberal arts colleges stand out in a few major ways:

Small class sizes: No getting lost in a 300-person lecture hall. Expect discussion-based learning with professors who actually know your name.
Interdisciplinary approach: You won’t just stick to one subject. You’ll explore everything from history to biology, even if you major in psychology.
Emphasis on critical thinking: These schools focus on questioning, analyzing, and forming strong arguments.
Strong student-faculty relationships: Professors mentor students closely, often leading to research opportunities and personalized guidance.
Residential campus life: Many liberal arts colleges have tight-knit communities where students live on campus for most of their education.

Applying to a liberal arts college? Here's what you need to know

Applying to a liberal arts college can be a little different from applying to a big university. Many schools use a holistic admissions process, which means they look beyond just test scores and GPAs.

Here’s what you're likely to need when you apply:

Strong essays and personal statements: These help showcase your personality, interests, and goals.
Letters of recommendation: Usually from teachers who can speak to your skills beyond just grades.
Extracurricular involvement: Leadership roles, volunteer work, or unique hobbies can strengthen your application.
Standardized test scores (sometimes optional): Many liberal arts colleges are test-optional, so check their requirements.

Things you should definitely know before applying

Before you hit that submit button, there are a few key things to keep in mind about applying liberal arts colleges:

Fit matters more than ranking: Unlike big-name universities, the right liberal arts college for you is about vibe and experience, not just prestige.
Be ready to write multiple essays: These schools care about who you are, so applications often require more written responses.
Don't be let the sticker price scare you: Liberal arts colleges can be expensive, but many offer generous scholarships and grants to help you afford school.

Pro tip: Check out Scholly Scholarships to find scholarships that can help you cover college costs.

Why choose a liberal arts college?Here’s what’s in it for you

A liberal arts degree isn’t just about getting a diploma—it’s about building a skill set that lasts a lifetime.

Some key benefits include:

Versatility: Graduates can pivot between different fields because they develop adaptable skills.
Communication skills: Writing and speaking clearly are major strengths of liberal arts grads.
Close-knit communities: Smaller student bodies lead to meaningful friendships and networking opportunities.
Strong preparation for grad school: Many students go on to law school, medical school, or business school after graduating.

What are some well-known liberal arts colleges?

You'll find liberal arts colleges all over the U.S. that can offer you a well-rounded education and vibrant campus community. These include

There are many more liberal arts colleges are out there. Keep searching with tools like Scout College Search to find the schools that are the right fit for you.

What kind of jobs can I get with a liberal arts degrees?

Many people believe liberal arts degrees don’t lead to good jobs—and that's a myth! Fact: Many employers love liberal arts grads because they know how to think critically, communicate effectively, and adapt to different challenges.

Companies in tech, finance, healthcare, and beyond hire liberal arts graduates for their ability to analyze information, collaborate, and bring fresh perspectives to problem-solving.

Popular career paths include:

Keep exploring your college options

Liberal arts colleges aren’t for everyone—but if you value small classes, deep discussions, and a broad education that keeps your future flexible, they might be the perfect fit.

If a liberal arts education sounds like your vibe, start researching schools that match your goals. Scout College Search can help you explore options that fit your interests and financial needs.

Wherever you go, choose a school that helps you grow, challenge yourself, and create a future you’re excited about.