Vermont, known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant cultural scene, is home to several prestigious private four-year universities. These institutions offer a variety of academic programs, enriching student life, and unique campus features. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on each private four-year university in Vermont, including their overviews, histories, academic offerings, student life, unique features, admissions processes, and notable alumni.

Middlebury College

Overview

Middlebury College, located in Middlebury, Vermont, is a private liberal arts college renowned for its rigorous academics, strong emphasis on international studies, and beautiful campus. Founded in 1800, Middlebury offers a wide range of undergraduate programs.

History

Middlebury College was founded in 1800 by Congregationalists to provide higher education to the residents of Vermont. Over the years, Middlebury has grown into one of the leading liberal arts colleges in the United States, known for its strong academic programs, commitment to sustainability, and international focus.

Academic Offerings

Middlebury College offers a variety of undergraduate programs in the arts, humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences. Popular majors include international studies, environmental studies, economics, and political science. The college is particularly known for its language programs, including the renowned Middlebury Language Schools, which offer immersive summer language programs in various languages.

Student Life

Student life at Middlebury College is vibrant and diverse, with over 150 student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and service organizations. The college hosts numerous events throughout the year, such as the Winter Carnival, Middlebury Moth-Up storytelling events, and cultural festivals. Middlebury competes in NCAA Division III athletics, with strong programs in sports like skiing, soccer, and lacrosse.

Unique Features

Middlebury College is distinguished by its strong emphasis on international studies and sustainability. The college offers unique programs such as the Middlebury C.V. Starr Schools Abroad, which provide study abroad opportunities in various countries, and the Franklin Environmental Center at Hillcrest, which promotes sustainability initiatives on campus. Middlebury’s picturesque campus, located in the Green Mountains, offers a stunning environment for study and recreation.

Admissions

Admissions to Middlebury College are highly competitive, with applicants required to submit high school transcripts, standardized test scores (optional), letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. The college uses a holistic review process, considering academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal character.

Alumni

Notable alumni of Middlebury College include leaders in government, business, the arts, and academia. The college’s alumni network is active and supportive, offering mentoring, networking, and professional development opportunities for graduates.

Norwich University

Overview

Norwich University, located in Northfield, Vermont, is a private military college known for its strong academic programs, commitment to leadership development, and military traditions. Founded in 1819, Norwich offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Norwich University was founded in 1819 by Captain Alden Partridge as the American Literary, Scientific, and Military Academy. It is the oldest private military college in the United States and is recognized as the birthplace of the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC). Norwich has a rich history of providing military and civilian education.

Academic Offerings

Norwich University offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs across several schools, including the College of Liberal Arts, the College of Professional Schools, and the College of Science and Mathematics. Popular majors include criminal justice, engineering, nursing, and business administration. The university’s curriculum emphasizes leadership, critical thinking, and practical application.

Student Life

Student life at Norwich University is structured and community-oriented, with a mix of military and civilian students. The university hosts numerous events throughout the year, such as the annual Regimental Ball, Family Weekend, and Homecoming. Norwich competes in NCAA Division III athletics, with strong programs in sports like rugby, football, and ice hockey.

Unique Features

Norwich University is distinguished by its military traditions and commitment to leadership development. The university offers unique programs such as the Corps of Cadets, which provides military training and leadership opportunities, and the Center for Civic Engagement, which supports community service initiatives. Norwich’s beautiful campus, located in the Green Mountains, offers a picturesque environment for study and recreation.

Admissions

Admissions to Norwich University require applicants to submit high school transcripts, standardized test scores (optional), letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. The university uses a holistic review process, considering academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and leadership potential.

Alumni

Notable alumni of Norwich University include leaders in the military, government, business, and education. The university’s alumni network is active and supportive, offering mentoring, networking, and professional development opportunities for graduates.

Saint Michael’s College

Overview

Saint Michael’s College, located in Colchester, Vermont, is a private Roman Catholic liberal arts college known for its strong academic programs, commitment to service, and beautiful campus. Founded in 1904, Saint Michael’s offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Saint Michael’s College was founded in 1904 by the Society of Saint Edmund with the mission of providing higher education grounded in Catholic values. The college has a rich history of academic excellence and community service, maintaining strong ties to its Catholic heritage.

Academic Offerings

Saint Michael’s College offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in the arts, humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences. Popular majors include biology, business administration, education, and psychology. The college’s curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, ethical leadership, and community engagement.

Student Life

Student life at Saint Michael’s College is active and inclusive, with numerous student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and service organizations. The college hosts various events throughout the year, such as the annual Block Party, the Spring Concert, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration. Saint Michael’s competes in NCAA Division II athletics, with strong programs in sports like basketball, soccer, and ice hockey.

Unique Features

Saint Michael’s College is distinguished by its commitment to service and community engagement. The college offers unique programs such as the Mobilization of Volunteer Efforts (MOVE), which supports student-led service projects, and the Center for the Environment, which promotes sustainability initiatives on campus. Saint Michael’s picturesque campus, located near Lake Champlain, offers a stunning environment for study and recreation.

Admissions

Admissions to Saint Michael’s College require applicants to submit high school transcripts, standardized test scores (optional), letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. The college uses a holistic review process, considering academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal character.

Alumni

Notable alumni of Saint Michael’s College include leaders in education, business, healthcare, and public service. The college’s alumni network is active and supportive, offering mentoring, networking, and professional development opportunities for graduates.

Champlain College

Overview

Champlain College, located in Burlington, Vermont, is a private college known for its strong emphasis on career-oriented education, innovative academic programs, and beautiful campus. Founded in 1878, Champlain offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Champlain College was founded in 1878 as Burlington Business School, with the mission of providing practical business education. Over the years, the college has expanded its academic offerings and gained recognition for its innovative approach to education. Champlain remains committed to preparing students for successful careers.

Academic Offerings

Champlain College offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, technology, creative media, and social sciences. Popular majors include computer science, game design, business administration, and cybersecurity. The college’s curriculum emphasizes experiential learning, critical thinking, and career preparation.

Student Life

Student life at Champlain College is dynamic and inclusive, with numerous student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and recreational sports. The college hosts various events throughout the year, such as the Champlain College Film Festival, the Game Development Senior Show, and the Spring Meltdown. Champlain competes in the Eastern Collegiate Athletic Conference (ECAC) in sports like esports and ice hockey.

Unique Features

Champlain College is distinguished by its career-oriented education and innovative academic programs. The college offers unique opportunities for hands-on learning, such as the Emergent Media Center, which provides students with real-world experience in digital media projects, and the Center for Financial Literacy, which promotes financial education and empowerment. Champlain’s campus, located in the vibrant city of Burlington, offers a beautiful and inspiring environment for study and recreation.

Admissions

Admissions to Champlain College require applicants to submit high school transcripts, standardized test scores (optional), letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. The college uses a holistic review process, considering academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and career aspirations.

Alumni

Notable alumni of Champlain College include leaders in technology, business, creative media, and public service. The college’s alumni network is active and supportive, offering mentoring, networking, and professional development opportunities for graduates.

Bennington College

Overview

Bennington College, located in Bennington, Vermont, is a private liberal arts college known for its innovative academic programs, strong emphasis on the arts, and beautiful campus. Founded in 1932, Bennington offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Bennington College was founded in 1932 as a progressive liberal arts institution with a strong focus on individualized education and experiential learning. The college has a rich history of fostering creativity, intellectual exploration, and social responsibility. Bennington remains committed to its founding principles of student-directed learning and interdisciplinary study.

Academic Offerings

Bennington College offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in the arts, humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences. Popular majors include visual arts, literature, music, and environmental studies. The college’s curriculum emphasizes self-directed learning, interdisciplinary study, and hands-on experience. Bennington’s Field Work Term allows students to gain real-world experience through internships and independent projects each year.

Student Life

Student life at Bennington College is vibrant and creative, with numerous student organizations, including academic clubs, arts groups, and service organizations. The college hosts various events throughout the year, such as the annual Sunfest, the Bennington Plays Festival, and the Student Art Show. Bennington’s campus, with its studios, performance spaces, and natural beauty, provides an inspiring environment for artistic and intellectual exploration.

Unique Features

Bennington College is distinguished by its commitment to individualized education and experiential learning. The college offers unique programs such as the Field Work Term, which allows students to gain hands-on experience through internships and independent projects, and the Bennington Writing Seminars, a renowned low-residency MFA program in creative writing. Bennington’s beautiful campus, located in the Green Mountains, offers a stunning and inspiring environment for study and creativity.

Admissions

Admissions to Bennington College are highly competitive, with applicants required to submit high school transcripts, standardized test scores (optional), letters of recommendation, a portfolio (for arts applicants), and a personal essay. The college uses a holistic review process, considering academic achievements, creative potential, and personal character.

Alumni

Notable alumni of Bennington College include leaders in the arts, literature, academia, and public service. The college’s alumni network is active and supportive, offering mentoring, networking, and professional development opportunities for graduates.

Marlboro College (Merged with Emerson College)

Overview

Marlboro College, previously located in Marlboro, Vermont, was a small, private liberal arts college known for its personalized education, commitment to community, and emphasis on self-directed learning. Founded in 1946, Marlboro merged with Emerson College in 2020.

History

Marlboro College was founded in 1946 by veterans returning from World War II who sought an education that emphasized critical thinking, self-reliance, and community involvement. The college maintained its commitment to these principles throughout its history. In 2020, Marlboro College merged with Emerson College, and its campus was sold.

Academic Offerings

Marlboro College offered a variety of undergraduate programs in the arts, humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences. The college was known for its Plan of Concentration, a self-designed, interdisciplinary academic program that allowed students to pursue their individual interests and goals.

Student Life

Student life at Marlboro College was characterized by a strong sense of community and active participation in campus governance. Students were involved in various organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and service organizations. The college hosted events such as Town Meeting, a weekly community forum, and the Renaissance Faire.

Unique Features

Marlboro College was distinguished by its commitment to self-directed learning and community involvement. The college offered unique programs such as the Plan of Concentration and Town Meeting, which allowed students to take an active role in campus governance. Marlboro’s rural campus in the Green Mountains provided a beautiful and peaceful environment for study and reflection.

Admissions

Admissions to Marlboro College required applicants to submit high school transcripts, standardized test scores (optional), letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. The college used a holistic review process, considering academic achievements, personal interests, and community involvement.

Alumni

Notable alumni of Marlboro College include leaders in the arts, education, environmental science, and public service. The college’s alumni network remains active and supportive, despite the merger with Emerson College, offering mentoring, networking, and professional development opportunities for graduates.

Landmark College

Overview

Landmark College, located in Putney, Vermont, is a private college known for its specialized programs for students with learning differences such as dyslexia, ADHD, and autism. Founded in 1985, Landmark offers a range of associate and bachelor’s degree programs.

History

Landmark College was founded in 1985 with the mission of providing a supportive and innovative educational environment for students with learning differences. Over the years, the college has gained recognition for its expertise in this area and its commitment to student success.

Academic Offerings

Landmark College offers a variety of associate and bachelor’s degree programs in fields such as business, computer science, liberal studies, and psychology. The college’s curriculum emphasizes personalized instruction, executive function support, and the development of academic and life skills.

Student Life

Student life at Landmark College is supportive and inclusive, with numerous student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and recreational activities. The college hosts various events throughout the year, such as the Fall Festival, Winter Carnival, and the annual Spring Fling. Landmark provides a range of support services, including academic coaching, counseling, and social skills development.

Unique Features

Landmark College is distinguished by its commitment to students with learning differences and its innovative educational programs. The college offers unique support services such as the Center for Neurodiversity, which promotes research and advocacy for neurodiverse individuals, and the Landmark College Institute for Research and Training (LCIRT), which provides professional development and training in learning differences.

Admissions

Admissions to Landmark College require applicants to submit high school transcripts, standardized test scores (optional), letters of recommendation, and documentation of a diagnosed learning difference. The college uses a holistic review process, considering academic achievements, learning needs, and personal character.

Alumni

Notable alumni of Landmark College include leaders in business, technology, education, and advocacy for individuals with learning differences. The college’s alumni network is active and supportive, offering mentoring, networking, and professional development opportunities for graduates.

Vermont College of Fine Arts

Overview

Vermont College of Fine Arts (VCFA), located in Montpelier, Vermont, is a private college known for its graduate programs in the fine arts. Founded in 2008, VCFA offers a range of low-residency master’s degree programs designed for working professionals.

History

Vermont College of Fine Arts was established in 2008, following the separation of the graduate programs from Union Institute & University. Since its founding, VCFA has built a reputation for its innovative low-residency model and its commitment to fostering creativity and artistic excellence.

Academic Offerings

VCFA offers low-residency master’s degree programs in fields such as creative writing, visual art, music composition, graphic design, film, and writing for children & young adults. The college’s curriculum emphasizes individualized instruction, creative exploration, and professional development.

Student Life

Student life at VCFA is designed to support the needs of working professionals, with low-residency programs that allow students to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments. Residencies are intensive, providing opportunities for workshops, lectures, critiques, and community building. Between residencies, students work on their creative projects with guidance from faculty mentors.

Unique Features

Vermont College of Fine Arts is distinguished by its low-residency model, which allows students to pursue advanced degrees while maintaining their careers. The college offers unique programs such as the MFA in Writing & Publishing, which combines creative writing with practical publishing skills, and the MFA in Music Composition, which emphasizes contemporary and experimental music. VCFA’s beautiful campus in Montpelier provides an inspiring environment for residencies and creative work.

Admissions

Admissions to VCFA require applicants to submit transcripts, a portfolio or writing samples, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. The college uses a holistic review process, considering artistic achievements, creative potential, and professional goals.

Alumni

Notable alumni of Vermont College of Fine Arts include acclaimed writers, visual artists, musicians, and filmmakers. The college’s alumni network is active and supportive, offering mentoring, networking, and professional development opportunities for graduates.

Sterling College

Overview

Sterling College, located in Craftsbury Common, Vermont, is a private liberal arts college known for its focus on environmental stewardship and sustainable agriculture. Founded in 1958, Sterling offers a range of undergraduate programs designed to prepare students for careers in environmental fields.

History

Sterling College was founded in 1958 as a boys’ preparatory school and evolved into a junior college focused on outdoor education and environmental studies. Over the years, the college has developed a reputation for its commitment to sustainability and experiential learning.

Academic Offerings

Sterling College offers undergraduate programs in fields such as sustainable agriculture, environmental humanities, outdoor education, and sustainable food systems. The college’s curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, environmental stewardship, and community engagement.

Student Life

Student life at Sterling College is active and community-focused, with numerous student organizations, including academic clubs, environmental groups, and recreational activities. The college hosts various events throughout the year, such as the annual Harvest Festival, Earth Week celebrations, and community workdays. Sterling’s rural campus provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities and hands-on learning.

Unique Features

Sterling College is distinguished by its commitment to environmental sustainability and experiential education. The college offers unique programs such as the Rian Fried Center for Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems, which supports sustainable farming practices, and the Wendell Berry Farming Program, which offers an alternative education model focused on agrarian philosophy and practice. Sterling’s beautiful campus in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont offers a stunning and inspiring environment for study and community living.

Admissions

Admissions to Sterling College require applicants to submit high school transcripts, standardized test scores (optional), letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. The college uses a holistic review process, considering academic achievements, environmental interests, and personal character.

Alumni

Notable alumni of Sterling College include leaders in sustainable agriculture, environmental advocacy, education, and outdoor education. The college’s alumni network is active and supportive, offering mentoring, networking, and professional development opportunities for graduates.