At a Glance
Lewiston, Maine
Undergraduate Students: 1,876
Student to Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Acceptance Rate: 17%
Six Year Graduation Rate: 93%
Freshman Retention Rate: 89%
Popular Majors: Economics, Environmental Studies, History, Political Science, Psychology
The Feel
Bates College takes pride in the fact that they were founded by abolitionists; they were also the first co-ed school in New England.
The residential campus includes “The Puddle” (what students call their lake), and a beautiful multi-use chapel.
Students are a 20 minute walk from groceries, cafes, and restaurants. The campus lies 45 minutes from the ocean and 45 minutes from the mountains.
Community is highly valued, both on and off campus. The campus is intentionally open (non-gated) to foster relationship with surrounding community. On campus the atmosphere is friendly and collaborative. It bleeds into everything they do, according to alumni we met on campus.
Standout Points
The largest class is typically 35, making the learning environment intimate and intentional.
Bates recently completed construction of a new science center.
Very strong career development center.
On campus we met more than one student planning on going to law school.
All students complete a senior thesis which is crafted with 1 on 1 professor guidance over several courses.
Academic calendar is structured 4/4/1 - May term consists of one focused course; there are many options for the May term, including study abroad.
All students do a “major + 1.” This serves as a kind of specialization and can be a GEC (General Ed Concentration), additional major or a minor.
Fun Fact
Each winter students engage in the quirky tradition of donning funny costumes and rushing into the lake in the annual polar plunge!
Bottom Line Fit: For the outdoor lover seeking a liberal arts environment in the New England landscape and who finds the extra academic requirements, like the major + 1 and the thesis appealing.
Learn more about Bates College!