Ripon College

Ripon College is a private liberal arts college located in Ripon, Wisconsin, United States. Established in 1851, it is known for its personalized academics, strong community, and focus on career development. As of 2024, the college enrolls approximately 754 undergraduate students.

Academics

Ripon College offers students a choice of 31 majors and various pre-professional advising options, alongside the opportunity to self-design a major. The college emphasizes a liberal arts approach, fostering critical thinking, innovation, and strong writing skills through its Catalyst curriculum. This curriculum includes five seminars over three years, focusing on real-world problem-solving, and students receive a certificate in Applied Innovation upon completion. The student-to-faculty ratio is 14:1, allowing for close interaction and individualized support from professors. Popular majors include Psychology, Biology, Kinesiology and Exercise Science, and Elementary Education.

International Students

Ripon College offers support to international students, including English Learner programs for those needing additional assistance. The college aims to create a welcoming environment where international students can make new friends and integrate into the community. While specific diversity statistics for international students are not prominently featured, the overall student body has an average geographic diversity, with 2.8% of students coming from outside the country. On-campus housing is available, and most freshmen choose to live in dorms.

Campus & Location

Ripon College is situated in Ripon, Wisconsin, a small, historic, and family-oriented rural community. The campus itself spans 250 acres. The town offers easy access to shopping, cultural events, and recreational activities such as fishing, boating, swimming, biking, and hiking. While the town is small with limited off-campus entertainment, campus life is vibrant with numerous clubs, activities, and traditions that encourage student involvement. The college's small size contributes to a close-knit community where everything is within walking distance.

Career Outcomes

Ripon College emphasizes intentional career development programming and aims for strong post-graduation outcomes. The college's Catalyst curriculum is designed to equip students with skills highly sought after in the job market, such as innovation, critical thinking, and writing. While specific employment rates for graduates are not readily available, the college's focus on practical skills and strong faculty-student relationships likely contribute to positive career trajectories. Notable alumni include actor Spencer Tracy, jazz artist Al Jarreau, and Harry Gordon Selfridge, founder of Selfridge's Department Store.