Amherst College

Amherst College, located in Amherst, Massachusetts, is a highly selective private liberal arts college renowned for its rigorous academics and commitment to critical thinking. Founded in 1821, it is exclusively an undergraduate institution, fostering a close-knit academic community. The college is dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion, with a student body representing various backgrounds and over 70 countries worldwide.

Academics

Amherst College offers 41 fields of study and over 850 courses across the sciences, arts, humanities, mathematics, computer sciences, and social sciences. The college features an open curriculum, allowing students to design their own interdisciplinary majors and pursue their intellectual passions without core curriculum or distribution requirements. Notable programs include Economics, English, Law, Neuroscience, and Environmental Studies. The teaching approach emphasizes small class sizes, with a 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio, and professors who are deeply invested in student success and research.

International Students

Amherst College boasts a diverse student body, with approximately 13% international students from over 70 countries. The Center for International Student Engagement (CISE) provides comprehensive support, including advocacy, resources, and community-building opportunities for international students. The Office of Immigration Services (OIS) offers visa and immigration support, employment guidance, and assistance with maintaining student status. The International Students Association (ISA) organizes cultural events and workshops, catering to the needs of international students from arrival through their academic year.

Campus & Location

Amherst College's scenic 1,000-acre campus is located in Amherst, Massachusetts, a town of 35,000 people with a vibrant downtown. The campus fosters a close-knit community, with almost all students living on campus for all four years. Amherst is part of the Five College Consortium, allowing students to take courses and participate in activities at nearby Hampshire College, Mount Holyoke College, Smith College, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Transportation options include free bus services within the consortium and an escort service on campus called Safe Ride.

Career Outcomes

Amherst College's Loeb Center for Career Exploration and Planning provides extensive resources and advising for internships, networking, and job searches. Graduates are highly sought after by top employers such as Amherst College itself, Massachusetts General Hospital, Bain & Company, Goldman Sachs, and JPMorgan Chase & Co. The college also has strong alumni connections, which are leveraged for career opportunities and mentorship. While not traditionally known for it, there is a growing interest in entrepreneurship and a student-led initiative, "Ideas to Innovation (i2i)," supports students in developing startup ideas.