Website: www.hillsdale.edu

Location: Hillsdale, Michigan

Founded: 1844

Mascot: Chargers

Number of Students: 1,486

Specialty: philosophy, political science

Founded in 1844 by a group of Baptists, Hillsdale College is an independent liberal arts institution situated in the small town of Hillsdale, Michigan. Although a smaller school setting, Hillsdale has much to offer. On its 400-acre campus, Hillsdale is made up of historic and modern buildings that provide nearly anything a student will need. This college takes pride in its academic excellence. Although they follow a liberal arts curriculum, that does not mean the classes involve any less rigor. It has received many good remarks and rankings: most notably they came in 8th for “professors get high marks” from the Princeton Review. The ratio of students to professors is 10:1.

The college offers 30 different majors, as well as interdisciplinary majors, and pre-professional programs. There is also a graduate program that grants PhDs and MAs in political philosophy and American politics. 70% of classes are smaller than 20 students; this creates classroom environments more open to conversation. Hillsdale College also manages a grade school called the Hillsdale Academy that has students ranging in age from kindergarten to the 12th grade.

Besides academics, Hillsdale has a Division II sports program and offers intramural sports. Greek life is also on campus, but is by no means the center of student life; only 26% of male students are in fraternities. Another interesting thing to note is that it has been ranked in the Top 10 most conservative colleges in the United States. It follows a strict honor code that helps create a culture of honesty and integrity. And even though Hillsdale is still technically a Christian institution (non-denominational) they have always been open and accepting to all people of different faiths, races, and backgrounds. If this kind of college sounds like you, it is worth checking out on their website or maybe even visiting if you’re in the area. Hillsdale even has the seal of approval from Ronald Reagan, who once said “Hillsdale deserves the appreciation of all who labor for freedom.”