Swarthmore College
Swarthmore, Pennsylvania
About Swarthmore College
A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Founded in 1864, Swarthmore College is a 4-year college serving students in Swarthmore, Pennsylvania. With a tradition of academic excellence, Swarthmore College prepares graduates for success in Social Sciences, Computer Science, Biology, and more.
A Diverse Community in Swarthmore
Students come from across the country and around the world, creating a campus culture rich in perspectives and experiences. Campus housing options foster community and connection among students. With a 7:1 student-faculty ratio, professors know students by name and provide mentorship that extends beyond the classroom.
Commitment to Access and Affordability
Swarthmore College is committed to meeting full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Families earning less than $30,000 per year typically pay $8,580, and those earning up to $48,000 contribute a portion of their income. This need-blind policy ensures that talent and drive matter more than bank accounts, opening doors for first-generation and low-income students.
Research That Shapes the World
Swarthmore College emphasizes hands-on learning, internships, and close faculty mentorship. Students gain practical experience through internships, research projects, and co-ops, preparing them for immediate career success or graduate study. The focus on undergraduate teaching means professors prioritize your growth and development.
Outcomes for Swarthmore College students
| Graduation rate (within 6 years) | 92% |
|---|---|
| Graduation rate (within 4 years) | 76% |
| First-year retention rate | 97% |
| Median earnings 8 years after enrolling | $72,890 |
| Median earnings 10 years after enrolling | $80,257 |
| Median debt at graduation | $17,500 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Students at Swarthmore College
| Total enrollment | 1,623 |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate students | 1,623 |
| International students | 13% |
| First-generation students | 27% |
What you can study at Swarthmore College
107 programs, most of them in these fields:
Area Ethnic Cultural Gender Group Studies (16)
African Studies, African-American/Black Studies, American Indian/Native American Studies, and more
Social Sciences (15)
Anthropology, Other, Archeology, Development Economics and International Development, and more
Visual and Performing Arts (13)
Art History, Criticism and Conservation, Art/Art Studies, General, Dance, General, and more
Foreign Languages (11)
Ancient/Classical Greek Language and Literature, Chinese Language and Literature, Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, General, and more
Biological and Biomedical Sciences (8)
Behavioral Neuroscience, Biochemistry, Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other, and more
Physical Sciences (8)
Astronomy, Astrophysics, Chemical Physics, and more
Multi Interdisciplinary Studies (7)
Biological and Physical Sciences, Cognitive Science, General, General Studies, and more
English Language and Literature (4)
Comparative Literature, English Language and Literature, General, English Language and Literature/Letters, Other, and more
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