# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Ranking of the best places to go to college.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Learn how colleges evaluate undocumented student applications and which states offer in-state tuition for undocumented students. Click to read now.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Hidden Gems to Consider for Your College List, Part 1

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Plenty of colleges and universities don’t get the attention they deserve. If you’re crafting your college list, take a look at these schools.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We have state-by-state lists, but here are even more colleges and universities the experts say are the best unknowns.

# data[].attributes.headline
Ohio Colleges with Best Engineering Programs

# data[].attributes.subject
Ohio Colleges with Best Engineering Programs

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Ranking of best Ohio colleges for engineering majors. Compare the top engineering schools in your state.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Best Nursing Schools in Ohio - ADN, BSN - Updated

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Due to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and an aging population, much of the nation is grappling with a prolonged nursing shortage expected to continue for years. Ohio, in particular, is projected to see a 17% increase in nursing positions over the next decade. If you’re considering a career in nursing, now is an ideal time to explore opportunities in Ohio, where job security and competitive salaries are anticipated to grow significantly.

# data[].attributes.headline
Ohio Colleges with Best Business Programs

# data[].attributes.subject
Ohio Colleges with Best Business Programs

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Compare campus diversity at over 1,000 colleges and universities.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Find out what the 10 best college towns in the US are, and what exactly sets them apart. Compare the best college towns based on location and what makes them stand out.

# data[].attributes.headline
Colleges with Affordable Out-of-State Tuition

# data[].attributes.subject
Colleges with Affordable Out-of-State Tuition

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
These Colleges Have the Lowest Out-of-State Tuition

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Southern and Midwestern schools dominate when it comes to low tuition and fees for out-of-state students.

# data[].attributes.headline
Princeton Review Most Beautiful College Campuses

# data[].attributes.subject
Princeton Review Most Beautiful College Campuses

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We rank the most beautiful college campuses, based on ratings and quotes from real students about dorms, facilities, buildings, and grounds.

# data[].attributes.headline
Research.com Most Beautiful College Campuses

# data[].attributes.subject
Research.com Most Beautiful College Campuses

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Top 50 Most Beautiful College Campuses in America for 2025 | Research.com

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Choosing a college is one of the biggest decisions that a person will make in their lifetime. In addition to considering factors such as cost, location, and academic programs, or even studying abroad…

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We looked at over 650 schools and came up with a list of 209 best value colleges.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We rank the happiest colleges, based on ratings and quotes from real students.

# data[].attributes.headline
U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges in Ohio

# data[].attributes.subject
U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges in Ohio

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Looking for a college in Ohio? See a listing of Ohio colleges and universities at U.S. News Best Colleges. Admissions information, tuition, rankings and more for colleges in Ohio.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Explore the 2024 Best Colleges in America ranking. Compare the Top 100 colleges and universities in the U.S.

# data[].attributes.headline
U.S. News and World Report College Rankings

# data[].attributes.subject
U.S. News and World Report College Rankings

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Use our exclusive rankings to find the best college for you. The U.S. News search tool will help you narrow your search to find the perfect college.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Our list of best colleges is based on ratings from 165,000 real students across the country to find out what they love the most about these schools in everything from financial aid and career services to sustainability and quality of life. Read on to see how your favorite schools fared.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Money's ratings offer a practical analysis of 700-plus colleges. Plus, a comprehensive guide to tuition costs, admissions criteria, graduation rates and more.

# data[].attributes.headline
Colleges with Best Student Mental Health Programs

# data[].attributes.subject
Colleges with Best Student Mental Health Programs

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Colleges are embracing mental health management like never before. For instance, almost every college now provides counseling services to students. But how can a prospective student tell that a college is really committed to the mental health of its students? The answer is to look at the college's mental wellness programming. After all, wellness is about much more than physical health. Wellness of both the mind and body takes work and direction. The 30 colleges in this list all have mental wellness programs that ensure that students are able to thrive through the pressures of attaining a college education.

There is no one way for a college to practice wellness. And people have their own ways of achieving mental well-being. For these reasons, this list has analyzed a range of diverse mental wellness programs across colleges in America. And colleges that cater to the mental wellness of students in numerous ways score higher on this list. This means that the definition of a mental wellness program in this article is broad. A program does not necessarily have to be named "the college mental wellness program" to count. Instead, the programs need to demonstrate that they are using effective methods of improving the mental well-being of their students.

Another major factor in ranking the wellness programs on this list is whether the colleges are implementing new methods as well as established ones. Colleges, as institutions that are supposed to be forward thinking, have a duty to look for and practice mental wellness techniques that are still emerging. That means that every single college in this list is incorporating innovative and new wellness techniques.

Any one of the colleges in this list is a fine choice for someone who wants to study at a place that prioritizes student mental wellness. But it's also possible that none of the colleges on this list is right for you. If that's the case, then this ranking can still be a vital resource. Every entry has a detailed summary that explains why its mental health initiatives are effective and innovative. These have been included so that prospective students can compare and contrast the listed initiatives with those of their own potential college choices. If any college has a mental wellness program like the ones listed below, then that's a strong sign that it's worth attending!

Methodology

Numerous articles online name colleges that have wellness initiatives. This list has used those articles and then conducted further research into the colleges themselves to discover how its programs are innovative and effective. The sources used are as follows:

College Raptor, 11 Colleges Putting Health & Wellness First: https://www.collegeraptor.com/find-colleges/articles/student-life/11-colleges-putting-health-wellness-first/

NASPA, A New Model for Campus Health: Integrating Well-Being in Campus Life: https://www.naspa.org/blog/a-new-model-for-campus-health-integrating-well-being-into-campus-life

Active Minds, Seven Colleges and Universities Recognized as Best in the Nation for Providing High-Quality, Campus-Wide Health and Well-Being Programs for Students: https://www.activeminds.org/press-releases/active-minds-health-campus-award-2018/

eCampus News, There's a gap in wellness education programs on college campuses: https://www.ecampusnews.com/2019/08/07/theres-a-gap-in-wellness-education-programs-on-college-campuses/

Thrive Global, Health and Well-being Trends on the College Campus: https://thriveglobal.com/stories/health-and-well-being-trends-on-the-college-campus/

Forbes, Supporting Health And Well-Being On College Campuses: https://www.forbes.com/sites/mariaklawe/2019/07/24/supporting-health-and-well-being-on-college-campuses/#28d6667610d6

Inside Higher Ed, Colleges Use Technology to Help Students Manage Mental Health: https://www.insidehighered.com/news/2018/10/05/colleges-turn-wellness-app-address-student-mental-health

Leadership Exchange, A New Model for Campus Health: http://www.leadershipexchange-digital.com/lexmail/2017fall/MobilePagedArticle.action?articleId=1177609&app=false#articleId1177609

The final list has been ranked by the following criteria: innovative mental wellness practices, accessibility to the widest range of students, evidence of program effectiveness and aggregated mentions on the source articles.

The list, from 30 to one is here:

30. Illinois Valley Community College

Oglesby, Illinois

29. Connecticut College

New London, Connecticut

28. Western Wyoming Community College

Rock Springs, Wyoming

The Wellbeing & Accessibility Department at Western Wyoming Community College runs numerous indoor and outdoor wellness programs that boost mental and physical health. They are sure to appeal to a wide range of students. Current programs include Explorations in Personality, Stress Management & Relaxation, Hike & Fish and more. The college also supplements these activities with a range of alcohol free well-being social events, such as monthly open mic nights and an annual music concert called LaLaNoBooza. Inside Higher Ed also commends Western Wyoming Community College for using mental health apps in its wellness programming.

27. Georgia Institute of Technology

Atlanta, Georgia

NASPA uses Georgia Institute of Technology as a strong example of how some colleges are integrating well-being into campus-life by incorporating a concept called "upstream." The upstream approach focuses on preventing students from having issues by implementing safety-net wellness initiatives, so that students are always thriving as they move upstream. Basically, it runs on the old adage "prevention is better than cure." These safety nets include a range of on-campus wellness programs, such as "adulting" classes, which teach students skills that aren't taught in the classroom; financial wellness classes; and group wellness coaching sessions.

26. Arizona State University

Tempe, Arizona

In 2018, the non-profit Active Minds named Arizona State University as one of the seven best colleges in America for providing health and well-being programs to its students. These programs range from addiction treatment to health awareness and more. For instance, one of its wellness programs focuses on "Building a community of compassionate communication and education." It does this partly through motivational interviewing, which is a collaborative converstion based around strengthening a person's motivation to change. Another innovative wellness program at Arizona State University is ASU Denim Day, which aims to raise awareness of sexual violence not just on campus, but across America.

25. University of South Carolina

Columbia, South Carolina

24. Harvard University

Boston, Massachusetts

Thrive Global highlights Harvard University as a college that has dedicated substantial efforts toward student well-being. The best place for a student to find these well-researched, well-funded wellness programs is the David S. Rosenthal Center for Wellness and Health Promotion. The center is proactive in shaping wellness programs to accommodate its entire community. In fact "There are always new ways to enhance your own wellbeing," thanks to the center. Current classes that this center manages are for yoga, tai chi, self massages, knitting and more.

23. Loyola Marymount University

Los Angeles, California

22. University of Florida

Gainesville, Florida

Perhaps the most impressive wellness initiatives at University of Florida are its adventure trips that focus on student mindfulness and meditation. NASPA notes that these trips take place over three days and revolve around letting students discover themselves while being around nature. Examples of these trips have names like Hiking & Helping on the Florida Trail, Night Paddle & Camp-Out at Lake Wauburg and Backpack the Everglades at Big Cypress. The University of Florida counseling center also runs a wide range of workshops that are open for all students to attend. These workshops cover subjects such as break up support, anxiety, relationship health and more.

21. Harvey Mudd College

Claremont, California

20. Westminster College

Salt Lake City, Utah

One of the best things about Westminster College is that it offers the Human Performance and Wellness program, which lets students earn credits towards their degree. It focuses on providing "unique opportunities to challenge and maximize the potential of the human mind, body and spirit." One of the courses in the program gives students the opportunity to explore mountains nearby the campus. The college also organizes a range of non-credit wellness programs. College Raptor names Westminster College the 11 th best college for health and wellness.

19. Cornell University

Ithaca, New York

A student at Cornell University will find that they have ample wellness programs to accommodate them. For instance, Cornell Health's mental health initiatives use best practices from a range of leading mental health promotion sources. These initiatives earned theJed Campus Seal in 2013 and the Active Minds Healthy Campus Award in 2015. Ecampus News notes that Cornell University has dramatically improved its wellness practices since 2015, when it made student health and well-being a core part of its strategic plan.

18. Duke University

Durham, North Carolina

The signature student wellness program at Duke University is called Moments of Mindfulness. This program offers all students a wide range of wellness experiences throughout their time at the college. Some of these current experiences include knitting, drum circles, guided meditations, koru mindfulness, paint nights, sleight of hand events, tai chi, tea tastings, expressive writing, meditative art and much more. Additionally, the Moments of Mindfulness program also encourages students to come up with ideas for future mindfulness activities. Active Minds names Duke University's wellness programs as being among the seven best in any college in America.

17. North Carolina State University

Raleigh, North Carolina

Students at North Carolina State University can access a range of wellness programs. In the spring semester of 2020, there are four wellness programs running. These are named Wellness Wednesdays, Hydrate the Pack, Howl and Chill Series and Wolfpack Wellness Power Lunch. Wellness Wednesdays incorporate guest speakers and stress management activities into its programming. NASPA also commends North Carolina State University for the way it has been proactively recommending its wellness programs to students, with staff members being encouraged to refer students who show signs of needing help to one of its programs.

16. University of Missouri

Columbia, Missouri

15. The University of Iowa

Iowa City, Iowa

14. South Dakota State University

Brookings, South Dakota

The South Dakota State University Wellness Center has made collaborative wellness its philosophy, NASPA states. It does this by encouraging its staff members from different wellness areas to creatively work together on programs. This means that each program offers students the opportunity to participate in wellness activities in a unique way. For example, the college's outdoor programs give students the chance to create their own outdoor adventure instead of just offering them cookie cutter experiences. The main uniting theme of these wellness programs is their aim to compel "people to be the best they can be."

13. University of South Florida

Tampa, Florida

It makes sense that a college located in the southernmost state of America has some amazing outdoor programs. But University of South Florida's wellness programs also focus strongly on boosting mental health. One of the primary ways that the college achieves this is through its Success and Wellness Coaching program. This program is free for students and pairs them up with coaches to work towards "short-term, action-oriented" wellness boosting goals. Active Minds even names the wellness programs at University of South Florida as among the seven best wellness programs of any US college.

12. Bowdoin College

Brunswick, Maine

Even though Bowdoin College is small, it still has many wellness programs on offer. In fact, it currently has no less than four wellness programs running every single day on weekdays. These range from yoga programs to Zumba fitness programs. College Raptor, however, is impressed with Bowdoin college's wellness program that makes much of the college food in small, fresh and healthy batches from local sources. This local food sourcing promotes wellness in another way than just being healthy for students to eat. Because the food has traveled only a short distance, students can know that the food they're eating has a low carbon footprint, which is great at promoting a positive mindset.

11. California State University, Northridge

Northridge, California

In recent years, California State University, Northridge has significantly expanded its wellness offerings. For instance, it currently has a range of wellness programs for students who are veterans and/or have military connections. But NASPA has been impressed with the way that California State University, Northridge has incorporated counteracting sleep deprivation into its wellness activities. For instance, it has a program that encourages students to use its on campus nap pods by offering them rewards for taking frequent naps in the machines.

10. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Blacksburg, Virginia

Five separate departments at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University have joined forces to advance student wellness, NASPA notes. The wellness programs from these departments take the form of classes, workshops, outreach services, coaching and recovery services. These services are often wide ranging, for instance, the college currently runs workshops on overall health, resilience, Koru mindfulness, alcohol harm reduction, body positivity, financial wellness and more. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University seems to have a wellness program for all aspects of student life. They even have a program that helps students celebrate their 21 st birthday in a safe and enjoyable way.

9. University of Richmond

Richmond, Virginia

Before any student graduates from University of Richmond, they need to complete a four part wellness program. This is why NASPA lists the college as a great wellness institution. The different parts of this program are for alcohol awareness, bystander education and two topics of a student's choice, such as nutrition, sexual health, stress management, or relationships. But the wellness programs at University of Richmond go much further than the mandatory requirements. During any time of study, students can access programs that assess their health, provide outreach, provide massage therapy, provide mental health first aid and more.

8. Kent State University

Kent, Ohio

Perhaps the most innovative wellness program at Kent State University is The Seeds of Wellness Program. This encourages all members of the college community to devise wellness initiatives that will benefit people across the university system. The program grants $1,000 in funding per initiative that it believes could benefit college wellness. Some of the successful awardees of this program have gone on to create initiatives based around study improvement via a relaxation station, a self-care fair and much more. Overall, Kent State University's wellness programs are so effective that Active Minds has named it one of seven best wellness colleges in America.

7. University of Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

The programming of University of Pittsburgh's wellness initiative, HealthyU, is dynamic and provides students with extensive resources. The program makes it easy for students to maintain their financial, occupational, spiritual, emotional, intellectual, physical, environmental and social wellness. HealthyU is one of the main reasons why College Raptor names University of Pittsburgh as being the fifth best college for putting health and wellness first. In 2017, HealthyU became a much more important part of the college, with the provost and senior vice chancellor announcing that it would be The Year of Healthy U and that the college would provide up to $5,000 to college faculty and staff members who would create health based initiatives.

6. College of William & Mary

Williamsburg, Virginia

There are currently more than 35 different health and wellness programs on offer at College of William & Mary's Health and Wellness department. These range from the more typical, such as yoga therapy, to the more unique, such as one called "Authentic Excellence," which helps students discover the difference between "fear-based excellence" and "authentic excellence." The wide range of wellness programs on offer at College of William & Mary is unsurprising, as Thrive Global notes that it has devoted substantial research, funding and facilities to student well-being,

5. University of Virginia

Charlottesville, Virginia

Many different parts of the University of Virginia run wellness programs, which range from those that are available to everyone to those that are exclusively for students. Some of these programs are more typical, such as presentations on general health promotion. But others are more innovative. For instance, the college runs WahooWell, which encourages any student to take a survey and then have an appointment with a facilitator, who will help the student find connections between their wellness issues and ways to resolve them. The program is clear that it is not therapy, which makes it more accessible to those who are unwilling to commit to long term counseling. Thrive Global notes the University of Virginia has dedicated substantial efforts into providing its students with wellness opportunities.

4. University of Oregon

Eugene, Oregon

The home for many of University of Oregon's wellness programs is Duck Nest, which is located in the college's health center. This space runs initiatives such as meditation, yoga, healthy eating on a budget, aromatherapy, therapy dogs, wellness presentations and more. Duck Nest is also actively trying to bring its services to a wider community. For instance, it runs focus groups for students with the aim of finding out how to make their services more appealing to men (who are significantly less likely to access wellness resources than women.) Active Minds names University of Oregon's wellness programs as being among the seven best that can be found in any American college. Additionally, Thrive Global notes that the college has dedicated significant resources to student wellness.

3. University of California, Berkeley

Berkeley, California

College Raptor cites University of California, Berkeley's Wellness Week as one of the reasons why it is one of the top wellness colleges in America. This program allows students to tackle different aspects of wellness on different days, such as mindfulness, financial wellness and physical wellness. And throughout the year, University of California, Berkeley students can access Be Well at Cal. This program aims "to support students in living balanced and fulfilled lives." It does this by creating an individualized game plan for a student's wellness from the following areas of focus: stress, resilience, gratitude, self compassion, social connection, sleep, healthy eating, exercise, time management and career planning. And Thrive Global also notes that many wellness programs come to University of California, Berkeley thanks to the University of California system-wide initiative, Healthy Campus Network.

2. Colorado State University

Fort Collins, Colorado

Both College Raptor and Inside Higher Ed rate Colorado State University as a fantastic college due to its wellness programs but for different reasons. College Raptor notes that the college's Bikram yoga program is the result of extensive research on how the practice improves minds and bodies. Inside Higher Ed, on the other hand, praises the college on the way it has embraced technology in improving student mental health. It cites the platform that the college created called YOU at College, which helps students identify mental health issues and resources on campus. Another set of innovative wellness initiatives at Colorado State University comes from the Student Resolution Center, which runs a range of programs that specialize in on-campus conflict resolution.

1. University of California, Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, California

The Health and Wellness Department of University of California, Santa Barbara is actively challenging its students to stay well. The UCSB Wellness Challenge and the UCSB Happiness Challenge both offer students the chance to improve their personal well-being. The UCSB Challenge works via an app which tells students about current wellness opportunities. When students participate in these activities, they earn wellness points, which allows them to win small and large prizes. The UCSB Happiness Challenge doesn't come with prizes, but it does help students by assigning them happiness boosting activities. College Raptor names University of California, Santa Barbara as the 10 th best college for health and wellness. Thrive Global also notes that University of California, Santa Barbara benefits from the University of California system-wide initiative Healthy Campus Network, which implements a range of wellness programs every year.

Related Resources

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
30 Colleges That Have Innovative Mental Wellness Programs: These US Colleges Are Redefining How Students Improve Their Mental Health

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Colleges are embracing mental health management like never before. For instance, almost every college now provides counseling services to students. But how can a prospective student tell that a college is really committed to the mental health of its students? The answer is to look at the college's mental wellness programming.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Transitioning to a post secondary education is a big deal for any rising college student. For disabled students, however, it is an entirely different ball game. Certainly, there are a number of colleges specifically for disabled students, such as Gallaudet University, which serves deaf and hard-of-hearing students; however, the majority of students with physical disabilities opt for immersion with their non-disabled peers when seeking a college education. In fact, statistics on disabled college students show that 11% of college students have a documented disability - and because of students who choose not to self-identify, the true number if probably far larger.

What Can Disabled Students Do if They Face Discrimination in College?

The Individuals with Disabilities Education ACT (IDEA) has very specific protections for students who have any disability in a federally funded school, from pre-K through 12th Grade. However, the laws exist, but are a little less clear as far as protections and accommodations go for disabled college students. State Funded Programs including higher education are covered by Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, and vocational schools and private colleges offer protections to disabled students under the ADA Title III. Section 504 specifically relates to institutions that receive federal funding. These protections ensure that disabled students are given what they need to receive an equal education with access to "reasonable accommodations." It is variable, however, how individual schools define accommodations that are "reasonable."

This is the key reason why we felt it was important to create a list of schools that take accessibility seriously when considering the needs of disabled students. We wrote a previous ranking that focused on s chools that provide excellent support for students with learning disabilities. While there is quite a bit of crossover, this list is geared more towards schools that provide excellent accommodations for students with physical disabilities.

Let's talk about accommodations

Accommodations come in many shapes and sizes and might look a little different for each student. When considering the needs of students with physical and learning disabilities, extra support can include: longer test taking times, audio recording or note taking services, the use of technology or specialized apps including dictation software, moving a classroom or lab to a more accessible building, among many other possibilities. Some schools take their work of creating a more equitable and accessible learning environment to the next level by offering extensive support services that can include extra mental health support, access to on campus support groups for disabled students, and even athletic teams use adaptive principles. Some schools considered universal design while creating curricula and building infrastructure.

This is a list that we researched consisting of the best colleges for students with physical disabilities. In each profile we are highlighting the services they offer and the reasons why it is a good fit for a disabled student entering college. While it can be seen as a list of colleges for special needs students, we'd like to think of it more as a series of schools that frame inclusion as a driving force in their mission.

This list of academic institutions was gratifying to write. It was meditation that the world is a much more inclusive place for disabled people then it once was. It is easy to forget that sometimes as we are immersed in media that can often tell us something different. We have come a long way though, and yes, we are still going. Academic environments in particular are evolving to not only be more inclusive to disabled students, but offer majors that support people to understand the history and commit their lives to making the world even more aware. Schools for disabled students are becoming a thing of the past, as the future looks like inclusion and immersion.

How Can We Help More Disabled Students Go to College?

As you can see, many of the schools on the list are employing universal design strategies that go beyond the concept of "reasonable accommodations." They do this in service of creating a world that is already usable people of all abilities and bodies. The principles of universal design are some of the most radical in terms of inclusion and adaptability. They are applied to architecture and approaches to learning, which includes curriculum curation. While this is the future, some schools have already begun using these concepts, and others have ways to go. You will see from this list that some schools are much more hands off in their approach to supporting disabled students. They believe in a certain level of self-determination that requires the students to do the majority of the work to get their needs met. Other schools have a model of support that is much more immersive and collaborative. Some of them bring together teams that surround the student, which can include coaches, advisers, and faculty members that are there to ensure the participant is finding what they need in terms of adaptability and emotional support.

What are the Main Barriers Keeping Disabled Students from Going to College?

Access has historically, and in some cases continues to be, a real issue. You will see that every school on this list has an inventory of adaptive technologies. Some have their own labs that act as the home to their arsenal of technical resources. Other schools have a check-out system that is done on a case-by-case basis. Many of them provide adaptive furniture, service animals and housing accommodations. Some schools specialize in serving students with learning disabilities and other schools place their focus on ensuring that there are adaptive sports teams and recreational activities that accommodate students in wheelchairs. The primary thing that all of the schools on the list have in common is a commitment to meet the needs of their entire student body, which includes disabled students. Hopefully in the next decade lists like this will no longer be an issue. Let's all keep working towards the world where accessibility in education and the workplace is a given and not something special. Attending a school on this list and getting educated as a disabled person is a good step towards making that world. As is majoring or minoring in one of the programs that we touched upon in the field of Disability Studies.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Best Disability Friendly Colleges and Universities for 2022 | Top Schools for Disabled Students

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Transitioning to a post secondary education is a big deal for any rising college student. For disabled students, however, it is an entirely different ball game. Certainly, there are a number of colleges specifically for disabled students, such as Gallaudet University, which serves deaf and hard-of-hearing students; however, the majority of students with physical disabilities opt for immersion with their non-disabled peers when seeking a college education.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
These weird college majors may be unusual, but they sound pretty cool, too.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
"Good Morning Baltimore," "Memory," "Girl in 14G," "All That Jazz"...These songs are essentially colossal red stop signs, according to college audition "do not sing" lists around the web. But even more difficult than choosing a college audition song can be choosing the colleges to audition for -and later attend-whether we're talking musical theater or dance. That's why we've put together some considerations for performing arts students preparing to take the college plunge, as well as our top 10 lists of the best schools for each major.

One of the first decisions students need to make pertains to their degree and whether to go the Bachelors of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) route. BFA programs are an upfront commitment to a more defined curriculum outlined for students in advance, and the chosen major often makes up 75 percent of coursework, leaving only 25 for other liberal arts courses. "The BFA path is really only appropriate for someone who is 110 percent sure they want to major in that performing arts discipline," says Susan Taub, an independent college counselor with expertise in performing arts admissions.

In BA programs, a musical theater or dance major would be like any other major and comprise about one-third of a student's coursework. (Again, this can vary between schools.) It's also usually much easier to double major in BA programs. The most important thing to remember? "Both paths can lead to success in life and in a career in the arts," says Taub. In the end, it almost always comes down to talent rather than the type of degree on your diploma.

Next up: We have your three must-haves for program training and for the academic and college experience. Write them down, and use them to narrow down your college list! First, a student who wants immersive conservatory training will likely be applying to different schools than one who wants to minor in art history and prioritizes the other academic programs, so know what you're looking for right off the bat. Second, you should visit every school to which you've been accepted so you can get a feel for campus and classes. And third, have an honest conversation with your family about what you can and cannot afford.

"Let's face it: As a performing artist, you're going to have long periods of unemployment, and it doesn't make sense to take on a whole lot of debt," says Mary Anna Dennard, owner and founder of College Audition Coach. Also, check in with yourself about your strengths and weaknesses in your performing arts field, then use them to help you decide on a school. "The bravest thing to do would be to go to a school that's going to challenge you most in the areas you are the weakest," says Dennard.

Soon-to-be musical theater students working on choosing a program should consider the school's audition requirements, which acting techniques are taught, the liberal arts percentage of the curriculum, and how many student-run productions are available for participation. It's also a good idea to think about whether or not there's a showcase before graduation, how many recent graduates are working in the industry, and alumni networking opportunities. Location might be important to you when it comes to networking and performance opportunities; you should also do some digging to find out if the school teaches "the business" and helps with job placement in addition to fine-tuning your musical skill set.

We used some of these criteria and various interviews with experts to determine our the following list of 10 musical theater college programs we think you should know about. But the most important thing to remember is that the best college is the one that fits and reflects what you want. On that note, in alphabetical order, here are our picks for musical theater schools to keep on your radar.

BALDWIN-WALLACE UNIVERSITY

Skill-building: The program trains students in classical acting techniques like Stanislavski, Meisner, and Alexander, additionally focusing on diction and dialects, heightened verse, acting for the camera, and contemporary scene study. In dance, students learn classical ballet, jazz, tap, modern, and hip-hop. And in voice, they study classical, Golden Age musical theater styles, pop/rock, and audition technique. Students can also create one-on-one specialized courses with professors.

Performance opportunities: Baldwin-Wallace produces three musicals per year, and students of any class can audition for musicals, plays, and operas on campus. The school also partners in training with Great Lakes Theater, and since all seniors appear or understudy in their fall musical, every student graduates with either their AEA card or EMC membership.

Post-college prep: Each audition and rehearsal is run with AEA rules to prepare students for the industry standard. The school also offers a master class series that allows students to be seen by 10 different professionals (agents, managers, or casting directors) offering critiques and advice beginning their sophomore year. To cap off their undergraduate experience, each student's senior year culminates in two days of showcases at New World Stages.

Notable alumni: Jill Paice, Kate Rockwell, Caitlin Houlahan

BOSTON CONSERVATORY AT BERKLEE

Skill-building: Faculty at Boston Conservatory are Broadway veterans and/or theater professionals, and they-along with guest artists-train students in acting, dance, and voice. The first two years consist of foundational courses, including musical theater repertoire and ear training. A student's junior and senior years are dedicated to refining those skills, developing leadership skills, and honing audition techniques.

Performance opportunities: Every year, Boston Conservatory puts on five main stage productions, six faculty-directed studio productions, 12 studio productions for MFA graduates, 12-14 studio shows directed by seniors, a freshman revue, a fully staged and costumed drag show, two experimental performance lab productions, a summer touring production, cabaret outreach shows, and dozens of musical theater repertoire and voice studio recitals. There's also a mini-season of plays by Earthstone, a student-created resident theater company, as well as many opportunities to work with local Boston repertory and mid-sized theater companies.

Post-college prep: The school underlines the importance of building a professional network from day one and also puts on a "webcase"-an online version of the traditional in-person showcase-to maximize its students' industry exposure to casting agents and other professionals.

Notable alumni: Shoba Narayan, Victoria Livengood, Nick Adams

CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY

Skill-building: Carnegie Mellon's conservatory-style program trains musical theater students in acting, voice and speech, and movement, as well as advanced singing, various dance techniques, and musical theater styles and skills. The school also offers a senior study abroad experience at international conservatory programs like the Moscow Art Theater or Sydney's NIDA.

Performance opportunities: Students have the opportunity to perform for the public during their junior and senior years, and Carnegie Mellon also partners with the American Society of Composers and Publishers and Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera to give students the chance to work with industry professionals to create and present a new musical work.

Post-college prep: In the showcase program, graduating seniors have the opportunity to perform monologues and songs for casting directors, agents and managers, and the showcases are held in New York, Los Angeles, and Pittsburgh. "Most of our students leave Showcase with representation, and sometimes are even immediately cast," says Erin Keane Scott, director of marketing and communications at the school of drama.

Notable alumni: Renée Elise Goldsberry, Josh Groban, Leslie Odom, Jr.

COLLEGE-CONSERVATORY OF MUSIC (CCM) AT UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI

Skill-building: CCM's musical theater program is the oldest in the country. The school focuses on training "triple threats," as they are "preparing students for an inordinately difficult and heart-breaking profession," says Aubrey Berg, professor and musical theater department chair. Vocal training incorporates both private technique classes and musical theater vocal coaching. Graduating students are well-versed in the methods of Michael Chekov and Sanford Meisner, and dance training includes the genres of ballet, jazz, tap, modern, and Pilates.

Performance opportunities: The school offers four musicals per season, one workshop production with Broadway producer Kevin McCollum and concerts with the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra. Seasons include works from the "Golden Age," as well as contemporary productions and rock musicals, and students from any year may be cast.

Post-college prep: CCM's freshman showcase is a chance for incoming first-years to debut their talents, and the senior showcase allows graduating students to perform for agents and casting directors in New York. There are also regular master classes taught by Broadway professionals, and cast members of national touring companies visit campus to speak about their experiences in the business.

Notable alumni: Faith Prince, Kirsten Wyatt, Kevin McCollum

ELON UNIVERSITY

Skill-building: Students are required to complete courses in every discipline, like contemporary vocal techniques, music theory, musical theater literature, scene study, acting for the camera, ballet, jazz, modern, tap, commedia, and Fosse. They can choose how far they progress in different disciplines based on interest, and master classes are taught on campus by guest artists. Another perk? Students receive private voice lessons all four years of the program.

Performance opportunities: Each season is comprised of two mainstage musical theater productions and one black box production, plus two annual musical revues and three plays. Beyond the official university season, students have the opportunity to audition for visiting performer workshops, musical revues, dance performances, student-run productions, and an annual senior thesis production.

Post-college prep: Senior students take a two-semester senior seminar class focusing on the "business of show" followed by a three- to six-week series where students are seen on campus by agents and casting directors.

Notable alumni: Daniel J. Watts, Grant Gustin, Kiira Schmidt

ITHACA COLLEGE

Skill-building: Musical theater students at Ithaca College dive right into over 20 hours of training per week in dance, acting, and music, including private voice lessons and classes in scene study, voice and movement for the stage, audition techniques, jazz, ballet, and modern dance. Regular faculty evaluations point out strengths and areas to work on, and the college prides itself on training the "whole performer." Students also have the opportunity to study British drama for a semester at Ithaca College's London Center.

Performance opportunities: The school produces a six-show mainstage season, consisting of two musicals, two plays, an opera and a dance concert. There are also four to six studio shows per year, as well as audition opportunities for student-run productions and Ithaca-based professional theater venues.

Post-college prep: Workshops and master classes in areas like audition techniques are offered to seniors to help them transition into the industry, as well as the opportunity to join a one-week field studies trip to New York City to network with working alumni. There, students experience master classes and audition workshops, culminating in a senior showcase that takes place the following week.

Notable alumni: Jeremy Jordan, Aaron Tveit, Q. Smith

UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN

Skill-building: Students are expected to be "competitive at the highest level of profession" in two out of the three musical theater disciplines (dancing, singing, and acting), says Vincent Cardinal, department head of dramatic arts. They're also trained extensively in both music theory and musical theater history, and each student also receives one-on-one voice lessons with professors.

Performance opportunities: The university offers four main stage productions per year, plus performances with student-run theater organizations like the Rude Mechanicals, MOSAIC, Basement Arts, and MUSKET. There are also opportunities with community organizations like Encore Musical Theater and Ann Arbor in Concert, and various summer stock companies hold on-campus auditions for students from January to March for their summer shows.

Post-college prep: The curriculum is taught by working professionals and guest artists, and casting directors, agents, directors, and professional alumni offer guidance to students preparing for the annual senior showcase.

Notable alumni: Gavin Creel, Benj Pasek, Justin Paul, Darren Criss

PACE UNIVERSITY

Skill-building: Master classes, faculty members currently working in the industry, and an artist-in-residence (former years included the likes of Jeanine Tesori) are all part of musical theater training at Pace University. Students are enrolled in courses like acting for musical theater, acting for television and film, scene study, musical theater history and repertoire, script and score analysis, individual voice lessons, fundamentals of music, ballet, jazz, tap, and theater dance.

Performance opportunities: The school produces four mainstage musicals per year, including Pace New Musicals, a selection of new works performed over winter break. Freshmen perform in a showcase called Hatched, and seniors show off their skills in a showcase before graduating. Pace's New York City location is also vital to students' experience, as the college will do its best to accommodate them if they land a Broadway show or television/commercial gig.

Post-college prep: The senior showcase is well-publicized by the college, and students also take a "business of acting" class taught by a top New York City casting director.

Notable alumni: Bradley Cooper, Paul Dano, Jordan Scott Gilbert

PENN STATE UNIVERSITY

Skill-building: Students are trained in acting, voice, and dance, including a course called musical theater styles (on Broadway dance and choreographers from 1930 to now). Penn State also invites guest artists to teach on campus through a master class series, and students take an annual trip to New York City.

Performance opportunities: The musical theater department produces three musicals a year, and there are also audition opportunities for plays, operas, cabarets, shows, and dance concerts. The school also hosts a new works initiative where a writing team visits each junior class to meet and discuss issues, then writes a new musical inspired by the young artists. The following fall, the team returns with a draft and develops the show with the senior class.

Post-college prep: Students are offered website, headshot, and résumé assistance, and the school's "Business of the Business" course equips students with information on casting directors, agents, and budgeting. Perks for seniors include the chance to perform their material in a three-camera video shoot for website and YouTube use, a New York City industry showcase, and a financial endowment (for second-semester seniors) to explore next-step opportunities.

Notable alumni: Nathan Lucrezio, Laurie Veldheer, Matthew Hydzik

SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY

Skill-building: The Syracuse musical theater program offers conservatory-style training with a curriculum in acting, singing and dancing, and it partners with professional theater company Syracuse Stage to offer students the opportunity to network with working performers. The school also offers musical theater majors the opportunity to join the Tepper Semester in New York City (named for its founder Arielle Tepper Madover, who is both an alumna and Tony Award-winning producer). There are also master classes with performers, agents, casting directors, and directors to offer insight on transitioning into the industry.

Performance opportunities: Drama students are offered a chance to audition for and perform in an annual Syracuse Stage season production as part of the ensemble or featured ensemble (occasionally leading roles). Another perk? Cast students can earn points toward Equity membership candidacy. The school also offers a five-production mainstage season (including two musicals), as well as a few smaller studio projects per year.

Post-college prep: The school provides audition technique classes and mock auditions with guest artists, as well as networking opportunities with working theater professionals via the Tepper Semester and Syracuse Stage.

Notable alumni: Jessie Mueller, Taye Diggs, Vanessa Williams

HONORABLE MENTION: TEXAS STATE UNIVERSITY

Skill-building: Texas State students are offered extensive one-on-one training, including weekly voice lessons, individual musical director coaching sessions, and private work sessions in all acting and musical theater performance classes. They are trained in on-camera acting, directing, speech/dialects, score/libretto analysis, musical theater history, ballet, jazz, and tap.

Performance opportunities: The school produces two musicals and 9-12 plays a year, and other performance opportunities include the Black and Latino Playwrights Conference, New Work Series and Undergraduate Directing Festival. Texas State also has strong relationships with summer stock theaters across the country.

Post-college prep: "Since 2012, out of 69 graduates, 61 are currently working professionally in the industry," says head of musical theater Kaitlin Hopkins. The school's "Business of the Business" lab series covers everything from how to do taxes on tour, types of contracts and how to negotiate them (Equity, non-union, film, television), mock agent meetings and how-tos for press interviews on shows. The annual senior showcase, produced by a casting director at Telsey Casting, takes place in New York City. The school also works with and supports students for at least the first two years after graduation.

Notable alumni: Thomas Carter, Jesse Heiman, Chelcie Ross

*This post was originally published on Oct. 9, 2017. It has since been updated.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
auditions | casting calls | open casting calls | casting call | open casting call

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
10 Musical Theater College Programs You Should Know

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
"Good Morning Baltimore," "Memory," "Girl in 14G," "All That Jazz"...These songs are essentially colossal red stop signs, according to college audition "do not sing" lists around the web. But even more difficult than choosing a college audition song can be choosing the colleges to audition for -and later attend-whether we're talking musical theater or dance.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Blacksmithing, popular TV, toy design, and bag-piping are just some of the majors you'll find listed below.

* Highlighted schools are featured

List produced by the Facts

Keyano College (CAN): Musical Instrument Repair

University of Limerick (Limerick, IR): Irish Dance and Music

University of Plymouth (UK): Surf Science Technology Program

View Random List

Want more information on how this list was compiled? Find out more here.

Still Looking?

There are 800+ more lists!

Keep exploring to find your perfect college.

Directory Data is copyrighted material under license to Wintergreen Orchard House and which is reproduced by permission of Wintergreen Orchard House. All rights reserved.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Colleges with Unique or Highly Specialized Majors

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Blacksmithing, popular TV, toy design, and bag-piping are just some of the majors you'll find listed below. * Highlighted schools are featured Keyano College (CAN): Musical Instrument Repair University of Limerick (Limerick, IR): Irish Dance and Music University of Plymouth (UK): Surf Science Technology Program View Random List Want more information on how this list was compiled?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Ohio Wesleyan University

Course are hard and push you. It is important to talk to the professor with questions or if you aren't doing as well as you life and they will help you with study suggestion, what to work on, etc. I do wish there was more class options, but there is also an independent study option I haven't taken advantage of. Scheduling can be stressful but the school and teachers work with you to figure stuff out. Class sizes are personal and great! It is so much easier to learn with smaller class sizes! Most of mine are like, 10-25, but it varies depending on class level and subject. There are many different class styles; the OWU Connection, travel abroad, Honors, labs, independent study classes, travel-learning courses (which are sweet!), and more! Professors are great and really know their stuff! They want you to do well. You have to go to them for help, but then they definitely work with you! College Sophomore:

Read 573 Reviews

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Course are hard and push you. It is important to talk to the professor with questions or if you aren't doing as well as you life and they will help you with study suggestion, what to work on, etc. I do wish there was more class options, but there is also an independent study option I haven't taken advantage of.

# data[].attributes.headline
Best Colleges for First-Generation College Students

# data[].attributes.subject
Best Colleges for First-Generation College Students

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Alabama
Spring Hill College

Arizona
University of Arizona

Arkansas
Henderson State University

Connecticut
Central Connecticut State University
Trinity College
Quinnipiac University
University of Bridgeport
Wesleyan University
Yale University

Delaware
University of Delaware

District of Columbia
The Catholic University of America
George Washington University

Florida
University of Florida

Emory University
Georgia Institute of Technology
Georgia State University

Columbia College Chicago
Elmhurst College
Illinois State University
MacMurray College
Monmouth College
Northwestern University
University of Illinois Chicago
The University of Chicago

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Alabama Spring Hill College Arizona University of Arizona Arkansas Henderson State University Connecticut Central Connecticut State University Trinity College Quinnipiac University University of Bridgeport Wesleyan University Yale University Delaware University of Delaware District of Columbia The Catholic University of America George Washington University Florida University of Florida Emory University Georgia Institute of Technology Georgia State University Columbia College Chicago Elmhurst College Illinois State University MacMurray College Monmouth College Northwestern University University of Illinois Chicago The University of Chicago

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Big decisions. Confusing choices. Finding the right fit college can be overwhelming.

The Colleges That Change Lives Newsletter can help.

Subscribe today for timely information, advice, and ideas that help to cut through the noise by focusing on what matters most: a student-centered college search.

Visiting a college campus?
Going to a college fair?
Meeting with a college counselor?
Texting with a current student?

Whether you're just beginning the college search or finishing the applications, prepare to ask the right questions -- of yourself and those you meet -- with a copy of CTCL's popular guide: "How to Choose a College That's Right for You."

The Colleges That Change Lives Scholarship was established in 2016 to honor the 20th anniversary of the publication of the first edition of Loren Pope's classic book and the 10th anniversary of the non-profit organization, Colleges That Change Lives. CTCL awarded two $6,000 scholarships in 2023.

Learn more about this year's recipients and the 2024 application details now.

We have curated this selection of articles and essays to inspire new thinking as well as to offer answers to the most common questions about today's college search and selection process. Whether you're just beginning to think about attending a college, prepping to submit an application, or supporting a student in your life, you'll want to check it out.

Personalized, student-centered experiences are at the heart of every Colleges That Change Lives education. While the CTCL member schools all share that mission, they are otherwise very distinctive from one another.

Whatever your heart (and mind!) desires, we invite you to search the CTCL colleges here online to find your very own transformative college experience.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Colleges That Change Lives - Changing Lives. One Student At A Time.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Big decisions. Confusing choices. Finding the right fit college can be overwhelming. The Colleges That Change Lives Newsletter can help. Subscribe today for timely information, advice, and ideas that help to cut through the noise by focusing on what matters most: a student-centered college search. Visiting a college campus?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Average cost after financial aid for students receiving grant or scholarship aid, as reported by the college.

Select a value that matches your actual or expected total score on the ACT or SAT. For the SAT, please choose the sum of your Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing scores.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Average cost after financial aid for students receiving grant or scholarship aid, as reported by the college. Select a value that matches your actual or expected total score on the ACT or SAT. For the SAT, please choose the sum of your Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing scores.