Founded in 1833, Haverford College is a highly selective, private liberal arts college located in Haverford Township, Pennsylvania. The college offers a rigorous academic program with more than 50 majors and concentrations. Haverford is known for its collaborative and interdisciplinary approach to education, as well as its commitment to social responsibility and sustainability. The college has produced numerous Fulbright Scholars, Rhodes Scholars, Marshall Scholars, Watson Fellows, and Goldwater Scholars.
Haverford College was founded by members of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers). The college’s charter states that it “shall be open to students of every religious denomination”. This tradition of inclusivity continues today; the college is one of only a handful of institutions (including Swarthmore College and Earlham College) that maintain need-blind admissions for all domestic students. In addition, nearly half of Haverford students receive some form of financial aid.
The college’s academic program is organized around four divisions: Arts & Sciences, Social Sciences & History, Languages & Literature, and Mathematics & Natural Sciences. Within these divisions are more than 50 majors and concentrations. Students are also able to design their own interdisciplinary concentration. The most popular majors at Haverford include Economics, English, Biology, Political Science, Psychology, and History.
Haverford is known for its collaborative approach to education. All students are required to complete a Senior Colloquium project prior to graduation. This project allows students to apply what they have learned in the classroom to real-world problems or research questions under the guidance of a faculty mentor. In addition to the Senior Colloquium project , many students also choose to participate in independent research projects or internships during their time at Haverford . These opportunities allow students to gain valuable experience and skills that will prepare them for success after graduation .
The college also offers several unique programs that promote collaboration between disciplines . One such program is the Interdisciplinary Minor in Social Analysis , which allows students to explore social issues from multiple perspectives . Other examples include the Environmental Studies Program , which brings together faculty from across disciplines to address environmental issues , and the Media Studies Program , which examines the role of media in society .
In addition to its academic programs , Haverford College is committedto social responsibility and sustainability . The college has an active Student Labor Action Coalition (SLAC) that works with administrationand local businesses on labor rights issues . SLAC has been successfulin persuading businesses contracted bythe schoolto pay workersa living wageand provide adequate benefits . In addition , student groups such as Eco-Reps workto increase awareness about environmental sustainability on campus through programmingand initiatives suchas energy auditsand composting campaigns . Overall , Haverford College provides an academically rigorous yet supportive environmentfor itsstudents topursue their passions – whether it be through traditional means suchas majoringin economicsor designingan innovative interdisciplinary concentration examining race relationsin America today