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Alma College is a private, coeducational, four-year, residential, undergraduate college of the liberal arts and sciences located in Alma, Michigan. Established in 1996 by the Presbyterian Synod of Michigan, Alma College has, from the very beginning, been “dedicated to the pursuit of learning that reflected the Judeo-Christian heritage of its founders joined with the continually relevant aims of the liberal arts.” Located one hour north of the state capital of Lansing in the center of the Lower Peninsula, Alma is known for the love and pride it has for the areas rich Scottish heritage – a heritage which Alma College also heartily embraces. Alma College is known as offering one of the best Highland Arts program in the nation, drawing students from every continent.
Academic Programs
Alma College’s mission is “to prepare graduates who think critically, serve generously, lead purposefully, and live responsibly as stewards of the world they bequeath to future generations.” Alma College’s core values include offering an education that is student-centered within a residential setting; providing disciplinary expertise within the context of interdisciplinary learning; and fostering an environment that is committed to ethical integrity, spiritual sensitivity, and aesthetic appreciation. The College is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and has been so since 1916.Alma College offers more than 50 majors which culminate in a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Bachelor of Fine Arts, or a Bachelor of Music. Major areas of study including the areas of: Accounting; American Studies; Anthropology; Art and Design; Biochemistry; Biology; Biotechnology; Business Administration; Chemistry; Communication; Computer Science; Economics; Educational Studies; English; Environmental Studies; Finance; French; German; Health Care Administration; History; Integrative Physiology and Health Science; International Business Administration; Management; Marketing; Mathematics; Music; New Media Studies; Nursing; Philosophy; Physics; Political Science; Public Health; Psychology; Religious Studies; Sociology; Spanish; Theatre; Women’s and Gender Studies; several pre-professional programs and more.
Student Life
Nearly 1,500 students are enrolled at Alma College. A residential college, Alma College offers a number of options for on-campus housing, including at least four residence halls reserved for first year students; suite-style living options for upperclass students; theme housing, and apartment living options. Students from all walks of faith are welcome at Alma College- the majority of students come from one of many Christian denominations, with some Jewish students, a few from Muslim backgrounds, and many others who claim no religious affiliation. Alma College’s Chapel program is offered to any students who are interested and offers opportunities for worshiping and studying the Bible, service towards others, and several student-leadership positions.Nearly 100 different student clubs and organizations exist on campus, including a vibrant Greek life and plenty of sports teams. Many of Alma College’s traditions have to do with the school’s Scottish Heritage – a heritage in which the College takes great pride. Bagpipes are played all throughout the year for every formal college ceremony and the annual Alma Highland Festival is held on the campus – complete with a caper toss. In 1999 Alma College even registered its own tartan, which serves as an essential part of the college’s identity.