Bard College

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No College Consensus
AVERAGE: 69
No Publisher Consensus
AVERAGE: 58.7
73.9
Student Consensus
AVERAGE: 76.9
Publisher Ratings
72.3
U.S. News - National Liberal Arts Colleges
68.7
Washington Monthly Liberal Arts
Student Reviews
84.8
My Plan
72.7
Niche
71.3
Unigo
66.8
Grad Reports
Scores last updated on January 6, 2024
46%
Percent Admitted
61%
4-year Graduation Rate
2,706
Enrollment
9.0:1
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
$49,591
Average Undergraduate Students Aid
$60,622
In-State Tuition and Fees
$60,622
Out-of-State Tuition and Fees
= Average
Sector
Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Carnegie Classification
Baccalaureate Colleges: Arts & Sciences Focus
Religious Affiliation
Not applicable

Bard College is an independent, nonsectarian, coeducational, residential, four-year college of the liberal arts and sciences located in Annadale-On-Hudson, New York. Bard College was established in 1860 in association with the leaders of the Episcopal Church of New York City as St. Stephen’s College. The college was originally theologically centered and offered young men a classical education which prepared them for their entrance into seminary. In the late 19-teens, and early 20s, under the appointment of Dr. Bernard Iddings Bell, the college underwent a period of transition, expanding its scope and vision for a broader and more secular mission. In 1934 the school was renamed Bard College, in honor of its founders, John and Margaret Bard, and in 1944 became fully coeducational.

Academic Programs

Bard College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and has been so since 1922. The undergraduate portion of the college is made up of four divisions plus several Interdivisional Programs and Concentrations. Bard College’s Division include: the Division of the Arts; the Division of Science, Mathematics, and Computing; the Division of Languages and Literature; and the Division of Social Studies. Through these, more than 30 undergraduate programs and concentrations are offered. Bard College also offers more than a dozen graduate programs including in the areas of Conducting, Economic Policy, MBA in Sustainability, Photographic Studies, Curatorial Studies, Environmental Policy, Music, Teaching, Decorative Arts, Fine Arts, Orchestra, and Vocal Arts.

While most of Bard College’s undergraduate programs are offered at their historic main campus in Annandale-On-Hudson, New York, Bard College also operates a number of campuses, including in New York City, Boston, California, Germany and Russia. Bard College also boasts more than nine early colleges/high schools at several different locations; over a dozen 3+2 and duel degree programs; study abroad opportunities; career-oriented internships and more, ensuring that every academic need of the student will be met.

Student Life

Bard College has a total enrollment figure of nearly 2,500, including more than 2,000 undergraduate students. The College’s main campus, situated along the Hudson River in a rural area of New York includes nearly 1,000 acres and features more than 70 buildings of various architectural styles, from historic to contemporary. Student housing is offered in Bard College’s 40-plus residences – each unique space at Bard features internet access, social rooms, kitchens and laundries and many rooms boast gorgeous views of the Catskill Mountains. All first-year and sophomore students are guaranteed housing, though transfer students are not (transfer students may, however, still request on-campus housing).

Bard University is home to more than 100 student clubs and organizations, ranging from astronomy to tango and everything in between, providing ample opportunity for students to interact with one another outside the classroom and build friendships. As an NCAA Division II school, Bard College’s varsity athletic teams, nicknamed the Raptors, compete in the Liberty League.

Ready to start your journey?

Get a personalized list of degree programs that fit your needs.

Ready to start your journey?

Get a personalized list of degree programs that fit your needs.