Published
January 22, 2013
This article discusses important factors to consider when evaluating and choosing a liberal arts college.
375 Church St, North adams, MA 01247-4100
Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) is a public, residential, liberal arts college which offers both undergraduate and graduate programs. Its distinctive purpose is to provide a high quality alternative to private liberal arts institutions at an affordable cost. As one of the nine state colleges within the Massachusetts Public Higher Education System, it has been recognized for its special focus in the liberal arts. MCLA, previously known as North Adams State College, was founded in 1894 when the Commonwealth of Massachusetts created four new state normal schools. Through rapid growth in the 1960s, the College expanded its degree offerings to include liberal arts and career related programs. Today, MCLA offers twelve Bachelor's degree programs, numerous concentrations, four levels of teacher education certification, and a graduate program in Education.
School Overview: | Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts | |
| County | Berkshire County, MA | |
| Title IV Eligible | Participat | |
| Carnegie Classification | Baccalaureate Colleges--Liberal Arts | |
| Institution Level | Four or more years | |
| Institution Control | Public | |
| Instructional Staff Total (research/public service staff included) | 113 staff | 115 staff |
| Student Body | ||
| Total Enrollment | 1,802 students | 1,633 students |
| # Full-Time Students | 1,465 students | 1,434 students |
| # Part-Time Students | 337 students | 137 students |
| # Undergraduate Students | 1,602 students | 1,507 students |
| # Graduate Students | 200 students | 129 students |
| % American Indian/Alaskan | 1% | 1% |
| % Asian | 1% | 2% |
| % Hawaiian | - | 1% |
| % Hispanic | 4% | 3% |
| % Black | 4% | 6% |
| % White | 90% | 84% |
| % Two or more races | - | 2% |
| Finances and Admission | ||
| In-State Tuition Fees (2012-13) | $8,525 | $24,462 |
| Out-State Tuition Fees (2012-13) | $17,470 | $24,744 |
| Percent Admitted | 72% | 64% |
| SAT Reading (25-75%) | 450-570 | 450-570 |
| SAT Math (25-75%) | 440-540 | 460-573 |
| ACT Composite (25-75%) | 19-25 | 20-25 |
School Notes:
- MCLA offers students the experience of a small private college at a public cost. MCLA provides students with an ideal learning environment, combining rigorous academic training with broad opportunities for learning outside the classroom.The unique natural beauty, diverse cultural community and extraordinary recreational opportunities of the Berkshires provide the ideal setting for a rich learning and growing experience.
- MCLA offer rigorous professional programs in computer science and information systems, business administration and education, and abundant research opportunities in programs such as biology, physics and psychology. The educational philosophy is that students learn best by actively participating in their own education, and our curriculum provides opportunities for independent study, service learning, and study abroad.
- MCLA has the good fortune to be located in the Berkshire Hills of Western Massachusetts, one of the most scenic, historic, and culturally rich areas in America . Situated in North Adams, a city of about 14,700 in the northwest corner of Berkshire County, we are close to the Vermont and New York borders, and within a three-hour drive of both Boston and New York City . Long a destination for vacationers, tourists, and second-home owners, the Berkshires offer an interesting mix of rustic charm and cosmopolitan sophistication. On MCLA’s doorstep, you will find incredible opportunities to broaden your horizons.
- North Adams is home to the nation’s largest center for contemporary arts, MASS MoCA. Located within walking distance from the MCLA campus, MASS MoCA is situated on 12 acres with 27 buildings featuring unparalleled galleries and performance spaces in refurbished 19th century factory buildings.
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