Gordon College is a private Christian liberal arts college located in Wenham, Massachusetts, approximately 25 miles north of Boston. Established in 1889 by A.J. Gordon as a missionary training institute, the college has since expanded its academic offerings and is now recognized for its strong liberal arts curriculum and commitment to Christian values.
Here are some key points about Gordon College:
1. Academic Programs: Gordon College offers a variety of undergraduate programs across various disciplines, such as arts and humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and professional studies. The college is divided into several academic departments, including:
- Art
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Communication Arts
- Economics and Business
- Education
- English
- History
- Mathematics and Computer Science
- Music
- Philosophy
- Physics
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Recreation, Sport, and Wellness
- Sociology and Social Work
- Theatre Arts
- World Languages
2. Enrollment: Gordon College has a diverse student population, with approximately 1,600 undergraduate students from various states and countries.
3. Campus: The college's suburban campus spans over 450 acres and features a mix of historic and modern buildings, providing a picturesque setting for students. The campus also includes outdoor recreational facilities and nature trails.
4. Athletics: Gordon College is a member of the NCAA Division III and competes in the Commonwealth Coast Conference (CCC). The college fields 16 varsity sports teams, known as the Fighting Scots.
5. Christian Affiliation: As a Christian institution, Gordon College seeks to integrate faith and learning, emphasizing a commitment to Christian values and spiritual development. The college requires students to sign a Life and Conduct Statement, which outlines expectations for personal behavior and community engagement.
6. Student Life: Gordon College offers a vibrant campus life, with over 90 student clubs and organizations catering to diverse interests, such as cultural groups, performing arts ensembles, service organizations, and academic honor societies. The college also provides opportunities for students to engage in community service, global missions, and leadership development programs.
7. Study Abroad: Gordon College encourages students to participate in study abroad programs to enhance their global perspectives and cultural understanding. The college offers a variety of study abroad opportunities, including semester-long programs, short-term trips, and international internships.
8. Notable Alumni: Gordon College has a strong alumni network, with graduates pursuing careers in various fields such as ministry, education, business, and the arts. Some notable alumni include author and speaker Os Guinness, composer and conductor Robert Kapilow, and former U.S. Representative Peter G. Torkildsen.
9. Financial Aid: Gordon College is committed to making its education accessible to students from diverse economic backgrounds, offering need-based financial aid packages that include grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study opportunities. The college also provides several merit-based scholarships.
10. Rankings: While not as widely known as larger universities, Gordon College has received recognition for its academic programs, Christian values, and commitment to student success. For example, U.S. News & World Report's 2021 rankings placed Gordon College at #167 in the National Liberal Arts Colleges category.
