Ripon College is a private liberal arts college located in Ripon, Wisconsin. Founded in 1851, it is one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the state. Ripon College is known for its commitment to academic excellence, personalized education, and close-knit community, offering a wide range of undergraduate programs across various disciplines within the liberal arts.
Academics:
Ripon College offers over 40 majors, minors, and concentrations, covering a wide range of disciplines within the liberal arts and sciences. Some popular majors include psychology, biology, business management, English, and history. The college emphasizes small class sizes, personalized attention, and close interaction with faculty, creating an environment that supports intellectual curiosity and individual growth.
One unique feature of Ripon College's curriculum is the "Catalyst Curriculum," a five-course interdisciplinary program designed to develop essential skills such as critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and problem-solving. This curriculum prepares students for success in their chosen fields and fosters adaptability to various career paths.
Students also have the opportunity to engage in independent research, internships, and study abroad programs to enhance their academic experience and gain real-world experience.
Campus:
Ripon College's campus is located in the small town of Ripon, spanning over 250 acres. The campus features a mix of historic and modern architecture, including academic buildings, residence halls, a library, art and music centers, athletic facilities, and various outdoor recreational spaces. The picturesque setting and vibrant community atmosphere create a welcoming environment for students.
Athletics:
Ripon College's athletic teams, known as the Red Hawks, compete in NCAA Division III and are members of the Midwest Conference. The college offers a variety of varsity sports, including basketball, soccer, swimming, and more. The school's colors are red and black.
Traditions:
Ripon College has several traditions that foster a sense of community and pride among students, faculty, and alumni. Some notable traditions include:
1. Opening Convocation: A ceremony held at the beginning of the academic year to welcome new students and celebrate the start of a new academic journey.
2. Scholars' Day: An annual event that showcases the academic achievements of students through presentations, poster sessions, and performances.
3. Ripon College Days: A series of events held throughout the year that celebrate the college's history, mission, and community, including homecoming, alumni gatherings, and student activities.
4. Commencement: The graduation ceremony for seniors, featuring a procession of faculty and graduates, speeches, and the conferring of degrees.
Admissions:
Ripon College has a holistic admissions process, considering factors such as academic performance, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), extracurricular activities, recommendations, and personal essays. The college offers both Early Decision and Regular Decision application options. In recent years, Ripon College has adopted a test-optional policy, meaning that standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) are not required for admission.
