Alma College: Academic Programs, Opportunities, and a Personalized Education
For over 135 years, Alma College has been a cornerstone of higher education in Michigan, dedicated to cultivating leaders, innovators, and professionals. As a leading private college in Michigan, Alma College plays a vital role in elevating the state's educational standards by providing a rigorous liberal arts curriculum, individualized attention, and real-world experiences. Alma College, a private liberal arts college located in Alma, Michigan, offers a distinctive educational journey tailored to each student's unique aspirations. Founded by Michigan Presbyterians in 1886, Alma College nurtures untapped potential, fuels passions, and unlocks futures.
A Foundation of Excellence
On October 26, 1886, the Presbyterian Synod of Michigan embraced Ammi W. Wright's offer of thirty acres of land with two buildings, along with a $50,000 gift from Alexander Folsom, to establish Alma College. The Synod declared, "We will, with God's help, establish and endow a college within our bounds." The state of Michigan granted a charter on April 15, 1887, and classes commenced on September 12, 1887, with 95 students and nine faculty members.
Accreditation and Affiliations
Alma College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The college maintains a religious affiliation with the Presbyterian Church and is also affiliated with the Annapolis Group.
Academic Programs: A Diverse Range of Disciplines
Alma College offers more than 45 undergraduate academic programs and two graduate programs, including Master of Fine Arts and Master of Arts degrees. These programs lead to Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Science, and Bachelor of Music degrees. In addition to academic majors, Alma College provides numerous concentrations, academic institutes, and special programs, such as the Honors Program and the Center for College and Community Engagement.
Notable Programs
Art and Design: The Art and Design department provides remarkable artistic opportunities for students of all studies. Expert professors guide students to explore new mediums and enhance their creative interests. As an art and design major, students can align their classes with their passions, from graphic design to painting, sculpture, or art history. The college offers:
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- Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Art and Design: A 60-credit major designed for students interested in pursuing a visual field after graduation. The program offers a breadth of knowledge across art and design disciplines with two specializations: Drawing and Painting, and Design. Students explore foundational and advanced techniques in visual expression while developing a professional portfolio.
- Bachelor of Arts: A 36-credit degree for students interested in experiencing various art and design practices. It is often paired with another major, offering a flexible, interdisciplinary approach to education.
Center for College and Community Engagement (3CE): Alma College offers hands-on learning opportunities, such as internships, research projects and community engaged scholarship.
Graduate Programs: Alma College offers two graduate programs, Master of Fine Arts and Master of Arts. Alma College is set to open New Master of Fine Arts Program and also offers Master of Arts in Special Education with Learning Disabilities Endorsement.
Experiential Learning
Alma College strongly encourages students to participate in internships to gain practical experience in their chosen fields. The Venture Grant offers financial support for study abroad, research fellowships, and internships. Students might spend a summer teaching music in Rwanda, participate in an archeological dig in Ireland, or study coral reef ecology in Hawaii.
Campus Life: A Close-Knit Community
Alma College is situated in a small-town setting, with the city of Alma having a population of slightly fewer than 10,000 residents. The college's primary academic buildings, constructed with a red brick motif, are centered around McIntyre Mall. Most buildings are located on North Campus, which includes major dormitory residences, academic facilities, and student life centers. South Campus features suite-style residences, the environmentally friendly Wright Hall, "Fraternity Row" (Center Street), and "Sorority Row" (Superior Street).
Facilities
Many buildings on Alma's campus were built during the tenure of President Robert D. Swanson (1956-1980). The Dow Science Center, renovated in 2018, includes the Gerstacker Science and Technology Suite and the Dow Digital Science Center (DDSC), providing academic student study space, large screen monitors, computer workstations, a conference room, and a seminar room. In 2019, the college dedicated the Wright Leppien Opera House Block, a historic structure in downtown Alma renovated after a fire.
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Student Life and Activities
Alma College offers many academic and extracurricular activities, including Greek life, Model UN, and over 50 different organizations. The college has a personalized feel, and the faculty and staff offer support, solutions, and encouragement.
Athletics
Alma College's athletic teams are nicknamed the Scots. The college offers 12 men's NCAA and 12 women's NCAA sports, plus co-ed esports and women's bowling, competitive cheer, dance, and STUNT. The mascot is Scotty. In 1931, the college adopted "the Scots" as its mascot, a nod to the Presbyterian Church's roots in Scotland.
Affordability and Admissions
The tuition at Alma College is $49,552 per year for both in-state and out-of-state students. Additional costs include $14,180 for room and board and $2,172 for books and supplies. The average net price is $22,449. Alma College is committed to making higher education accessible through financial aid packages and scholarships.
Admissions
Alma College has rolling admissions, accepting applications throughout the year. The college accepts the Common Application and its own online application. Key admission stats include an average ACT composite score of 22 and an average SAT composite score of 1131.
Outcomes: Preparing Students for Success
Alma College prepares graduates to thrive in key sectors across Michigan. The college's programs emphasize practical experience, ensuring students are ready to contribute to Michigan's workforce upon graduation. Alma College remains committed to making higher education accessible to Michigan residents through generous financial aid packages and scholarships.
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Graduation and Beyond
Alma College guarantees graduation in four years with the Alma Commitment. The college has a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1. Alma College produces graduates who excel in their fields and remain dedicated to enriching their communities.
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