Franklin and Marshall College

Franklin & Marshall College (F&M) stands as a beacon of liberal arts education, blending a rich, storied past with a forward-thinking academic environment. Nestled in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, F&M is celebrated as one of the oldest colleges in the United States, carrying a legacy deeply rooted in the nation's founding principles. It's a private liberal arts institution renowned for its comprehensive undergraduate focus, where nearly all students choose to live on its vibrant campus, fostering a close-knit and immersive learning experience.

Founded in 1787 as Franklin College, the institution boasts a significant place in educational history, initially serving the local community as the nation's first bilingual college, offering instruction in both German and English. It also holds the distinction of being among the first U.S. colleges to admit female students, albeit briefly in its early years, before fully embracing coeducation in 1969. The college eventually merged with Marshall College in 1853, establishing the esteemed institution known today, proudly bearing the names of Benjamin Franklin and John Marshall.

Academically, F&M offers a robust curriculum across 58 fields of study, spanning the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and languages. Students benefit from an engaged faculty, supported by initiatives like the Faculty Center, which enhances both teaching and research. Beyond its Lancaster campus, F&M provides unique opportunities such as an advanced studies program in Bath, England, broadening students' global perspectives. The college is committed to student success, offering comprehensive resources through its Office of Student and Post-Graduate Development, which prepares graduates for their professional journeys.

F&M attracts a diverse and dynamic student body from across 43 U.S. states and 50 countries, contributing to a rich campus culture. The college's history is also marked by student activism, reflecting a tradition of engaged citizenship, from Civil Rights and Vietnam War protests to advocating for administrative changes. For prospective students and families, Franklin & Marshall represents an institution dedicated to academic excellence, historical significance, and a supportive, engaging undergraduate experience designed to cultivate "Lux et Lex" – Light and Law.