Oberlin College
Oberlin, OH
Quick Facts
“Learning and Labor”
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About Oberlin College
Pioneering coeducation and progressive thought, Oberlin blends liberal arts with world-class music.
Oberlin College, a private liberal arts institution nestled in Oberlin, Ohio, stands as a beacon of academic excellence and historical significance. Founded in 1833 as the Oberlin Collegiate Institute, it holds the distinction of being the oldest coeducational liberal arts college in the United States, and the second-oldest continuously operating coeducational institute of higher learning globally. Complementing its robust liberal arts offerings is the renowned Oberlin Conservatory of Music, the oldest continuously operating conservatory in the nation, providing unparalleled opportunities for aspiring musicians.
From its earliest days, Oberlin was shaped by a visionary commitment to social progress. It made history in 1835 by becoming one of the first U.S. colleges to admit African Americans, followed by admitting women in 1837 – a groundbreaking move that set a precedent for inclusivity in higher education. This foundational spirit of progressive activism has continued throughout its history, defining its vibrant student culture and commitment to challenging norms. The college's motto, "Learning and Labor," reflects its deeply rooted values of intellectual pursuit combined with practical engagement and community contribution.
Today, Oberlin's College of Arts & Sciences offers an expansive curriculum with over 60 majors, minors, and concentrations, providing students with a rich and diverse academic landscape. Students benefit from an environment that encourages intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and active participation in college affairs, including representation on committees. The institution's storied past, combined with its ongoing dedication to innovation and social responsibility, makes Oberlin a dynamic and transformative place to learn and grow.
Key Highlights
- ✦Founded in 1833, it is the oldest coeducational liberal arts college in the U.S.
- ✦Home to the oldest continuously operating conservatory in the United States.
- ✦One of the first U.S. colleges to admit African Americans (1835) and the first to admit women (1837).
- ✦Offers over 60 majors, minors, and concentrations through its College of Arts & Sciences.
- ✦Features an endowment of $1.5 billion, supporting its academic mission.
- ✦Led by Carmen Twillie Ambar, the first African-American president and second woman to hold the position.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
1 notable schools within Oberlin College
Oberlin Conservatory of Music
The oldest continuously operating conservatory in the United States, offering world-class musical training.
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