The College of Wooster

The College of Wooster stands as a distinguished private liberal arts institution, celebrated for fostering "Independent Minds, Working Together." Since its founding in 1866, Wooster has cultivated a unique academic environment where undergraduate students are encouraged to engage deeply with their studies and develop critical thinking skills. With an intimate community of nearly 1,900 students, the College prides itself on a personalized educational journey that prepares students for a dynamic future.

Originally established as the University of Wooster by the Presbyterian Synod of Ohio, the institution has a rich history of inclusivity and academic rigor. It opened its doors in 1870, quickly breaking barriers by granting its first Ph.D. to a woman in 1882 and welcoming its first black student in the same decade. The college solidified its dedication to undergraduate liberal arts education in 1915, officially becoming The College of Wooster. It famously defended academic freedom during the 1920s Fundamentalist–Modernist Controversy, with President Charles F. Wishart successfully upholding the teaching of evolution against prominent opposition.

Beyond its strong academic foundation, Wooster offers a vibrant student experience deeply rooted in its distinctive Scottish heritage. Adopted in 1939, the 'Fighting Scot' mascot and the iconic MacLeod tartan are central to campus life, with football games featuring both a traditional marching band and a Scottish pipe band with Highland dancers. This cultural flair is further supported by the "Scottish Arts Scholarship," nurturing talent in piping, drumming, and dance. With an endowment of $0.4 billion, The College of Wooster continues to invest in its mission, providing a challenging yet supportive environment where students can thrive as independent thinkers and collaborative community members under the leadership of President Anne E. McCall.