We were founded in 1846. We’re a private, coed, residential liberal arts and sciences college in Grinnell, Iowa. Around 9,000 people live in our town. About 1,700 students attend the College. We call ourselves Grinnellians. We’re committed to contributing to the common good, and we’re consistently ranked among the nation’s best liberal arts colleges.
We provide individually advised learning for the intellectually motivated. A place where freedom and academic rigor coexist and complement each other. And our curriculum has only one class that is required for all students. The rest is up to you.
Social responsibility, cultural awareness, and mutual respect are big for us. This is place where diverse perspectives collide and differences are celebrated. As thoughtful citizens, we take ownership of the well-being of our community.
We live across 120 total acres, halfway between Des Moines and Iowa City.
Grinnellians represent nearly all 50 states and 80+ citizenships. One in four identify as people of color, and one in five come from outside of the United States. A majority of students will have an off-campus study experience.
Our top home states:
Top home countries:
Our alumni do important and fulfilling work in industries, graduate programs, and communities of all kinds. Many Grinnellians are awarded prestigious fellowships, travel the world, and conduct research under the aegis of the Fulbright Program, the Watson Foundation, and more.
51% of Grinnellians hold an advanced degree ten years after graduation. Here are a few places graduates have gone:
Grinnellians were hired at a wide variety of organizations, including consulting agencies, investment banking firms, museums and galleries, government organizations, technology firms, healthcare facilities, educational and other social service organizations, and scientific research facilities.
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