Reed College

Reed College, Portland, OR

• Known for mixing nonconformist students with traditional and rigorous curriculum.

• One of the most intellectual colleges in the country

• Instead of letter grades students receive lengthy and detailed commentaries from professors

• Great place for students who like to think, to read, to question, and to work

• Honor Principle promotes a culture of trust and respect.  Exams are unmonitored and community members engage in conscientious self-reflection about their words and deeds.

• Campus contains a canyon creek and protected wetlands

• Seniors must submit a research-based thesis  to graduate

• 71% of classes have fewer than 20 students.  Average class size is 16.

• Most popular majors are psychology, biology, English, physics and math

• Dual degrees (3-2) are offered in engineering, forestry/environmental science and visual art

• All classes are taught by very accessible professors

• Students have excellent access to research opportunities in the liberal arts and sciences

• Students can work with college staff att the 250-kilowatt Triga nuclear reactor after passing an Atomic Energy Commission exam.   (the only private undergraduate college to have their own nuclear reactor)

• Strong dedication to the environment

• 75% of students go on to graduate school with 25% of them earning a Ph.D.

• All financial aid is need based - meets 100% of demonstrated need

• Students love the weeklong program of wacky, noncredit classes that take place the week before spring semester begins.  

• Students live in neighborhoods arranged by class year

• Annual celebration includes a hot-pepper eating contest, Glow Opera, live human chess, music and fireworks

• Has a ski cabin within driving distance

• No varsity athletics

• No Greek system