Carleton College

Another of the country's top liberal arts college, Carleton College also operates in Northfield, exclusively serving more than 2,000 undergraduate students. Carleton boasts one of the highest rates of graduates who go on to pursue doctorates, and the school's alumni include several Rhodes and Fulbright Scholars. Students choose from more than 60 academic majors and minors in the arts and sciences, including astronomy, creative writing, East Asian studies, public policy, studio art, and literary and cultural studies. Carleton ranks among the most selective colleges in the country, and students benefit from a highly rigorous curriculum. All first-year students complete an introductory argument and inquiry seminar, while all seniors complete a comprehensive project focused on their major; this project requires extensive work under close faculty supervision. These projects may take several forms, depending on a student's interests and aspirations. Past projects have required students to produce major research papers, design mobile apps, and direct short films.