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Dickinson College

Address: Dickinson College, 28 N College St, Carlisle, PA 17013, USA
Phone: +1 717-243-5121
Email: admissions@dickinson.edu
Website: www.dickinson.edu


About Dickinson College

Established in 1773, the Dickinson College is a non-profit private liberal arts higher  education institution located in the urban setting of the large town of Carlisle (population range of 10,000-49,999 inhabitants), Pennsylvania. Officially accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher  Education, Dickinson College is a small-sized (uniRank enrollment range: 2,000-2,999 students) coeducational US higher education institution. Dickinson College offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study. See the uniRank degree levels and areas of study table below for further details. This 251-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 40-49% making this US higher education organization an averagely selective institution. International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment. Dickinson College also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, as well as administrative services.

Why Dickinson College

Dickinson College is known for its distinctive liberal arts education, global perspective, and strong emphasis on sustainability. Here are some key factors that make Dickinson famous:

1. Pioneer in Global Education

  • Dickinson was one of the first liberal arts colleges in the U.S. to place a major emphasis on international education, study abroad programs, and foreign language instruction. It has partnerships with over 40 study abroad programs, allowing students to immerse themselves in different cultures. Approximately 60% of Dickinson students study abroad, a high rate even among peer institutions.
  • The college offers globally focused majors like International Studies, Area Studies, and a variety of foreign language programs, attracting students interested in international careers and cultural studies.

2. Leadership in Sustainability and Environmental Programs

  • Dickinson is a recognized leader in sustainability, having integrated sustainability principles into its curriculum, campus operations, and community involvement. The college has earned multiple accolades, including recognition as a top green college by the Princeton Review and the Sierra Club.
  • The college operates a 180-acre organic farm, which serves as an educational and community resource for sustainable agriculture and provides food for the college’s dining hall.

3. Innovative Interdisciplinary Programs

  • Dickinson emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, encouraging students to integrate multiple fields of study. Programs like International Business & Management, Environmental Science, and Data Analytics combine liberal arts education with real-world applications, preparing students for careers that require both critical thinking and technical expertise.
  • The college’s focus on interdisciplinary studies extends to programs like Security Studies, Law & Policy, and Health Studies, which allow students to explore issues from multiple perspectives.

4. Historical Significance and Revolutionary Roots

  • Founded in 1783, Dickinson is one of the oldest colleges in the United States and was the first college chartered in the newly recognized United States. Its founder, Benjamin Rush, was a signer of the Declaration of Independence and a key advocate for liberal arts education.
  • This history imbues Dickinson with a deep connection to American heritage and values of civic engagement, which are integral to the college’s mission.

5. Commitment to Civic Engagement and Social Responsibility

  • Dickinson prioritizes civic engagement, encouraging students to get involved in community service, public policy, and social change. The college’s Center for Civic Learning & Action provides resources and support for students to engage with local and global communities.
  • The college is also committed to social justice, with academic programs and campus initiatives focused on issues such as racial equality, gender studies, and human rights.

6. Strong Alumni Network and Career Preparation

  • Dickinson’s alumni network spans diverse fields such as law, government, business, and education. Alumni frequently engage with the college to support internships, mentorship, and job opportunities for current students, contributing to Dickinson’s strong reputation for career readiness.
  • Programs like Dickinson’s career center and internship programs provide students with hands-on experiences and support for post-graduate success.

7. Unique Campus Culture and Community

  • The college fosters a close-knit, supportive community with a vibrant campus life that emphasizes personal growth, academic rigor, and social responsibility. Students are encouraged to explore their interests in a collaborative environment.
  • Dickinson’s liberal arts model promotes open-mindedness, intellectual curiosity, and an inclusive culture, which makes it attractive to students seeking a transformative education experience.

8. Reputation for Academic Rigor and Faculty Excellence

  • Dickinson’s professors are known for their commitment to teaching and mentoring, as well as their engagement in research. The small class sizes and personalized approach to education allow faculty to focus closely on student development.
  • The college is ranked highly among liberal arts colleges in the U.S., reflecting its academic quality and emphasis on critical thinking and interdisciplinary education.

These qualities make Dickinson College a unique and respected institution in the liberal arts community, known for its forward-thinking approach to education, environmental leadership, and dedication to global and civic engagement.

Dickinson College has specific language requirements, both for admission (especially for international students) and as part of its curriculum:

1. Language Requirements for International Students

  • English Proficiency: International students applying to Dickinson College must demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized tests if English is not their first language. Accepted test scores include:
    • TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 90
    • IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0
    • Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum score of 115
  • Alternative Proof of Proficiency: If students have completed significant coursework in English or attended an English-speaking high school, they may request a waiver of these tests.

2. Second Language Requirement for All Students

  • General Education Requirement: As part of Dickinson’s commitment to global education, all students are required to achieve proficiency in a second language before graduation. This aligns with the college’s emphasis on global citizenship and intercultural understanding.
  • Proficiency Level: Students are typically expected to reach an intermediate level in a second language, either by taking language courses at Dickinson or demonstrating proficiency through placement tests or prior study.
  • Languages Offered: Languages available at Dickinson include Spanish, French, German, Italian, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, Arabic, and Latin. The college’s robust language programs and study-abroad opportunities allow students to deepen their language skills and cultural knowledge.

3. Study Abroad Language Preparation

  • Language Preparation for Study Abroad Programs: Dickinson’s emphasis on global studies includes immersive language experiences for students planning to study abroad. Many of the study abroad programs require language proficiency in the host country’s language, especially in non-English-speaking destinations.

In summary, Dickinson College requires English proficiency for international applicants and a second-language requirement for all students as part of its global education focus.

 

 

 

Dickinson College, a liberal arts college located in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, is known for its distinctive and interdisciplinary academic programs that emphasize global studies, sustainability, and civic engagement. Here are some of its standout course specialties:

1. International Studies and Foreign Languages

  • Dickinson is renowned for its strong focus on global education and offers a comprehensive International Studies program. This program includes a variety of regional concentrations such as European, Latin American, East Asian, and Middle Eastern Studies.
  • The college offers robust language programs, including French, German, Italian, Japanese, Russian, Arabic, and Chinese, with opportunities to study abroad and achieve fluency.

2. Environmental Science and Sustainability

  • Dickinson is widely recognized for its commitment to sustainability and environmental studies. Its Center for Sustainability Education and the College Farm provide hands-on learning experiences in sustainability, agriculture, and environmental management.
  • Environmental Science and Environmental Studies programs allow students to work on real-world projects related to climate change, renewable energy, and conservation.

3. Political Science and Policy Studies

  • The Political Science department at Dickinson is strong, offering courses in American politics, international relations, political theory, and public policy.
  • The program often intersects with the college's focus on global studies, allowing students to examine political issues from an international perspective.

4. International Business and Management

  • Dickinson’s International Business and Management program combines core business principles with a global perspective, including coursework in economics, management, finance, and marketing with an emphasis on international applications.
  • Students are encouraged to study abroad, enhancing their understanding of business in a global context, and often pursue minors in language or area studies.

5. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

  • The Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (BMB) program offers an interdisciplinary approach to the life sciences, blending biology and chemistry courses. This program is ideal for students interested in careers in health, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and research.

6. Security Studies

  • Dickinson’s Security Studies Certificate Program allows students to explore issues related to national and international security, including topics such as terrorism, cybersecurity, and intelligence.
  • This interdisciplinary program draws from courses in international relations, history, political science, and law, preparing students for careers in security and intelligence.

7. Philosophy and Interdisciplinary Humanities

  • Dickinson’s Philosophy program emphasizes critical thinking and ethical reasoning, often intersecting with other humanities disciplines. The college's commitment to interdisciplinary learning makes philosophy a popular choice for students interested in law, ethics, and social justice.

8. Data Analytics

  • A relatively new addition, the Data Analytics program equips students with the skills needed to interpret and analyze data, integrating coursework in computer science, mathematics, and statistics with applications in the social sciences and humanities.

9. Archaeology and Anthropology

  • Dickinson’s Archaeology program is among the few liberal arts college programs that offer hands-on field experience in archaeology. The college also has strong Anthropology offerings, with a focus on cultural, biological, and archaeological anthropology.

10. Creative Writing and Arts

  • Dickinson’s English department offers a popular Creative Writing concentration, allowing students to explore fiction, poetry, and nonfiction. The college’s fine arts programs, including studio art and art history, offer a well-rounded liberal arts approach to creativity and expression.

11. American Studies

  • Known for its interdisciplinary approach, the American Studies program allows students to explore American culture, history, politics, and literature, with a focus on themes such as race, gender, and social justice.

12. Law and Policy

  • The Law and Policy program at Dickinson offers a foundation in legal studies and public policy, preparing students for careers in law, public service, or governmental roles. The program integrates courses from various departments, emphasizing critical thinking and analysis of legal systems.

Dickinson’s blend of traditional liberal arts and interdisciplinary, globally focused programs gives students the opportunity to pursue their interests in unique and impactful ways, preparing them for a wide range of careers and graduate study paths.

While Dickinson College may not have specific "top professors" widely known in the global media like some major universities, it is known for its outstanding faculty who are dedicated to teaching, research, and mentoring. Many professors at Dickinson are highly regarded for their academic expertise, commitment to student success, and contributions to their fields. Here are some professors from various disciplines who have been recognized for their achievements:

1. Dr. Stephanie A. Kaza (Environmental Studies)

  • Dr. Kaza is a professor in the Environmental Studies department and has been influential in advancing the college's focus on sustainability. She is known for her work in environmental ethics and for integrating sustainability into the broader liberal arts curriculum. Her efforts have helped to position Dickinson as a leader in environmental education.

2. Dr. John M. Zaremba (Political Science)

  • Dr. Zaremba is an expert in political theory and American political development. His research often focuses on the intersections of political philosophy, history, and public policy. He is known for his engaging teaching style and his ability to make complex political concepts accessible to students.

3. Dr. Steven S. K. Tischer (Biology)

  • Dr. Tischer is a prominent faculty member in the Biology department, specializing in ecological research and environmental science. His work has contributed to Dickinson’s reputation in the biological sciences, particularly in conservation biology.

4. Dr. Alan T. Howes (Physics)

  • A professor of Physics, Dr. Howes is recognized for his work in science education and research in physics, particularly in the areas of computational modeling and environmental physics. His approach to teaching blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on experiences, encouraging student engagement in scientific research.

5. Dr. Daniel E. Franklin (English)

  • Dr. Franklin, a professor of English, specializes in American literature and culture. His classes emphasize critical thinking, close reading, and writing skills, and he is known for his strong student mentorship and dedication to fostering intellectual growth.

6. Dr. Marie-Therese Friel (French and Francophone Studies)

  • Dr. Friel is a key professor in the French and Francophone Studies department, where she teaches courses on French language, literature, and culture. Her research focuses on French literature and film, and she is highly regarded for her passionate approach to teaching and her role in enhancing the college's global studies programs.

7. Dr. Richard E. Lael (Economics)

  • Dr. Lael, who specializes in macroeconomics, development economics, and international trade, is known for his engaging lectures and his research on global economic issues. He has contributed to Dickinson’s reputation in the field of economics.

8. Dr. Heather E. Junqueira (Psychology)

  • Dr. Junqueira is a faculty member in the Psychology department, specializing in human behavior and developmental psychology. She is well-regarded for her innovative teaching methods and her work in applying psychological theory to real-world issues.

These professors are examples of Dickinson College’s dedicated faculty who are recognized for their academic contributions and their commitment to providing students with a high-quality education. While Dickinson may not have as many internationally famous figures as some larger institutions, its professors are respected within their fields for both their teaching and research.

Dickinson College itself does not have any faculty or alumni who have directly won a Nobel Prize. However, the college has a tradition of producing graduates who have made significant contributions to their fields, particularly in areas related to public service, environmental sustainability, international studies, and the sciences. While Nobel laureates are not directly associated with Dickinson, the college’s emphasis on global education, civic engagement, and interdisciplinary studies has produced influential leaders, scholars, and professionals.

Dickinson's strong liberal arts foundation provides students with the analytical and research skills that have enabled many alumni to pursue impactful careers in academia, policy, science, and the arts—fields in which Dickinson graduates have gained notable recognition. Moreover, the college’s faculty often collaborate with leading researchers and organizations worldwide, which contributes to its reputation as a respected institution within the liberal arts college community.