Elmira College

New York

A fine, old private College with a tradition of excellence

After fifteen decades of excellence, Elmira College remains rooted in the liberal arts and sciences, enriching its students’ inquiry and analysis of their world, communication skills, and civic and ethical responsibility. Elmira College remains a private residential college, where students follow in the footsteps of the many who came before. In addition to a challenging academic schedule, students take part in numerous clubs and activities, several signature graduation requirements and in many traditions. In fact, it is the traditions of the College, more than any other aspect, that unite the College community and provide a link between our current students and the generations of thousands of alumni worldwide. Few colleges pay more homage to history than Elmira College, and fewer yet practice time-honored traditions.

The College’s 12:1 student-faculty ratio allows the academic experience to be both rigorous and individualized. No classes are taught by teaching assistants. The academic program at the College brings highly-qualified faculty and excellent students together in a learning community second to none. More than one-third of the student body studies abroad or off-campus with Elmira College professors during the distinctive six-week spring term. Small classes and close relationships with faculty and administrators contribute greatly to the success of the students at Elmira College, and in their careers after graduation.

The Freshman Writing Program, required of all students who enter as freshmen, is designed to improve the writing and communications skills of each student. The program includes a one-on-one tutorial with an experienced writing lecturer.

A sixty-hour community service requirement prepares graduates to make significant contributions to society and to enjoy successful careers. The College requires every student to complete a 240-hour career-related internship. Elmira College students experience incredible success upon completion of their four years on campus. Ninety-seven percent of June graduates to secure jobs in their desired field of employment or enter graduate or professional school by Labor Day each year.

Committed to the residential college experience, on-campus housing is guaranteed all four years for undergraduates. This creates an outstanding residential environment, fostering social growth and academic success. Involvement in activities and athletics is enhanced by living with friends who also become active participants.  After the freshman year, students may select from a variety of housing options including suites, apartments, single rooms and campus houses. As freshmen, students live in traditional housing, which requires having a roommate for the first year. Each dormitory is supervised by a Residence Life Coordinator, an extensively-trained professional staff member who oversee all aspects of daily life in the dorms.

Elmira College boasts an extremely successful athletics tradition. Students at the College are actively involved in a myriad of athletic and recreational activities, ranging from the intense competition of our varsity sports to the excitement of white-water rafting and other club trips. Students pursue these opportunities with vigor and enthusiasm, creating an atmosphere of vitality at the College. Intercollegiate teams compete at the NCAA Division III level. Annually, the Soaring Eagles compete against Middlebury, Williams, Hamilton, Union, Clarkson, St. Bonaventure, Vassar, Hobart-William Smith, University of Rochester, Colgate, Ithaca, and Bowdoin to name a few.

Admissions

Questions about the application process should be directed to the Office of Admissions at 1 (800) 935-6472 or admissions@elmira.edu.

Visits to Elmira College’s "postcard-picture perfect campus" can be arranged through the Office of Admissions, as well.