by Dave Best
Located in Annandale on Hudson, about two hours north of Manhattan, Bard College is firmly committed to the liberal arts and views itself as “A Place to Think.” In fact, on their website it states that Bard students are “held to the highest possible standard of intellectual achievement.” Bard does not view college as a place for pre-professional education, but rather “learning for its own sake.” Bard has an optional Entrance Examination that enables students to bypass standardized tests and admissions processes. This essay test engages applicants with essays in three categories (Social Science, History and Philosophy; Arts and Literature; and Science and Mathematics) requiring four of 12 questions with 2,500 word for each essay.
Academic
At Bard, students pursue interdisciplinary, individualized programs of study. Bard’s core curriculum ensures students receive a broad academic foundation with particular emphasis on writing, the sciences, and mastering the tools of scholarly inquiry. Some unique offerings include 3+2 programs in Environmental Policy, Teaching or Economics as well as programs that lead to masters at Duke, Columbia or Dartmouth following their Junior Year at Bard. Bard’s Conservatory of Music confers a dual bachelor degree and study with some of the top performing artists and teachers from New York City.
Social Life
Bard is a diverse school and not known for school spirit. Walking the campus it almost has a garage band vibe, and in fact Steely Dan was formed there many years ago. There are unusual student clubs like a Yo-Yo club, Bollywood Dance Club, Samba School, Bard Prison Initiative Student Association, and The Stogie Society. All Bard freshman and sophomores live on campus.
Environment
Annandale on Hudson is a Hamlet in Dutchess County, New York which is somewhat rural but in range to the Metro North train line which connects to Manhattan. Bard’s 1000-acre campus is high above the Hudson River offering some very scenic views. A key architectural highlight is the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts which is a beautiful yet eclectic theater designed by famed architect Frank Gehry. Bard recently purchased the 380-acre Montgomery Place with its mansion, farm and smaller buildings which significantly expanded the campus.
And one more thing…
President Leon Botstein has led Bard for more than 40 years. Botstein is also the music director and principal conductor of the American Symphony Orchestra. The ASO performs at Carnegie Hall as well the Bard Music Festival at Bard. Botstein is passionate about classical music and is also an innovator in education. He has launched innovative early colleges and the Bard Prison Initiative.
By the Numbers
Undergraduate Population: 2,023
Acceptance Rate: 34%
Average ACT / SAT (new) scores: test optional options
Student-faculty ratio: 10:1
4-year graduation rate: 69%
US News Ranking: 49 National Liberal Arts Colleges (2017)
Tuition: $51,384
