Colby-Sawyer College
Sunapee, United States
Colby-Sawyer College
New London, United States
Founded
1837
Institution Type
Private
Total Students
~900
Acceptance Rate
82%
Discover Colby-Sawyer College: A Historic Liberal Arts Institution in New Hampshire
Discover Colby-Sawyer College: A Historic Liberal Arts Institution in New Hampshire
Colby-Sawyer College is a private liberal arts and sciences college located in the scenic Lake Sunapee Region of central New Hampshire. Founded in 1837 as the New London Academy, it sits on a 200-acre campus and offers a close-knit academic community with an average class size of 19 students.
The college offers nearly 50 undergraduate and graduate programs across three schools: Arts and Sciences, Business and Social Sciences, and Nursing and Health Sciences. Every student at Colby-Sawyer completes at least one internship in their field of study, gaining hands-on work experience and making valuable professional connections.
Colby-Sawyer emphasizes experiential learning through small, interactive classes, field experience opportunities, and required Capstone projects. The college partners with Dartmouth-Hitchcock Health, providing experiential learning and job placement opportunities in nursing, exercise science, administration, and more.
Key Milestones
- 1837: Founded as the New London Academy, a coeducational secondary school in New London, New Hampshire
- 1928: Became a junior college for women under the leadership of President H. Leslie Sawyer
- 1975: Adopted the name Colby-Sawyer College and transitioned to a four-year institution
- 1989: Board of Trustees voted to return to coeducation, admitting both men and women
Academic Structure and Programs at Colby-Sawyer College
Academic Structure and Programs at Colby-Sawyer College
Colby-Sawyer College organizes its academic offerings across three distinct schools, providing approximately 50 undergraduate and graduate programs. The college blends professional preparation with a liberal arts foundation, and every undergraduate earns a Liberal Education and Professionalization (LEAP) minor.
School of Arts and Sciences
Committed to engaging students in firsthand inquiry and analysis, this school develops skilled collaborators, communicators, and thinkers through experiential learning.
- Biology
- Environmental Studies
- English and Creative Writing
School of Business and Social Sciences
Focuses on understanding people and building sustainable communities and businesses through productive, data-driven research, leadership, and promoting change.
- Business Administration
- Psychology
- Sport Management
School of Nursing and Health Sciences
Houses nursing programs, public health, exercise science, and athletic training with a partnership with Dartmouth-Hitchcock Health for clinical placements and job opportunities.
- Nursing (BSN and ABSN)
- Exercise Science
- Public Health
Graduate Programs
Colby-Sawyer offers select graduate and professional programs designed for working professionals, including advanced nursing and business degrees.
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Arts and Communication Programs
Emphasizes creativity, technical skills, and effective communication through studio art, graphic design, and communication studies programs.
- Graphic Design
- Studio Art
- Communication Studies
Education and Child Development
Prepares future educators through hands-on teaching practica and the college's historic Windy Hill School child study lab, established in 1976.
- Early Childhood Education
- Child Development
- Physical Education Teaching and Coaching
Admission Requirements for Colby-Sawyer College
Admission Requirements for Colby-Sawyer College
Undergraduate Admissions
- Application PlatformCommon Application accepted; no application fee
- High School GPARequired; average admitted GPA is approximately 3.3
- High School TranscriptRequired with college preparatory coursework recommended
- SAT/ACT ScoresTest-blind admissions policy; scores are not considered
- Recommended Prep4 years English, 3 years math, 3 years lab science, 3 years social science, 2 years same language
Graduate Admissions
- Bachelor's DegreeRequired from an accredited institution
- TranscriptsOfficial transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
- Professional ExperienceVaries by program; clinical experience may be required for nursing programs
- English ProficiencyTOEFL or IELTS required for non-native English speakers
- Additional MaterialsResume, personal statement, and references may be required depending on the program
Apply by this date to be considered for the Early Action Award and priority financial aid packaging.
Colby-Sawyer uses rolling admissions, so applications are reviewed as they are received throughout the year.
Submit your FAFSA by this date for priority consideration for need-based financial aid and institutional grants.
Final deadline for fall enrollment; late applications may be considered on a space-available basis.
Tuition, Fees, and Scholarship Opportunities
Tuition, Fees, and Scholarship Opportunities
Colby-Sawyer College is recognized as one of the more affordable private colleges in New England. The college provides generous financial support, with 83% of enrolled students receiving grants or scholarships.
| Cost Category | On-Campus Resident | Commuter/Off-Campus |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | USD 19,600 | USD 19,600 |
| Room and Board | USD 18,814 | N/A |
| Books and Supplies | USD 1,000 (est.) | USD 1,000 (est.) |
| Personal and Transportation | USD 525 (est.) | Contact the college for details |
| Total | USD 39,939 (est.) | Contact the college for details |
Merit-Based Scholarships
Colby-Sawyer offers merit-based awards to recognize academic achievement, leadership, and talent. These scholarships are automatically considered during the admissions review process.
- Eligibility: Based on academic record and achievements
- Application: Automatically considered upon admission
- Renewable: Yes, with satisfactory academic progress
Need-Based Financial Aid
Approximately 63% of first-year students receive need-based financial aid. Students must complete the FAFSA to be considered for federal and institutional need-based grants.
- Average Aid Amount: USD 11,464 per student
- Percentage Receiving Aid: 83% of enrolled undergraduates
- International Students: Aid available for international students; contact admissions for details
Campus and Facilities at Colby-Sawyer College
Campus and Facilities at Colby-Sawyer College
Colby-Sawyer College sits on a beautiful 200-acre campus in the rural town of New London, New Hampshire, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Lake Sunapee region. The campus features a blend of historic and modern facilities designed to support academic, athletic, and residential life.
The central classroom and office building on campus, a gift from the Colgate family with deep ties to the college's founding.
A state-of-the-art facility housing science labs and classrooms for biology, environmental studies, and health sciences.
The main athletic complex supporting intercollegiate, intramural, and recreational sports programs for all students.
Housing and Dining
Residential Life
Most students live on campus in a variety of housing options including traditional residence halls, apartment-style living, and duplex housing.
- Traditional residence halls including Danforth and Lawson Halls
- Apartment-style and duplex housing for upperclassmen
- Special interest and cooperative housing options available
Dining and Recreation
Campus dining options and the Lethbridge Lodge provide students with unique dining and recreational experiences in a welcoming environment.
- Lethbridge Lodge for dining and recreation
- Ware Student Center for social and campus events
- Davidow Center for Art and Design with studio spaces
Student Life at Colby-Sawyer College
Student Life at Colby-Sawyer College
With a community of under 1,000 students, Colby-Sawyer offers a tight-knit campus experience where students build close relationships with peers and faculty. The college provides a range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and outdoor recreation opportunities in the scenic New Hampshire landscape.
New London, New Hampshire: A Scenic College Town
New London, New Hampshire: A Scenic College Town
Life in New London
New London is a small, safe New England town offering a quaint atmosphere surrounded by natural beauty including Mount Kearsarge and nearby beaches. While the town has limited urban amenities, it provides a peaceful environment ideal for focused study and outdoor recreation.
Lake Sunapee Region
Enjoy boating, swimming, fishing, and scenic lake views just minutes from campus in one of New Hampshire's most picturesque areas.
Mount Kearsarge
A popular hiking destination offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding region, accessible year-round for outdoor enthusiasts.
Proximity to Major Cities
Located approximately 50 miles from Manchester and 100 miles from Boston, with bus service and access to Manchester-Boston Regional Airport.
Four-Season Recreation
The area offers skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in winter, plus hiking, cycling, and water sports in warmer months.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Where Colby-Sawyer Graduates Work
Practical Information for Prospective Students
Practical Information for Prospective Students
For International Students
International applicants whose first language is not English must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores. Contact the admissions office for minimum score requirements.
Colby-Sawyer offers aid for international students and provides support services to help with the transition to studying in the United States.
The college assists admitted international students with I-20 documentation and guidance through the F-1 student visa process.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Colby-Sawyer College Rankings
Colby-Sawyer College Rankings
Colby-Sawyer College is recognized for its quality liberal arts education and student-centered approach. The college is ranked among the top regional colleges in the northern United States by U.S. News and World Report.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Nursing | Colby-Sawyer's nursing program is recognized for its partnership with Dartmouth Health and strong clinical preparation. | Contact the college for current data |
| Business Administration | Accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), emphasizing practical business knowledge. | ACBSP Accredited |
| Environmental Studies | Takes advantage of the college's 200-acre campus and surrounding natural environment for hands-on field research. | Contact the college for current data |
| Exercise Science and Athletic Training | Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) for rigorous professional preparation. | CAATE Accredited |
Features
Colby-Sawyer College is a private liberal arts and sciences institution in New Hampshire offering 46 undergraduate and graduate programs, known for its experiential learning, including 100% student internship participation and Learning Portfolios. The college features a student-centered approach on a 200-acre campus within the scenic Lake Sunapee Region, emphasizing small class sizes (average 19 students) and stron faculty mentorship, with a focus on developing responsible global citizens. Key features include hands-on labs for nursing and health sciences, a tradition of Mountain Day, and commitment to outdoor activities facilitated by its picturesque location. Academic & Experiential Features\nExperiential Learning:All students participate in at least one internship in their field of study and create Learning Portfolios to demonstrate their progress. \nHands-on Learning:The School of Nursing & Health Sciences offers specialized labs, including nursing simulation, human
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
January - December
Location
Nestled in the scenic Lake Sunapee region of New Hampshire, Colby-Sawyer College offers international students a picturesque campus environment surrounded by natural beauty. The college's campus features historic architecture, landscaped grounds, and stunning views of Mount Kearsarge and Lake Sunapee. International students can explore outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, skiing, and boating in the local area and cultural attractions such as art galleries, museums, and theatres. The campus is approximately 90 minutes from the nearest major airport, Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, providing convenient access for international travel.
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