Explore Carleton
The character of Carleton is the blend of rigor and good humor that permeates everything we do. It fosters depth, creativity, and compassion, both inside the classroom and out. We are joyfully competitive — more likely to inspire one another than jockey for favor. It is what we’re all about: passionate pursuits among friends.
The character of Carleton is the blend of rigor and good humor that permeates everything we do. It fosters depth, creativity, and compassion, both inside the classroom and out. We are joyfully competitive — more likely to inspire one another than jockey for favor. It is what we’re all about: passionate pursuits among friends.
Ground-Level Research on Carbon Removal
Dan Maxbauer, assistant professor of geology, is trialing carbon removal geochemistry right next to the Arboretum.
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Envisioning the Carleton of 2033
Learn more about the early successes of Carleton's latest Strategic Plan
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To Be Young, Gifted, and Black
As Ebony II—now Synchrony II—turns 50, Debra McCray ’76 reflects on dance, race, and magic.
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Ghost in the Machine
Carleton’s leaders, librarians, and technologists weigh in on the impact of AI on campus.
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Charting the Course
Martín Ahumada ’77 is helping map new terrains in Indigenous higher ed.
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Rigorous Generosity
Artistic Excellence and Community Engagement Meld in Empty Bowls’ 20th Edition
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Mediating Democracy
Leading up to the 2024 Election, Carleton alumni journalists share how they cover important news.
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From Northfield to Selma
A Carleton Spring Break tour links civil rights history with the struggle for equality today.
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Fundraising for the Future
Dennis Quirin’s ’95 philanthropic work changes young people’s lives, and the world they will inherit, for the better.
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A Liberal Arts College Like No Other
You’re not a cookie-cutter student and you don’t want a cookie-cutter school. Carleton takes the best things the other top schools have to offer — and does them better. Let us show you how.
Exceptional Liberal Arts
Evolution of a Scholar
Maybe you already know what major — or even career — you want to pursue. Once you get to Carleton, you might change your mind: get ready to follow your passions wherever they lead.
Shelve your preconceptions
Trimesters
By offering three terms per year instead of two, Carleton allows students to take more classes during their four years. Taking just three courses per term allows you to dig deeply into the material.
Who needs semesters?
Off-Campus Studies
More than 70 percent of Carleton students study abroad. With more than 20 Carleton-led programs, low fees, and straightforward credit transfers from outside programs, we make the world your classroom.
Go global
We've Got Your Back
No one at Carleton goes it alone. From your faculty adviser to your RA to your classmates and friends, you’ll find a supportive community of people who want you to succeed.
Support for Student Success
Standout Faculty
Our professors are brilliant thinkers, diligent researchers, and prolific artists. But above all, they’re passionate about teaching. They’ll challenge you, support you, and encourage you. We think they’ll inspire you, too.
Meet our talented teachers
Career Center
Career Center programming starts your first year. Exploratory programs dive into different fields. Networking activities connect you with alumni. Internship and externship opportunities give you real-world experience.
Turn your dreams into reality
Academic Support
Even the smartest students ask for help. If you want to practice a presentation, polish your writing, or conquer a problem set, you’ll find the support you need to do your best work.
Find a helping hand
Outside of the Classroom
Carleton students work hard, but they like to have fun, too. We have hundreds of student clubs and organizations, so you can keep doing the things you love — or, better yet, try something new!
Campus Life
Clubs & Organizations
Chances are we’ve got your interests covered among our 200 student organizations. Whether you’re continuing a favorite hobby or discovering something new, you’ll find ways to get involved.
Check out our clubs
Living on Campus
Living on a residential campus has many perks. Your friends are always nearby. Something interesting is usually happening a few yards from your front door. And getting to class never takes longer than 10 minutes.
Get ready to live more
Staying Active
It’s easy to be active at Carleton. Join a varsity, club, or intramural team, explore the 800-acre arboretum, or swim laps in the pool. You’ll find plenty of places to play on campus.
Play on
After Carleton, Always Carleton
Carls for life! As soon as you enroll here, you’ll join a network of alumni who will be your mentors and allies forever. Don’t believe us? Put on a Carleton sweatshirt. Go anywhere in the world. Watch what happens.
After Graduation