Private liberal arts college in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley, founded 1880, emphasizing connections and character.
Bridgewater College offers over 60 undergraduate majors and minors, awarding Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees. The college is organized into three schools: Rhodes School of Arts and Humanities, Coffman School of Natural Sciences, and Nolen School of Business and Professional Studies. Graduate programs include Master of Science in Human Resource Management, Master of Arts in Digital Media Strategy, Master of Science in Athletic Training, and Master of Arts in Nonprofit Management. The college emphasizes faculty mentorship, hands-on research, study abroad opportunities through May Term Travel Courses, and the Flory Honors Program with limited enrollment seminars.
Bridgewater's 1,450-student community is situated in the scenic Shenandoah Valley between the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains. The college features small class sizes, residential housing, dining services, and extensive extracurricular opportunities including athletics, theatre, music, clubs, and organizations. The historic campus includes five brick collegiate buildings constructed before 1911, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Students participate in traditions such as Founder's Day and Homecoming, and benefit from a tight-knit residential community designed to foster meaningful connections.
Bridgewater College admits first-year, transfer, graduate, and international students. The college reports that 100% of first-year, full-time students receive financial assistance. Graduate programs feature rolling admissions and flexible scheduling to accommodate working professionals. The college emphasizes accessibility and transparency in pricing, positioning itself as offering a private college experience at a public college price. A net price calculator is available for prospective students.
The Center for Career Development provides comprehensive resources including individualized career counseling, internship development, resume writing, and job search support. Students conduct research with faculty, participate in internships throughout the region, and develop professional skills through capstone projects and clinical experiences. The college emphasizes preparing graduates for professional accomplishment and personal fulfillment with a sense of purpose to make a difference in their communities.