Waterfront liberal arts college in Florida with strong marine science and study abroad programs.
Eckerd offers Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, and Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees across 40+ majors, with marine biology, environmental studies, and psychology among the most popular. The college pioneered the 4-1-4 academic calendar, featuring a January Winter Term for concentrated study or study abroad. All students complete four years of general education across diverse fields, participate in reflective service-learning, and complete either a senior thesis or comprehensive exam. The college houses the Peter H. Armacost Library (250,000 volumes), Galbraith Marine Science Laboratory with seawater flow-through systems, and the James Center for Molecular and Life Sciences. Eckerd is one of the youngest colleges to receive a Phi Beta Kappa chapter and hosts the longest-running undergraduate-centered dolphin research program in the world.
The 188-acre suburban campus sits on Frenchman's Creek and Boca Ciega Bay, approximately 3 miles from Gulf of Mexico beaches. About 90% of students live in 12 on-campus residence hall complexes, many pet-friendly with a dedicated pet park and annual pet graduation ceremony. The Doyle Sailing Center, Helmar and Enole Nielsen Center for Visual Arts, and renovated student facilities support active waterfront programs including sailing, kayaking, and the award-winning Eckerd College Search and Rescue (EC-SAR) team. Student government distributes over $500,000 annually to 100+ clubs and organizations. The college maintains sustainability initiatives including solar power, bike-sharing, and plastic-reduction programs.
Eckerd accepts first-year, transfer, and international applicants. The college offers an innovative three-week Autumn Term orientation where new students take their first college course guided by faculty and peer mentors. On average, students travel 1,000 miles from home, representing roughly 48 states and 35 countries. The college reported its largest incoming class in fall 2021 with 718 first-year and transfer students. Within one year of graduation, 94% of students are employed or pursuing advanced degrees.
Eckerd graduates recover their investment in approximately five years. The average early-career salary is $64,400, with 90% earning their degree in four years or fewer. The college ranks #1 nationally for NOAA Hollings Scholars produced since 2005, #1 for short-term study abroad participation, and #3 among small schools for Peace Corps volunteer production. Notable alumni include artists, politicians, scientists, and athletes. The college is profiled in Loren Pope's 'Colleges That Change Lives' and The Princeton Review's Best 386 Colleges and Guide to Green Colleges.