2020-2021 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
    Dec 09, 2024  
2020-2021 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

The College


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Academics

Student Life

Study Abroad

Athletics

Riding

Calendar of Events

Membership Organizations

Sweet Briar College grants the Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Fine Arts and Master of Arts in Teaching. The College offers 17 majors, including self-designed and interdisciplinary options, as well as other programs of study. Students create and learn with exceptional faculty, most of whom hold a doctorate or the appropriate terminal degree. A 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio ensures that classes are small and each student’s educational program is customized.

Each academic year consists of two semesters; each semester consists of a 3-week short term and a 12-week long term. During our 3-week short terms, students take just one class, giving them the chance to delve deeply into a topic, conduct research with a faculty member, take part in an internship or study abroad. The College strongly encourages study abroad through a wide variety of approved international programs.

Students are guided in the pursuit of special interests, not only in academic coursework, but also through internships, research opportunities, summer fellowships, service experiences and independent study.

Sweet Briar is a residential community. Sweet Briar women are engaged in more than 20 student-led and -managed organizations - everything from art and musical groups to student publications and cultural awareness organizations. Students develop strong leadership skills through myriad activities, such as club participation, holding an office in the Student Government Association and joining or leading Sweet Briar Outdoor Program outings. Many students take part in volunteer service projects during school terms and vacations, putting these skills to work.

Nearly 25% of Sweet Briar students play sports at the varsity level. The College is a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division III and competes in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC). The College’s riding program is recognized as one of the best collegiate programs in the nation.

Sweet Briar College offers cultural events throughout the year, including plays, concerts, theater and dance performances presented by students and faculty as well as visiting artists and lecturers. These, as well as sports events, are open to the general public and are free of charge for students except in rare cases. The College’s art galleries and museum serve both as resources for the surrounding community and as laboratories for students in arts management and related fields.