| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Rhodes College is a private liberal arts college located in Memphis, Tennessee, USA. Known for its academic rigor, beautiful Gothic-style campus, and a strong focus on community engagement, Rhodes offers a personalized undergraduate experience rooted in the liberal arts tradition.
Founded: 1848 (originally as the Masonic University of Tennessee)
Type: Private, Liberal Arts College
Location: Memphis, Tennessee
Campus Size: 100 acres, tree-lined, Gothic architecture
Enrollment: ~2,000 undergraduate students
Student-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Motto: "Truth, Loyalty, Service"
Rhodes offers only undergraduate programs with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, research, and real-world experience.
Popular Majors:
Biology
Business
Political Science
Psychology
English
Computer Science
International Studies
Neuroscience
Urban Studies
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Degree Awarded: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
Rhodes welcomes international students and offers:
Need-aware financial aid
Strong advising for global students
Optional Practical Training (OPT) and internship support
Over 100 student clubs and organizations
Active Greek life (fraternities and sororities)
Cultural, service, and academic organizations
NCAA Division III athletics (Southern Athletic Association)
Strong traditions and community events
Urban campus located in a historic district of Memphis
Close ties with local institutions like St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, nonprofits, and arts organizations
Great food, music, and cultural scene
Ranked among Top 50 National Liberal Arts Colleges (U.S. News)
Highly rated for undergraduate teaching and best value
Recognized for beautiful campus and civic engagement
Over 75% of students complete internships
Strong placement into grad school, med school, law school, and employment
Popular post-grad employers: St. Jude, FedEx, government agencies, and top grad schools
Art (Studio Art or Art History)
English
Greek and Roman Studies (Classical Studies)
History
Modern Languages and Literatures (French, German, Spanish)
Music
Philosophy
Religious Studies
Theatre
Anthropology and Sociology
Business (Commerce and Business)
Economics
Educational Studies
International Studies
Political Science
Psychology
Urban Studies
Biology
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Chemistry
Computer Science
Environmental Science
Environmental Studies
Mathematics
Neuroscience
Physics
Africana Studies
Asian Studies
Gender and Sexuality Studies
Political Economy
Media Studies
Educational Studies
Urban Studies
Environmental Studies and Sciences
Interdisciplinary Humanities
Most majors also offer a corresponding minor, and students are encouraged to double major or combine majors and minors across disciplines.
Rhodes does not offer professional degrees (like law or medicine), but it has strong pre-professional programs, including:
Pre-Medical
Pre-Dental
Pre-Law
Pre-Engineering (3-2 programs with partner universities)
Pre-Veterinary
Pre-Pharmacy
Honors Program
Summer Research Fellowships
Study Abroad (40+ countries)
Fellowships with local institutions like St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Biology |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
Chemistry |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
Computer Science |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
Environmental Science |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
Environmental Studies |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
Mathematics |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
Neuroscience |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
Physics |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
Anthropology and Sociology |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
Business (Commerce and Business) |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
Economics |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
Educational Studies |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
International Studies |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
Political Science |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
Psychology |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
Urban Studies |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
Art (Studio Art / Art History) |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
English |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
Greek and Roman Studies |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
History |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
Modern Languages (French, German, Spanish) |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
Music |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
Philosophy |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
Religious Studies |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
Theatre |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
Gender and Sexuality Studies |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
Africana Studies |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
Asian Studies |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
Media Studies |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
Interdisciplinary Humanities |
4 years |
$54,250 |
|
Political Economy |
4 years |
$54,250 |
Offers Bachelor’s degree programs (B.A. and B.S.) across arts, sciences, and interdisciplinary fields.
Strong in pre-med, pre-law, international studies, business, and sciences.
Emphasis on critical thinking, global awareness, and research.
Office of International Programs (OIP) offers:
F-1 visa support and immigration advising
Pre-arrival and orientation programs
Ongoing advising for cultural and academic adjustment
International Student Ambassadors and student orgs like Rhodes International Student Association (RISA) help create community.
Apply via Common Application
Required documents:
Official secondary/high school transcripts (translated if needed)
School report and counselor recommendation
Teacher recommendation
English Proficiency Test (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test)
Personal essay and optional résumé
SAT/ACT: Optional (test-optional policy)
Application Fee: $50 (can be waived)
Merit-based scholarships available to international students (ranging from $5,000 to full tuition)
Rhodes also offers limited need-based aid for internationals (submit CSS Profile if applying)
No separate scholarship application required for most awards
Diverse campus community with over 30+ countries represented
Global engagement through courses, events, and study abroad opportunities
Active cultural clubs, including:
Rhodes International Student Association (RISA)
Asian Student Association
African Student Association
Global Café events
Urban setting with access to arts, music, business, and nonprofits
Close partnerships with organizations like St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
A great balance of Southern hospitality and global opportunity
Small class sizes and personalized attention
Globally focused liberal arts curriculum
Strong pre-professional preparation
Scholarships available
Inclusive, supportive international community
Choose Your Application Platform
Rhodes accepts applications through the Common Application. You’ll create an account and fill out the application online.
Pick Your Admission Plan
You can apply under one of the following:
Early Decision I (binding) – November 1
Early Action (non-binding) – November 15
Early Decision II (binding) – January 15
Regular Decision – January 15
Prepare and Submit Required Documents
Official high school transcript (translated into English if needed)
School report and counselor recommendation
One teacher recommendation
Personal essay (via Common App)
English proficiency test scores – Required if English is not your native language (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test)
SAT or ACT scores – Optional; you can apply test-free
Submit Financial Documents (if applying for aid)
International students applying for need-based financial aid must submit the CSS Profile
Merit scholarships are automatically considered with your application
Optional Interview
Rhodes offers optional virtual interviews, which are especially helpful for international applicants. It’s a great way to demonstrate interest and ask questions.
Track Your Application After you apply, you’ll get access to the Rhodes applicant portal where you can track the status of your materials and see your admission decision once it’s released.
Receive Your Decision
Early Decision I: Mid-December
Early Action: Late December
Early Decision II: Mid-February
Regular Decision: Late March
Confirm Enrollment
Accepted students must confirm by May 1 (or earlier if applying through Early Decision)
Write a compelling and personal essay that shows your passions and character.
Demonstrate involvement in extracurriculars, leadership, or community work.
Take the interview if offered—it adds a personal touch to your application.
Show your interest in Rhodes specifically (why it’s a good fit for you).
Rhodes College offers one main intake per year for undergraduate students:
Fall Intake (August start) – This is the only entry point for new students.
Application Plans & Deadlines:
Early Decision I (Binding) – November 1
Early Action (Non-binding) – November 15
Early Decision II (Binding) – January 15
Regular Decision – January 15
Rhodes does not offer Spring or Summer intakes for first-year applicants.
Rhodes has a holistic and inclusive admission policy. Students from all academic systems (IB, A-Levels, national curriculums, AP, etc.) are welcome to apply.
Must have completed (or be completing) secondary education equivalent to U.S. high school diploma
Strong academic performance in core subjects (math, science, literature, languages, social sciences)
Rigor of curriculum is considered (e.g., IB, AP, A-levels, or honors courses are a plus)
Required for applicants whose first language is not English:
TOEFL iBT: 80+ recommended
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo English Test: 110+
Waivers are possible if you attended an English-medium school for several years
Test-Optional: SAT or ACT scores are not required
If submitted, strong scores can support your application, but Rhodes equally values academic records, essays, and recommendations
Personal essay (via Common App)
Counselor recommendation and school report
One teacher recommendation
Optional résumé or list of extracurriculars
Optional interview (especially recommended for international students)
Ranking Agency |
Category |
Rhodes College Ranking/Rating |
|---|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Global University Rankings |
Not Ranked (liberal arts colleges are typically excluded) |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
National Liberal Arts Colleges |
Ranked in the Top 55 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Best Undergraduate Teaching |
Ranked among the Top 25 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Best Value Schools |
Ranked in the Top 35 |
|
Forbes |
Top Colleges in the U.S. |
Ranked in the Top 200 overall |
|
Niche.com |
Best Liberal Arts Colleges in America |
Grade: A; Ranked in Top 100 |
Scholarship Name |
Type |
Eligibility |
Award Amount (USD/year) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Merit-Based Scholarships |
Merit |
All applicants (U.S. & international) |
$10,000 – Full Tuition |
Automatically considered with application; no separate form needed |
|
Cambridge Scholarship |
Merit |
Top applicants with academic distinction |
Up to Full Tuition |
Highly competitive; renewable for 4 years |
|
Bellingrath Scholarship |
Merit |
Exceptional students from any background |
Full Tuition + Room & Board |
Covers nearly full cost; awarded to a few top candidates |
|
International Student Scholarships |
Merit / Need |
International students |
(up to full tuition) |
May require CSS Profile for need-based component |
|
Fine Arts Scholarships |
Talent-based |
Art, Music, or Theatre majors/minors |
$2,000 – $12,500 |
Requires audition or portfolio submission |
|
Bonner Scholars Program |
Need + Service |
U.S. students with high financial need |
Full Need + Service Stipend |
Must commit to community service; limited spots |
|
Rhodes Fellowships & Awards |
Academic / Research |
Enrolled students pursuing research or internships |
N/A |
Available after enrollment; competitive opportunities |
Facility / Feature |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Campus Size |
100 acres – Historic Gothic-style campus in Memphis, Tennessee |
|
Residential Requirement |
On-campus housing required for first 3 years (with few exceptions) |
|
Number of Residence Halls |
13 residence halls |
|
Room Types Available |
Singles, Doubles, Suites, Apartment-style housing |
|
Special Housing Options |
First-Year Experience halls, Language houses, Substance-free halls |
|
Common Amenities |
Furnished rooms, Wi-Fi, study lounges, kitchenettes, laundry, A/C |
|
Safety & Access |
24/7 campus security, card-key access, live-in RAs and housing staff |
|
Dining Services |
Full meal plans available at The Refectory (campus dining hall) |
Students at Rhodes are intellectually curious and collaborative. With small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, the academic environment encourages discussion, critical thinking, and hands-on learning. Many students take part in research as early as their first year and work closely with professors on projects in science, the humanities, and social sciences.
Rhodes has a residential campus, meaning most students live on campus and enjoy a strong sense of community. Residence halls are designed to promote interaction, and themed housing options help connect students with similar interests, like service, sustainability, or global cultures.
Students come from across the U.S. and around the world. The college supports inclusion through various student organizations and cultural groups. Offices like the Multicultural Affairs Office and International Programs ensure all students feel welcomed and supported.
There are 100+ student clubs at Rhodes—ranging from academic societies and cultural groups to Greek life, music ensembles, theatre productions, student government, and social justice orgs. If a club doesn’t exist, students are encouraged to start their own.
The arts thrive on campus. Rhodes has a strong performing arts presence, with student-run plays, dance shows, and musical performances throughout the year. The McCoy Theatre and music department offer opportunities for majors and non-majors alike.
Rhodes competes in NCAA Division III, with varsity sports like football, basketball, tennis, track, and swimming. There are also intramural and club sports, fitness classes, and a recreation center open to all students. The college promotes a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
Being in Memphis adds a unique layer to student life. Students intern, volunteer, and explore the city's music, food, and cultural scenes. Rhodes emphasizes service learning, so many classes connect directly to real-world projects in the community.
Rhodes has fun campus traditions like Lynxstock (a spring music festival), Homecoming Weekend, and Midnight Breakfast during finals. There's a strong sense of school spirit and pride in being part of the Rhodes community.
Graduate School Placement
A significant percentage of Rhodes graduates pursue further studies in prestigious institutions like Harvard, Yale, and Vanderbilt.
Strong pre-professional advising for medical, law, and business schools.
Internships and Experiential Learning
Rhodes has strong connections with Memphis-based organizations, including St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, FedEx, AutoZone, and International Paper.
Many students secure internships that lead to full-time jobs.
Job Placement & Employers Hiring Rhodes Graduates
Graduates find employment in diverse fields such as finance, healthcare, government, technology, and education.
Major recruiters include Amazon, Deloitte, Teach for America, Goldman Sachs, and local Memphis businesses.
Alumni Network & Career Services
Rhodes College has a strong alumni network that helps students with mentorship and job connections.
The Career Services Office provides resume reviews, interview coaching, and job search assistance.
Top Career Fields for Graduates
Business & Consulting
Healthcare & Medical Research
Law & Public Policy
Technology & Data Science
Education & Nonprofits
Rhodes Edge Program: Integrates academics with career development.
Mock Interviews & Resume Workshops: Prepares students for competitive job markets.
On-Campus Recruitment: Companies visit campus for networking and hiring events.
The acceptance rate at Rhodes College is around 45-50%, making it a moderately selective institution. This means that while admission is competitive, strong academic performance and a well-rounded application can significantly improve your chances of getting in.
Acceptance Rate: ~45-50%
Average GPA of Admitted Students: 3.7 - 4.0 (on a 4.0 scale)
SAT Score Range (Middle 50%): 1220 - 1400
ACT Score Range (Middle 50%): 26 - 31
Test-Optional Policy: Rhodes is test-optional, meaning SAT/ACT scores are not required but can be submitted to strengthen an application.
Academic Performance: Strong GPA and rigorous coursework (AP, IB, Honors).
Extracurricular Activities: Leadership roles, community service, internships, or research.
Essays & Recommendations: A compelling personal statement and strong letters of recommendation.
Demonstrated Interest: Visiting campus, engaging with admissions events, or contacting faculty can help.
2000 North Parkway, Memphis, TN 38112, USA
Beautiful Collegiate Gothic Architecture
120-acre campus with tree-lined pathways and historic buildings
Located near Downtown Memphis, providing access to cultural, business, and research opportunities
Close to major landmarks like the Memphis Zoo, Overton Park, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
