| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Founded: 1696 (as King William’s School, renamed St. John’s College in 1784).
Locations:
Annapolis Campus: Located in Maryland’s capital, near Washington, D.C., and Baltimore.
Santa Fe Campus: Located in the high desert of New Mexico, surrounded by stunning natural landscapes.
Type: Private liberal arts college.
Motto: Facio liberos ex liberis libris libraque ("I make free men from children by means of books and a balance").
Student Population: Approximately 800 students split between the two campuses.
Faculty-to-Student Ratio: 7:1, ensuring a highly personalized learning experience.
Admissions: Holistic and test-optional, with a focus on intellectual curiosity and a passion for learning.
The academic program at St. John’s is centered around the Great Books, a selection of works that have shaped Western thought. This unique approach emphasizes reading, discussion, and critical analysis.
Interdisciplinary Focus: Students study literature, philosophy, history, political science, theology, mathematics, science, music, and language.
Seminars: Classes are discussion-based, with an average of 20 students per seminar.
No Majors or Minors: All students follow the same curriculum.
Original Texts: Instead of textbooks, students engage directly with works by authors such as Homer, Plato, Aristotle, Shakespeare, Newton, Darwin, and Einstein.
Languages: Students study Ancient Greek and French.
Intellectual Community:
Students and faculty (referred to as “tutors”) engage in deep discussions both inside and outside the classroom.
The college culture values inquiry, collaboration, and the pursuit of knowledge.
Clubs and Organizations:
The college offers a variety of student-led clubs, including debate, arts, theater, and music groups.
Students also organize philosophical and literary discussion groups to complement their studies.
Outdoor Activities:
Annapolis Campus: Located near the Chesapeake Bay, students enjoy sailing, kayaking, and exploring the historic town.
Santa Fe Campus: Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, students participate in hiking, skiing, camping, and rock climbing.
Events and Traditions:
Friday Night Lecture Series: Faculty, alumni, and visiting scholars give talks on a wide range of topics.
Croquet Match (Annapolis): A famous annual event where students compete against the U.S. Naval Academy.
Socratic Discussions: Regular informal gatherings for debate and intellectual exchange.
Residential Life:
Most students live on campus, fostering a close-knit community. Housing options range from traditional residence halls to apartment-style living.
Annapolis, Maryland:
Located in a historic and waterfront town.
Proximity to Washington, D.C., and Baltimore offers access to cultural and professional opportunities.
The campus features classic Georgian-style architecture and scenic green spaces.
Santa Fe, New Mexico:
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
Known for its art scene and outdoor recreational activities.
Features Pueblo-style architecture and a serene campus environment.
Application Requirements:
Application form (Common Application or the college’s online application).
Personal essay that reflects intellectual curiosity and alignment with the Great Books philosophy.
Official high school transcripts.
Two letters of recommendation (academic references preferred).
SAT/ACT scores are optional.
Deadlines:
Early Decision I: November 15
Early Decision II: January 15
Regular Decision: January 15
Rolling Admissions: Applications are accepted after January 15 on a space-available basis.
Acceptance Rate:
St. John’s College has an acceptance rate of around 60-70%, focusing on students who demonstrate a passion for learning and intellectual engagement.
Tuition (2024-2025): $37,090 per year.
St. John’s College is committed to offering one of the lowest private liberal arts tuition rates in the U.S.
Room and Board: Approximately $15,400 per year.
Scholarships and Aid:
Merit-based and need-based scholarships are available for both domestic and international students.
St. John’s participates in the Freeing Minds Initiative, which prioritizes making education affordable.
Average financial aid package significantly reduces costs for most students.
Graduates of St. John’s College develop skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication, which prepare them for a wide range of careers and advanced studies.
Graduate Schools: Many alumni pursue advanced degrees in law, medicine, philosophy, education, and the sciences.
Notable Graduate Programs: Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Columbia, University of Chicago, and Oxford.
Career Fields: Alumni work in diverse fields such as education, government, business, technology, and the arts.
The Great Books Program (Bachelor of Arts)
Focus: The program is based on the study of original texts written by some of the greatest thinkers and writers in Western civilization.
Objective: To cultivate critical thinking, intellectual inquiry, and an appreciation for enduring ideas.
Degree Awarded: Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts (no specialization or major).
Core Components of the Curriculum
Seminars:
Central to the program, seminars are discussion-based classes that explore primary texts in philosophy, literature, politics, and history.
Examples of authors studied: Homer, Plato, Aristotle, Machiavelli, Shakespeare, Nietzsche, Dostoevsky, and Virginia Woolf.
Mathematics:
Students explore the foundations of math through the works of Euclid, Descartes, Newton, and Einstein.
Topics include geometry, algebra, calculus, and modern science.
Science:
The natural sciences are taught using classic texts and experiments, focusing on the evolution of scientific thought.
Key texts include works by Galileo, Newton, Darwin, and Faraday.
Language:
Students learn Ancient Greek in their first two years and French in their third and fourth years, developing skills in translation and interpretation.
Music:
Focuses on musical theory, analysis, and the study of works by composers such as Bach and Mozart.
Students also explore the relationship between mathematics and music.
Philosophy and Theology:
A deep study of metaphysics, ethics, epistemology, and theology through classic works by authors such as Augustine, Aquinas, Kant, and Heidegger.
St. John’s College offers two graduate programs, both inspired by its Great Books approach:
1. Master of Arts in Liberal Arts (MALA)
Program Focus: A continuation of the Great Books tradition for graduate students, exploring works in philosophy, politics, literature, theology, history, and the sciences.
Structure:
Students take classes in four thematic areas: Philosophy and Theology, Politics and Society, Literature, and Mathematics and Natural Science.
Classes are seminar-based, emphasizing dialogue and critical thinking.
Program Length: Can be completed in two years full-time or extended part-time.
2. Master of Arts in Eastern Classics (MAEC) (Santa Fe Campus Only)
Program Focus: This program focuses on the Great Books of Eastern traditions, such as works from India, China, and Japan.
Key Texts and Topics:
Indian Tradition: The Upanishads, the Bhagavad Gita, and Buddhist scriptures.
Chinese Tradition: Confucian texts, the Tao Te Ching, and classical Chinese poetry.
Japanese Tradition: The Tale of Genji and works on Zen Buddhism.
Program Length: Typically one year full-time or longer if part-time.
Discussion-Based Seminars:
Classes are conducted as discussions, with no traditional lectures. Faculty members (called tutors) guide conversations, encouraging active participation and debate.
Reading Original Texts:
Students read and analyze original works rather than relying on textbooks or secondary sources.
Writing and Reflection:
Students write essays regularly and participate in writing tutorials to hone their critical thinking and communication skills.
Socratic Method:
Emphasis on asking and answering deep, probing questions rather than memorizing facts.
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (Per Year in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts (Great Books Program) |
4 years |
$37,090 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (Per Year in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Arts in Liberal Arts (MALA) |
2 years (full-time) or flexible part-time |
$19,500 |
|
Master of Arts in Eastern Classics (MAEC) |
1 year (full-time) or flexible part-time |
$19,500 |
Distinctive Education:
The Great Books Program gives students the opportunity to study original texts in literature, philosophy, history, mathematics, science, music, and languages.
Students engage in small seminar-style classes where discussion and critical thinking are emphasized.
Global Perspective:
The college’s curriculum includes texts and traditions from both the Western canon and Eastern classics, giving students a truly global education.
Students from diverse backgrounds bring varied perspectives to class discussions.
Dual Campuses:
International students can study at either the Annapolis, Maryland campus (near Washington, D.C.) or the Santa Fe, New Mexico campus (surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes).
Students can transfer between campuses for a semester or more, experiencing two distinct environments.
Supportive Environment:
With a low student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1, international students receive personalized attention from faculty and staff.
The college fosters a close-knit community with opportunities to engage in clubs, cultural activities, and events.
English Language Development:
The curriculum emphasizes reading, writing, and speaking, which helps international students improve their English proficiency while engaging deeply with course material.
Completed Application:
Submit an application through the Common Application or the college’s own application portal.
Academic Transcripts:
Submit official transcripts from secondary schools or any post-secondary institutions attended.
Transcripts must be translated into English if they are in another language.
English Proficiency Test Scores:
International students whose first language is not English must submit one of the following:
TOEFL: Minimum score of 80 (iBT).
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105.
Exemptions may be granted if you attended a school where English was the primary language of instruction.
Essay:
A personal statement reflecting your intellectual curiosity, interest in the Great Books, and why you wish to attend St. John’s College.
Letters of Recommendation:
At least two academic references from teachers or counselors.
Optional:
SAT or ACT scores (St. John’s is test-optional).
Early Decision I: November 15
Early Decision II: January 15
Regular Decision: January 15
Rolling Admissions: After January 15, applications are reviewed on a space-available basis.
St. John’s College has two campuses:
Annapolis, Maryland: Located near Washington, D.C., and Baltimore.
Santa Fe, New Mexico: Surrounded by scenic natural landscapes.
Applicants can apply to either campus or both (indicating their preference in the application). Students can transfer between campuses after enrollment.
Application Type |
Deadline |
|---|---|
|
Early Decision I (Binding) |
November 15 |
|
Early Decision II (Binding) |
January 15 |
|
Regular Decision |
January 15 |
|
Rolling Admissions |
After January 15 (on a space-available basis) |
Early Decision: Binding commitment to attend if accepted.
Rolling Admissions: Applications are reviewed after the regular deadline if space is still available.
Completed Application Form:
Submit through the Common Application or the St. John’s College Online Application.
Personal Essay:
A 650-word personal statement is required. The essay should reflect your intellectual curiosity, passion for learning, and why you are interested in the Great Books Program.
Example: "What excites you about the curriculum and community at St. John’s College?"
High School Transcripts:
Submit official transcripts from your high school or secondary institution.
International students must provide certified English translations of their transcripts (if applicable).
Letters of Recommendation:
At least two letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or mentors familiar with your academic abilities and character.
Standardized Test Scores (Optional):
SAT/ACT scores are optional but can be submitted if you feel they strengthen your application.
St. John’s School Codes:
SAT: 5598
ACT: 2646
In addition to the requirements above, international students must also provide:
English Proficiency Test Scores:
If English is not your first language, submit one of the following:
TOEFL: Minimum score of 80 (iBT).
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum score of 105.
Passport Copy:
Submit a clear copy of the passport photo page for identity verification.
Financial Documentation:
Submit proof of financial support (e.g., Certification of Finances or bank statements) to demonstrate your ability to cover tuition and living expenses for visa purposes.
This is required for the issuance of the I-20 Form (for F-1 Student Visa applicants).
St. John’s College encourages applicants to schedule an optional interview with an admissions counselor. This helps the admissions team learn more about your interests and goals while giving you an opportunity to ask questions about the college. Interviews can be conducted:
In person (on-campus or at certain locations).
Virtually (via Zoom or other platforms).
Complete your application by the chosen deadline. Application fees may apply; however, fee waivers are available upon request.
After submitting your application, you will receive login credentials to access the St. John’s Applicant Portal, where you can:
Track your application status.
Submit additional documents (if required).
View your admission decision once it’s released.
Early Decision applicants typically receive decisions within 4-6 weeks of the deadline.
Regular Decision applicants will be notified by mid-March.
Rolling Admission decisions are released on a rolling basis, depending on available space.
Once admitted, you must confirm your enrollment by submitting the Enrollment Deposit:
$500 for domestic students.
$1,000 for international students (includes a portion of housing fees).
Enrollment deposits are non-refundable and secure your spot in the incoming class.
After submitting your deposit, St. John’s College will issue the I-20 Form, which is required for your F-1 Student Visa application. Steps include:
Pay the SEVIS Fee (Form I-901).
Schedule a visa interview at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Attend the interview with your I-20, admission letter, proof of financial support, and passport.
Orientation: St. John’s College provides a robust orientation program to help new students transition to campus life.
Classes typically begin in late August for the Fall semester.
St. John’s College offers two main intakes:
Intake |
Application Deadlines |
Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Intake |
- Early Decision I: November 15 |
The primary and most popular intake. Classes begin in late August. Offers maximum scholarship opportunities. |
|
Spring Intake |
Rolling admissions only |
A smaller intake with limited seats. Classes begin in late January or early February. |
Early Decision (Binding): Early Decision applicants must commit to attending St. John’s if admitted.
Regular Decision (Non-Binding): Regular Decision allows students to apply without committing immediately.
Rolling Admissions: Applications are reviewed after January 15 on a space-available basis.
Academic Requirements:
High school graduation or equivalent is required.
A strong academic record with a focus on critical thinking and writing skills is preferred.
While there is no minimum GPA requirement, most admitted students have a GPA of 3.0 or higher (on a 4.0 scale).
English Language Proficiency (For International Students):
Students whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency by submitting one of the following:
TOEFL: Minimum score of 80 (Internet-based).
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum score of 105.
Exemptions: Students who completed their secondary education in English may qualify for a waiver.
Application Requirements:
Personal Essay: A critical component of the application. Applicants must write about their intellectual interests, personal goals, and reasons for choosing St. John’s College.
Letters of Recommendation: At least two letters from teachers, counselors, or mentors familiar with the applicant’s academic performance and character.
High School Transcripts: Official transcripts from secondary schools or equivalents (translated into English if necessary).
Standardized Test Scores (Optional): SAT or ACT scores are optional but can be submitted if they enhance the application.
SAT Code: 5598
ACT Code: 2646
St. John’s College offers two Master’s degree programs:
Master of Arts in Liberal Arts (MALA)
Master of Arts in Eastern Classics (MAEC)
Eligibility requirements are as follows:
Academic Background:
A Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from an accredited institution.
While no specific undergraduate major is required, applicants must demonstrate a strong ability to engage in rigorous academic work.
Application Requirements:
Personal Statement: A written essay explaining the applicant’s interest in the program and how it aligns with their intellectual goals.
Letters of Recommendation: At least two references from professors or professionals who can evaluate the applicant’s ability to succeed in a discussion-based graduate program.
Transcripts: Official undergraduate transcripts must be submitted (translated into English if necessary).
English Language Proficiency (For International Students): Same requirements as for undergraduate students (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo).
Program-Specific Requirements:
For the MALA Program, applicants must show an interest in exploring Western classics through the Great Books tradition.
For the MAEC Program (offered exclusively at the Santa Fe campus), applicants should have an interest in Eastern traditions and classic texts.
St. John’s College offers scholarships and financial aid to both domestic and international students, making it accessible to a diverse range of applicants.
Merit-Based Scholarships:
All applicants are automatically considered for merit scholarships, which range from $5,000 to $35,000 per year, based on academic achievement and intellectual potential.
Need-Based Financial Aid:
Domestic students must submit the FAFSA (School Code: 002092).
International students must complete the International Student Financial Aid Application (ISFAA) or provide similar documentation to demonstrate financial need.
Ranking Organization |
Category |
Ranking/Rating |
|---|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Not ranked globally (focuses on liberal arts education) |
N/A |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
National Liberal Arts Colleges |
Ranked in the Top 100 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Best Value Schools (National Liberal Arts) |
Recognized for affordability |
|
Forbes |
America’s Top Colleges |
Recognized, but not top-tier |
|
Princeton Review |
Best Colleges in America |
Included in "The Best 388 Colleges" |
|
College Factual |
Liberal Arts Colleges in the U.S. |
Strong program reputation |
|
Niche.com |
Best Colleges for Liberal Arts in America |
Overall Grade: A- |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (Per Year) |
Additional Details |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Merit-Based Scholarships |
Awarded based on academic achievement, intellectual potential, and leadership qualities. |
$5,000 – $35,000 |
Automatically considered for all applicants upon admission. |
|
Need-Based Financial Aid |
Based on demonstrated financial need (domestic and international students eligible). |
(can significantly reduce costs) |
Submit FAFSA (domestic) or ISFAA (international). |
|
St. John’s Grant |
For students with financial need not covered by other scholarships or grants. |
N/A |
Determined through financial aid application. |
|
Western Classics Scholarships |
For students who excel in the study of Western literature, philosophy, or history. |
N/A |
Awarded during the admissions process. |
|
International Student Scholarships |
Merit-based scholarships specifically for international students. |
$5,000 – $35,000 |
Automatically awarded based on the application. |
|
The Hodson Trust Scholarship |
Awarded to students with exceptional academic records and leadership qualities. |
Up to $35,000 |
Offered to high-achieving students, primarily on the Annapolis campus. |
|
Freeing Minds Scholarship |
For students whose passion for learning aligns with St. John’s Great Books Program. |
N/A |
Available to domestic and international students. |
|
State-Specific Scholarships |
Available to students from specific U.S. states (e.g., Maryland residents). |
N/A |
Eligibility depends on residency. |
|
External Scholarships |
Third-party scholarships (external organizations and sponsors). |
N/A |
Students can apply for additional external aid. |
Facility/Feature |
Details |
Cost (Per Year in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Campus Locations |
- Annapolis, Maryland: Located near Washington, D.C., and Baltimore. |
N/A |
|
Accommodation Options |
- Traditional residence halls with shared and single rooms. |
Included in costs below. |
|
Room Types |
- Shared Rooms: Double occupancy (most common for first-year students). |
N/A |
|
Amenities in Housing |
- Fully furnished rooms with beds, desks, and closets. |
N/A |
|
Dining Facilities |
- Dining Hall: Offers diverse meal options, including vegetarian and vegan. |
N/A |
|
Room and Board (Cost) |
- Shared Room + Meal Plan: ~$15,400 per year. |
$15,400 – $17,000 |
|
Meal Plans |
- Included in room and board costs. |
Included in room/board costs. |
|
Off-Campus Housing |
Limited off-campus options for upperclassmen; students usually live on campus. |
(~$6,000–$10,000 per year). |
|
Additional Campus Facilities |
- Libraries, art studios, music rooms, athletic facilities, and fitness centers. |
N/A |
|
Transportation |
- Shuttles available to nearby cities like Washington, D.C., and Santa Fe town center. |
for parking permits. |
1. Intellectual Community
At the heart of student life is the Great Books Program, which fosters a strong intellectual community where students and faculty engage in meaningful discussions both inside and outside the classroom.
Seminars and Conversations: Learning doesn’t stop in the classroom; students frequently continue discussions about texts and ideas during meals, at campus events, or in residence halls.
Collaborative Learning: Group problem-solving and dialogue-based learning encourage students to connect with their peers on a deeper intellectual level.
2. Residential Life
Most students live on campus, contributing to a vibrant residential community.
Housing: Students live in traditional residence halls or apartment-style housing, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie. First-year students usually share rooms, while upperclassmen may have the option for single or suite-style rooms.
Community Living: Residential Life staff and Resident Assistants organize social events and activities to help students connect and feel at home.
3. Dining and Food Options
The college dining halls offer unlimited meal plans, catering to a variety of dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Annapolis Dining Hall: Known for its cozy atmosphere and communal dining experience.
Santa Fe Dining Hall: Features sustainable food options and scenic outdoor seating.
Students can also grab coffee or snacks at on-campus cafes like The Boathouse (Annapolis) or The Cave (Santa Fe).
4. Clubs and Organizations
St. John’s College offers a variety of student-run clubs and organizations that cater to diverse interests:
Cultural and Academic Clubs: Philosophy Club, Debate Society, and Chess Club.
Creative and Performing Arts: Drama Society, Choir, Art Club, and Writing Circles.
Outdoor Activities:
Annapolis: Sailing, kayaking, and waterfront events.
Santa Fe: Hiking, camping, skiing, and rock climbing.
Community Service: Students engage in local community projects and volunteering through service clubs.
If students have an interest not covered by existing clubs, they can create their own organizations with support from the college.
5. Events and Traditions
St. John’s College has unique traditions that bring students together:
Friday Night Lectures: Weekly talks by faculty, alumni, or visiting scholars, followed by informal discussions.
Croquet Match (Annapolis): A fun and historic annual event where students compete against the U.S. Naval Academy.
Chrysalis Ball (Santa Fe): A formal dance hosted every year.
Winter Festival: A celebration of music and performances to mark the end of the semester.
6. Athletics and Recreation
While St. John’s doesn’t have varsity sports teams, it emphasizes recreation and fitness through club sports, intramurals, and outdoor activities.
Annapolis Campus: Sailing and rowing on the Chesapeake Bay are popular activities, as well as yoga and fitness classes in the gym.
Santa Fe Campus: Surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, students enjoy hiking, skiing, rock climbing, and other outdoor sports.
Intramural sports like soccer, basketball, and ultimate frisbee are popular on both campuses.
7. Arts and Culture
The arts play a significant role in student life at St. John’s:
Music and Theater: Students can participate in choirs, music ensembles, and theater productions, or attend performances hosted on campus.
Art Studios: Both campuses have facilities for painting, sculpture, and other forms of visual arts.
Literary Opportunities: Students contribute to campus publications, including journals and literary magazines, to showcase their creative and academic writing.
8. Career Development
The Career Services Office supports students in preparing for life after St. John’s:
Workshops: Resume building, interview preparation, and networking events.
Internship Opportunities: Students secure internships with organizations in fields like education, public policy, law, and the arts.
Alumni Connections: A strong alumni network helps students connect with mentors and professionals in various industries.
9. Community and Diversity
St. John’s College welcomes students from all backgrounds and celebrates diversity.
Cultural Events: Events like International Week allow students to share and celebrate their cultural heritage.
Office of Student Services: Provides resources and support for underrepresented groups, including international and first-generation college students.
10. Outdoor and Local Activities
Both campuses offer opportunities to explore their unique surroundings:
Annapolis Campus:
Located on the Chesapeake Bay, students enjoy waterfront activities like kayaking and sailing.
The historic town of Annapolis offers local shops, restaurants, and cultural events.
Proximity to Washington, D.C., and Baltimore provides access to museums, internships, and professional opportunities.
Santa Fe Campus:
Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, students can hike, ski, and camp in the nearby Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
Santa Fe is known for its art galleries, cultural festivals, and historic downtown.
11. International Student Life
International students play an important role in the St. John’s community:
Cultural Exchange: Opportunities to share traditions and experiences with peers.
Support Services: Dedicated advisors help international students with visas, cultural adjustment, and academic resources.
Community Events: Events such as Thanksgiving dinners and cultural celebrations ensure all students feel included.
1. Career Services Support
St. John’s College provides extensive career support to help students transition into the workforce or graduate programs. Key services include:
Career Counseling: Individualized sessions to help students identify career goals and pathways.
Internships: Assistance in finding internships that align with students' interests and goals.
Workshops and Training: Resume building, cover letter writing, and interview preparation workshops.
Networking Opportunities: Alumni panels, networking events, and employer connections.
Job Fairs: Collaboration with employers in industries such as education, public policy, law, technology, and the arts.
Students also benefit from alumni mentorship programs, where they can connect with successful graduates working in various fields.
2. Graduate Outcomes and Placement Statistics
St. John’s College graduates develop skills highly sought after by employers and graduate schools, such as analytical reasoning, effective communication, and the ability to learn independently.
Career and Graduate School Success:
Employment Rate: Approximately 92% of graduates are employed or pursuing graduate studies within six months of graduation.
Graduate School Placement: Roughly 70% of alumni pursue advanced degrees at top-tier institutions.
High Graduate School Acceptance Rates: Alumni are frequently accepted to prestigious graduate schools, including Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Oxford, and the University of Chicago.
3. Popular Career Paths
Graduates of St. John’s College thrive in a variety of career fields due to the broad, interdisciplinary education provided by the Great Books Program. Some popular career paths include:
Law:
The college’s emphasis on argumentation, critical analysis, and logic makes graduates excellent candidates for law school.
Alumni have attended top law schools like Harvard Law, Yale Law, and Georgetown Law.
Education:
Many graduates go on to teach at high schools, colleges, and universities.
Others pursue careers in education administration or curriculum design.
Public Policy and Government:
Alumni often work in think tanks, nonprofits, and government agencies, applying their problem-solving and communication skills to policy-making and advocacy.
Technology and Business:
Graduates enter fields like consulting, management, and entrepreneurship, where analytical and creative thinking is highly valued.
Many work for innovative companies, startups, or large corporations.
Arts and Media:
With a strong foundation in literature, philosophy, and the arts, graduates excel in writing, journalism, publishing, and film.
Healthcare and Sciences:
While the college does not offer a traditional pre-med program, the rigorous study of mathematics and science prepares students for medical school and research opportunities.
4. Internship Opportunities
Internships are an integral part of career preparation for St. John’s students:
The Career Services Office assists students in finding internships that align with their career goals.
Internships are available in fields such as education, law, government, publishing, arts, and technology.
Students often intern in nearby cities (e.g., Washington, D.C., Baltimore, or Santa Fe) or with organizations nationwide.
5. Alumni Success Stories
St. John’s College has a strong alumni network, and many of its graduates achieve notable success in their fields. Examples include:
Law and Public Service: Alumni working as judges, attorneys, or public servants.
Academia: Professors, researchers, and writers contributing to education and scholarship.
Business and Innovation: Entrepreneurs and leaders in technology and business sectors.
Arts and Media: Acclaimed authors, filmmakers, and journalists.
Alumni often emphasize how the college’s curriculum has prepared them to think critically, communicate effectively, and adapt to diverse professional environments.
6. Earnings Potential
While earnings vary widely based on career choice, graduates of St. John’s College demonstrate strong long-term earning potential:
Median Early-Career Salary: ~$50,000 per year.
Mid-Career Salary: ~$95,000 per year.
The college’s focus on versatile, transferable skills allows graduates to advance in their careers over time.
7. Graduate School Opportunities
Many St. John’s College graduates pursue advanced degrees at some of the most prestigious institutions in the world.
Fields of Graduate Study:
Law: Alumni frequently attend top law schools (e.g., Harvard, Yale, Georgetown).
Medicine: Some alumni pursue medical school or careers in healthcare-related fields.
Philosophy and Humanities: Alumni excel in master’s and doctoral programs in philosophy, history, and literature.
Sciences: Alumni contribute to research and advanced studies in mathematics and science.
Top Graduate Schools Attended by Alumni:
Harvard University
Yale University
Princeton University
University of Chicago
Oxford University
Columbia University
Stanford University
8. Entrepreneurship Opportunities
St. John’s College graduates often go on to become successful entrepreneurs:
The interdisciplinary nature of the Great Books Program fosters creativity, innovation, and problem-solving abilities that are crucial for starting and running a business.
Alumni have founded startups and non-profits across industries such as technology, education, and publishing.
The acceptance rate of St. John’s College, USA, is approximately 60%–70%, making it a moderately selective institution. The college values intellectual curiosity, a passion for learning, and an interest in the Great Books Program, which is at the heart of its liberal arts curriculum.
Holistic Admissions:
St. John’s College uses a holistic admissions process, meaning they assess applicants based on their academic achievements, personal essay, letters of recommendation, and overall fit with the Great Books curriculum.
The college places less emphasis on standardized test scores (which are optional) and more on a student's intellectual potential and enthusiasm for learning.
Small Student Body:
With a total enrollment of approximately 800 students across its two campuses (Annapolis, Maryland, and Santa Fe, New Mexico), the college maintains a small, close-knit community, which partially contributes to its selectivity.
International Students:
St. John’s College is open to international students and considers applications with the same holistic approach. Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo) is required for non-native English speakers.
Early Decision and Regular Decision:
Early Decision applicants (binding commitment) often have a higher acceptance rate, as they demonstrate strong interest and commitment to the college.
Location: Annapolis, Maryland, the capital of Maryland.
Address: 60 College Avenue, Annapolis, MD 21401, USA.
Setting:
Situated in the heart of historic Annapolis, close to the Chesapeake Bay.
The campus features Georgian-style architecture and beautifully landscaped grounds.
Annapolis is known for its colonial history, maritime culture, and vibrant waterfront district.
Proximity to Major Cities:
30 miles (~45 minutes) from Washington, D.C.
25 miles (~40 minutes) from Baltimore, Maryland.
Easily accessible to nearby cultural and professional opportunities in these metropolitan areas.
Nearby Attractions:
Chesapeake Bay for sailing and water activities.
U.S. Naval Academy and Annapolis historic district.
Close to museums, theaters, shops, and restaurants.
Location: Santa Fe, New Mexico, in the southwestern United States.
Address: 1160 Camino de Cruz Blanca, Santa Fe, NM 87505, USA.
Setting:
Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, the campus is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes.
The Pueblo-style architecture blends harmoniously with the serene and picturesque environment.
Santa Fe is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, cultural diversity, and historical significance.
Proximity to Major Cities:
60 miles (~1 hour) from Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Easy access to hiking trails, national parks, and cultural festivals.
Nearby Attractions:
Santa Fe Plaza, a hub for art galleries, museums, and local markets.
Skiing and hiking in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
Unique cultural events like the Santa Fe Indian Market and International Folk Art Festival.
