Why a Women's College?

1. Now more than ever

At Mount Holyoke, the first of the powerful Seven Sisters colleges, social activism is in our DNA. Which is to say that we have long been committed to access and social justice, and to the belief that women of strength and conviction give rise to a better world for all.

The world needs our graduates — who share the conviction and readiness to make their lives stand for something bigger — now more than ever.

3. An enviable academic experience

Rigorous. Relevant. Vibrant. Inspiring. The learning landscape at Mount Holyoke is shaped as much by curiosity and intensity as it is by collaboration and guidance. From classes on renewable energy and critical race theory in education to wearable circuit workshops at the Fimbel Maker and Innovation Lab, you’ll find people who brim with passion.

4. See yourself as a leader. As you become one.

US News & World Report says women's colleges are "a great choice for students interested in leadership."

At Mount Holyoke, it’s not about equal opportunity to take on leadership roles. It’s about every opportunity. Fact: Powerful women recognize — and encourage — powerful women. And seeing yourself reflected in those who hold positions of influence isn’t a luxury. It’s a must.

5. Calling all STEMinists!

Tired of being one of the only girls in your AP biology, calculus or physics class? Many Mount Holyoke students were, too. Thirty-five percent of our students major in STEM — a significantly higher proportion of women than at coeducational institutions.

6. Own your social scene

At Mount Holyoke, social life is defined by choice: cultural events and social programming on campus or within the Five College Consortium, running the Seven Sisters trail with your rowing team, seeking out apple cider doughnuts with your improv troupe or a cappella group, or striking a power pose on Mountain Day. Odds that the friends you make will be lifelong? Very high.

7. Inclusivity and diversity — on a global scale

One in four Mount Holyoke students is international. Inclusivity and diversity are present throughout campus, manifested in our five cultural centers and celebrated through dozens of student orgs and events with a global focus. And lived through shared experiences via our five language Living/Learning Communities, MoZone peer education program and Global Partners Program. We even have an academic center devoted to all things global learning.

8. Open doors to opportunity

Women’s college graduates are more than twice as likely as graduates of coeducational colleges to receive doctoral degrees. And more than 20% of women in Congress and 33% of women on Fortune 1000 boards graduated from a women’s college.*

9. One word: Alumnae

Engaged alumnae are a given. Mount Holyoke’s network of more than 38,000 alumnae around the world share their time, insight and connections. Alumnae of women’s colleges arguably constitute the most influential professional women’s networks on the globe.

At Mount Holyoke, the bench of female “firsts” is deep and varied. From the first woman in the presidential cabinet to the first woman producer to win an Oscar. These leaders are ready to help new graduates find their way.

Meet some Mount Holyoke alumnae who have made their mark since the College’s founding — by a woman — in 1837.