Founded in 1878, Champlain College is a small, private college overlooking Lake Champlain in charming Burlington, Vermont. Its innovative, career-focused approach to education is nationally recognized for shaping graduates who are ready for work, ready for life, and ready to make a difference.
Champlain students take classes in their major on day one through the Upside-Down Curriculum, allowing them to graduate with more professional experiences—such as internships, jobs, and fieldwork opportunities—and a deeper understanding of their industries. The results: 90% of the Class of 2023 was employed or continuing their education within six months of graduation.
Champlain's small size and professional opportunities attract relentlessly inquisitive and open-minded individuals who are engaged in their community and fiercely dedicated to building the world they want to live in.
About
From the School
Contact & Visit
Campus Visits Contact
Director of Admissions
Burlington, VT 05402
Experience College Life
Center for Communication and Creative Media
Student Life Center
Emergent Media Center
Miller Information Commons
Nectar's
Muddy Waters coffee house
Burlington Waterfont
Sugarbush Ski Resort
Campus Tours
M-F 8:30 am to 5:00 pm; Saturdays 10:30 am - 2:00
(802) 865-5740
Dates: Year-round
Times: Varies
Average Length: 1 hour
On Campus Interview
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Class Visits
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Admissions
Admissions
Overall
From The School
Champlain College offers a streamlined and accessible admissions process designed to identify highly motivated students who are ready to pursue their professional and personal goals. Applicants may choose to use the Common Application or Champlain's own application, both of which are free to submit. The College offers Early Decision, Early Action, and Regular Decision application plans, with no requirement to submit standardized test scores or an essay, making the process flexible and accommodating to different applicant strengths.
In evaluating applications, Champlain College requests standard supplemental materials, including transcripts, optional standardized test scores, lists of extracurricular activities, and recommendations. While GPA, class rank, and other academic measures are important indicators of a student's readiness for Champlain's intensive, career-oriented education, the College also looks for strong writing and communication skills. This comprehensive review ensures that students are not only academically prepared but also equipped with essential skills for success.
Champlain College values specific personal qualities that can significantly enhance an applicant's profile, especially when academic metrics are not as strong. The College looks for a spirit of innovation, a commitment to inclusivity, an interest in global citizenship, a growth mindset, and a commitment to service and environmental sustainability. These characteristics reflect Champlain's mission to develop well-rounded individuals who are prepared to make a positive impact in their professions and communities.
Overview
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Testing Policies
Deadlines
Early Decision — November 15
Early Decision II — December 15
Early Action — December 15
Regular — January 3
Other Admission Factors
Rigor of Secondary School Record
Academic GPA
Talent / Ability
Selectivity Rating
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Academics
Overall
From The School
Academic Programs
Champlain also offers 34 minors and 50 concentrations so students can customize their major for the exact career they want to pursue.
Majors and Degrees Offered
ANIMATION (BFA)
APPLIED MATHEMATICS (BS)
APPLIED SUSTAINABILITY (BS)
BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (BS)
COMPUTER NETWORKING & CYBERSECURITY (BS)
COMPUTER SCIENCE & INNOVATION (BS)
CREATIVE MEDIA (BFA)
CRIMINOLOGY & CRIMINAL JUSTICE (BS)
DEGREE DESIGN LAB/INTEGRATIVE PROFESSIONAL STUDIES (BS)
DIGITAL FORENSICS (BS)
DIGITAL HUMANITIES (BS)
DEGREE DESIGN LAB: INTEGRATIVE PROFESSIONAL STUDIES (BS)
EDUCATION (BS)
FILMMAKING (BFA)
GAME ART (BFA)
GAME BUSINESS & PUBLISHING (BS)
GAME DESIGN (BS)
GAME PRODUCTION MANAGEMENT (BS)
GAME PROGRAMMING (BS)
GAME SOUND DESIGN (BS)
GRAPHIC DESIGN & VISUAL COMMUNICATION (BFA)
INTERACTION DESIGN (BS)
INTERACTIVE NARRATIVE FOR GAMES & DIGITAL MEDIA (BS)
MARKETING (BS)
MARKETING COMMUNICATION (BS)
PSYCHOLOGY (BS)
SOCIAL WORK (BSW)
WRITING & PUBLISHING (BS)
Explore Champlain's majors.
Faculty and Class Information
Graduation Rates
Majors
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BUSINESS, MANAGEMENT, MARKETING, AND RELATED SUPPORT SERVICES.
Accounting.
Business Administration and Management, General.
Business/Commerce, General.
Finance, General.
International Business/Trade/Commerce.
Management Information Systems, General.
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.
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COMMUNICATION, JOURNALISM, AND RELATED PROGRAMS.
Communication and Media Studies, Other.
Public Relations/Image Management.
Radio, Television, and Digital Communication, Other.
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.
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COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGIES/TECHNICIANS AND SUPPORT SERVICES.
Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics and Special Effects.
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COMPUTER AND INFORMATION SCIENCES AND SUPPORT SERVICES.
Computer and Information Systems Security/Information Assurance.
Computer Graphics.
Computer Science.
Computer/Information Technology Services Administration and Management, Other.
Data Modeling/Warehousing and Database Administration.
Network and System Administration/Administrator.
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EDUCATION.
Elementary Education and Teaching.
Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching.
Mathematics Teacher Education.
Secondary Education and Teaching.
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ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE/LETTERS.
Creative Writing.
Professional, Technical, Business, and Scientific Writing.
Writing, General.
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HOMELAND SECURITY, LAW ENFORCEMENT, FIREFIGHTING AND RELATED PROTECTIVE SERVICES.
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.
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LIBERAL ARTS AND SCIENCES, GENERAL STUDIES AND HUMANITIES.
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.
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MATHEMATICS AND STATISTICS.
Applied Mathematics.
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NATURAL RESOURCES AND CONSERVATION.
Environmental Studies.
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PSYCHOLOGY.
Applied Psychology.
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PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION AND SOCIAL SERVICE PROFESSIONS.
Social Work.
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VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS.
Arts, Entertainment,and Media Management, General.
Digital Arts.
Film/Cinema/Video Studies.
Game and Interactive Media Design.
Graphic Design.
Music Technology.
Visual and Performing Arts, General.
Students Say
Degrees
Bachelor's
Certificate
Master's
Post-Bachelor's certificate
Career Services
Alumni Network
Alumni Services
Classes
Interest Inventory
Internships
Experiential
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Notable Faculty
Academic Rating
Careers
Graduation Rates
Career Services
Alumni Network
Alumni Services
Classes
Interest Inventory
Internships
Experiential
Internship
ROI & Outcomes
Tuition & Aid
Tuition & Aid
Overview
From The School
Tuition, Room, Board and Fees
Tuition: $47,400
Student Activity + Health Fee: $575
On-Campus Room: $10,900
Full Meal Plan: $6,700
Total: $68,575
Financial Aid
Each year, more than 95% of students receive scholarship funds that do not have to be repaid. Champlain's unique Count-On-It Financial Aid Guarantee means students can count on their scholarships from Champlain never declining as long as they are enrolled full-time.
The Office of Financial Aid helps students understand and maximize all financial aid options available to them and the process of applying for scholarships, grants, loans, payment plans, and employment opportunities. The Financial Aid team is always available for in-person or phone appointments with students and families.
Dates
Required Forms
Financial Aid Statistics
Expenses per Academic Year
Available Aid
Need-Based College/University Scholarship or Grant Aid from Institutional Funds
Need-Based Federal Pell
Need-Based Private Scholarships
Need-Based SEOG
Need-Based State Scholarships
Direct Subsidized Stafford Loans
Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loans
Financial Aid Rating
Student Body
Student Body
Overall
From The School
Champlain College is proud of its small 1,800-students community that brings together diverse perspectives from 46 states and 6 countries. Champlain students are known for being skeptical in all the right ways. They are creative, innovative thinkers who are passionately committed to their fields and eager to challenge conventional ideas.
Champlain is small but mighty. The Student Life team organizes many activities, including concerts, dances, adventure trips, film festivals, and networking events. Our students have easy access to vibrant city life in Burlington, providing them with a rich array of opportunities and experiences.
This blend of diverse backgrounds, critical thinking, and active participation creates a unique college experience at Champlain, where students can grow personally and professionally while making lasting connections.
Champlain College's community is grounded in an impressive and unique array of student organizations and activities that cater to diverse interests ranging from hiking and skiing to board games and anime. The College encourages students to get involved in extracurricular activities to complement their academic experience, develop leadership skills, and build lasting friendships. With more than 60 student-run clubs and organizations, Champlain provides ample opportunities for students to explore their passions, whether in the arts, culture, sports, technology, or social justice.
The Student Government Association (SGA) serves as the voice of the student body and plays a crucial role in advocating for student needs, organizing events, and ensuring that student concerns are heard by administrators. In addition, the Office of Sustainability supports various service-learning projects and sustainability initiatives that encourage students to engage with the local community and contribute to environmental stewardship. Last but not least, Champlain is home to an extensive eSports program, featuring three varsity teams: Rocket League, Overwatch, and Valorant. Here, gaming enthusiasts can compete in various video game tournaments, collaborate with fellow gamers, and learn more about this ever-growing industry.
Beyond formal organizations, Champlain College hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year, including the annual Halloween Dance, Snowball Dance, and Spring Meltdown. These events provide a platform for students to showcase their talents, celebrate diverse cultures, and relax from their academic responsibilities. The College also offers numerous intramural sports, outdoor adventures, and wellness programs to promote physical health and well-being.
Student Body Profile
Demographics
Students Say
Campus Life
Campus Life
Overview
From The School
Location
Nestled in the historic Hill Section of Burlington, Vermont, Champlain College boasts a picturesque campus with striking views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains. The College's unique setting combines the charm of restored Victorian-era mansions with modern lakeside living spaces, offering students a blend of historic elegance and contemporary comfort.
The campus is located just a short walk from downtown Burlington, giving students easy access to a vibrant city life outside of the natural beauty of their home on the hilltop. The campus is designed to foster innovation and hands-on learning, with state-of-the-art labs and Centers of Experience. These facilities, combined with small class sizes and a low student-faculty ratio of 11:1, create an intimate and engaging academic environment.
Campus Facilities & Equipment
Hands-on learning and professional experiences happen at Champlain College through access to cutting-edge facilities and technologies across campus. The college is home to four Centers of Experience that employ students in agency-like settings that bridge the gap between theory and practice. Here, they consult, problem-solve, and design solutions for real clients with challenges related to social justice, cybersecurity, business, and media.
A standout among these is the Senator Patrick Leahy Center for Digital Forensics & Cybersecurity. This center not only provides world-class cybersecurity research and digital investigation services but also gives undergraduate students hands-on experience in actual investigations and threat mitigation strategies. The center's excellence is recognized nationally, with Champlain College being named a National Center of Digital Forensics Excellence by the U.S. Department of Defense Cyber Crime Center and a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the National Security Agency.
As a leader in design and technology, Champlain students have access to multiple makerspaces, including the Generator Makerspace. Here, students work alongside Burlington's artists, designers, and makers in a studio space that's outfitted with laser cutters, 3D printers, vinyl cutters, power tools, and all the industry-standard software and accessories to support their creations.
At the heart of Champlain's creative programming is the Center for Communication & Creative Media, a 75,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility. This center houses game and graphic design labs, a film and broadcast media production stage, sound studios, and art galleries. Its collaborative media hub encourages multidisciplinary projects, reflecting the college's emphasis on cross-disciplinary learning.
For student life and recreation, the IDX Student Life Center serves as a hub of activity. It houses the main dining hall and Fireside Lounge, both offering stunning views of the lake and mountains. The center also includes the Wellness & Fitness Center and Argosy Gymnasium, which form the core of Champlain's intramural and recreational sports programs.
The Miller Information Commons stands out as a premier library facility, recognized with the Excellence in Academic Libraries Award from the Association of College and Research Libraries. This modern library offers not only extensive print and digital collections but also advanced technologies to support research and study. Its location provides some of the most breathtaking views in Burlington, making it a popular spot for students.
These facilities reflect Champlain College's commitment to providing students with modern, practical learning environments that prepare them for success in their chosen fields while also supporting a well-rounded college experience.
Off-Campus Opportunities
Champlain College is deeply engaged with the surrounding Burlington, Vermont, community and dedicated to creating opportunities for students to learn beyond the classroom. As a result of close partnerships and collaboration, Champlain students are often the interns of choice at various businesses and nonprofit organizations in and around Vermont. Our students can be found interning or working at organizations like Ben & Jerry's, Burton Snowboard, Seventh Generation, Keurig Dr Pepper, and KPMG, as well as organizations such as the Howard Center and even the Department of Homeland Security.
With a large college student population, undeniable small town charm, and thriving arts and culture scene, Burlington is consistently named a top college town. This vibrant city is known for its impressive array of music venues, farm-to-table restaurants, unique local shops, and access to outdoor adventures.
Together, the Green Mountains and Lake Champlain make Vermont a natural playground for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking, biking, paddleboarding, and sailing in the warmer months to skiing, riding, skating, and snowshoeing in the winter months, Vermonters stay active and enjoy nature year-round.
Burlington has established itself as a hub of innovation and technology, and is home to several environmentally conscious and community-minded Certified B Corps, including Beta Technologies, OnLogic and of course the famous Ben & Jerry's and Burton Snowboards. This entrepreneurial environment, coupled with an iconic arts scene, offers a wealth of opportunities for students to network, intern, work, or even start their own companies.
The College's commitment to building global perspectives extends beyond Burlington. Champlain maintains satellite campuses in Montreal, Canada, and Dublin, Ireland, making it easier and more accessible for Champlain students to study abroad. These off-campus opportunities, both domestic and international, complement Champlain's academic programs, providing students with real-world experience, cultural enrichment, and a broader perspective that prepares them for success in an increasingly globalized world.
Campus Life
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Special Need Services Offered
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Womens Center
Army ROTC Offered at cooperating institutions: University of Vermont
Sustainability
Data provided by Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE), STARS®, as of March, 2024.
Campus Security Report
The Jeanne Clery Act requires colleges and universities to disclose their security policies, keep a public crime log, publish an annual crime report and provide timely warnings to students and campus employees about a crime posing an immediate or ongoing threat to students and campus employees.
Please visit The Princeton Review’s page on campus safety for additional resources: http://www.princetonreview.com/safety
The Princeton Review publishes links directly to each school's Campus Security Reports where available. Applicants can also access all school-specific campus safety information using the Campus Safety and Security Data Analysis Cutting Tool provided by the Office of Postsecondary Education of the U.S. Department of Education: https://ope.ed.gov/campussafety/#/