Overview
Sterling College was founded in 1958 as a preparatory school and evolved into a small liberal arts college with a distinctive focus on environmental and sustainability-related fields. Located in Craftsbury Common, Vermont, it is one of the few federally recognized 'Work Colleges' in the United States, requiring all students to participate in campus work as part of their education. It is best known for its programs in sustainable agriculture, ecology, environmental humanities, and outdoor education, drawing students who want a hands-on, land-based learning experience rather than a traditional classroom-heavy curriculum.
At a Glance
| Type | Private |
| Location | Craftsbury Common, Vermont |
| Founded | 1958 |
| Total students | 120 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 7:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 85% |
| Graduation rate | 55% |
| Average starting salary | $38,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $38,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $38,000 |
| Room & board | $12,000 |
| Average financial aid | $28,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 95% |
Admissions
| SAT range | N/A |
| ACT range | N/A |
| Average GPA | 3.20 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Sustainable Agriculture
- Ecology
- Environmental Humanities
- Outdoor Education
- Land-Based Design
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.