Mills College - Overview
Bold Vision, Intimate Setting
Nestled on 135 lush acres in the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area, Mills College has shaped women's lives for more than 150 years. A private college offering a progressive liberal arts and sciences curriculum taught by nationally and internationally renowned faculty, Mills gives students the personal attention that leads to extraordinary learning. Mills is ranked fourth among top colleges in the West by "U.S. News and World Report" and has also been named one of the greenest colleges in the nation by "The Princeton Review."
Historically a women's college, Mills continues that proud tradition today at the undergraduate level. Inspired by a teaching philosophy that grows out of a long-standing dedication to women's education, Mills provides a collaborative, interactive learning environment that encourages intellectual exploration and self-discovery.
With an impressive student-teacher ratio of 12:1, this private college's small classes encourage a lively exchange of ideas -- students are expected to have opinions and express them. Students may also have the extraordinary opportunity to work with distinguished faculty members in their research, gaining hands-on experience while earning a degree.
Students can choose from more than 40 different majors at this California college, including English; psychology; political, legal, and economic analysis; anthropology and sociology; ethnic studies; creative writing; natural sciences; modern languages; women's studies; fine art; mathematics; computer science; and child development. Mills offers 7 dual-degree programs in areas such as business, public policy, and teacher education. Through these innovative programs, students can earn both a bachelor's and a master's degree in just 5 years.
The Mills General Education Program is guided by a set of learning outcomes, rather than a strict list of courses or a single generic curriculum. Each student designs her general education plan in consultation with her faculty adviser, ensuring that she achieves a specific set of learning outcomes and also tailors a program suited to her own unique needs and interests. The breadth of experiences, ideas, and skills gained from general education courses allows students to explore and appreciate knowledge beyond a single major. Mills women acquire confidence in their intellectual abilities, a broad awareness of diverse ideas and perspectives, and an appreciation of and capacity for lifelong learning.
Natural Beauty, Urban Location
Located in the foothills of Oakland, California, on the east shore of the San Francisco Bay, Mills offers a welcoming place to live and learn, with new friends and ideas at every turn. The campus is heavily accented with Mediterranean-style buildings, many designed by architectural innovator Julia Morgan. Paths and streams wind their way through the groves and meadows that pervade the wooded campus.
Campus life at Mills is as important as the liberal arts and sciences curriculum. Residential and commuting students alike participate in a variety of eclectic events that enhance learning and provide inspiration beyond the classroom. Offerings can include an African art exhibit, a lecture on socially responsible business, a modern dance performance, a cause-related rally, a poetry slam, or an evening of experimental music.
At this undergraduate college for women, students also enjoy an assortment of clubs and organizations that encompass a wide range of interests, from the Black Women's Collective to Mills Earth C.O.R.P.S. (Community Organized to Respect, Protect, and Sustain the Earth). Students interested in developing their leadership skills may participate in student government through the Associated Students of Mills College.
Outside the campus gates, students enjoy access to California's dynamic San Francisco Bay Area, with Berkeley, San Francisco, Napa, and Silicon Valley nearby. Mills students connect with centers of learning, business, and technology; pursue research and internship opportunities; and explore the Bay Area's many sources of cultural, social, and recreational enrichment.
Providing a stimulating liberal arts experience enriched by women of diverse backgrounds, ethnicities, cultures, ages, and mindsets, Mills is a haven for intellectual risk-takers who are inspired by ideas and serious about their education. Mills women gain the ability to make their voices heard, the strength to risk bold visions, an eagerness to experiment, and a desire to change the world.