Hobart and William Smith Colleges

Hobart and William Smith is a nationally recognized liberal arts and sciences institution where students are challenged to think critically, communicate effectively and lead with purpose.  Through close faculty mentorship, hands-on learning and a powerful alumni network, HWS prepares graduates to thrive in their careers and communities.

Students choose from more than 70 majors, minors and interdisciplinary programs through HWS' Perspectives Curriculum. With just one required course – the First-Year Seminar – students have the flexibility to shape an education that reflects their interests and goals.

Students who thrive at HWS are curious, engaged and eager to learn. They enjoy asking questions, collaborating with others, building relationships and applying what they learn through research, internships and leadership.

The Wall Street Journal ranks the HWS student experience #8 in the nation, while the Princeton Review ranks HWS #9 in the nation for happiest students. From athletics and student organizations to the arts, community service and outdoor recreation on Seneca Lake, students find countless ways to have fun and get involved.

Yes. More than 60% of HWS students study abroad in 50 countries.  

Students conduct faculty-mentored research, complete internships across a wide range of industries and participate in community-based learning, fieldwork and global experiences. Every student is guaranteed access to an internship or research experience before graduation.

HWS graduates become physicians, lawyers, entrepreneurs, bankers, scientists, educators, artists and business leaders. They leave with the critical thinking, communication and leadership skills employers value.

Because mentorship is part of the culture, alumni regularly return to campus, host students for career treks, offer internships, serve as mentors and help graduates launch their careers. That commitment creates a lifelong network that benefits students long before graduation and continues throughout their lives.

HWS is located in Geneva, New York, on the shores of Seneca Lake in the Finger Lakes. Students enjoy a vibrant college town with restaurants, local shops, outdoor recreation and easy access to Rochester and Syracuse.

Students choose HWS because they want to be known and challenged, and they want the kind of academic and experiential opportunities that lead to successful lives.

Hobart and William Smith graduates build careers in industries ranging from finance, consulting, healthcare and technology to education, public service, environmental science, law, media and entrepreneurship. Many also attend top graduate and professional schools, including programs in medicine, law, business and engineering.

HWS offers merit scholarships and need-based financial aid to help make an HWS education affordable. Students are automatically considered for many merit awards, awards, while other scholarships require a portfolio review or an additional essay, like the Melly Scholarship, which provides $46,000 annually to selected students.