What are the least safe college campuses?

Safety is a big concern for me and my folks. Are any campuses known for being less safe than others? Anyone have experiences or thoughts on what to look out for on the 'least safe' college campuses?

Safety on college campuses is indeed a pivotal aspect to consider when choosing your college. Remember, however, that every student's experience can be varied, so no one listing will paint an entirely accurate picture. In general, universities located in larger, urban settings may naturally have higher crime rates due to their surroundings, but this does not necessarily mean the campus itself is unsafe.

For instance, some colleges in major metropolitan areas like Chicago, Los Angeles, and Philadelphia have been frequently mentioned in discussions about campus safety. They might have higher reported incidents of crime due to the nature of being in a city rather than the campus being inherently unsound. Looking into campus security measures, like blue light systems, campus escort services, and extensive surveillance can give you a better sense of a university's commitment to safety.

The best guide to safety at a particular school is the database of reports provided by colleges in accordance with the Jeanne Clery Act (Clery Act). Colleges are required to keep and disclose information about crime on and near their campuses. These reports can give you specifics on the type of incidents which may be of concern at a given school.

At the end of the day, your feeling of comfort and safety on a campus is incredibly personal. What one person might term "dangerous," another person might feel is invigorating and diverse. A visit to the campus, either in person or virtually, and direct conversation with current students or faculty can provide you a better perception of the campus climate. Try to listen to as many voices as possible to reach a balanced perspective.