Seeking Info on Diversity: What are the least racially diverse colleges in the U.S.?

Similar to many, diversity is pretty high on my priority list for colleges. I'm curious, though - which colleges in the U.S. are considered the least racially diverse?

The racial diversity of a college can significantly impact the student experience, and while it's often discussed which colleges are the most diverse, there is less emphasis on the least racially diverse colleges. It's important to note that the diversity of an institution is context-dependent. For example, a college based in a region with a predominantly homogeneous racial demographic might reflect this demographic rather than lacking diversity by choice or design.

That said, the least racially diverse colleges are more often than not smaller institutions, such as liberal arts colleges or religiously-affiliated institutions, situated in less racially diverse regions of the U.S. This includes colleges like Saint Joseph's College of Maine, Hampshire College in Massachusetts, and Prescott College in Arizona.

However, diversity isn't just about the racial make-up of a school—it also includes aspects like socioeconomic diversity, geographic diversity, diversity of thought, diversity of academic programs, etc. So, while it's valuable to research the racial demographics of the colleges you're considering, it's also important to look at these other aspects of diversity. Additionally, consider how colleges are actively addressing diversity issues, as some schools with less diverse student bodies may be making significant strides to enhance diversity and inclusion on their campuses.

In short, while we can share examples of colleges with lower racial diversity, we recommend looking at diversity in a broader context. Each school's commitment to diversity and inclusion is unique, and the best way for you to assess this commitment is by researching colleges' diversity initiatives and speaking directly with current students or recent graduates.