Least religious college in the U.S.?

I identify as an atheist, and I'd really like to attend a college that's as secular as possible. What's the least religious college in the United States? Appreciate any insights!

There isn't an official list ranking the least religious colleges in the U.S., because religious practice significantly varies among individual students at any given school. That said, you can find campuses where the general culture tends to place less emphasis on religious beliefs or activities.

One way to concretize the secular nature of a school would be to consider colleges and universities not affiliated with any religious denomination. Such schools include public universities like the University of California (UC) system or the State University of New York (SUNY), as well as private institutions like Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) or Stanford University.

Another notable university is Reed College in Oregon, which is touted as one of the most unconventional, progressive, and secular campuses in the nation. When it comes to intellectual rigor, Reed is widely recognized for their commitment to independent critical thinking over adherence to any religious doctrine.

Other potential options could include small liberal arts colleges such as Oberlin College or Sarah Lawrence College, both known for their diversity in belief systems and emphasis on open-mindedness and intellectual curiosity over religious affiliation.

While these schools are considered secular, that doesn't mean you won't encounter people with religious beliefs. Most universities encourage diversity of thought, which includes diverse religious and spiritual perspectives. It's good to keep in mind that the level of religious practice may vary from student to student no matter where you go.

As part of your college search, it would be helpful if you look into the school's values, student body demographics, and clubs or organizations that match your interests. You might want to contact the school's admissions office or current students to gather a better picture of the school's culture. This can help you find a college environment not only that is secular, but also one where you feel most comfortable and welcome.