Liberal Colleges in the Midwest

Hey everyone! Midwesterner here and I'm starting to look at colleges. I'd ideally love to stay in the Midwest, but also want a school that leans liberal. Does anyone have suggestions for the most liberal colleges in the Midwest, or what to look for in a liberally-leaning Midwestern school?

There are several schools in the Midwest known for their socially liberal atmospheres. Some universities known for such liberal leanings would be the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Oberlin College, and Grinnell College.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison has a history of student activism and a reputation for being incredibly diverse and inclusive. Oberlin College in Ohio is known for its emphasis on social justice and progressive topics - it was also one of the first colleges in the U.S. to regularly admit women and black students. Grinnell College in Iowa is also highly regarded for its liberal atmosphere and progressive student body.

However, when looking at a college's political leaning, consider not just the overall stereotype, but also the variety of student groups and courses offered. A preparatory step you can take is to research what clubs and organizations are available on a college's campus - a variety of activist, equality-focused, or politically-leaning clubs could indicate a more progressive student body.

Similarly, look at the courses and programs each college offers. Do they have a strong Women's/Gender Studies program? How about robust offerings in topics like environmental science, sustainability, or social justice? The presence of these programs could indicate the school's commitment to liberal-leaning thought.

I'd advise taking a visit, if possible, to get a feel for the social climate, or reaching out to current students or alumni to hear about their experiences.