Colleges that allow students to customize their learning experience?

Hey there! I'm looking for schools that give students the flexibility to choose what they learn and customize their academic experience. Does anyone know of any colleges that provide this kind of learning environment?

Hello! I'm glad to hear you're interested in a flexible and customizable learning environment. Many colleges offer such options to a certain extent, but some schools truly stand out in this regard. A very flexible learning style is called the open curriculum—this is a curriculum with very few, if any, core or general education requirements.

In open curriculum schools, you are generally free to design your own program of study (outside of major requirements and things of that nature). For a list of schools offering an open curriculum, check out this CollegeVine article: https://blog.collegevine.com/open-curriculum-schools-11-colleges-that-allow-students-to-direct-their-own-learning

Here are a few examples of schools with flexible learning environments:

1. Brown University: Brown is well-known for its Open Curriculum, which doesn't have strict core requirements, allowing students to create their own learning paths. Students can also design interdisciplinary concentrations, combining multiple fields of interest.

2. New College of Florida: This small liberal arts college focuses on student-centered, experiential learning. With contract-based evaluation instead of traditional grades, students design their educational plans in collaboration with faculty mentors and have numerous opportunities for independent study and research.

3. Hampshire College: At Hampshire, students design their own Concentration, the school's equivalent to a major, based on their interests. They work closely with faculty members to develop a comprehensive plan integrating various fields, creating a truly individualized academic experience.

4. Evergreen State College: Students at Evergreen can engage in interdisciplinary, theme-based programs that encompass different subjects, aligning with their learning goals. They also have the option to collaborate with faculty members on Independent Learning Contracts, shaping their academic pursuits according to their passions.

5. University of Rochester: While the University of Rochester has traditional majors, it offers the well-regarded Rochester Curriculum, which allows students to build their courses around their majors and interests, with no mandated general education requirements.

These are just a few examples of colleges that provide highly customizable academic experiences. When exploring different schools, look for those with flexible curricula, interdisciplinary programs, and opportunities for self-designed concentrations or majors. Keep in mind that smaller liberal arts colleges are more likely to offer personalized learning experiences due to their lower student-to-faculty ratios. Good luck in your search!