Who We Are

We are always ascending.

Surrounded by scenes of unforgettable beauty, and energetic spirit, this is what it feels like to have the best of a research university and a liberal arts college in one, where the best scholars in their fields put teaching first. 

A Distinct Education

Colgate challenges students to be enlightened thinkers and prepares them to be global citizens who will thrive in life and in work. The hallmarks of a Colgate education have stood for centuries: all students are taught to think critically, communicate powerfully, analyze other perspectives, and solve complex problems.

A Shared Curriculum

Colgate’s core curriculum teaches not just topics but habits of mind. The core takes students through an intellectual exploration of questions and courses across all majors, reflecting a liberal arts education that teaches the whole person, and a world that never fits neatly into just one discipline.

Discovery, Discourse, and Debate

Our community embraces differences and recognizes that we learn from each other. We instill our campus community with the value of rigorous, academic discourse. We teach students to investigate issues, to engage in fair discussion, and to listen to each other. Learn more about academic freedom and freedom of expression at Colgate.

Books leaned against each other

Bold Ambition

We are steeped in 200 years of history and continue to build on our bold ambitions. Colgate looks toward its third century with both pride and a sense of possibility.

Looking Forward

The Third-Century Plan represents the largest and most important transformation in the history of Colgate. It will both complete our physical campus and fully realize our potential to become one of the great institutions in the nation.

Fostering a Supportive and Inclusive Community

Colgate cultivates an inclusive campus culture that celebrates and empowers all members of the community, valuing diverse perspectives and backgrounds. Colgate continues to remove barriers, ensuring every student may pursue an affordable education and has access to equitable opportunities across campus.

Sustainability

Championing sustainable practices and overcoming environmental challenges will take a focused and prolonged effort that is intergenerational. Colgate continues this pursuit in three core areas — education, campus operations, and community collaboration.

Professor teaches a class outdoors on a sunny day

Our Foundation

Mission

An assertion of our purpose and principles, Colgate's mission provides the framework for all we do.

History

Colgate was built by remarkable people. Stone by stone, moment by moment, they created an academic community and pursued greater understanding — deo ac veritati. Learn about Colgate's people, places, and great moments.

Traditions

When you arrive at Colgate you're met by a welcoming committee banging pots and pans, cheering on new students — one of our latest traditions. Throughout your Colgate experience, you'll take part in traditions that span generations forming a common bond between alumni.

Students line up for the Commencement procession

This is Colgate

A distinctive, vibrant, and welcoming place to learn, live, and develop into who you are. Colgate is ever driven to be the best — one of the world’s premier universities and the finest undergraduate institution in America.