Behind Academics at Vassar

A special report on the numbers, policies, and programs that define academics at the College. Click on a headline to go to the full article.

How to major in everything

Multidisciplinary programs turn ideas into reality

Today, the College offers 13 multidisciplinary programs available as majors, and all of which have been created in the last 50 years. The trend toward multidisciplinary learning is one general reason that so many programs have developed and flourished in a relatively short time, but the story of how each program was created is different.

Going Independent

Independent Program lets students pursue their own ideas, but not without serious planning

Unsatisfied with your major? Can’t find a multidisciplinary field that fits your unique taste? You may be a prime candidate for the independent major’s program.

Now and Then

Taking a look at the popularity of majors, 30 years ago and today

In 1974, 34 courses of study were available to students as a major. In 2004, the number had increased to 47. In the interim, the College has seen changes in which majors attract the most students.

Tripling your major

The next time you find yourself regretting this semester's five class course load, or your decision to double major, think of Steve Gilhool. The senior has not one, not two, but three (that's right, three) majors: astronomy, physics, and Japanese. He is the sole triple major in the entire Class of 2005.

The Ratio Game

Though the number of faculty who actually teach each year varies due to sabbaticals and administrative assignments, these absences are filled by visiting faculty members.