What Is Lycoming College?

Lycoming College is a private, nationally ranked liberal arts and sciences college in Pennsylvania. It is built around small classes, mentorship, and experiential learning: the school reports a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio, more than 100 majors, minors, and programs, and a stated commitment that students are "known by name." If you are looking for a small liberal arts college where you can combine a broad education with internships, research, or study abroad, Lycoming fits that profile. If you want a large research university with big lecture halls, it is a different kind of school by design.

What kind of school is it?

Lycoming describes itself as a top liberal arts and sciences college for experiential learning and mentorship. Its stated purpose is that "careers of significance and lives of meaning begin at Lycoming," and its tagline is "Think Deeply. Act Boldly."

The college is explicit that its size is intentional. In its own words, "Lycoming isn't a big school. That's on purpose. You won't get lost in lecture halls here — you'll be seen, supported, and inspired by people who believe in your potential."

Academics and programs

• More than 100 majors, minors, and programs are available.
• The student-to-faculty ratio is 10:1.
• The college reports that 100% of Lycoming graduates complete an enhanced academic experience, such as an internship, undergraduate research, or study abroad.
• It offers a 4+1 MBA program with RIT. One featured example is Brian Hulsey '25, who used a business major and economics minor to gain admission to RIT's master's program with a scholarship.

Outcomes and recognition

Lycoming points to student outcomes as evidence of its approach. Featured examples include:

• Francine Bacon '25, a Criminal Justice major, who graduated with multiple internships and research experiences for a career of service.
• Phoebe Wagner '14, an alumna drawn to writing who became an English professor and author of multiple books in the Solarpunk genre.

The college also states that it is ranked No. 24 in the U.S. News Best Value Schools, which it attributes to a high-quality, affordable education.

Applying: the Lyco Fast App

Lycoming offers a Fast App option that it describes as the quickest way to apply:

• No essay.
• No test scores.
• Complete a short form and a campus visit.
• Decision in 2 weeks.

The college frames this as an application "built to make applying easier." If you are early in your search, the site also offers a virtual tour and a "day-in-the-life" campus visit option.

Athletics

Lycoming offers Division III athletics, so students can continue playing the sport they love as a DIII student-athlete.

Is Lycoming a good fit for you?

Lycoming is likely a good fit if you want:

• A small, close-knit community where faculty know you by name.
• A liberal arts and sciences education with room to explore many fields.
• Required or strongly encouraged hands-on experience through internships, research, or study abroad.
• A straightforward, low-friction application process.
• The option to keep playing a sport at the DIII level.

It may be less of a fit if you prefer a large university environment, want the resources of a major research institution, or are looking for a school in a large city. The best way to judge the fit is to use the tools the college provides: take the virtual tour, book a day-in-the-life visit, and compare application options before deciding.