Clark University

A group of students sitting outside on the campus of Clark University.

“Clark is a major research university of small size, a place where a teenager can make things happen that he wants to happen, much as he can at a small liberal arts college. He will find a faculty concerned for his welfare, a faculty of the highest competence, and one that will set a high level of expectation, and care enough to see that he works to meet it.
Colleges That Change Lives
Feel what it’s like to live and learn at Clark. Walk the same paths as passionate students, explore welcoming residence halls, dive into engaging classrooms, and see our campus community in action. Come discover your future at Clark. Plan your visit!

Clark University
Office of Admissions
950 Main Street
Worcester, Massachusetts 01610
508.793.7431 / 800.GO.CLARK
admissions@clarku.edu
www.clarku.edu
⋅ 2,266 undergraduates from 48 states and 50 countries
⋅ Student-to-faculty ratio 9:1
⋅ Average class size: 20
⋅ Students of color: 30%
⋅ First-generation college students: 17%
⋅ International students: 6%
⋅ Tuition: $57,440
⋅ Room, Board, Fees: $13,927
⋅ 70% of first-year students receive need-based aid
⋅ Average financial aid package: $44,951
⋅ 88% of all aid awarded are grants that do not have to be repaid

Students gather on the grass, playing guitar and singing together on the campus of Clark University.
Several people engaged in a discussion while observing a large screen in Clark’s Becker School.
Two Clark students in a canoe conducting research on the water.
A collective of people on stage, each holding different flags, symbolizing diversity and solidarity during Clark's Gala.
A group of students cheering on Clark during a basketball game.
Character
  • Founded in 1887, Clark University, located in Worcester, Massachusetts, combines the intellectual resources of a top-tier research institution with the personalized experience of a close-knit liberal arts community.
  • With 2,300 undergraduates and 1,100 graduate students, Clark’s 8:1 student-faculty ratio and small class sizes foster close mentorship, deep engagement, and a collaborative learning environment. Students tackle real-world challenges through hands-on research, internships, and community partnerships, addressing global and local issues.
  • Clark’s diverse and inclusive community cultivates creativity, purpose, and critical thinking, offering innovative academic pathways like the 4+1 Accelerated Master’s Degree Programs, which allow students to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in just five years. Clark is dedicated to preparing students for meaningful careers and lives of impact through interdisciplinary learning, global perspectives, and a commitment to social responsibility.

Worth Noting
  • Clark’s Interactive Media program is ranked #3 for undergraduate game design by The Princeton Review and is renowned for its cutting-edge curriculum, which prepares students to create distributable games and succeed in the rapidly evolving tech industry.
  • Clark University is ranked #42 for best value by The Princeton Review, reflecting the university’s strong return on investment and commitment to affordability.
  • Clark is ranked #5 for “schools making an impact,” recognized for its dedication to fostering innovation and creating positive change in communities and beyond.
  • Clark’s newest academic offerings — Data Science, Marketing, and Interactive Media — reflect the university’s focus on emerging fields and preparing students for the careers of tomorrow.
  • 98% of Clark alumni are employed, continuing their education, or engaged in voluntary service within six months of graduation, underscoring Clark’s strong career outcomes and the lasting value of a Clark education.

Faculty & Academics
  • 9:1 student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention and close mentorship.
  • 100% of Clark faculty teach undergraduate classes, so students benefit from direct interaction with professors — not teaching assistants.
  • 94% of faculty hold the highest degree in their field, bringing expert instruction and meaningful mentorship to every class.
  • With 45 majors, over 50 minors, and interdisciplinary concentrations, Clark offers an extensive range of academic options, enabling students to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals.
  • The Clark Core a hallmark of Clark’s liberal arts education, includes nine requirements across five disciplines, beginning with the immersive First-Year Intensive course. This curriculum fosters critical thinking, cultural awareness, and interdisciplinary exploration, preparing students to address complex, global challenges.
  • Hands-on learning is integral to Clark’s curriculum and culture. Problems of Practice (PoP) courses immerse students in real-world projects that apply classroom knowledge to critical issues. Through internships, study abroad, and co-curricular activities, students connect their learning to practical solutions and gain valuable skills.
  • Capstone projects empower students to apply their academic learning to real-world challenges. Projects include:
    • Creating a documentary on peace-building efforts in Armenia.
    • Conducting clinical rotations at Bellevue Hospital.
    • Developing an accessibility tool for Google Chrome.
    • Students collaborate closely with faculty mentors to design impactful projects addressing significant global and local issues.
  • The Honors Experience provides high-achieving students with an enriched academic pathway focused on global challenges. With interdisciplinary coursework, leadership development, and co-curricular activities, students gain access to early registration, research funding, and the opportunity to earn departmental honors, preparing them for graduate studies and meaningful careers.

Areas of Study
For the most current listings, including concentrations and minors (not listed below), please check the college website.

Majors

  • Ancient Civilization
  • Art History
  • Asian Studies
  • Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
  • Biology
  • Business Economics
  • Chemistry
  • Combined Languages
  • Community, Youth, and Education Studies
  • Comparative Literature
  • Computer Science
  • Creative Writing
  • Data Science
  • Economics
  • English
  • Environmental Science
  • Finance
  • French and Francophone Studies
  • Geography
  • Global Environmental
  • Studies
  • Health, Science and Society
  • History
  • Interactive Media: Game Design and Development – Tracks Include:
    • Art: 2D Art
    • Art: 3D Art
    • Audio
    • Design Your Own
    • Production
    • Programming
    • UI/UX
    • Writing
  • International Development and Social Change
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Mathematics
  • Mathematics Education
  • Media, Culture, and the Arts
  • Music
  • Philosophy
  • Physics
  • Political Science
  • Psychology
  • Screen Studies
  • Sociology
  • Spanish
  • Student-Designed
  • Studio Art
  • Theatre Arts
  • Women’s and Gender Studies

Campus Life
  •  Over 130 clubs and organizations: Explore your interests or discover new ones by joining theater troupes, advocating for change with groups like Amnesty International, volunteering through Youth Outreach Worcester, or contributing to initiatives like Clark Rapid Response. Unique clubs like the Beekeepers Club, Science-Fiction People of Clark, and the Outing Club offer opportunities for sustainability efforts, fandom connections, and outdoor adventures.
  • Stay active and have fun with club sports, intramural teams, and unique activities like Quidditch. With 1,800 student-run events annually, there’s always something to do, new people to meet, and passions to discover.
  • 95% of first-year students live on campus, quickly finding a welcoming community where they can study, relax, and build lasting friendships. Residence halls feature double rooms, community bathrooms, full kitchens, and social lounges—everything you need to feel at home. Each floor is supported by a Resident Advisor (RA), who fosters connection, well-being, and a sense of belonging. In fact, 68% of all undergraduates live on campus, creating a vibrant, close-knit environment that supports academic success and personal growth.
  • Dining is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. From the all-you-care-to-eat Table at Higgins to the Bistro’s diverse food platforms and cozy spots like The Cougar Café and The Den, you’ll enjoy fresh ingredients, flexible hours, and options to suit every taste and dietary need.

Varsity Sports

Clark University offers 17 intercollegiate varsity teams and is a proud member of the Division III NEWMAC Conference.

Men’s Sports

  • Baseball
  • Basketball
  • Cross Country
  • Lacrosse
  • Soccer
  • Swimming & Diving
  • Tennis

Women’s Sports

  • Basketball
  • Cross Country
  • Field Hockey
  • Lacrosse
  • Rowing
  • Soccer
  • Softball
  • Swimming & Diving
  • Tennis
  • Volleyball

Life After College

At Clark, we prepare you to tackle global challenges with innovative solutions. Your education empowers you to think critically, ask tough questions, and drive meaningful change in the world.

  • 97% of alumni are employed, in school, or volunteering within six months of graduation.
  • 100% of students complete an internship or similar experience before their senior year.
  • 94% of students are involved in co-curricular activities, with one-third serving in leadership roles.
  • 96% of alumni find their current job meaningful.

Learning by Doing: Clark’s hands-on opportunities—like internships, Problems of Practice courses, and research projects—prepare you for real-world impact. For instance, Samantha Hughson ’19 secured an internship at Amazon and now thrives as a software engineer at Tripadvisor.

Global Perspective: Through study abroad and leadership experiences, Clark students build skills to excel in diverse fields. Alumni like Deotima Mukherjee ’09, now a product manager at Instagram, solve complex global challenges with confidence.

Versatile Career Paths: Whether launching a business, earning a 4+1 Master’s Degree, or serving organizations like the Peace Corps, Clark equips you to make a difference. Graduates succeed across industries—from finance and education to technology and public service.

Clark’s unique approach blends hands-on learning, essential skills, and real-world connections to set you up for success.

Academic Profile of Entering Class
  • Average GPA: 3.76
  • Average SAT Critical Reading (Middle 50%): 658-740
  • Average SAT Math (Middle 50%): 630-720
  • Average ACT Composite (Middle 50%): 30-33