Overview of College of William and Mary
The College of William & Mary, often referred to as William & Mary or W&M, is a public research university located in Williamsburg, Virginia, United States. Established in 1693, it holds the distinction of being the second-oldest institution of higher education in the United States, after Harvard University. Renowned for its rich history, academic excellence, and commitment to liberal arts education, William & Mary has played a significant role in shaping the intellectual and cultural landscape of the nation.
Historical Significance: William & Mary was chartered by King William III and Queen Mary II of England, and it stands as a testament to the early commitment to education in the American colonies. The college’s historical significance is underscored by its association with key figures in American history, including Presidents Thomas Jefferson, James Monroe, and John Tyler, who were among its early students.
Academic Excellence: Known for its commitment to academic rigor, William & Mary offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university emphasizes a liberal arts education, encouraging students to explore various disciplines and develop critical thinking skills. Programs in the arts and sciences, business, law, education, and public policy contribute to the diverse academic offerings.
Faculty and Research: William & Mary boasts a distinguished faculty known for its scholarly contributions and commitment to teaching. The university places a strong emphasis on research across disciplines. Faculty and students engage in cutting-edge research, contributing to advancements in fields such as science, humanities, social sciences, and business.
Law School: The Marshall-Wythe School of Law at William & Mary is one of the oldest law schools in the United States. Renowned for its legal education, the law school emphasizes practical training, legal ethics, and a commitment to public service. Graduates from the law school often make significant contributions to the legal profession and public policy.
Public Ivy: William & Mary is often recognized as a “Public Ivy,” a term used to describe publicly funded universities that provide an education comparable to that of the Ivy League. This designation reflects the university’s academic excellence, distinguished faculty, and commitment to high standards of education.
Student Life: The university offers a vibrant and diverse student life experience. With numerous student organizations, clubs, and activities, students have the opportunity to engage in extracurricular pursuits that align with their interests. The campus is home to a mix of cultural events, performances, and academic lectures, contributing to a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment.
Campus and Historic Triangle: The William & Mary campus is situated in the heart of Williamsburg, surrounded by historic buildings and lush green spaces. The university is part of the Historic Triangle, along with Jamestown and Yorktown, making it an integral part of America’s colonial history. The campus itself is a blend of historic architecture and modern facilities.
Global Perspective: William & Mary places a strong emphasis on fostering a global perspective among its students. Study abroad programs, international partnerships, and a diverse student body contribute to a rich and inclusive learning environment. Students are encouraged to think globally and engage with issues on an international scale.
Community Engagement: Community service and engagement are integral to the William & Mary experience. The university encourages students to participate in service projects, volunteer opportunities, and outreach programs that address societal challenges. This commitment to community engagement aligns with the university’s broader mission of producing well-rounded and socially responsible citizens.
Athletics and Tradition: The William & Mary Tribe competes in NCAA Division I athletics, and the university has a rich tradition in sports. The college’s mascot, the Griffin, symbolizes the blending of tradition and innovation. Athletics play a role in fostering school spirit and a sense of community among students, faculty, and alumni.
Alumni Impact: William & Mary has a distinguished alumni network that includes leaders in various fields, including government, business, academia, and the arts. The influence of William & Mary alumni extends globally, and the university takes pride in the accomplishments of its graduates, who often contribute to the betterment of society.
The College of William & Mary stands as a venerable institution with a storied history, a commitment to academic excellence, and a dedication to shaping well-rounded individuals. Its contributions to education, research, and the development of leaders make it a cornerstone of American higher education. For the latest and most accurate information, it is recommended to visit the university’s official website or contact the admissions office directly.
PO Box 8795 Williamsburg, VA 23187-8795
Phone: (757) 221-4223
Email: admission@wm.edu
Web site: http://www.wm.edu
Rankings: College of William and Mary
Located in Williamsburg, VA, College of William and Mary is one of the best universities in the state of Virginia. On this page, you will find in-depth rankings for College of William and Mary in the following areas: graduation rates, teaching resources, financing opportunities, and alumni donations. Latest acceptance rate is also given to show how competitive is College of William and Mary.
| Rankings, Ratings, and Admissions Statistics | |
| Overall Ranking: | 33 |
| Score: | 64 |
| Peer college rating (out of 5) | 3.8 |
| Graduation and retention ranking: | 19 |
| Average freshman retention rate: | 95.2% |
| 6-year graduation rate: | 91.0% |
| Predicted graduation rate: | 91% |
| Overperformance(+)/Underperformance(-): | 0 |
| Faculty resources ranking: | 50 |
| Classes with under 20 students (2020): | 44.7% |
| Classes with 50 or more students (2020): | 7.4% |
| Student faculty ratio (2020): | 11:1 |
| Percent of faculty who are full-time (2020) | 91.5% |
| Student selectivity ranking: | 32 |
| SAT/ACT 25th-75th percentile (2020) | 1250-1440 |
| 2020 Freshmen in top 10 percent of high school class: | 79% |
| Freshmen in top 25 percent of high school class (2020): | 97% |
| Fall 2020 Acceptance rate: | 34.1% |
| Financial resources rank: | 88 |
| Alumni giving rank: | 42 |
| Average alumni giving rate (2020): | 21.7% |
Essential Facts: College of William and Mary
- The average GPA at William and Mary is 4.24. With a GPA of 4.24, William and Mary requires you to be at the top of your class.
- Founded in 1693, the College of William and Mary is the second oldest institution of higher education in the United States after Harvard University .
- One of the top public colleges in the country, it offers more than 40 undergraduate programs, with business and social sciences topping the list for the most popular majors.
Rules and regulations Sports Activities
| General Information | |
| Percent of undergraduate students who live in college-owned, operated, or affiliated housing: | 74% |
| Percent of undergraduates who are members of a fraternity: | 25% |
| Percent of student body who are members of a sorority: | 27% |
| Average percentage of students on campus during weekends: | 85% |
| Are all students permitted to have cars on campus? | No |
| Percent of students who have cars on campus: | N/A |
| Is alcohol permitted on campus for students of legal age? | Yes |
| Additional policies and regulations: | honor code, hazing prohibited |
| Collegiate athletic association: | NCAA I |
| Men’s scholarship sports: | baseball, basketball, cross country, football, golf, gymnastics, soccer, tennis, track and field (indoor), track and field (outdoor) |
| Women’s scholarship sports: | basketball, cross country, field hockey, golf, gymnastics, lacrosse, soccer, tennis, track and field (indoor), track and field (outdoor), volleyball |
| Student activities: | campus ministries, choral groups, concert band, dance, drama/theater, international student organization, jazz band, literary magazine, model UN, music ensembles, musical theater, opera, pep band, radio station, student government, student newspaper, student film society, symphony orchestra, television station, yearbook |