McDaniel College: Tradition, Support, and Personalized Pathways on “The Hill”

McDaniel College located in Westminster, Maryland, offers a warm and personal college experience with a strong sense of tradition, community, and student-centered support. Known affectionately as “The Hill,” this historic liberal arts college was founded in 1867 and was the first co-educational college south of the Mason-Dixon Line, a progressive beginning that still informs its inclusive and forward-thinking culture today.

A Commitment to Every Student

One of the most distinctive aspects of McDaniel College is the McDaniel Commitment, a four-part promise that guides students from their first day on campus to their first job or graduate school acceptance:

  1. My Place – Before the start of the first year, students have the opportunity to participate in an overnight summer experience that helps foster belonging and connection.
  2. My Design – First-year students return to campus early in the fall to create a personalized academic and co-curricular blueprint, helping them reflect on who they are and who they want to become.
  3. My Experience – All students complete at least two hands-on learning opportunities such as internships, research, study abroad, or even designing their own major.
  4. My Career – A one-credit course during the junior or senior year provides personalized career coaching, résumé development, and post-college planning.

The Center for Experience and Opportunity plays a key role in this process, supporting students with career services, alumni mentoring, volunteer connections, and study abroad programs—including a unique McDaniel campus in Budapest, Hungary.

Academics with Impact

McDaniel offers over 70 majors, minors, and specializations with small class sizes averaging just 15 students. One standout is the new Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. Admission to this selective program requires at least a 3.5 GPA, no grade below a B in science courses, and an interview.

Students interested in interdisciplinary learning may also consider the Lumen Scholars Program. This honors-like track includes four exclusive courses, a summer retreat before freshman year, and the opportunity to study in Budapest with tuition and housing fully covered.

Accessibility and academic support are major priorities at McDaniel. An impressive 80–90% of students utilize the Office of Student Accessibility and Support Services, which works alongside the Writing Center and STEM Center to help students succeed in all disciplines.

A Campus That Feels Like Home

McDaniel is a residential college, with 85% of students living on campus and housing required for the first three years. Dorms are welcoming and community-oriented, including a unique residence hall where American Sign Language is the primary language, taught by members of the deaf community. This immersive experience supports both deaf and hearing students interested in ASL and deaf culture.

The college is home to Division III athletics and robust facilities, including a 9-hole golf course on campus. The school mascot—the Green Terror—has one of the most unforgettable names in college sports! Whether cheering from the sidelines or suiting up for a team, McDaniel students find ways to get involved.

Financial Aid and Affordability

Cost is a critical consideration for many families, and McDaniel is committed to affordability. Merit scholarships go up to $33,000 per year, and about 90% of students receive financial aid. With strong support systems and career preparation, McDaniel aims to provide not just an education, but a launching pad for life.

McDaniel College may be small, but it offers a deeply personalized and immersive college experience. From its innovative McDaniel Commitment to the warm and inclusive campus culture, students on “The Hill” are supported every step of the way.  You will not get lost in the crowd.