College Profile: Champlain College

I love Vermont and it is a truly wonderful place to go for college or graduate school (I actually attended law school there!). While I have visited Burlington many times, I had never had the chance to tour Champlain College until recently. I was very impressed by this small school in a fabulous town. Champlain combines career-focused learning, innovative programs, and a vibrant college experience, all with a stunning Lake Champlain backdrop and tons of things to do in town. 

History: 

Founded in 1878 by educator George W. Thompson, Champlain began as a small commercial college called the Burlington Collegiate Institute and Commercial College. Over the next several decades, it evolved through different names and ownerships before becoming Champlain College in 1958. The institution consistently reinvented itself to meet the needs of students and employers, embracing innovation long before it was trendy. 

Originally offering business and clerical training, Champlain expanded its mission over the 20th century and transitioned into a fully accredited nonprofit institution by 1966, later adding liberal arts, technology, creative media, and graduate programs. Today, it boasts international partnerships and study abroad opportunities across the globe. 

Fun Facts:

Career-Focused and Forward-Thinking: Champlain is known for its experiential learning model; meaning you’ll learn by doing through internships, real-world projects, and industry collaborations. 

Game Design Excellence: The college is ranked as a Top-10 Game Design program by The Princeton Review, one of many accolades recognizing Champlain’s academic strength and creativity. 

First to Innovate Online: Champlain was among the first U.S. colleges to embrace online education, offering flexible programs for learners around the world. 

Sustainability Matters: Buildings like Perry Hall have earned LEED Platinum certification - one of the highest marks for eco-friendly design - showing Champlain’s commitment to sustainability. 

Lake Champlain Location: You’ll be studying in a lovely college town with outdoor adventures, local culture, and access to a thriving arts scene — something many students say is a major part of life here. 

Traditions and Student Life:

While Champlain may not have centuries-old rituals like some universities, its student life and traditions center around collaboration, creativity, and community spirit. Here’s what many students love: 

Campus Events & Community: From activity fairs to semester-long club events, Champlain students continually find chances to connect, share passions, and build lifelong friendships. 

Esports & Gaming Culture: With a strong gaming community and competitive teams, many students bond over game design and digital media; making campus life uniquely dynamic. 

Experiential Learning Celebrations: Special showcases, project exhibitions, and internship fairs are practically traditions themselves, centered on celebrating what you achieve academically and professionally. 

Student Statistics:

On-Campus Numbers (Class of 2028)

• Applicants: 3,549

• Average HS GPA: 3.51

• Average SAT Score: 1296

• Average First-Year Financial Aid: $36,928

• Full-Time Undergraduates: ~1,691

• Gender Breakdown: 63% male | 37% female

• States Represented: 31

  
  

Academics & Faculty

• 12:1 Student-Faculty Ratio

• 100+ Unique Areas of Study

• 100% Faculty-Taught Classes (no TAs!)

• Average Class Sizes: ~13 students 

  
  

Financial Aid & Career Success

• 100% of first-year students receive financial aid

• $43.6M in scholarships awarded

• 86% of 2024 grads employed or continuing education within 6 months 

  
  

Online Programs

Champlain College Online supports thousands of students globally, with a median age of 35 and a wide mix of programs, especially strong in cybersecurity and business fields. 

If Champlain College sounds like a good fit for you, I encourage you to try to visit in person, and definitely browse the website at: https://www.champlain.edu/.