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Prospective Families

Arrival Day for First-Year Students. Photo by Karl Rabe.
Welcome, Families! 
We appreciate that you have an interest in your student’s college search and so we have collected here for you some of the most commonly requested information about Bard College. Among the information you will find are quick links to the common curriculum, student affairs, and residence life. Parent Testimonials and Ask a Parent offer the parent perspective, while FAQs provide concise answers.  
For Families
Family Weekend in the Fall. Photo by China Jorrin '86.

For Families

As you research what Bard has to offer, we understand there will be times when it is preferable to speak directly with us. Please do not hesitate to call the Office of Admission directly—we are always delighted to make time for you!

Office of Admission, Josh Tyler: 845 758-7472.

The Value of Liberal Education

Bard College President Leon Botstein in Conversation with Fareed Zakaria of CNN


Bard College president Leon Botstein and CNN's Fareed Zakaria consider the question: what is the value of a liberal arts education today? These two astute commentators on education and its role in society engage in a discussion moderated by Sam Tanenhaus, former editor of the New York Times Book Review.

Structure of the Curriculum
Bard parents attend a Citizen Science class during Family Weekend. Photo by Pete Mauney '93 MFA '00

Structure of the Curriculum

The pillars of the Bard education are the structure of the first year, including First-Year Seminar; the program- and concentration-based approach to study; Moderation; the concept of distribution by modes of thought; and the Senior Project.

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