The 50 Safest Small Colleges And Universities
Updated May 15, 2023
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Whether you're just out of high school and attending college for the first time or you're a returning student who wants to finish attaining your degree, you deserve a safe and welcoming campus. That's why College Choice has created the ultimate list of the safest small colleges and universities in the country. Though the idea of safety can be relative - for one it may mean they feel welcome no matter how they identify and for another it may mean a space free of alcohol and drugs - a safe campus can generally be understood as one with low crime incidents, robust security, protection for its female and minority students, and a sense of inclusion. Not surprisingly, the safest schools tend to be private, smaller in student population, and located in smaller towns, though that's not necessarily true for all; stay tuned for our 50 Safest Large Colleges and Universities ranking. Below are the country's 50 safest small colleges and universities. They range from everything including business and technology schools to art schools and Christian colleges.
What are the safest small colleges and universities in America?
At College Choice we believe in providing the most thorough data that reflects our extensive and exhaustive research findings. To find the safest colleges we have combed through those campuses, as well as their local cities and neighbors, that boast the lowest crime rates. We further pared from there by collating the reported crime activities from each school for the past three years. We pulled data on the respective school's general crime report as well as the number of documented hate crimes, violence against women, arrests made, and discipline enforced activities for each. Those colleges and universities below with a College Choice score of 100 had zero incidents in all categories for the past three years.
Recommended Colleges
More on the Data Points:
- General safety grade: The general safety grade takes into account the past three years of theft, assault, arson, and other offenses.
- Women's safety grade: This reflects the overall VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) offenses that have occurred in the past three years, including domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, and sexual assault.
- Party scene grade: This takes into account the number of drug and alcohol incidents a campus reported over the past five years.
- Anti-discrimination grade: This reflects the number of hate crimes reported by a school over the past three years.
Our data comes the U.S. Department of Education, as well as from the university and colleges' websites, U.S. News & World Report, and The National Center for Education Statistics.
Safest Small Colleges and Universities in America
See our rankings methodology page.
Graceville, FL The president of the Baptist College of Florida (BCF) has said In the past, we have been recognized as one of the safest campuses in the state of Florida. We are constantly working with local law enforcement agencies and fire departments to keep our campus safe for all who live, work and study here. The numbers clearly prove this to be true. There have been zero incidents of theft, violence, partying, and assault in the last three years, and the trend doesn't look like it will change anytime soon, as safety has been made one of the cornerstones of BCF campus life. The Baptist College of Florida, located in aptly named Graceville, Florida, was originally a college that trained Baptist ministers at the graduate level, but it now offers twenty-three associates, bachelors, and masters degrees in a range of fields, including the liberal arts, theology, music, psychology, business, and education. In addition to its Graceville campus, BCF also has campuses in Orlando, Panama City, and online. One of the smaller schools on our list, BCF has a total population of fewer than five hundred students and a student-to-faculty ratio of ten to one. The Baptist College of Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Center Valley, PA The security crew at Penn State Lehigh Valley do not mess around. They are trained in both emergency first aid and CPR; they work closely with regional police; they enforce Title IX and the Clery Act; and they work closely with other departments that service student health. For Penn State Lehigh Valley, safety is a community-wide priority, and for that reason the Office of Student Affairs, the Emergency Management department, and Environmental Health and Safety office partner with the campus's security teams to cultivate a safe and welcoming campus for its students. The oldest of Pennsylvania State University's commonwealth campuses, Penn State Lehigh Valley is located in Center Valley, just outside of Allentown, Pennsylvania. It was originally founded in the early Twentieth Century as a professional school, though it now offers a number of bachelor and associate degrees, including those in arts administration, childhood and adolescent education, business, health policy, information sciences and technology, rehabilitation and human services, psychology, and more. Approximately eight hundred undergraduate students attend Penn State Lehigh Valley, in addition to its three thousand continuing education students. Penn State Lehigh Valley is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Niceville, FL Northwest Florida State College is home to the Criminal Justice Training Center, where students each year graduate with degrees in public safety, first response, corrections, fire safety, and more. But safety is not just a matter of academics for Northwest Florida. In the last three years, they have experienced an impressive zero crime rate, due in large part to their pre-emptive approach. A college campus is an important part of the local community that it serves. As in any neighborhood, it is important that the students, faculty, and staff realize that they should take every possible precaution to prevent assault and crime against themselves or others. Part of the Florida College System, Northwest Florida State College is comprised of nearly 15,000 undergraduate students enrolled in one of its bachelor, associate, certificate, or online programs. However, options can be limited; for example, one is only able to earn a BA in early childhood education, nursing, or business. But what Northwest Florida State College may lack in diversity, it makes up for in its emphasis on the arts. It is known for its Mattie Kelly Arts Center, a $25 million dollar performing arts complex that regularly brings in Broadway shows, visiting artists, dance, operas, and orchestras. Northwest Florida State College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Memphis, TN The Baptist Memorial College of Health Sciences's only breach of safety in the last few years was a minor alcohol incident. Otherwise, it receives perfect marks, for a number of reasons: students on the BMCHS campus are required to wear ID badges, which allow them access to buildings and rooms. There are also emergency Code Blue phones on campus grounds that, when dialed, direct the caller directly to security. The school has also implemented a e2campus alert system, which notifies all students via text and email of any incidents on campus. One assumes from the excellent safety record that these texts are few and far between. The Baptist Memorial College of Health Sciences, located in Memphis, Tennessee, is a private school specializing in healthcare certificate and terminal degree programs. It offers the following bachelor degrees: nursing, nuclear medicine, radiation therapy, respiratory therapy, medical laboratory science, medical radiography, health care management, diagnostic medical sonography, and general health studies. Baptist Memorial offers both affordable tuition rates and financial aid; nearly 97 percent of their students receive aid. Baptist Memorial College of Health Sciences is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Groton, CT Because the University of Connecticut at Avery Point is part of the larger UConn network, it has access to the same safety services as all the other campuses, which means the security team is part of greater UConn's internationally accredited law enforcement agency. The UConn Police Department has the same authority as any municipal police department, and has named its primary priority is the protection of lives and property at the University of Connecticut. Safety at Avery Point is also due in part to its niche mission and geography. Located in the small town of Groton, the University of Connecticut's Avery Point campus is situated on a peninsula jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean. Students either attend Avery Point then transfer to UConn main campus, or they stay for both the ocean views and marine emphasis. Avery Point offers degrees in Maritime Studies, Coastal Studies, and Marine Sciences, supplementing classroom education with research labs, waterfront programs, and technology. In addition to this hands-on learning, students also have access to UConn's traditional majors. The University of Connecticut, Avery Point is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. Salem, OR Corban University has only a couple blemishes on its perfect safety record, and those are just for minor alcohol infractions. Their stated goal for enacting security is to provide professional services which promote and maintain a safe and secure environment so that the University's educational mission of educating Christians who will make a difference in the world for Jesus Christ' can be achieved. Corban accomplishes this through a number of services, one of which is their unique safety escorts program, which is when they provide officers who will happily walk with you or drive you where you need to go. And Corban is one of a few schools that provides road assistance! Originally based in Arizona, Corban University moved to Salem, Oregon where it still is currently, serving an undergraduate population of 1,200. Corban is a private, Christian school with bachelor degrees in biblical studies, liberal arts, and professional studies, and graduate degrees in business, ministry, education, and counseling. They also provide a couple of online degrees, in business and psychology, for those seeking an affordable and convenient alternative. Corban's campus is situated on a wooded hillside, surrounded by Douglas Fir and Oregon White Oak. Corban University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Logan, UT As a new student at Stevens-Hanager you can anticipate workshops on crime prevention, drug and alcohol abuse, and sexual assault prevention. You can also expect a community committed to a safe and vibrant campus life. The campus is dry (meaning, drugs and alcohol are not allowed) and administrators have formally vocalized a zero tolerance policy for crime. For more what it's like to be a student at Stevens-Hanager, be sure to check out their student blog! Stevens-Henager College is one of the oldest in Utah, first founded in 1891. Today it grants associates, bachelors, and masters degrees in the fields of medicine, graphic arts, business, computer and technology, accounting, and healthcare. They have many branches and campuses throughout Utah and Idaho, though one of the primary campuses and the one noted for its safety is located in Logan, Utah. The programs at Stevens-Henager are notably career-focused, meaning their curriculum has been consolidated to that material which will serve students after graduation and throughout their careers. Stevens-Henager College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and College. Stamford, CT As was stated above for UConn at Avery Point, all the University of Connecticut campuses are part of the greater umbrella security system, which has the authority of a full city police unit. At Stamford though, the Environmental, Health, and Safety Council plays a big role in the safety of the campus. The council reports directly to the Campus Director about the needs of the student body and pushes for change when they see it necessary. Further, students can take self-defense classes, join the Citizen's Police Academy, or make anonymous reports online. Located in the heart of downtown Stamford, Connecticut, UConn's Stamford branch is known for its business programs and hands-on learning curriculum. Students at UConn Stamford participate in a range of internships and field placements, working close with a number of area business including the Connecticut Information Technology Institute that are in partnership with the school. In addition to the number of business, economics, digital media, political science, and history degrees, UConn Stamford also provides access to the wider UConn curriculum. The University of Connecticut, Stamford is accredited by the AACSB International. Abington, PA The security team at Penn State Abington is comprised of a full-time chief and staff who serve the campus twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. Other campus departments also seek to foster a healthy campus through several initiatives and programs. There are cultural celebrations, educational workshops, diversity trainings, leaderships retreats, and the Abington Care Team (ACT), a service that intervenes for students struggling with an academic, health, or safety concern. A commonwealth campus of Pennsylvania State University and located in Philadelphia, Penn State Abington has 4,000 undergraduates enrolled in the over 160 bachelor programs. After two years those students are given the option to transfer to the University Park campus if they choose, or stay and finish their degree at the Abington branch. Penn State Abington's athletic program has been recognized as having full NCAA Division III status and offers thirteen sports programs for both men and women; additionally, they have over fifty student organizations. Penn State Abington is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Palatka, FL The Department of Campus Safety and Security at St. Johns is not only devoted to producing low crime stats and preventing incidents (both of which are few), but also to providing a high level of leadership, professionalism, and decorum through specialized training, education, working partnerships with law enforcement and community-based resources. Students can participate in enacting campus safety by taking one of the Safety Education Classes, where they can learn CPR or first aid. Located in Northeast Florida, St. Johns River State College is a member institution of the Florida College System. There are nearly 8,000 enrolled students earning certificates, associate degrees, and bachelor degrees. St. Johns is also home to the Florida School of the Arts an accredited arts school with programs in fine arts, graphic design, photography, acting, dance, musical theater, costume design, stage management, and more as well as the Thrasher-Horne Center for the Arts. St. Johns River State College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Marion, AL Judson College has gone to great lengths to create a safe and healthy campus, a fact proven by their low crime stats (there have only been a few burglaries in the last few years). Judson offers self-defense for all students and faculty, free of charge. They have several emergency Blue Light phone booths on campus grounds. Students can register their bicycles, which radically cuts down on theft and makes bikes easier to find if stolen. Students can request escorts who will walk or drive them to their destinations. Finally, students can request motorist assistance for dead battery or locked car situations. Judson College is a woman's school affiliated with the Alabama Baptist Convention and is located in Marion, Alabama. It is still heavily influenced and funded by the convention. The student population is one of the smallest on our list with fewer than five hundred students, though there exists a strong emphasis on community and mentorship on campus. Judson College is also home to a Carnegie library, which houses the Alabama Women's Hall of Fame. There are numerous degree programs at Judson, from Equine Science to Interdisciplinary Studies, Spanish, Music, and more. Judson College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Westville, IN With a mission statement that clearly delineates a commitment to service, the North Central campus of Purdue performs their duties with an unwavering commitment to customer service, integrity, and professionalism and will be accountable to those we serve for our decisions and actions. Further, they promise to protect and serve with empathy, compassion, and sensitivity, a unique approach to safety that is not always embraced by security teams. The school also publishes their crime logs, sends texts when there are security breaches, and provides a bunch of resources for learning more about personal safety and protection. Though the smallest campus in the Purdue system, Purdue University North Central (PNC) is one of the fastest growing in the university system and has a dozen departments allocated in four colleges: the College of Business, the College of Engineering and Technology, the College of Liberal Arts, and the College of Science. They also offer one graduate program: a Masters in Business Administration. PNC is comprised of nearly 5,000 students and is located on 300 rural acres in LaPorte County near Westville, Indiana. Purdue University North Central is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Bellevue, NE The Center for Health and Safety is the nexus of Bellevue's campus experience. There students can find drug and alcohol abuse prevention programs, awareness trainings, prevention events, wellness resources, emergency and preparedness guides, and information on the school's procedures and regulations. For this reason, Bellevue is an extremely safe school. They only had a couple of theft incidents in the last few years, and those were mostly just car break-ins, and only a few incidents related to alcohol. There are over 10,000 students enrolled in the undergraduate and graduate programs of Bellevue University, located in Bellevue, Nebraska. Founded as a professional school with the goal of providing adult education, today most of the student body is comprised of undergraduates who are twenty-five-years-old or older. Bellevue is not only known for its safety and low crime statistics, but its online platform is continually ranked among the best by U.S. News & World Report. Bellevue University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. New York, NY Though located in New York City and with a large student population of 12,000 undergrads, graduate students, and doctoral candidates, Touro College ranks as one of the safest colleges in the country, with its low incidents of crime, discrimination, and arrests. Touro's president has noted the communal commitment to producing a safe campus: At Touro, we take pride in our safe and secure campuses. We are best able to maintain a protected campus environment through our shared knowledge and joint efforts. Traditionally serving the Jewish heritage, Touro now receives students from all over the world, and is known for its commitment to diversity and service. Students focus on both individual, academic development as well as creating greater good in their communities and in communities low in resources and high in needs. Touro's undergraduate fields of study include the medical and health sciences, law, business, education, psychology and social work, Jewish studies, and technology. Touro College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Pasadena, CA ArtCenter College of Design's low crime rates are due to the small handful of petty thefts and alcohol infractions, otherwise it's a campus known for its safety and inclusion. The security team at ArtCenter keeps the campus aware of any and all safety concerns, including those brought about by inclement weather or wildlife that wanders onto campus grounds. Like some of the other schools on our list, ArtCenter offers safety escorts, safety education services, and they conduct security surveys in an effort to continue meeting their students' needs. Art Center College of Design (often stylized as ArtCenter) is a private, nonprofit art school located in Pasadena, California, near Los Angeles. It is often recognized among many national and industry organizations and publications for the strength of its programs and its affordability. ArtCenter offers eleven undergraduate degrees, including those in advertising, entertainment design, environmental design, film, fine art, illustration, and more. Markedly hands-on, ArtCenter works closely with many local and national businesses, organizations, and companies to provide internship opportunities for their students. Art Center College of Design is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. Mobile, AL The security department at the University of Mobile operates twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, staffing the campus with armed officers who patrol by foot and car, who are certified in first aid and CPR, and who are trained through an extensive field training program. In addition to just a couple theft reports, the University of Mobile has only seen a few alcohol incidents and zero violent crimes in the last few years. A private, Baptist-affiliated school located in Mobile, Alabama, the University of Mobile has about 2,000 students spread throughout its five colleges: the College of Arts and Science, the School of Business, the School of Christian Studies, the School of Education, and the School of Nursing. The University of Mobile is also home to its Center of Performing Arts that trains students in music, theater, and worship leadership. The strong athletic program at the University of Mobile is reflected in its numerous conference and national championship wins. The University of Mobile by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Portland, OR As a student at Multnomah University you can expect a campus safety team who will change your tires, get you into your locked car, provide you with full access to a crime log, register your bicycle, and more, in addition to its more typical responsibilities, of course. Multnomah has not had any VAWA violations in the last few years, nor has it had any incidents of hate crimes. There have been a few thefts and some alcohol-related complaints, but other than that, Multnomah's campus is a place of safety and community. Multnomah University is a small, private, Christian university located in Portland, Oregon. Despite its modest student population there are approximately 600 undergraduates and 260 graduate students Multnomah offers certificates, bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees in a range of areas, though it is most known for its theology and biblical studies. Though located in a mid-sized city, Multnomah University boasts an incredibly safe campus, with zero incidents in the last three years of violence against women or hate crimes. Multnomah University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities and the Association of Theological Schools. New Castle, DE Wilmington University has had a few break-ins and thefts in the last few years, but they also boast a zero violent crime rate on account of their active security force and pro-active, campus-wide initiative to partner together to prevent crime. The security team at Wilmington has delineated their core values as respect, integrity, and opportunity, values which manifest throughout a student's experience on campus. There are a number of inclusive clubs, self defense classes, service opportunities, recreation activities, and more. Wilmington University is the largest school on our Safest schools list with an undergraduate population of approximately 12,000 and around 8,000 enrolled grad students spread throughout their seven schools: the College of Arts & Sciences, the College of Education, the College of Business, the College of Health Professions, the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, the College of Technology, and their online school, which accounts for 30 percent of the student body. Wilmington has a few campuses, but its main campus, located in New Castle, Delaware, is the one known for its safety. Wilmington University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Wilmore, KY Though Asbury is a dry campus, no alcohol or drugs or even cigarettes are allowed on grounds, most of what attributes to their crime score (which is still incredibly low) is due to alcohol violations. Still, campus life at Asbury is a safe, friendly, and spiritual one: students attend chapels together, take part in study abroad opportunities, go on mission trips, and take part in clubs and on sports teams. The size of the student body also lends itself to being a more intimate and safe setting. Asbury University is a small, Christian liberal arts school of 1,300 undergraduates located in Wilmore, Kentucky. Asbury is comprised of four schools the College of Arts & Sciences and the schools of Communication, Education, and Graduate studies and is home to the Asbury Theological Seminary. Asbury is one of the more diverse schools on our list, in terms of geography; students come from all states and over a dozen countries. The vibrant campus life, in addition to being notably safe and incident-free, emphasizes community involvement. Asbury University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools on Commission on Colleges. Syracuse, NY Part of St. Joseph's unique approach to safety and health includes a student-run EMT training and certification program. Students who choose to take part can become EMT-certified and volunteer with the College Emergency Medical Service, serving the entire student body. Additionally, students can also take one of the many offered Red Cross classes, which covers everything from wilderness emergencies to lifeguard certification. These unique programs are what makes St. Joseph's one of the safest small colleges in the country, as well as their low crime rates, of course. St. Joseph's College is Catholic-affiliated with campuses in Long Island and Brooklyn. Not only known for its affordability, U.S. News & World Report has called it one of the country's Best Colleges continuously for a decade. St. Joseph's has both an active Greek presence and a strong athletic program. The 5,000 undergrads at St. Joseph's are enrolled in one of twenty-six degree programs, majoring in a range of subjects, from criminal justice to medical technology, recreation studies, IT, religious studies, psychology, nursing, and more. St. Joseph's College is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. Mankato, MN Like many of the schools on our list, especially the religiously based institutions, Bethany's only incidents of crime are non-violent and usually related to drugs and alcohol. This is because in addition to a thoroughly trained security team, faculty and student staff (RAs, for example) are also trained in personal safety. Furthermore, residential life at Bethany is known for its responsible leadership and its welcoming atmosphere. Located in Mankato, Minnesota, Bethany Lutheran College (BLC) is a small, private liberal arts school sponsored by the Evangelical Lutheran Synod. Their safe campus is nestled on a beautiful piece of land overlooking the Minnesota River valley. Despite its small undergraduate population of about 600 students there are a number of extracurricular activities offered including music, sports, student senate, drama, and more and community is emphasized. At Bethany there are twenty majors, twenty-one minors, and eight pre-professional programs. Bethany Lutheran College is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Virginia Beach, VA Regent University offers victim services, crime prevention resources, bicycle registration, safety training, a text and phone alert service, and much more to their students. The chief of campus police has articulated the constant devotion to campus safety, saying We are dedicated to serving and protecting our students, faculty, and staff. Our officers monitor the campus twenty-four hours a day by video surveillance, and vehicle and foot patrols, and adds We are committed to the principle of community policing and look forward to every opportunity to serve. Regent University is a Christian school located in Virginia Beach, Virginia with an even division of enrollment between undergraduates and graduates, approximately 2,500 each. In addition to its solid grades in anti-discrimination incidents, lack of violence, and the absence of drug and liquor use, Regent maintains a reputation for its academics and online programs. In addition to ninety-five areas of study, Regent is also home to the School of Divinity and its many notable faculty members and alumni. There are six other schools that make up Regent's campus: the schools of Business and Leadership, Communication and the Arts, Education, Government, Law, and Psychology and Counseling. Regent University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Ocala, FL The safety and security units on the College of Central Florida campus are known for their holistic approach to protection, as they seek to create a safe space for cultural and social differences. The school also provides, in addition to a number of health and security services, educational resources on a range of topics, including sexual assault and awareness to substance abuse prevention. These programs are led by students through the Student Leadership Committee and the Student Activities Board. The College of Central Florida is part of the Florida College System and is a public institution with nearly 20,000 students. When first established it was a junior college, awarding Associate of Arts and Science degrees, but now they offer bachelor degrees in business, management, education, nursing, and more. Unlike many of the other schools on our list, the College of Central Florida gets perfect marks in its lack of party scene there are zero reported instances of drug and alcohol abuse over the last three years. The College of Central Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Columbus, OH Though Franklin has had a few incidents of assault, robbery, and theft in the last few years, they have been few and far between. In addition to their security units, Franklin has also instituted the Franklin Intervention and Awareness Team (FIAT), which is a centralized resource of noting and reporting concerns students may have. FIAT works more as intervention and awareness building than as a security force, but it acts as a supplement to the responsibilities of safety officers. Franklin University is known mostly for its long-established online bachelors and masters degrees; however, they have many branches throughout Ohio and Indiana. Their Columbus, Ohio, campus is the one that is markedly ranked for its student safety and low crime reports. Of all the small colleges and universities on our list, Franklin is one with some of the greatest degree options and diversity. Undergraduates can study anything from energy management to a variety of information systems concentrations. Though there are many degree options, most are career-oriented. Franklin University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Jersey City, NJ Though located in proximity to one of the world's largest metropolises, New Jersey City University (NJCU) is aware of the challenges posed by such an environment, and have developed a comprehensive public safety program designed to reduce the opportunities for incidents, and to promote the participation of the entire University community in crime awareness and deterrence. The public safety team at NJCU often teams up with the school's unique Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT) to promote health, understanding, and safety campus-wide. A public institution with approximately 7,000 undergraduates, New Jersey City University is a liberal arts school. Around 97 percent of students commute, which could be part of the reason NJCU is one of the safest small campuses in the country, but there is still an option to live in one of their three residence halls, all of which are staffed and have 24-hour security. NJCU is comprised of the School of Business, the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Education, and the College of Professional Studies. New Jersey City University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Saint George, UT Dixie State University is staffed by a campus police department that is a fully accredited state policy agency, meaning they have the rights and authority to enforce campus, city, state, and federal laws. But the security crew at Dixie isn't just about enforcement, they believe to serve and protect reflects an important balance. It is our belief that the opportunities to provide service are far more frequent and every bit as important as the responsibility to protect. Our officers know that it is their responsibility to be of assistance, and to be helpful and approachable at all times. Dixie police show this commitment to service through their manifold offerings: event security, lectures and seminars, lockout services, and more, making Dixie State not just one of the safest small universities, but one of the friendliest. Dixie State University is a public university with nearly 10,000 students (nearly 85 percent of whom live on campus) and was founded by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is located in St. George, Utah. In addition to offering over 150 academic programs from dental hygiene to theatre, music education, nursing, art, and more Dixie State also has a vibrant student social scene and an active athletic program, as well as many community partnerships that help support an international film festival, a medical center, the chamber of commerce, and more. Dixie State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Toccoa Falls, GA Toccoa Falls College is located on a small, alcohol- and drug-free campus. It is considered so safe for a number of reasons, including its low rates of violent and non-violent crimes, but also for its unique implementation of a Behavior Intervention Team (BIT). BIT is comprised of leaders across departments at Toccoa who stay alert for possible student safety concerns and then employ nationally practiced intervention techniques when necessary. But mostly, life on Toccoa Falls campus is quiet, communal, and spiritually invested. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountain Foothills in Toccoa, Georgia, Toccoa Falls College is a small, Christian liberal arts college of fewer than 1,000 undergraduates. Comprised of three schools the School of Christian Ministries, the School of Arts and Sciences, and the School of Professional Studies Toccoa Falls offers thirty-four academic areas of study with an additional forty minors. The school is named after a waterfall located on the campus that has a nearly 200 foot drop, one of the tallest in the Eastern part of the country. Toccoa Falls College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Milligan College, TN Most students who attend Milligan College live on campus and enjoy its safe and welcoming environment. The cultural diversity of its student population has led Milligan to becoming not only of the safest small colleges in the country, but one that is known for its intentional embrace of differences. In recent years, Milligan has sought to make their grounds even more safe but providing better lighting, installing security cameras, upgrading their safety procedures, and more. Milligan College is located in the mountains of East Tennessee. It is recognized again and again as being one of the top liberal arts colleges in the country, specifically for its core humanities program, and there are approximately 1,200 students enrolled in the one hundred degree programs. Though Milligan is a religiously based institution, they welcome students from all backgrounds and faiths. Milligan has also received accolades for its safety, affordability, and its commitment to religious based education and social action. Milligan College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Huntington, IN Huntington is a small, religiously based school located in a semi-rural community. Safety is taken seriously at Huntington, but is also done with a smile. The chief of the security department even brings his dog on patrol with him. Huntington has zero incidents of crime in the past three years: no theft, robbery, sexual assault, physical assault, arrests, or acts of hate. Their only incidents have been minor alcohol and drug infractions, which compared to the national averages, are still incredibly low. Affiliated with the Church of the United Brethren in Christ, Huntington University is a member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities, an organization that defines and maintains standards of excellence at Christian institutions. Huntington's lakeside campus is located in rural Huntington, Indiana. Ranked as one of the best liberal arts colleges in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report, Huntington offers more than seventy tracks of study to its 1,200 students, including film, animation, agricultural studies, criminal justice, education, chemistry, biology, business, political science, and much more. Huntington University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Omaha, NE The College of Saint Mary's has created a number of security programs to ensure the safety of their students. In addition to being trained to respond to fires, medical illness and injuries, and criminal activity, security staff are also key in the whistler alert program, the fire safety program, the clean car campaign, the If I was a Thief program, and they encourage bystander intervention. And like some of the other schools on our list, the security staff at Saint Mary's will walk with you if you feel unsafe and they text students campus-wide if there are any security breaches. The College of Saint Mary's is located in Omaha, Nebraska and is a Catholic women's university. They offer more than forty degree programs at all degree levels, from associate's all the way to doctoral. With a student population of under 1,000, the classroom is notably intimate and engaging, and the ratio of faculty to student is one to ten. Saint Mary's sets itself apart from many of the other schools on our list in that they have a number of unique, accelerated programs; meaning, students can obtain both a bachelors and masters in five years in a number of areas. The College of Saint Mary is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. University Park, IL Governors State University has expressed that their primary safety goal is to ensure that our campus is a safe place study and work. We strive for this ideal via a Community Oriented Policing philosophy, meaning our community always comes first. One of the safest schools in the midwest, Governors is not all talk. They implement safety through a twenty-four hours, seven-days a week security task force as well as an Emergency Response Team that is trained in preparedness and emergency procedures. Located in University Park, Illinois approximately thirty miles from Chicago Governors State University is a public institution made up of four colleges: the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Business and Public Administration, the College of Health and Human Services, and the College of Education. Governors State is unique in its commitment to sustainability and their emphasis on the arts; the Center for Performing Arts frequently draws artists from around the world. Governors State is also known for its diversity and older students, both of which surely lend to the high ratings in safety and security. Governors State University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. New York, NY One might expect that criminal justice schools would have a low crime rate, but that's not always the case, and in fact, they tend to compare similarly to the national averages. However, the John Jay College of Criminal Justice is one of the safest small schools in the country with its low crime stats. It is located in the middle of Manhattan, which means that some crime finding its way on to campus is inevitable, but the school has put a number of initiatives in place to create a safe learning environment, including a safety/security advisory committee, a workplace violence protection program, investigative services, and more. The John Jay College of Criminal Justice is part of the CUNY (City University of New York) system and is located in Midtown Manhattan. It was the first liberal arts college to be founded in the U.S. that has a criminal justice and forensic focus, and it is often recognized by Forbes and U.S. News & World Report as being a top-ranked school and highly affordable. It is also a member of the Macaulay Honors College program (a program that gives scholarships and funds), making John Jay a competitive school, with around a 37 percent acceptance rate. CUNY's John Jay College of Criminal Justice is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Rochester, NY Basically, Roberts Wesleyan College has zero crime stats and only a handful of minor drug and liquor related infractions on its record for the past few years. Campus security works closely with all departments to investigate complaints and crimes, provide safety escorts, respond to Blue Light emergency phone calls, enact crime prevention programs, work with local enforcement agencies, help stranded motorists, and generally build a positive relationship with the students. Robert Wesleyan College, situated in Rochester, New York, is a Christian liberal arts school of approximately 1,000 undergraduates (graduate students attend RWC's Northeastern Seminary). There are over sixty areas of study for students to choose from, including degree programs in computing, criminal justice, nursing, philosophy, the arts, and much more. The art scene at Roberts is notable; campus is home to the Howard Stowe Roberts Cultural Life Center, the Davison Art Gallery, a community theatre, and a community music school. Roberts Wesleyan College is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. Rockville Centre, NY Molloy College, though only an hour from Manhattan, also has low to nearly non-existent crime rates, due in large part to the school's concern for the holistic health of their students. They make a number of resources available to their students: crisis help lines, non-discrimination and harassment policies, public safety escorts, the RAVE emergency notification system, a shuttle that takes students to trains and bus stations, and much more. A liberal arts school that offers over fifty undergraduate degree programs in a range of fields, Molloy is known for its academic acumen both The Princeton Review and U.S. News & World Report name it one of the top colleges in the Northeast as well as it's affordability (it was named #1 All-Star Value in the country by Money magazine). There are approximately 5,000 undergraduates and grad students at Molloy, most of whom are active in at least one of the over sixty student clubs and organizations. Molloy College is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. Marion, IN Aside from a few thefts and alcohol infractions, Indiana Wesleyan's safe campus has been cultivated by the security-minded university administrators. For that reason, the school has its own police department registered by the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy and all campus officers also serve as full-time deputies with the county sheriff's office too. Which means the security at IWU have graduated from the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy and are well trained for any emergency. IWU also employs a Campus Safety Advisory Group that has dedicated their time to creating the safest learning environment possible. The largest member of the CCCU (Council for Christian Colleges and Universities) and the largest private university in Indiana, Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) is an evangelical liberal arts school. Their main campus is in Marion and is home to 3,000 undergraduates and nearly 5,000 postgraduates. IWU is comprised of the College of Arts & Sciences, the College of Adult and Professional Studies, the Graduate School, the School of Nursing, and Wesley Seminary. The IWU is not only known for its safety and security, it is award-winning for its architecture and aesthetics. Indiana Wesleyan is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Goshen, IN Goshen, Indiana is a small city tucked into Indiana's Amish country. Campus life is marked by community involvement and a vibrant social atmosphere. Indeed, Goshen's only problems with crime are strictly drug and alcohol related. They have not had any violent or non-violent incidents in the last three years. Likewise, there have not been any reported hate crimes or acts of discrimination. According to the Student Satisfaction Inventory survey, students say they feel the campus is safe and secure for all students and they personally rated the campus as earning 5.8 points of out of 7-point safety scale. Located in Goshen, Indiana, Goshen College is a private, liberal arts college affiliated with the Mennonite Church USA. With approximately 700 attending undergraduates, Goshen is one of the smaller schools on our list. It addition to its strong rankings in safety, Goshen is also known for its commitment to sustainability (the first platinum-rated LEED building in Indiana is on Goshen's campus) and service. Each student is expected to spend a term in a developing country to study the language, live with host families, and work. Goshen College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Wenham, MA Gordon College has experienced just a couple petty thefts and break-ins as well as some liquor and drug incidents in the past few years, but the campus remains a very safe environment for students. Gordon has its own police unit who also work with the Massachusetts Special State Police. In addition to the security team, Gordon also established the Environmental, Health, and Safety Office which works to meet state and federal safety regulations, provide emergency medical services, promote fire safety, and disseminate safety throughout campus. Located in Wenham, Massachusetts (a suburb of Boston), Gordon College is a non-denominational Christian, liberal arts college. The nearly 2,000 undergraduates who attend Gordon major in one of the thirty-eight programs. Though Gordon is a faith-based institution with faith-imbued curriculum, plus a requirement that students sign a Statement of Faith, the religious backgrounds of both the students and faculty are quite diverse. There is also an active student life on campus that consists of student ministries, intramural sports, and charity work. Gordon College is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. Newberg, OR From CPR and first aid training to C-CERT (disaster simulation) classes, George Fox's approach to safety is inclusive, seeking to involve students in making the campus a safe space. George Fox has had a few burglaries in the past few years as well as a couple VAWA offenses, but for the most part campus has remained quite safe with zero incidents of discrimination or physical violence. George Fox is also a drug-, alcohol-, and tobacco-free campus. Like many of the colleges and universities on our list, George Fox University (GFU) is a Christian liberal arts university. It is located in Newberg, Oregon and was originally founded by the Quaker Church. Approximately 4,000 undergraduate students attend in addition to the graduate and doctoral students. Fields of study are wide-ranging at George Fox and include everything from athletic training to Spanish, International Studies, Art, Health and Human Performance, and much more. George Fox is a member of the CCCU. George Fox University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Spokane, WA At Whitworth the safety and health of the student population is a high priority and one that administrators and the security department seek to attend to holistically, meaning the student's educational, personal, relational, and spiritual health are all taken into account. For that reason, Whitworth provides a range of safety services to its students, including resources on substance abuse, sexual assault prevention, crisis hotlines, a campus safety committee, counseling centers, and much more. Whitworth University, located in Spokane, Washington, is probably one of the highest ranked schools on our list. They are often listed as the third best regionally by U.S. News & World Report and fortieth in the whole country by Forbes. A private, Christian liberal arts college affiliated with the Presbyterian Church, Whitworth enrolls approximately 3,000 students and offers over one hundred undergraduate and graduate programs. Campus life is marked by safety (though there are higher numbers of alcohol and drug incidents than most other schools on our list) and is comprised of 200 acres of meadows and pine forests. Unsurprisingly, Whitworth is strongly committed to sustainability. Whitworth University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Quincy, MA Eastern Nazarene College may receive a zero percent party scene grade, but it's important to set this in context. In the last three years they reported a couple dozen drug and liquor abuse violations. But, compared to many large, national public universities, these stats are just a tiny percentage of the whole. And none of the drug and alcohol infractions ever led to an arrest. Eastern Nazarene also has very few violent offenses or thefts and robberies. Perhaps this is due to Eastern Nazarene's Department of Risk Management, which combines law enforcement, human services, and public relations to create a safe campus. Located near Boston, Eastern Nazarene College (ENC) is a private, liberal arts school. Though it is a small school and religiously affiliated, ENC's undergraduate population is comprised of students from over twenty countries and most states and come from a plethora of religious backgrounds, including having no religious affiliation. The social scene on ENC's campus is active: there are Greek societies, a strong athletic platform, intramural sports, and several organizations and clubs. In addition to Eastern Nazarene's academic rankings, it is often recognized for its affordability. Eastern Nazarene College is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. Atherton, CA Not only is Menlo College one of the safest small colleges in the country, it is located in one of the safest neighborhoods in the U.S. The safety department at Menlo College often partners with the Atherton Police Department, the Atherton Disaster and Preparedness Team, the Menlo Fire Department, the San Mateo County Office of Emergency Services, and the Community Emergency Response Team. These relationships clearly foster a safe campus. Menlo College also offers a number of unique safety programs including self defense classes, sexual assault and rape aggression defense classes, as well as an alcohol awareness programs. If you're looking for a school known for both its safety and its business emphasis, Menlo College located in the Silicon Valley is a great option for you. Menlo offers bachelor degrees in accounting, finance, HR, management, marketing, real estate, sports management, psychology, and entrepreneurship. Menlo is also known for its strong study abroad program. Students can supplement their studies with a semester spent in China, Chile, Japan, Italy, Spain, or Mexico. Menlo is a regionally well-ranked business school, with accolades from The Princeton Review and U.S. News & World Report. Menlo College is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Grand Rapids, MI Grand Rapids, Michigan is a densely populated city with moderate crime rates, so it is inevitable that there will be some crime on college and university campuses located within the city. However, Davenport University is one of the safest small universities in the country and has hardly been affected by its surrounding environment. Davenport's Risk Management Department has several programs and procedures in place to maintain the safety of their students, from R.A.D. (Rape Aggression Defense) classes to a thoroughly trained private safety team. Davenport University's main campus, the one with its high standards for safety and security, is located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. There are approximately 12,000 undergraduates enrolled in one the four colleges: the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Business, the College of Technology, and the College of Health Professions. Davenport was once a commuter school, meaning students didn't live on campus, but has grown to include residence halls in addition to an athletic program and its spread of social clubs. Davenport University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. San Diego, CA Point Loma Nazarene University (PLNU) boasts an extremely low violent crime rate; most of the reported offenses are alcohol or drug violations, as well as a few thefts. But they're minimal and spread across three years of reporting. Point Loma has both their own emergency and non-emergency number, meaning they are trained in first response and make themselves very accessible to students. PLNU has also implemented a mandatory bike registration program and a Student Care Group exists on campus to provide support and track university needs. Point Loma Nazarene University is a Christian liberal arts school located right on the Pacific Ocean in San, Diego, California. With over 3,000 undergraduates enrolled in a variety of majors from nursing and chemistry to business and finance Point Loma is an active campus. Affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene, the Christian faith plays a big role both in the curriculum and in expectations for the students (e.g., students are required to attend chapel). Point Loma also offers its students the option to take part in ministries and study abroad opportunities. Point Loma Nazarene University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. Harrisonburg, VA Eastern Mennonite University is low in violent, petty, and discriminatory crime. Campus life for students is active, inclusive, and community driven. It's clear that Eastern's administration goes to lengths to create a nourishing atmosphere for their students. They have a Crisis Management Preparedness Team that assists in emergency matters. The student population is noticeably diverse, with students coming from over fifty countries. There are safe space clubs for LGBTQ students. And Eastern has a strong relationship with the Harrisonburg City Police department. Located in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley town of Harrisonburg, Virginia, Eastern Mennonite University promotes the confluence of academia and service. Many of the programs are focused on service, such as its healthcare, education, social work, and ministry majors, and EMU has built into the curriculum a cross-cultural study requirement. EMU sets itself apart in that campus life is incredibly vibrant and active. There are many outdoor recreation opportunities, the campus boasts a huge biking culture, EMU has a strong athletic program, and much more. Eastern Mennonite University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Milwaukee, WI Like many other schools on our list, Cardinal Stritch is located in a major metropolitan area. However, it is one of the safest small universities in the country with only a few VAWA and non-violent violations in the last few years. The security department at Cardinal Stritch is actively involved in not only protecting its students but in preventing crime, hence their motto, Prevention, Protection. They disseminate information on assault, lead presentations on prevention, offer after-hours security chaperon service, and work closely with various neighboring city police departments. A Roman Catholic university located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Cardinal Stritch is the country's largest Franciscan institution with over 3,000 students. Situated near Lake Michigan, their campus is beautifully set and notably safe. Associate, bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees are all offered and there are more than sixty fields of study for students to choose from. Cardinal Stritch also gives its students opportunities to study abroad and get involved in athletics and student activities. Cardinal Stritch University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Saint Paul, MN Bethel University is unique in its emphasis on cyber security in addition to its typical safety measures. To that end, Bethel provides resources on securing your computer and your smartphone as well as how to respond and protect yourself against cyberbullying, harassment, and stalking. Further, in an effort to create a community free of discrimination and violence, Bethel places special focus on care for the victims of sexual harassment and racial and ethnic harassment. Though in the last few years, those incidents have been minimal to non-existent. Located in a suburb of St. Paul, Minnesota, Bethel University is a small, evangelical school, though it is distinctly diverse (students come from over thirty-five countries). Bethel offers undergraduate and graduate degrees as wells as adult education programs and degrees through their seminary (located in San Diego, California). Bethel University is unique in its emphasis on reconciliation, specifically in regards to racial equality. They offer a Reconciliation Studies major and have instituted a Bethel Anti-Racism and Reconciliation Commission. Bethel University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Old Westbury, NY At the New York Institute of Technology, the Campus Alone Program seeks to eliminate all areas of campus insecurity through its innovative interpersonal design. The program is available to all NYIT students and it is available at all times, even during non-business hours. Students taking part in the program communicate with campus security and receive escort service or personal check-ins, and campus security works to ensure safety during off hours and holidays. NYIT has achieved low crime rates through this program and has reported only a number of small infractions in the last few years. If you're looking for a school known for both its safety and its technology focus, New York Institute of Technology (NYIT) is ranked as one of the top fifty best universities in the North by U.S. News & World Report. The 12,000 undergraduates are spread throughout the over one hundred degree programs, which include architecture, design, health, management, medicine, engineering, computer science, and much more. NYIT has been given several other accolades, mostly for its academic standing, but also for its affordability, safety, return on investment, online programs, and more. New York Institute of Technology is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. New York, NY Situated in the middle of Manhattan, Hunter College has had a few burglaries, VAWA offenses, and one arson in the last few years. But, again, those numbers are a slim fraction of the national averages. Because of their location, Hunter College has included public and subway safety into their general security programming. This means Hunter students have access to a number of resources and services that can keep them safe both on and off campus. Finally, with over eighty employed security personnel, Hunter's Department of Public Safety is one of the largest departments on our list. A member of the City University of New York, Hunter College is a public university located on Park Avenue in Manhattan. There are over 15,000 undergraduates at Hunter, working toward degrees in over one hundred areas of study. Hunter is made up of five schools: the School of Arts and Sciences, the School of Education, the School of Social Work, the School of Nursing, and the School of Public Health. Founded in the late nineteenth century as a women's college originally, Hunter is one of the oldest public institutions in the country. In addition to its high levels of safety, Hunter is ranked as among the best colleges in the country and is a huge source of Fulbright Scholars. CUNY Hunter College is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education, the Counsel on Rehabilitation Education, and the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs. Farmingdale, NY Farmingdale State College has received perfect scores the past three years for its lack of hate crimes, VAWA offenses, and violent-crime incidents. Mostly, Farmingdale has alcohol-related violations, a few of which led to arrest. Otherwise, the college is consistently ranked as one of the safest in the country. Farmingdale's campus security combines typical safety measures with an emphasis on environmental health and safety, implementing training programs and creating health and safety committees. Farmingdale State College, located on Long Island, is consistently ranked as one of the safest and most affordable colleges (about $7,000 annually for residents) in the country. It is part of the State University of New York system and is home to a renewable energy and sustainability center, a solar energy center, and a social science research institute. Farmingdale's athletic program is robust and there are many campus clubs and organizations for students to engage in; though there are over 8,000 undergraduates only about a quarter of them live on campus. Farmingdale is comprised of four schools: Arts and Sciences, Business, Engineering Technology, and Health Sciences. Farmingdale State College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. La Mirada, CA Though located in such close proximity to Los Angeles, Biola University is situated in a great neighborhood Mirada, California is one of the safest regions near LA and is an incredibly safe campus, one with mostly just drug and liquor violations on its record. Biola's campus security office, which is equally comprised of a field division and communications operations, not only provides crime stats on the school, but they make available a daily crime log, an escort service, defense training, and active crime alert notices. Biola University is situated just outside of Los Angeles in Mirada, California and is a private, Christian university of approximately 4,000 undergraduates. Though Biola is formally non-denominational, it is heavily influenced by the Baptist and Evangelical Free churches and is considered a conservative university. There are more than forty undergraduate areas of study as well as nearly 150 professional studies programs, and degrees are offered at all levels, from bachelors to PhD. Biola University is accredited by WASC Senior College University Commission.
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