Twin Cities
Home to nearly 3.5 million people, St. Paul and Minneapolis offer countless opportunities for community-based learning and real-world experiences.
Video Viewbook
Explore our video viewbook, where you’ll hear from students, staff, and faculty about Macalester—from our vibrant Twin Cities location and top-ranked academics, to the welcoming, collaborative community that makes Mac feel like home.
Describe Macalester
It’s tempting to ask, “What’s a typical Macalester student like?” and we’re proud that there isn’t an answer to that question.
Describe Macalester
It’s tempting to ask, “What’s a typical Macalester student like?” and we’re proud that there isn’t an answer to that question.
Our Location
We’re located in a tree-lined residential neighborhood, surrounded by dozens of shops, restaurants, and bike paths, with museums, Fortune 500 companies, hospitals, and government agencies within minutes of campus.
Macalester’s Campus
Macalester’s campus is nestled in one of St. Paul’s highest-rated neighborhoods, filled with green spaces and expansive lawns perfect for afternoon hammocking.
Campus Stroll
Get a bird’s eye view of Macalester’s campus, from the storied brick walls of Old Main to the rich colors of the Great Lawn.
Join Our List
If you’re considering Mac, let us know. We’ll keep you up to date on application deadlines and visit opportunities.
About Us
Macalester is recognized as a global leader among liberal arts colleges, with the highest standards for scholarship and a continuing commitment to academic rigor, internationalism, diversity, and service to society.
Our Values
Most people don’t get very excited about mission statements, but you’ll find our community takes the Mac values very seriously.
Mac at a Glance
Our academics are among the top in the U.S., with small classes, individual attention, and collaboration drawing students from across the globe.
Financial Aid
We’re committed to making college more accessible and affordable, which is why we meet 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students.
Learning at Mac
If you share a relentless curiosity about the world, you’ll be right at home here. Our nationally recognized professors and small class sizes set you up for success as you explore your academic and professional passions.
Academics
From First-Year Courses to capstone experiences, exploration is the foundation of a Macalester education.
First-Year Course
Designed to ease your transition to college life, these small seminar-style classes cover a wide range of subjects.
Global Perspective
Our global perspective is woven into our courses and daily conversations as we welcome all nations to our campus.
Living at Mac
What you do outside the classroom is just as important as what you do in it. Find your sense of belonging in a cozy dorm, a thriving student org, or while leaping high in the thrilling Mac tradition of Pushball.
Residential Life
In your residence hall, you’ll meet lifelong friends, have late night convos, and develop relationships with students from all parts of the world.
Student Organizations
From sketch comedy to knitting to managing a real mutual fund, Macalester’s 100+ student organizations are as diverse as our student body.
Traditions
Some of Macalester’s most popular traditions include painting the rock, Pushball, Winter Ball, and Founder’s Day.
Opportunities
A Macalester education opens up a whole new world of possibilities. A Scot might conduct innovative research in a lab, intern at the state capital, and form lifelong bonds while studying away—all in one year.
Research
Every year, faculty and students work together on research projects, from robot navigation, to GIS projects with local governments, to writing new music.
Internships
Macalester’s location lets professors extend classes beyond campus, connecting with nonprofits, government agencies, theaters, museums, and local Fortune 500 companies.
Study Away
Mac students study away for 15 weeks, allowing you to learn about and engage with your host community on a deeper, more personal level.
Every Day is a New Adventure
Looking for more student perspectives? Check out our Day in the Life playlist to step into the shoes of a Scot.