What Are the Most Culturally Diverse U.S. Colleges?

With a shift in focus towards wellness and inclusivity, attending culturally diverse colleges and universities has become increasingly crucial for personal and professional growth. The following colleges offer students the chance to engage with students across various cultures and backgrounds, enriching their educational experience.

The following article lists the top 10 culturally diverse colleges in the U.S. based on data from U.S. News and Niche.

Why Cultural Diversity Matters in Higher Education

Cultural diversity in higher education improves learning by bringing students from different backgrounds together to share their unique perspectives. It also prepares college students to become part of a global workforce after graduating. A workforce where interacting with people from various cultures is essential. Here’s why cultural diversity matters:

Broadens Perspectives: Exposure to different cultures challenges students to think critically and view issues from multiple angles.
Enhances Social Skills: Working with peers from different backgrounds helps build empathy and improves teamwork in diverse settings.
Prepares for Global Careers: A diverse school setting helps students gain the cultural skills needed for today’s job market.

Top 10 Most Culturally Diverse U.S. Colleges

1. Andrews University

Location: Berrien Springs MI

Andrews University, located in Berrien Springs, MI, ranks first with a diversity index of 0.77, making it the most diverse college in the U.S. This Seventh-day Adventist school has a large international student body, with students from nearly 100 countries. The university supports inclusivity through a variety of cultural programs and services.

International Presence: Over 25% of the student body at Andrews University is international, representing a vast array of cultures and backgrounds.
Cultural Programs: The university offers various initiatives to support cultural exchange and understanding, including the International Students Sabbath and the annual International Food Fair.

2. University of San Francisco

Location: San Francisco, CA

With a diversity index of 0.77, the University of San Francisco (USF) ties for first in cultural diversity. USF has a student body that reflects this diversity, with a wide range of ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

Diverse Student Body: Around 50% of USF's undergraduates are students of color.
Support Services: USF provides comprehensive support for its diverse student population, including multicultural centers and programs aimed at promoting equity and inclusion.

3. Johns Hopkins University

Location: Baltimore, MD

Johns Hopkins University ranks high with a diversity index of 0.76. The university excels in research and attracts a diverse group of students, especially in public health and international studies.

Global Community: Johns Hopkins has a significant international student population, with students from over 120 countries.
Inclusive Environment: The university fosters diversity by offering resources and programs through the Office of Cultural Affairs, aimed at enhancing cultural understanding on campus.

4. Stanford University

Location: Stanford, CA

Stanford University has a diversity index of 0.76 and is widely recognized for its global influence and dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion. With students from over 90 countries, it stands as one of the most culturally vibrant campuses in the U.S.

Diverse Campus Life: Stanford offers numerous cultural centers and student groups that support various ethnic and cultural communities, creating an inclusive campus environment.
Global Programs: Stanford's Bing Overseas Studies Program allows students to study abroad and deepen their cultural understanding.

5. University of Hawaii at Hilo

Location: Hilo, HI

The University of Hawaii at Hilo, with a diversity index of 0.76, mirrors the rich cultural diversity of Hawaii. The university proudly represents a significant number of Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and Asian students.

Cultural Integration: The university offers specialized programs in Hawaiian and Pacific Islander studies, helping to preserve and promote indigenous cultures.
Community Engagement: UH Hilo serves as a key center for cultural exchange and learning in the Pacific region, thanks to its location and programs.

6. University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Location: Las Vegas, NV

UNLV also scores a diversity index of 0.76, reflecting the diverse makeup of Las Vegas. The university serves a student body that is mostly non-white, with large Hispanic, Asian, and African American populations.

Diverse Representation: UNLV, recognized as a Minority-Serving Institution (MSI), mirrors the city's diversity through strong cultural programs and support.
Cultural Programs: The Office of Diversity Initiatives provides resources and events that celebrate cultural diversity on campus.

7. University of Maryland, Baltimore County

Location: Baltimore, MD

The University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) has a diversity index of 0.75. UMBC is recognized for its inclusive campus, where students from different ethnic and racial backgrounds actively engage in cultural exchange.

Ethnic Diversity: UMBC’s student body is a mix of African American, Asian, and Hispanic students, making it one of the most diverse campuses in Maryland.
Support for Underrepresented Groups: UMBC’s Meyerhoff Scholars Program is a national model for advancing diversity in STEM fields.

8. George Mason University

Location: Fairfax, VA

George Mason University, with a diversity index of 0.74, is among the most ethnically diverse universities in the Washington, D.C., area. The university's diverse student body reflects the region's rich cultural tapestry.

Multicultural Initiatives: George Mason provides various programs and services to support its diverse student population, including cultural centers and student groups.
Inclusive Campus Culture: The university's commitment to diversity is also reflected in its academic offerings, which include programs in global affairs and international studies.

9. New York University

Location: New York, NY

NYU, with a diversity index of 0.74, attracts students from around the world, making it one of the most culturally diverse universities in the US. Its global campus system, with locations in Abu Dhabi and Shanghai, adds to this rich cultural diversity.

Global Reach: NYU's student body includes representatives from over 130 countries, providing a truly international learning experience.
Cultural Engagement: The university offers numerous cultural events and programs, including the Global Scholars Program, which encourages students to engage with global issues.

10. Rutgers University - Newark

Location: Newark, NJ

Rutgers University-Newark rounds out the top 10 with a diversity index of 0.74. The campus has a strong representation of African American, Hispanic, and Asian students, making it one of the most diverse state universities in the country.

Community Partnerships: Rutgers-Newark's Office of University-Community Partnerships fosters strong ties between the university and the diverse communities of Newark.
Diversity Initiatives: The university's commitment to inclusivity is evident in its numerous diversity-focused programs and support services.

Conclusion

Attending a culturally diverse college offers students the chance to expand their views and gain important skills for success in a globalized world. The colleges in this article are known for their strong dedication to creating an inclusive environment where all students can thrive. Through comprehensive cultural programs, supportive services, and community partnerships, these institutions offer the perfect environment for both academic and personal growth.

These rankings are based on the diversity index scores from U.S. News and enriched with detailed insights from sources such as Niche and BestColleges to reflect each university's dedication to fostering a multicultural campus environment.

How Kollegio Can Help You Choose the Right College!

Exploring the many college options can be overwhelming, especially when trying to find a school that matches your personal, academic, and cultural preferences.

Kollegio simplifies this process by providing personalized college recommendations based on your academic profile, interests, and values. Whether you're seeking a culturally diverse campus or specific degree programs, Kollegio uses thousands of data points to find the colleges that best match your needs.

By using Kollegio, you can make informed decisions and ultimately secure a spot at your ideal institution. Learn more at Kollegio AI.

By Frederick