Notable programs
BA Mathematics
Among the strongest LAC mathematics programs in the United States, with structurally first-rank placement into top mathematics PhD programs. Curriculum spans pure math (analysis, algebra, topology), applied math (numerical methods, modeling), and the intersection with computer science and statistics. Senior comprehensive exercise required, often a research thesis or substantial problem-solving examination. Faculty mentor undergraduates through Putnam Competition preparation and undergraduate research conferences.
BA Computer Science
Strongly positioned among LAC computer science programs, with curriculum covering algorithms, systems, theory, AI/ML, and the intersection with mathematics and statistics. The 2024-25 expanded computational programs and sciences building provide updated infrastructure. Strong placement into both industry tech roles (Twin Cities tech, Chicago, NYC, occasional Bay Area) and top computer science PhD programs. Senior comprehensive project required.
BA Statistics
One of the relatively few LACs with a standalone statistics major (rather than a concentration within mathematics). Curriculum spans probability, mathematical statistics, statistical computing, and applied data analysis, with strong placement into PhD statistics, biostatistics, and data science programs. Often combined with computer science, mathematics, or economics for double majors. Senior comprehensive exercise required.
BA Physics
Strong LAC-tier physics program with curriculum spanning classical and quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, statistical physics, and computational physics. Faculty actively mentor undergraduates in research, with regular undergraduate co-authorship on published papers. Strong placement into top physics PhD programs including condensed matter, particle physics, and astrophysics. Senior comprehensive thesis required.
BA Geology
Distinctive program leveraging the 200-acre Cowling Arboretum and broader 880-acre campus as on-site research laboratory, with the wind turbine farm providing energy and geophysics research infrastructure. Curriculum covers structural geology, mineralogy, paleontology, environmental geoscience, and Quaternary studies. Strong placement into top geology and earth sciences PhD programs. Field work is integral to the curriculum, and the 2024 Center for the Study of Climate Change extends the curricular reach into climate science.
BA Music
Genuine humanities depth alongside the STEM signature, with strong programs in classical voice, jazz, composition, music theory, and ethnomusicology. The Concert Choir, the Carleton Singers, and the Carleton Jazz Ensemble are nationally recognized at the LAC tier. Faculty include performing musicians and active scholars, and music majors regularly continue to top conservatories or graduate programs in musicology. Senior comprehensive exercise (recital, composition portfolio, or thesis) required.
BA Sociology and Anthropology
Joint department reflecting Carleton's heritage in sociology β Thorstein Veblen, the foundational sociologist whose Theory of the Leisure Class remains canonical, was a Carleton alumnus. Curriculum spans social theory, ethnographic methods, urban and rural sociology, and cultural anthropology. Strong placement into sociology and anthropology PhD programs and into public-interest, education, and non-profit careers. Senior comprehensive thesis required.
Off-Campus Study Programs
Carleton runs 35 to 40 off-campus and study-abroad programs annually β among the highest densities of any LAC β including the Carleton-in-X programs faculty-led across Europe, Asia, Africa, and Latin America. The trimester calendar means abroad terms are ten weeks rather than full semesters, which fits some destinations better than others. Roughly 70 percent of Carleton students study off-campus at some point during the four years.