Cedar Crest College: Your Path To Empowerment And Excellence
Nestled in the heart of the beautiful Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania, Cedar Crest College stands as a beacon of academic excellence, empowerment, and personal growth. Founded in 1867, this private liberal arts women's college has a rich history of fostering confident learners and leaders, making it a distinguished choice for higher education. Our historic campus and modern facilities provide an ideal environment for students to thrive, explore their passions, and prepare for impactful careers.
Whether you're a prospective student seeking an undergraduate degree, an adult learner aiming for career advancement, or a graduate student pursuing specialized knowledge, Cedar Crest College offers a diverse array of programs tailored to meet your ambitions. From its vibrant student life and dedicated faculty to its robust alumnae/i network and commitment to global experiences, Cedar Crest College is more than just an institution; it's a community dedicated to shaping the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers.
Table of Contents
- A Legacy of Empowerment: The History of Cedar Crest College
- Academic Excellence: Programs for Every Ambition
- Campus Life and Community: A Vibrant Ecosystem
- Athletics, Arts, and Engagement: Beyond the Classroom
- Supporting Your Journey: Resources and Financial Aid
- A Welcoming Home: The Cedar Crest Campus Experience
- Alumnae/i Network: A Lifelong Connection
- Notable Faculty and Community Spirit
A Legacy of Empowerment: The History of Cedar Crest College
Founded in 1867, Cedar Crest College has a profound and enduring legacy rooted in its commitment to providing exceptional education. From its inception, this institution has been dedicated to empowering women, helping thousands to become confident, successful leaders across a wide variety of careers. Over the decades, Cedar Crest has adapted to the evolving educational landscape while staying true to its core mission of fostering intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and a strong sense of community. Its long-standing presence in Allentown, Pennsylvania, speaks volumes about its stability and the consistent quality of education it provides.
Founding Principles and Enduring Values
At Cedar Crest College, the foundational values established over 150 years ago continue to guide its educational philosophy. The college prides itself on being an established front-runner of exceptional education, constantly striving to create the next generation of confident learners and leaders. This commitment is evident in every aspect of college life, from its rigorous academic programs to its supportive campus environment. The institution's history is not just a collection of dates, but a living narrative of dedication to student success, community engagement, and a global perspective. Students are encouraged to learn about our history, values, community, and global experiences, understanding how these elements contribute to a holistic and enriching educational journey.
Academic Excellence: Programs for Every Ambition
Cedar Crest College is renowned for its comprehensive and diverse academic offerings, designed to meet the varied needs and aspirations of its student body. With a focus on liberal arts, the college ensures that students develop a broad understanding of the world, alongside specialized knowledge in their chosen fields. The faculty at Cedar Crest College are not just educators; they are mentors who help students understand societal issues and creatively invent solutions. This hands-on, engaging approach to learning is a hallmark of the Cedar Crest experience.
Undergraduate Women's Programs: Shaping Future Leaders
As a private liberal arts women's college, Cedar Crest College offers a robust array of undergraduate women's programs. Students can choose from 40 undergraduate majors, providing a wide spectrum of academic pathways. In the fall of 2023, the college enrolled 886 undergraduate students, a testament to its appeal and strong academic reputation. Beyond the classroom, students have access to over 50 clubs to join, fostering a vibrant student life that complements their academic pursuits. The emphasis is on developing well-rounded individuals who are prepared to excel in their careers and contribute meaningfully to society.
The School of Adult and Graduate Education (SAGE): Lifelong Learning
Recognizing the diverse needs of today's learners, Cedar Crest College also offers extensive programs through its School of Adult and Graduate Education (SAGE). Students of all genders can pursue degree programs through SAGE at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. This includes adult undergraduate degree and certificate programs, such as the ABSN program, as well as a wide range of graduate degree and certificate programs. SAGE supports students looking to take the next step in their education, offering 15 master's programs and 4 doctorates. These programs are designed to enhance students’ knowledge and help them reach their career goals, providing flexible and accessible pathways for working professionals and those seeking advanced degrees. A notable example is the Cedar Crest College Nurse Anesthesia Program, which is fully accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Education Programs, recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), underscoring the quality and rigor of its professional programs.
Campus Life and Community: A Vibrant Ecosystem
Life at Cedar Crest College extends far beyond the lecture halls. The campus is a dynamic environment where students can engage, connect, and grow. With over 50 clubs and organizations, there are countless opportunities to explore new interests, develop leadership skills, and build lasting friendships. The college fosters a close-knit community where every member feels supported and valued. This sense of belonging is a key aspect of the Cedar Crest experience, contributing to both personal well-being and academic success.
MyCedarCrest: Your Digital Hub
To ensure seamless access to essential resources and information, Cedar Crest College provides "MyCedarCrest," a dedicated portal for students, employees, and friends of the college. This invaluable tool allows users to explore course schedules, access personalized information, utilize FalconLink, and much more. MyCedarCrest serves as a central hub for all digital needs, making it easy to manage academic life, stay informed about campus news and events, and connect with various college services. Information Technology at Cedar Crest College is committed to supporting the needs of all community members, offering a broad range of technology services including help desk support, lab assistance, AV/media services, software and application support, and networking services, ensuring that the digital infrastructure is robust and reliable for all users.
Athletics, Arts, and Engagement: Beyond the Classroom
Cedar Crest College encourages a holistic approach to education, recognizing the importance of activities beyond academics. The college offers various opportunities to learn about its academic programs, student life, alumnae/i, athletics, arts, news, and events. Students can participate in a range of athletic programs, fostering teamwork, discipline, and a healthy lifestyle. The arts are also a vibrant part of campus life, with opportunities for involvement in theater, music, and visual arts, allowing students to express their creativity and appreciate diverse cultural forms. These engagements contribute significantly to a well-rounded educational experience, helping students develop talents and interests that will enrich their lives long after graduation.
Supporting Your Journey: Resources and Financial Aid
Understanding that financing an education is a significant consideration, Cedar Crest College is dedicated to providing comprehensive support services. Prospective and current students can contact Student Financial Services to learn more about tuition, fees, and various financial aid options. The college strives to make quality education accessible through scholarships, grants, and other forms of assistance. Payments can be conveniently made online through their secure Transact Integrated Payments online system (link available on my.cedarcrest.edu), in person, or by mail, offering flexibility and ease for managing financial obligations. This commitment to support extends beyond financial aid, encompassing academic advising, career services, and personal counseling, ensuring that every student has the resources they need to succeed.
A Welcoming Home: The Cedar Crest Campus Experience
The Cedar Crest College campus itself is a significant part of the student experience. Spanning 85 acres (or 84 acres, as mentioned in another data point, indicating a slight variation but consistent size), the campus is not just a collection of buildings but a recognized arboretum, home to over 130 tree species. This beautiful natural setting provides a serene and inspiring environment for learning and living. For those unable to visit in person, Cedar Crest College campus virtual tours created by Virtually Anywhere Interactive offer an immersive experience. You can click anywhere to begin the 360º virtual tour, exploring the historic architecture, modern facilities, and lush landscapes from the comfort of your home. This virtual access highlights the college's commitment to transparency and accessibility, inviting prospective students to discover firsthand what sets Cedar Crest College apart. With a total undergraduate enrollment of 886 (Fall 2023) and 362 graduate students (Fall 2024), the campus is a vibrant community of over 1500 students and faculty, creating a dynamic and engaging atmosphere.
Alumnae/i Network: A Lifelong Connection
The bond formed at Cedar Crest College extends far beyond graduation. The college boasts a strong and supportive alumnae/i network, a testament to the lasting impact of the Cedar Crest experience. The institution eagerly welcomes its alumnae/i back to campus for events like Reunion 2025, which will honor classes ending in 5s and 0s, but is always open to all alums. This vibrant network provides invaluable opportunities for mentorship, career development, and social connection, reinforcing the sense of community that begins during a student's time at the college. The success of thousands of women who have become confident, successful leaders in a wide variety of careers since the college's inception is a direct reflection of the strength of this network and the quality of education received.
Notable Faculty and Community Spirit
The heart of any academic institution lies in its faculty, and Cedar Crest College is no exception. The college prides itself on its dedicated educators who are not only experts in their fields but also passionate mentors. The Cedar Crest College community recently mourned the loss of one of its most beloved faculty members, Dr. Marion Kayhart, Professor Emerita of Biology, who passed away peacefully on May 15, 2025. Dr. Kayhart was a true icon—a dedicated educator whose contributions profoundly impacted countless students. Her legacy, and that of many other committed faculty members, underscores the college's commitment to nurturing intellectual growth and fostering a supportive learning environment. This deep connection between faculty and students is a defining characteristic of Cedar Crest College, ensuring a personalized and impactful educational journey.
Conclusion
Cedar Crest College stands as a distinguished institution dedicated to empowering its students through exceptional education, a supportive community, and a commitment to lifelong success. From its rich history dating back to 1867 to its forward-thinking academic programs for both traditional undergraduate women and adult and graduate students, Cedar Crest provides a unique and enriching environment. The college's vibrant campus life, comprehensive support services, and strong alumnae/i network ensure that every student is well-prepared to become a confident leader and make a meaningful impact in the world. We invite you to schedule a visit and discover firsthand what sets Cedar Crest College apart, or explore our virtual tour to experience our beautiful campus. Begin your journey toward empowerment and excellence today by choosing the Common App or the Cedar Crest App to start your application process.
Cedar Crest College presents degrees at 2012 graduation ceremony in
Visit Our Campus | Cedar Crest College
Cedar Crest College - Tuition, Rankings, Majors, Alumni, & Acceptance Rate
