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“We invite you to discover the enduring principles of good government and the impressive structure of the American Constitution.”

Larry Arnn

Hillsdale College President

Hillsdale College Extends Founding Mission

Hillsdale College was founded in 1844 with a mission to provide "all who wish to learn" the education necessary to preserve the civil and religious liberties of America. The founders of Hillsdale College understood, like the founders of our great nation, that free government requires independent, virtuous, and knowledgeable citizens.In 2011 Hillsdale launched its online courses program to better accomplish this mission and to teach the core subjects of a Hillsdale education free of charge. Since that time, more than 4.2 million Americans have partnered with us in this effort.
View of Hilllsdale College

Arnn articulates these in ascending order of importance. Beginning with death, he explains why these two fundamental realities of our earthly home so heavily defined the circumstances surrounding the Second World War — © 2025 Photographer Name

Identity

Hillsdale is a selective, coeducational college of liberal arts for approximately 1,400 students. Fully accredited, it graduates students with the degree of bachelor of arts or bachelor of science and prepares them for graduate study, for professional schools, for teaching, and for many vocational and cultural pursuits.Hillsdale’s founders opened the doors to all, regardless of race or religion, in 1844. It was the first college in Michigan, and the second in the United States, to admit women on par with men. Its cosmopolitan student body is assembled from homes in forty-nine states and eight foreign countries.
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1844

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The Beginning of Hillsdale

Hillsdale begins as Michigan Central College in Spring Arbor, Michigan, founded on the belief that education supports civil and religious liberty.

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Founding as Michigan Central College

The images feature the historic Hillsdale college building, founded as Michigan Central College in Spring Arbor, Michigan. They also include old documents that emphasize the institution's dedication to civil and religious liberty through education.

1853

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Building the Hilltop Campus

The college relocates to Hillsdale, Michigan and adopts the name Hillsdale College, establishing its permanent hilltop campus.

1970

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Rise to National Prominence

Hillsdale emerged as a national figure in debates over federal oversight in higher education, challenging requirements related to racial reporting and student aid on the grounds of institutional autonomy and principle.

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1980

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Our Commitment to Equality

Hillsdale established a groundbreaking policy of admitting students regardless of race, religion, or sex—making it one of the first American colleges to do so.

1990

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Hillsdale College

Hillsdale begins as Michigan Central College in Spring Arbor, Michigan, founded on the belief that education supports civil and religious liberty.

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OUR STORY

A Tradition of Independence Since 1844

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Developing Minds. 
Enriching Hearts.
The curriculum at Hillsdale College is both timeless and rigorous. Here, we celebrate and encourage the pursuit of knowledge and the cultivation of character. Join us, and become a leader of tomorrow.
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