Skip to main content

The Colleges

Upper-Division Colleges

Residential colleges are a type of on-campus student residence in which the academic experience is integrated into residential life, creating communities and opportunities for learning outside the classroom among a diverse study body. Led by faculty heads who live in residence, Vanderbilt’s residential colleges create an intentional, mutually-beneficial educational experience for our students, faculty and staff, promoting the development of intellect, community, personal well-being, self-discovery, and cultural awareness.

Beyond a traditional residence hall, these spaces, each with unique personalities, amenities, and programs, act as a home away from home for residents. Each individual house or college is led by a faculty member who is there to help students explore and pursue their personal, educational, and career goals.

Each of the colleges also represent an expansion of the residential college system—a key pillar of the Academic Strategic Plan representing vibrant living-learning communities that create transformative educational experiences for Vanderbilt students.

To learn more about the amenities offered and specifics of each residential college, visit the Housing and Residential Experience webpage.