Hobart and William Smith Colleges

Originally founded as two separate colleges – Hobart College in 1822 and William Smith College in 1908 – Hobart and William Smith Colleges enjoy a rich and unique history that spans nearly 200 years on Seneca Lake. Below is a timeline of the Colleges’ major milestones and events from its foundation until present day.

With 45 majors and 68 minors, students have plenty of opportunities for exploration. All majors, except those marked with an asterisk, can also be pursued as minors.

Since its beginning in 1987, Hobart and William Smith's Undergraduate Summer Research Program has supported summer scholars who work side-by-side with a faculty research mentor. In doing so, students experience the rigors and joys of research in the sciences and social sciences, gain laboratory experience that will be vital to their future careers, and benefit from the guidance of experienced faculty mentors.

Hobart and William Smith recognize just how instrumental an internship can be in determining career direction. To ensure HWS students have access to these important professional learning opportunities, the Colleges have made a bold commitment. Hobart and William Smith guarantee that students of good academic and social standing who successfully complete the Pathways Program will be able to participate in at least one internship or research opportunity. In most cases, the experience will take place during the summer after the junior year. For unpaid internship and research opportunities, the Colleges will provide a stipend.