Published May 2016
This ranking highlights 30 great small colleges for learners with an INFP personality type. INFP stands for Introversion (I), Intuition (N), Feeling (F), Perception (P).
INFP Personality Types
In the Myers-Briggs Personality Assessment, a person with an INFP Personality is referred to as “the Mediator” and considered a Diplomat. These are people who are poetic, incredibly kind, altruistic and always eager to help a good cause. Some of their best attributes include their strong communication abilities, their idealism, and the strong value they place on harmony, flexibility, creativity and passion. They can sometimes be too idealistic, too altruistic, slightly impractical, and dislike dealing with data.
An INFP is someone who loves their freedom and the idea of not being tied to one place or idea for too long. They are not people who revel in the idea of attending college for years and years. Once they graduate it can be difficult for this Myers Briggs Personality Type to find a career that is truly satisfying.
Some of the best careers for INFP learners are jobs in poetry, writing, acting, blogging, freelancing, investigative journalism and editing. It is important for this type of student to find a major that can lead directly into a career.
Best Majors for the INFP Personality
Every Myers Briggs Personality type has a number of career options that are well suited for their personal characteristics. INFPs who choose to major in one of these ideal areas will have the highest levels of academic and job success and satisfaction. Because the INFP personality type tends to struggle with job satisfaction, this is extremely important.
The INFP is someone who has a natural ability to communicate well with those around them. They are altruistic people who have an innate ability to work towards a greater common good. They love to feel free to explore the world and its many possibilities. This unique blend of trains lends itself to successful careers as poets, writers, actors, bloggers, freelancers, investigative journalists and editors.
Qualities of the Best Colleges for the INFP Personality
Each Myers Briggs personality has a particular learning environment that will most ideally allow them to use their individual strengths and interests.
An INFP will benefit from a learning environment that allows them to learn by doing. Being stuck in a traditional classroom is not the best fit for this student. A smaller learning environment is ideal so they have ample opportunities to learn experientially. Keeping this in mind, only colleges with an undergraduate enrollment of 10,000 students or fewer were considered for this list.
It is also important for an individual with an INFP personality to choose a college that allows them to pursue their natural sense of altruism. It is important for the INFP to find a school where they can pursue a career in poetry, writing, acting, blogging, freelancing, investigative journalism or editing.
It is also helpful to find a school that allows students to graduate in the shortest amount of time.
For a discussion on how we selected the 30 institutions on our list, please see the methodology at the end of the ranking.
30 Great Colleges for INFP Personality Types
#30 – Biola University – La Mirada. California
Points: 8
University Website
Biola University is a top Christian university and features the prominent Torrey Honors Institute. The institute offers an array of pioneering degree programs. In addition, all undergraduate students are required to complete 30 units of Bible and theology courses. There are several excellent academic programs that match very well with the INFP personality type, such as English, Communication Studies, Writing, Journalism and Integrated Media and Theater.
Cost of Attendance: $32,087
Overall School Accreditation:
Senior College and University Commission of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
Enrollment: 4,373
Student/Faculty Ratio: 16:1
US News and World Report Ranking:
#161 Best National University
INFP Majors: 5
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking List:
#27 College Factual: Best Journalism Programs
#29 – Bellevue University – Bellevue, Nebraska
Points: 8
University Website
Bellevue University is among ideal INFP colleges in that it offers students the ability to graduate early. Bellevue accepts students into their accelerated programs with 60 completed credit hours or an associate’s degree, as well as credit for military service, CLEP, and other relevant experiences. Some of the INFP majors supported by the school include:
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies (In class or Online)
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Communication Studies (In class or Online)
- Bachelor of Science in Media Communications (Online only)
- Master of Fine Arts in Creativity (Online only)
Cost of Attendance: $11,786
Overall School Accreditation:
Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCACS)
Enrollment: 6,291
Student/Faculty Ratio: 32:1
US News and World Report Ranking:
#63 Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Program
INFP Majors: 3
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking List:
The Best Colleges: The Best Colleges for Graduating Early
#28 – Berklee College of Music – Boston, Massachusetts
Points: 8
University Website
Berklee College of Music is a private arts college originally founded in 1945. Berklee supports over 350 student music ensembles, a range of clubs and organizations, as well as “student-run enterprises,” which offer an opportunity to participate in activities like running record labels and setting up concert venues. While this school is an excellent music school, there are additional INFP majors such as creative writing, spoken word/slam poetry and several others. For INFP learners who prefer to work in written word, Berklee’s literary magazine features poetry written by both students and faculty.
Cost of Attendance: $41,619
Overall School Accreditation:
New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
Enrollment: 4,490
Student/Faculty Ratio: 11:1
US News and World Report Ranking: Not Applicable
INFP Majors: 1
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking Lists:
Dr. Kat’s List: Five Colleges Where You Can Express Your Poetic Voice
The Freelancer: The 10 Best Colleges for Creative Writers
#27 – Sarah Lawrence College – Bronxville, New York
Points: 9
University Website
Sarah Lawrence College is a small private school offering a nationally recognized writing program for highly talented students. The program integrates collaborative student workshops with traditional classroom learning to create an ideal learning environment for aspiring poets. In addition to poetry, Sarah Lawrence students can pursue study in the humanities, sciences, history or the arts. The innovative curriculum allows students to design an individualized program that has been customized to meet their intellect and interests.
Cost of Attendance: $35,888
Overall School Accreditation:
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Enrollment: 1,437
Student/Faculty Ratio: 10:1
US News and World Report Ranking:
#57 Best National Liberal Arts College
INFP Majors: 1
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking List:
Dr. Kat’s List: Five Colleges Where You Can Express Your Poetic Voice
#26 – Albertus Magnus College – New Haven, Connecticut
Points: 9
University Website
Albertus Magnus College is a small private college that adheres to a long history in the Catholic Dominican tradition. One of the strengths of the college is the campus-wide acceptance of technological changes and advances that are becoming a new norm in academics. Students have access to state-of-the-art technology and a fully-wired campus with computers and LCDs for academic use in all classrooms. At the undergraduate level, the following INFP majors are available:
- Communication with optional concentration areas in Promotional, Visual, Sports and Performance
- English
Cost of Attendance: $22,171
Overall School Accreditation:
New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
Enrollment: 1,256
Student/Faculty Ratio: 14:1
US News and World Report Ranking:
#109 Best Academic Institution in the Northern Region of the United States
INFP Majors: 2
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking List:
The Best Colleges: The Best Colleges for Graduating Early
#25 – University of Arkansas – Monticello, Arkansas
Points: 9
University Website
At the University of Arkansas at Monticello, there are a number of ideal INFP majors available, with the UAM School of Arts and Humanities housing several programs that cater to the interests of this specific Myers Briggs personality type. At the undergraduate level, INFP learners can pursue training in Communication, with emphasis areas in Applied Communication, Media Studies, Performance, Professional Writing, and Speech, as well as study in English with a concentration in Creative Writing or Literature. At the graduate level, the Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing trains writers and students of literature to become successful authors and teachers.
Cost of Attendance: $9,833
Overall School Accreditation:
Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCACS)
Enrollment: 3,641
Student/Faculty Ratio: 17:1
US News and World Report Ranking: Not Applicable
INFP Majors: 3
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking List:
The Writer Mag: A guide to sifting through MFA programs for the best in poetry.
#24 – Hofstra University – Hempstead, New York
Points: 10
University Website
Hofstra University utilizes a calendar with two traditional semesters, as well as a January term and several summer sessions. There are over 200 student organizations, including about 20 fraternities and sororities, making this school an ideal college for INFP learners. There are two schools housed within the university that cater to the needs of this Myers Briggs personality type. The School of Humanities, Fine and Performing Arts supports the following areas of study:
- English
- Drama
- Writing
- Rhetoric
The Lawrence Herbert School of Communication has a number of great programs that can help lead to one of the best INFP careers. Some of these include:
- Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, Media Studies and Public Relations
- Bachelor of Arts in Radio, Television and Film
- Master of Arts in Journalism
Cost of Attendance: $30,606
Overall School Accreditation:
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Enrollment: 6,904
Student/Faculty Ratio: 14:1
US News and World Report Ranking:
#135 Best National University
INFP Majors: More than 5
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking List:
College Factual: Best Journalism Programs
#23 – Stony Brook University – Southampton, New York
Points: 10
University Website
Stony Brook Southampton is a satellite campus location of the State University of New York at Stony Brook. This university is great fit for INFP learners who choose to pursue graduate training. The school has an energetic community catering to the needs of future professional artists, writers and actors. Students in all programs learn to become experienced, independent, creative entrepreneurs. INFP learners can pursue a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing & Literature as well as in Theater.
Cost of Attendance: $13,352
Overall School Accreditation:
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
New York State Board of Regents (NYSBR)
Enrollment: 75
Student/Faculty Ratio: Data Unavailable
US News and World Report Ranking: Not Applicable
INFP Majors: 2
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking Lists:
The Writer Mag: A guide to sifting through MFA programs for the best in poetry
College Media Matters (Affiliated with the Associated Press): 50 Best Journalism Schools and Programs at U.S. Colleges and Universities
#22 – University of Montana – Missoula, Montana
Points: 10
University Website
The University of Montana is a public university with a diverse population. Students have an extensive array of options in terms of student activities, athletics and clubs. At the undergraduate level, the following INFP majors are offered:
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies with optional concentrations in Communication and Human Relationships, Organizational Communication and Rhetoric and Public Discourse
- Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing with optional concentrations in Non-Fiction, Fiction and Poetry
- Bachelor of Arts in English with a Creative Writing Option
- Bachelor of Arts in Theater
For those at the graduate level of study, there is a master’s level program in theater.
Cost of Attendance: $13,112
Overall School Accreditation:
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
Commission on Accreditation for the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST)
Enrollment: 9,447
Student/Faculty Ratio: 17:1
US News and World Report Ranking: Not Applicable
INFP Majors: 3
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking List:
College Media Matters (Affiliated with the Associated Press): 50 Best
#21 – Quinnipiac University – Hamden, Connecticut
Points: 11
University Website
Quinnipiac University is a small private university. Students are encouraged to be socially engaged through work both on campus and in the greater Quinnipiac community. For the altruistic INFP learner, this is an excellent learning and social environment. They can help meet the needs of others while also working towards a degree in one of the following INFP majors:
- Bachelor of Arts in English
- Bachelor of Arts in Journalism
- Bachelor of Arts in Theater
There are also three excellent graduate INFP programs available at the School of Communication. Students who plan to pursue an INFP career in journalism may consider one of the following programs.
- Master of Science in Interactive Media with available concentration areas in Multimedia Production, Social Media User Experience Design and a Custom Concentration
- Master of Science in Journalism
- Master of Science in Sports Journalism
Cost of Attendance: $35,630
Overall School Accreditation:
New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
Enrollment: 6,553
Student/Faculty Ratio: 11:1
US News and World Report Ranking:
#11 Best Academic Institution in the Northern Region of the United States
INFP Majors: 3
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking List:
#15 College Factual: Best Journalism Programs
#20 – Columbia College – Chicago, Illinois
Points: 11
University Website
Columbia College of Chicago is a private, non-profit liberal arts college specializing in arts and media disciplines. This college offers a great learning environment for the ISFP personality type. Because the college’s focus is on the arts, learners with this unique Myers Briggs Personality type will feel at home among their peers and instructors. At the undergraduate level, ISFP learners can learn from the following well-fitting programs:
- Bachelor of Arts in Acting
- Bachelor of Arts in Comedy Writing and Performance
- Bachelor of Arts in Fiction
- Bachelor of Arts in Multimedia Journalism, Magazine
- Bachelor of Arts in Multimedia Journalism, New and Features
- Bachelor of Arts in Non-Fiction
- Bachelor of Arts in Poetry
- Bachelor of Arts in Theater
- Bachelor of Arts in Writing for Performance
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fiction
- Creative Non-Fiction Minor
- Fiction Minor
- Journalism Minor
- Minor in Poetry
- Professional Writing Minor
Students can also pursue one of the following nationally recognized INFP graduate programs:
- Master of Arts in Journalism
- Master of Fine Arts in Fiction
- Master of Fine Arts in Poetry
Cost of Attendance: $27,839
Overall School Accreditation:
Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCACS)
Enrollment: 9,003
Student/Faculty Ratio: 13:1
US News and World Report Ranking: Not Applicable
INFP Majors: More than 5
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking List:
College Media Matters (Affiliated with the Associated Press): 50 Best Journalism Schools and Programs at U.S. Colleges & Universities
#19 – Albright College – Reading, Pennsylvania
Points: 11
University Website
Albright College is a private liberal arts college with a unique flexible multidisciplinary curriculum. Some reasons Albright is a great school for INFP learners include the close faculty mentorship opportunities, the various experiential learning options, and a distinct, supportive community of scholars and students working together. The following INFP majors are available.
- Communications
- Communications with a Journalism Emphasis
- Communications with a Public Relations and Advertising Emphasis
- English
- Theater
INFP learners who want to complete their studies in the shortest period of time can pursue an accelerated bachelor’s degree in Digital Communications. This program emphasizes strategic communication across media platforms including publications, videos, and websites.
Cost of Attendance: $21,497
Overall School Accreditation:
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Enrollment: 2,360
Student/Faculty Ratio: 13:1
US News and World Report Ranking: Not Applicable
INFP Majors: 3
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking List:
The Best Colleges: The Best Colleges for Graduating Early
#18 – Fairfield University – Fairfield, Connecticut
Points: Moe than 5
University Website
Fairfield University was established by the Society of Jesus as a coeducational institution. All Jesuit schools maintain a commitment to the service of faith and the promotion of justice. There are many options benefiting the INFP personality type, including the ability to pursue interdisciplinary majors that cater specifically to their needs and goals. Some of the designated majors (that can be combined with other majors and minors) that suit the needs of the INFP learner include the following.
- Digital Journalism
- English
- Humanitarian Action (interdisciplinary with minor)
- Individually Designed Major
- Modern Languages and Literature
- Theatre
- Visual and Performing Arts
In addition to the many excellent INFP majors, there are also graduate degree programs to choose from. Some of the best fitting degree programs include:
- Master of Arts in Communication
- Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
Cost of Attendance: $37,255
Overall School Accreditation:
New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
Enrollment: 3,982
Student/Faculty Ratio: 11:1
US News and World Report Ranking:
#6 Best Academic Institution in the Northern Region of the United States
INFP Majors: More than 5
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking List:
#22 College Factual: Best Communication and Media Studies Programs
#17 – Lindenwood University – Saint Charles, Missouri
Points: 12
University Website
Lindenwood University is a small, private university affiliated with the Presbyterian Church. The school upholds an academic freedom statement that is centered on intellectual growth, exploration, creativity, and expression. This makes for an ideal learning environment for the INFP personality type. INFP learners can take advantage of several ideal majors at Lindenwood, including:
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting
- Bachelor of Arts in English
- Bachelor of Arts or Science in Entrepreneurial Studies (excellent for the future career freelancer or blogger)
- Bachelor of Arts in Journalism
- Bachelor of Arts in Performing Arts
- Bachelor of Arts in Theatre
- Accelerated Bachelor of Arts in Communications
At the graduate level, the university offers the following INFP graduate programs:
- Master of Arts in Communication with optional emphasis in Broadcast, Communications Studies and Journalism (MA)
- Master of Science in in Human Performance
- Master of Arts in Theatre
- Master of Fine Arts in Writing
Cost of Attendance: $21,440
Overall School Accreditation:
Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCACS)
Enrollment: 8,541
Student/Faculty Ratio: 14:1
US News and World Report Ranking:
#108 Best Academic Institution in the Midwestern Region of the United States
INFP Majors: More than 5
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking List:
The Writer Mag: A guide to sifting through MFA programs for the best in poetry
#16 – Villanova University – Villanova, Pennsylvania
Points: 13
University Website
Villanova University is a Roman Catholic university that strives to provide students with a comprehensive education grounded in the liberal arts. Villanova is another choice for the INFP learner who would benefit from a small, more intimate campus and a supportive learning environment. At the undergraduate level, students can choose from the following INFP majors:
- Communication
- English
- Theatre
- Writing and Rhetoric
Students can also choose from the following comprehensive INFP graduate degree programs:
- Classical Studies
- Communication
- English
- Theatre
Cost of Attendance: $32,704
Overall School Accreditation:
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Enrollment: 7,118
Student/Faculty Ratio: 12:1
US News and World Report Ranking:
#1 Best Academic Institution in the Northern Region of the United States
INFP Majors: 5
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking List:
#23 College Factual: Best Communication and Media Studies Programs
#15 – Pacific Lutheran University – Tacoma, Washington
Points: 13
University Website
Pacific Lutheran University (PLU) is a small private university that combines the liberal arts, professional studies and civic engagement in a way that benefits all students. The university supports a number of non-traditional learning opportunities, including study abroad programs, student-faculty research opportunities, and experiential learning opportunities. INFP learners are drawn to the university’s programs in writing, journalism and acting. One of the best INFP majors is the Master of Fine Arts in creative writing and poetry.
Cost of Attendance: $25,086
Overall School Accreditation:
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
Enrollment: 2,959
Student/Faculty Ratio: 12:1
US News and World Report Ranking:
#14 Best Academic Institution in the Midwestern Region of the United States
INFP Majors: 3
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking List:
The Writer Mag: A guide to sifting through MFA programs for the best in poetry
#14 – University of Indianapolis – Indianapolis, Indiana
Points: 13
University Website
The University of Indianapolis is a private residential university featuring academic rigor and a supportive atmosphere. Throughout the campus, there is a strong sense of community and pride, which caters well to the needs of the INFP personality. Staff and faculty help students determine and achieve their individual educational goals. This kind of care and consideration makes the university a superb choice for INFP learners. Students can choose from the following INFP majors.
- Creative Writing
- English English–Creative Writing
- English–Literary Studies
- English–Professional Writing
- Journalism
- Theatre
For students who already possess their bachelor’s degree, a Master of Arts in English is also available.
Cost of Attendance: $22,639
Overall School Accreditation:
Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCACS)
Enrollment: 4,169
Student/Faculty Ratio: 11:1
US News and World Report Ranking:
#30 Best Academic Institution in the Midwestern Region of the United States
INFP Majors: 4
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking List:
The Best Colleges: The Best Colleges for Graduating Early
#13 – Howard University – Washington, D.C.
Points: 13
University Website
Howard University is a private historically black college, located in the heart of the District of Columbia. Students are an involved group of students with a wide variety of student organizations, fraternities and sororities, and academic clubs. The university even has its own stop on the city’s public transportation system, the Metro. Some of the available INFP degree programs include:
- Bachelor of Arts in English
- Bachelor of Arts in Media, Journalism, and Film
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Arts – Acting
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Arts – Theatre Technology
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Arts – Theatre Arts Administration
Cost of Attendance: $22,337
Overall School Accreditation:
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Commission on Accreditation for the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST)
Enrollment: 7,013
Student/Faculty Ratio: 10:1
US News and World Report Ranking:
#135 Best National University
#2 Historically Black College or University
INFP Majors: 3
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking List:
#91 US News and World Report: Best Graduate English Programs
#12 – Mississippi College – Clinton, Mississippi
Points: 13
University Website
Mississippi College (MC) is a small private college affiliated with the Mississippi Baptist Convention, and is a co-educational, Christian university of liberal arts and sciences. There are over 40 commissioned student organizations, ranging from academic societies to campus ministries. The school has an evening schedule to allow for greater flexibility of study in a shorter period of time. As INFP learners may tend not to want to spend a great deal of time in their college program, this school offers a way to earn a degree in a minimal amount of time. Some of the INFP degrees conferred by MC include:
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication
- Bachelor of Arts in English
- Bachelor of Science in Communication
- Master of Arts in English
- Master of Science in Communication
Cost of Attendance: $16,418
Overall School Accreditation:
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC)
Enrollment: 2,984
Student/Faculty Ratio: 16:1
US News and World Report Ranking:
#32 Best Academic Institution in the Southern Region of the United States
#11 Best Value School
INFP Majors: 2
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking List:
The Best Colleges: The Best Colleges for Graduating Early
#11 – Ithaca College – Ithaca, New York
Points: 14
University Website
Ithaca College is a small private liberal arts college with a wide range of majors within the schools of Business, Communications, Health Sciences and Human Performance, Humanities and Sciences, and Music. The campus also offers several opportunities for students to help their community, such as the annual Habitat for Humanity 5K race or the Food for Thought program. These programs are a plus for the altruistic INFP learner. There are a number of majors well suited to INFP personalities.
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies
- Bachelor of Arts in Culture and Communication
- Bachelor of Arts in English
- Bachelor of Arts in Journalism
- Bachelor of Science in Theatre Arts Management
- Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Studies
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatrical Production Arts
- Bachelor of Arts in Writing
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Writing for Film, TV, and Emerging Media
Cost of Attendance: $33,866
Overall School Accreditation:
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Enrollment: 6,124
Student/Faculty Ratio: 11:1
US News and World Report Ranking:
#9 Best Academic Institution in the Northern Region of the United States
INFP Majors: 4
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking Lists:
College Media Matters (Affiliated with the Associated Press): 50 Best Journalism Schools and Programs at U.S. Colleges & Universities
College Factual: Best Journalism Programs
#10 – Texas Christian University – Fort Worth, Texas
Points: 14
University Website
Texas Christian University (TCU) is a private university and the largest religious university associated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). There are more than 20 religious organizations, a strong Greek life (with close to 40 percent of the student body involved in more than 30 fraternities and sororities) and a wide range of student activities and athletics. The College of Fine Arts at TCU is a great fit for many INFP learners, specifically those with a passion for the theater. The Department of Theater offers the following INFP majors:
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre with an emphasis in Acting
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre with an emphasis in Musical Theatre
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre with an emphasis in Design
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre with an emphasis in Production
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre with an Emphasis in Theatre Studies
- Bachelor of Arts in Theatre
The Bob Schieffer College of Communication is yet another great college for INFP learners with a range of degree offerings. Some of these include Bachelor’s Degree in the following areas:
- Journalism
- Strategic Communication
- Film-TV-Digital Media
- Communication Studies
- The final school offering INFP majors is the Addran College of Liberal Arts. The degree offerings include:
- English
- Writing
Cost of Attendance: $31,087
Overall School Accreditation:
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC)
Enrollment: 8,647
Student/Faculty Ratio: 13:1
US News and World Report Ranking:
#82 Best National University
INFP Majors: More than 5
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking Lists:
College Factual: Best Journalism Programs
US News and World Report: Best Graduate English Programs
#9 – Kenyon College – Gambier, Ohio
Points: 14
University Website
Kenyon College is a small private college with outstanding theater and athletic facilities. The Horvitz Center for the Arts is a college hub that serves Kenyon College as well as the surrounding community. The college has 13 interdisciplinary majors, in addition to 31 traditional courses of study, and uses a variety of academic and social programs to supplement traditional classroom learning. What makes Kenyon College an ideal school for INFP personality types is that nationally recognized creative writing program. This program is offered as a sub-concentration through the school’s English department. Students have access to writing courses at both the introductory and advanced levels, as well as courses dedicated to certain periods in poetry: Renaissance, Post-Colonial, Victorian, 17th-Century, Contemporary, and Modern.
Cost of Attendance: $26,734
Overall School Accreditation:
Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCACS)
Enrollment: 1,662
Student/Faculty Ratio: 10:1
US News and World Report Ranking:
#25 Best National Liberal Arts College
#33 Best Value School
INFP Majors: 1
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking List:
Dr. Kat’s List: Five Colleges Where You Can Express Your Poetic Voice
#8 – American University – Washington, D.C.
Points: 15
University Website
American University’s School of Communication offers students access to top-notch teaching, research, creativity and innovative experiential opportunities. This school is an excellent fit for the INFP learner who plans to pursue training in writing or journalism. Students with an interest in a general communications degree can work towards a Bachelor of Arts or Doctor of Philosophy in Communications. Journalism students have the option of earning either a Bachelor of Art in Journalism or a Master of Art in Journalism and Public Affairs. Additionally, the Department of Performing Arts within the College of Arts and Sciences is home to a theatre major that features specialized tracks in Performance, Design and Technical Theatre, or Arts Management.
Cost of Attendance: $33,778
Overall School Accreditation:
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Enrollment: 7,706
Student/Faculty Ratio: 12:1
US News and World Report Ranking:
#72 Best National University
INFP Majors: 3
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking Lists:
College Media Matters (Affiliated with the Associated Press): 50 Best Journalism Schools and Programs at U.S. Colleges & Universities
#12 College Factual: Best Journalism Programs
#10 College Factual: Best Communication and Media Studies Programs
#7 – Brown University – Providence, Rhode Island
Points: 15
University Website
Students at Brown University have the opportunity to design and plan a customized academic program and course of study. There are no generalized core requirements, so students can engage in classes that are designed to educate and interest the student. What makes Brown an excellent school for INFP learners is the nationally recognized program in writing and poetry. Since the program’s inception it has offered a wide range of course offerings, each of which is dedicated to the art of reading and writing poetry. Students also have access to the Brown’s Harrison Collection of American Poetry and Plays, the most comprehensive collection of its kind.
Cost of Attendance: $21,193
Overall School Accreditation:
New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
Enrollment: 6,548
Student/Faculty Ratio: 9:1
US News and World Report Ranking:
#14 Best National University
INFP Majors: 1
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking Lists:
Dr. Kat’s List: Five Colleges Where You Can Express Your Poetic Voice
#19 College Factual: Best Communication and Media Studies Programs
#6 – Emerson College – Boston, Massachusetts
Points: 16
University Website
Emerson College is a private college with a narrow focus in writing, communications and the liberal arts. The school offers majors such as writing, literature and publishing, with a number of complementary minor programs of study to choose from. Emerson College is the only college in the United States dedicated solely to communication and the arts within a liberal arts framework. At the undergraduate level, the following INFP majors are available.
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Comedic Arts
- Bachelor of Science in Journalism
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Education and Performance
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre and Performance
Students can also choose from the following INFP graduate programs:
- Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
- Master of Arts in Journalism
- Master of Fine Arts in Popular Fiction and Publishing
- Mater of Arts in Publishing and Writing
- Master of Arts in Theatre Education
- Master of Fine Arts in Writing for Film and Television
Cost of Attendance: $34,427
Overall School Accreditation:
New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
Enrollment: 3,765
Student/Faculty Ratio: 13:1
US News and World Report Ranking:
#10 Best Academic Institution in the Northern Region of the United States
INFP Majors: 3
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking Lists:
College Media Matters (Affiliated with the Associated Press): 50 Best Journalism Schools and Programs at U.S. Colleges & Universities
#1 College Factual: Best Journalism Programs
#8 College Factual: Best Communication and Media Studies Programs
#5 – Drake University – Des Moines, Iowa
Points: 16
University Website
Drake University is a private university with two schools that cater to the specific academic needs of the ISFP learner. The School of Journalism and Mass Communication prepares students for a future in print journalism, broadcasting, advertising, public relations, or electronic media. The College of Arts and Sciences also confers several degrees that suit the personality traits of the ISFP learner. Those with an interest in a writing career can pursue an undergraduate major in English Studies as well as Writing. The school also supports several options in the theater arts, including Theater Acting, Theater Arts, Theatre Arts with Teaching Certificate and Theater Design and Technology.
Cost of Attendance: $27,052
Overall School Accreditation:
Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCACS)
Enrollment: 3,364
Student/Faculty Ratio: 12:1
US News and World Report Ranking:
#3 Best Academic Institution in the Midwestern Region of the United States
#10 Best Value School
INFP Majors: 3
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking Lists:
College Media Matters (Affiliated with the Associated Press): 50 Best Journalism Schools and Programs at U.S. Colleges & Universities
#4 – Creighton University – Omaha, Nebraska
Points: 17
University Website
Creighton University is a private Jesuit university with more than 200 student organizations, allowing students to become involved with the various student media outlets, including a school newspaper, student literary magazine, radio station and yearbook. INFP learners thrive at Creighton due to small class sizes, a supportive academic environment, and many philanthropic experiences that will meet altruistic needs of the INFP personality type. Among the many degrees well suited to INFP learners are the following.
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies
- Bachelor of Arts in English
- Bachelor of Arts in Journalism
- Bachelor of Arts in Theater
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theater
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theater
- Master of Arts in English
- Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
Cost of Attendance: $28,551
Overall School Accreditation:
Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCACS)
Enrollment: 4,065
Student/Faculty Ratio: 11:1
US News and World Report Ranking:
#1 Best Academic Institution in the Midwestern Region of the United States
#2 Best Value School
INFP Majors: 5
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking Lists:
#30 College Factual: Best Journalism Programs
#3 – Washington and Lee University – Lexington, Virginia
Points: 17
University Website
Washington and Lee University is a private university located in historic Lexington, Virginia, just three hours from Washington, D.C. The university has two undergraduate divisions: the College, and the Williams School of Commerce, Economics, and Politics. The following INFP majors are available at departments throughout the College:
- Bachelor of Art in English
- Bachelor of Art in Journalism
- Bachelor of Art in Theater
Students can also pursue the following minors that cater to the needs of the INFP learner:
- Creative Writing
- Mass Communications
- Theater
Cost of Attendance: $20,700
Overall School Accreditation:
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC)
Enrollment: 1,890
Student/Faculty Ratio: 8:1
US News and World Report Ranking:
#14 Best National Liberal Arts College
#6 Best Value School
INFP Majors: 3
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking List:
#10 College Factual: Best Journalism Programs
#2 – Lehigh University – Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Points: 18
University Website
Lehigh University is a prestigious private university located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The supportive learning environment makes for an excellent INFP atmosphere. Students can learn in small, intimate classes, with opportunities for learning outside the classroom as well. The College of Arts and Sciences offers several INFP-friendly degrees at both the undergraduate and the graduate level. Some of the best-fitting INFP majors at Lehigh include the following.
- Bachelor of Arts in English
- Bachelor of Arts in Theater
- Bachelor of Arts in Modern Languages and Literature
- Bachelor of Arts in Journalism
There are two excellent INFP graduate degree programs, including the following:
- Master of Arts in English
- Doctor of Philosophy in English
Cost of Attendance: $27,848
Overall School Accreditation:
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Commission on Accreditation for the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST)
Enrollment: 5,062
Student/Faculty Ratio: 10:1
US News and World Report Ranking:
#47 Best National University
#36 Best Value School
INFP Majors: 4
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking Lists:
#25 College Factual: Best Journalism Programs
#121 US News and World Report: Best Graduate English Programs
#1 – Hamilton College – Clinton, New York
Points: 19
University Website
Hamilton College is the third-oldest college in New York and was established as a men’s college, becoming coeducational in 1978 after uniting with its sister institution, Kirkland College. Hamilton College is among the best colleges for INFP learners due to high-quality coursework and range of options for English majors, as well as the nationally recognized writing center. English majors at Hamilton have the option to concentrate in either English literature or creative writing. The creative writing program includes course offerings and workshops in poetry, fiction, creative non-fiction, and play-writing. In addition to these great INFP programs, students can also pursue study in the following exciting areas:
- Linguistics
- Literature and Creative Writing
- Theatre
Cost of Attendance: $22,392
Overall School Accreditation:
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Enrollment: 1,900
Student/Faculty Ratio: 9:1
US News and World Report Ranking:
#14 Best National Liberal Arts College
#18 Best Value School
INFP Majors: 4
Inclusion on the Following National Ranking Lists:
College Times: 10 Best Colleges for Aspiring Writers
The Freelancer: The 10 Best Colleges for Creative Writers
Great Colleges for INFP Personality
These are some of the best college and universities for the INFP learner. They offer nationally recognized programs in poetry, writing, acting, blogging, freelancing, investigative journalism and editing. Many of these schools also allow students to graduate in a shorter period of time than the average for most colleges. Finding the right INFP school is an important detail for this kind of learner. These schools offer some of the most competitive programs for INFP majors, which allow them the learning environment to truly flourish as the free thinkers that they are born to be.
Related Ranking: 30 Great Small Colleges for ENFP Personality Types
Resources:
College Factual: Best Communication and Media Studies Programs
College Factual: Best Journalism Programs
College Times: 10 Best Colleges for Aspiring Writers
Dr. Kat’s List: Five Colleges Where You Can Express Your Poetic Voice
National Center for Educational Statistics College Navigator Tool
The Best Colleges: The Best Colleges for Graduating Early
The Freelancer: The 10 Best Colleges for Creative Writers
The Writer Mag: A guide to sifting through MFA programs for the best in poetry.
US News and World Report: Best Graduate English Programs
Methodology
This list outlines 30 Colleges that provide the kind of learning environment that will strongly suit the INFP personality. Tuition information and accreditation information was gathered from the National Center for Educational Statistics College Navigator Tool. Enrollment, Student to Faculty Ratio data and campus setting data was collected from US News and World Report. Data relevant to each school was gathered from each school’s website as listed.
The pool of possible schools began with over two hundred schools that have been nationally ranked for their programs matching the list of best majors for INFPs (such as poetry, writing, acting, blogging, freelancing, investigative journalism and editing), as well as those schools that are ranked as a best college, best value school or top public school by US News and World Report.
The schools were scored using the following point system:
Overall Cost of Attendance: This data was gathered from the National Center for Educational Statistics’ College Navigator Tool.
Less than $25,000 / $25,001 – $30,000/$30,001 – $35,000
3 points / 2 points / 1 point
Student to Faculty Ratio: Data was gathered from US News and World Report.
13:1 or less/14:1 – 15:1/16:1 – 17:1
3 points / 2 points / 1 point
Accreditation
In order to be included in this ranking list, an appropriate ranking body must regionally accredit each college or university. Those schools that have received additional accreditation are given an edge over schools without the stamp of accreditation.
Points:
Each Accreditation: 1 Point
College Ranking
The next consideration was whether or not a school has been granted acknowledgement by a national ranking body. The major source of such national notoriety comes from the US News and World Report Best Colleges List. The Data being considered for this ranking list is National Ranking, National Liberal Arts College Ranking, and Best Value Ranking.
Points:
US News Best National University Ranking / Best National Liberal Arts College Ranking:
Top 50 / Top 100 / Top 150
3 Points / 2 Points / 1 Point
US News and World Report Regional Ranking and Best Value School:
Top 25 / Top 50 / Top 100
3 Points / 2 Points / 1 Point
Inclusion on one of the following lists: 2 points
Dr. Kat’s List: Five Colleges Where You Can Express Your Poetic Voice
The Writer Mag: A guide to sifting through MFA programs for the best in poetry.
College Times: 10 Best Colleges for Aspiring Writers
The Freelancer: The 10 Best Colleges for Creative Writers
College Media Matters (Affiliated with the Associated Press): 50 Best Journalism Schools and Programs at U.S. Colleges & Universities
College Factual: Best Journalism Programs
College Factual: Best Communication and Media Studies Programs
US News and World Report: Best Graduate English Programs
The Best Colleges: The Best Colleges for Graduating Early
INFP Areas of Study:
5 or more / 3 – 4 / 1 – 2
3 Points / 2 Points / 1 Point
Ranking: All points were then tallied and schools were placed in order by their overall score. In the case of ties, preference was given to schools with the lower cost of attendance.
About the Author
After earning a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Rutgers University and then a Master of Science in Clinical and Forensic Psychology from Drexel University, Kristen Fescoe began a career as a therapist at two prisons in Philadelphia. At the same time she volunteered as a rape crisis counselor, also in Philadelphia. After a few years in the field she accepted a teaching position at a local college where she currently teaches online psychology courses. Kristen began writing in college and still enjoys her work as a writer, editor, professor and mother.