Moravian University

Moravian College is among the oldest operational education institutions in the United States, tracing its history all the way back to before the country gained independence. In 1742 the Countess Benigna von Zinzendorf travelled to the then-colony of Pennsylvania and established the territory’s first girls’ boarding school, called Bethlehem Female Seminary. The Countess and the school shared a Moravian faith, a branch of Christianity known for following the principle that all humans should receive an education, regardless of social status or gender.

In 1954 the girl’s school, which had become a college, merged with a local men’s college and became Moravian College.

Moravian College follows the liberal arts tradition, with a core curriculum designed to give students a foundation on which to build their career. All students take part in a first year writing seminar designed to teach critical reading and writing skills.

Bachelor’s of arts, sciences and music degrees are available at the college, as well as master’s degrees in subjects such as divinity. The college also offers a Peace Corps prep programme.

In its early years, Bethlehem Female Seminary was attended by the two nieces of George Washington, at his request. More recent alumni include the socialite Florence Foster Jenkins, Democratic Party Assembly Majority Leader Louis Greenwald and NASCAR driver John Andretti.

Moravian College is located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The twin campuses sit in the historic old town, where 18th century buildings, vintage shops and modern bars sit side-by-side. Nearby, the cities of Allentown and Easton provide internship and work opportunities for graduates.