It might seem odd that one of the nation’s oldest liberal arts schools is perhaps best known for its engineering and science programs.

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But at Lafayette College, several programs connect liberal arts majors with nationally recognized engineering and science courses in an effort to prepare its over 2,700 undergraduate students to tackle real-world problems. Such cross-disciplinary and practical experience may be one reason that Lafayette students do well in the workforce. Early career earnings top $91,000, a solid $30,000 more than the median earnings of all the schools on our list.

Lafayette may not come to mind as a sports powerhouse, but the college does have a rich football history. Leopards are credited with the inventions of both the helmet and the huddle, and the team is one half of collegiate football's most played rivalry.

Nestled in the Lehigh Valley, students can take advantage of several miles of hiking trails or kayak on the Delaware River. Easton, Pennsylvania is also home to the Crayola crayon factory and one of the best farmer’s markets in the country.