Families want to know their student will be supported—and that their education will matter after graduation. 

At FLC, students build broad knowledge, practical skills, and the ability to think clearly about complex questions. They learn in small classes, work closely with faculty, and gain experience through research, fieldwork, creative projects, internships, community partnerships, and Career Services.

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Two students and an instructor work together in a science laboratory. One student looks through a microscope while another stands nearby, and the instructor observes the activity. Laboratory equipment, workstations, and storage cabinets are visible in the background. Blue graphic accents frame the image along the top and bottom edges.

Faculty who know students by name

FLC’s small classes give students more opportunities to know their professors and ask for help. With a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio, an average class size of 16, and 100% of classes under 50 students, students have more opportunities to be seen, known, and guided by faculty. 

For families comparing FLC with larger universities, this is one of the clearest differences: students have more opportunities to build relationships with the people teaching and mentoring them.

 

2026 Undergraduate Research

 
Fort Lewis College

Hands-on learning and future preparation

Families want confidence that college will lead somewhere. At FLC, students can build practical experience throughout their education, not just after graduation. 

Depending on their major, students may gain experience through research, internships, fieldwork, lab work, student teaching, performances, community projects, creative work, leadership roles, and campus employment.  

Every student participates in undergraduate research and other hands-on learning experiences as part of their education. Students regularly present research, creative work, and projects at the Undergraduate Research Symposium and other public exhibitions. 

These experiences help students connect what they learn in class to future careers, graduate school, and community impact.

Advising

Academic advisors help students understand degree requirements, select courses, explore majors, and plan for graduation. Students begin working with advisors early, including during orientation, and many programs provide four-year graduation maps to help students understand the path to degree completion.

First-generation student support 

Nearly half of FLC students are the first in their families to attend college. First-generation students can access programs, mentoring, academic support, and campus resources designed to help them navigate college life and build confidence along the way. 

Through resources like TRIO Student Support Services and other campus programs, students can connect with people who understand their experiences and help them overcome challenges that may come with being the first in their family to pursue a degree.

Explore advising

Academic support and student services

Students have access to a network of academic support resources designed to help them succeed from their first semester through graduation. 

Support include tutoring, Peer Education, STEM3, and TRIO Student Support Services. These programs help students strengthen academic skills, prepare for exams, understand course material, navigate college expectations, connect with resources, and build confidence. 

These services are not only for students who are struggling. Many successful students use academic support resources throughout college to stay engaged, overcome challenges, and make the most of their education. 

Families can encourage students to seek support early, ask questions, and take advantage of the many people and programs invested in their success. 

Learn about the Academic Support Hub

Career Services

Career Services helps students connect their education to life after college. Students can get support with career exploration, resumes, internships, interviews, job searches, graduate school planning, and professional development. Students can also connect with employers through career fairs, networking events, and career expos held throughout the year. 

Families can encourage students to connect with Career Services early, not just during senior year.

Explore Career Services

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How families can support students

Families play an important role in student success. You can help by encouraging your student to: 

  • Check their FLC email regularly 
  • Meet with their advisor 
  • Ask professors for help 
  • Use tutoring or Peer Education early 
  • Get involved on campus 
  • Visit Career Services before senior year 
  • Speak up when something is not working 

Your student will be expected to take responsibility for their college experience, but they do not have to navigate it alone.