It is a liberal arts college and offers a curriculum in the humanities, social sciences, life sciences, and physical sciences. Hamilton awards the bachelor's degree.
Students can choose to study abroad in France, Spain, Russia, Greece, Italy, and Sweden.
Campus facilities include an art gallery, an observatory, and a nature preserve. Total enrollment is approximately 1,700. Hamilton College, named for Alexander Hamilton, traces its history back to 1794, when missionary Samuel Kirkland founded the Hamilton-Oneida Academy. The academy was meant to bring the children of Oneida Indians and of white settlers together in an environment of learning and cooperation. Though few Oneidas enrolled, the academy lasted for 18 years.