Vermont phÅ“nix. [volume] (Brattleboro, Vt.) 1834-1955, 1877-05-04

A writer in Scribner for May says OF the
curriculum of Smith College (Northamp-
ton, Mass.):
Assuming that there is one true philoso'
ply of mind wherever 1t exists, the course
OF study is arranged as far as possible on
philosophic basis rather than upon one OF
accommodation TO any imagined deicien-
cies of women. The position Is firmly taxi
en-, that the studies of women have long
enough been appointed at hap-hazaid, ac-
cording to fashion or foolish whim, and
that If she is TO receive a thorough culture,
she must be educated according TO those
laws vi hich control all rational beings. 1t
is maintained that those studies which have
taken their place in the higher education Of
man, because philosophy and experience
alike show them to be the surest and most
expeditions means 10 reach the greatest in
telligence, are just as valuable 10 woman in
her efforts 10 attain the same completeness
of mental development. Smith College
stands alone in this position, and is the on-
ly institution for women that insists upon
substantially the same requisites for ad-
mission as are required from young men in
their best colleges, and that has also pro-
vided q course of study equally broad and
complete.
At the same time, it does not insist upon
a cast-iron course, either in language or
science. After the first year, three elective
parallel courses are arranged, called re-
spectively: classical, literary, aud scien-
titic, which afford ample opportunity to in
dividuals tu indulge their respective apti-
tudes. Enough studies, however, are conf
mon 10 each of these courses TO insure that
all shall have the essentials of liberal cul
ture. Those whose tastes lead them espe-
cially to scientific studies are still required
to have some knowledge of the humanities,
and those who are more inclined TO the hu-
manities are expected, also, 10 have some
notion of natural laws and forces.
Smith College does not, however, restrict
its advantages TO those who may desire 10
take all Of its regular studies. No student
can receive the degree Of the college who
has not passed through the prescribed
course but in case young lady wishes to
pursue special line of study, she is allow
ed to do so, provided she is sufficiently
mature and well PREF ared 10 enler any of
the regular classes in those branches which
she desires to prosecute. No instruction is
given, however, by the college, TO any one
in lower grade of study than that embrac-
ed in its curriculum.
While the course Of study is thus arrang-
ed according TO a philosophy of the intellect
as intellect, it is not forgotten that it is a
woman's college. The students are not
treated as If they were men. Regard is bad
10 womanhood, aud the mode of life and
buildings are adapted 10 womans wants
and capacities. An effort is made, also, 10
educate her social faculties, and TO preserve
and increase the refinement and grace
which have ever been considered essential
10 a cultured woman. Miss Smith says in
her will: ~ would have the education
suited 10 the mental and physical wants of
women. 1t is not my design 10 render my
sex any the less feminine, but TO develop as
fully as may be the powers Of woman
hood"