Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Houghton located?

Houghton College's main campus is in the hamlet of Houghton, Allegany County, in western New York, about 65 miles southeast of Buffalo, 70 miles southwest of Rochester, and 330 miles from New York City. 

Fifteen miles to the north are the Genesee's magnificent Portage Falls and Letchworth State Park.  On all sides is the scenic beauty of the rolling hills and northern hardwood forests of western New York State.

View our Western New York Visitor's Guide for more information on the surrounding area.

What kind of churches are in the area?

There are a plethora of churches in the Houghton vicinity, representing many denominations.  Many students choose to attend the Houghton Wesleyan Church, which provides 3 services on Sunday morning: 8:20, 9:40 and 11:00.  View our directory of area churches.

What is there to do on campus?  What activities, clubs, and sports are available?

Houghton provides numerous opportunities for student involvement.  Campus clubs and organizations include the Boulder (yearbook), Climbing Club, Habitat for Humanity, International Student Association, and Youth for Christ, just to name a few.

The Campus Activities Board (CAB) organizes campus events including movies, coffeehouses and concerts.  The Student Life Office also organizes student activities, including weekend bus trips to major cities in the northeast, such as Washington DC, New York, and Toronto.

In addition to intramural sports, Houghton fields 10 varsity athletic teams.

View a complete list of campus activities.

What SAT/ACT score do I need to be admitted?

Houghton looks at a student's entire academic record, including the high school transcript, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) and recommendations.  Our average SAT for the fall 2008 incoming class was 1166 (26 ACT); our middle 50% was 1030-1270 (23-29 on the ACT).

What is Houghton's policy on Advanced Placement exams?

We award college credit for most AP exams with a score of 4 or better.  View our complete Advanced Placement credit policy (PDF document).

Are freshmen allowed to have cars on campus?

Yes, freshmen are allowed to have cars on campus.

Where do your students come from?

Houghton's 1200 students represent over 40 states and Canadian provinces and over 20 foreign countries.  About half of our students are from New York.

What are the professors like?

Houghton faculty are recognized scholars, published authors, and committed Christians.  They are experts in their field (80% hold a PhD or equivalent terminal degree).  View a list of our entire faculty.

Am I required to go to chapel?

Chapel is held three times a week, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 11:30am - 12:10pm.  Classes are not held during this time.  Houghton students agree to attend 2/3 of chapel services over the course of a year.  View the latest chapel schedule.