Transylvania is firmly committed to the concept of liberal education. For an education to be of lifelong value, a student must acquire mastery of basic skills, have a broad exposure to and appreciation for the wide varieties of knowledge and expression, and pursue some discipline in depth. Basic skills are emphasized in the Foundations of the Liberal Arts Program and in many of the introductory sequences of the various programs. Broad exposure is provided by distribution, or general education, requirements.

Major patterns offer students a wide choice of in-depth study. Off-campus study, travel-study, and internship programs add further options. A low student-faculty ratio and an advising and counseling program provide students with personal attention and guidance so that each may benefit fully from the opportunities available. Many academic support services, facilities, and organizations extend education beyond the classroom into the lives of students.