Amish Education and University Attendance: A Surprising Reality

The Old Order Amish, an insular community known for its strict adherence to traditional lifestyle and beliefs, has been associated with very limited formal education. While most Amish students generally only complete eighth grade, there is a growing trend of exceptions and variations, particularly in specific circumstances.

Amish Education: Eighth Grade and Beyond

The Amish value practical skills and prefer hands-on learning over formal academic settings. Their education typically ends at the eighth grade. Extrapolating from this, one might wonder if any Amish students attend university. The answer is complex and intriguing.

The vast majority of Old Order Amish do not attend college. For those who do choose to go beyond eighth grade, they often opt for local community colleges that they can still attend within the community. This mixture of practical skills and community living is a preferred option. However, as internet usage becomes more accepted in some Amish communities, online learning has become an appealing alternative. This allows students to stay at home while pursuing higher education. These exceptions are rare, but notable, such as when Amish students pursue careers requiring higher education, such as accounting or nursing.

Conservative Anabaptist Communities and Higher Education

While many Amish do not attend university, there is a broader community of Conservatively practicing Anabaptists, including Amish-Mennonites, that place different values on education. Within this community, Sattler College in Boston stands out as a significant institution. Sattler College has the most students from this Anabaptist background enrolled. It has established itself with its unique focus on this community and has made significant strides in promoting higher education among its members.

Seven Exceptions to the Rule

Despite the general rule, there are notable exceptions to the Amish preference for limited formal education. Some Amish individuals hold higher education degrees, often through alternative means or after leaving the Amish community. These individuals often find it necessary for their chosen careers, such as medicine, which requires advanced degrees. For instance, there are a handful of Amish-born medical doctors who do not belong to the Amish community and still practice their profession. These individuals, once a part of the Amish faith, have chosen to leave it in pursuit of educational opportunities and career paths.

The circumstances for these exceptions are complex. While many Amish community members attend local public schools and exhibit exceptional aptitudes, others may have been homeschooled or attended private schools. Some exceptions are due to parents who recognized the value of higher education earlier and made special arrangements.

Finding Nuance in an Insular Community

Amish education is often viewed simplistically as eighth-grade completion, but the truth is more nuanced. Amish schooling focuses on practical, religiously-based education tailored to their way of life. The curriculum emphasizes basic skills like reading, writing, and arithmetic, with a strong emphasis on religious teachings. However, this education is not equivalent to the broader curriculum of a traditional American secondary school. The Amish religious teachings shape their world view, influencing their perspective on history and society.

It's also important to recognize that while some former Amish individuals do attain higher education, the statistical evidence is still thin. The community's tight-knit nature and strict adherence to their beliefs still mean that the vast majority of Amish do not pursue university education. However, the few exceptions highlight the flexibility and potential diversity within this insular community.

In conclusion, while the Amish generally favor limited formal education, there are notable exceptions and varying circumstances. The community's educational practices are complex and influenced by religious beliefs and practical necessities. As society continues to evolve, we may see further changes in the Amish approach to education and higher learning.