Goddard College offers progressive higher education based on the philosophies of educator John Dewey. Founded in 1938, the school offers bachelor's and master's degrees in areas such as creative writing, socially responsible business, consciousness studies, and transformative language arts. It also provides education studies leading to teaching certification. Most study is completed independently, with students attending the campus for intensive eight to 10 day sessions every six months. About two-thirds of Goddard's students are enrolled in graduate programs. Notable alumni include actor William H. Macy, author and playwright David Mamet, and poet Mark Doty.