Allegheny College vs Lafayette College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the key academic differences between Allegheny College and Lafayette College?

  Allegheny College emphasizes a strong liberal arts foundation with its unique Allegheny College Curriculum, which includes a required Senior Project. Lafayette College, while also a liberal arts institution, has a more pronounced focus on engineering and pre-professional programs, offering ABET-accredited engineering programs and a wider range of pre-professional tracks like pre-med and pre-law. Lafayette also has a stronger emphasis on research opportunities for undergraduates.

• How do the campus environments and locations compare?

  Allegheny College is located in Meadville, Pennsylvania, a smaller town setting, providing a close-knit campus community and easy access to outdoor recreational activities. Lafayette College is situated in Easton, Pennsylvania, a city with a more urban feel, offering a wider variety of cultural and social opportunities. Both campuses are beautiful, but the surrounding environments cater to different preferences.

• What is the student body like at each college?

  Both colleges have diverse student bodies, but there are some differences. Allegheny College tends to attract students seeking a strong liberal arts education and a close-knit community. Lafayette College often appeals to students interested in engineering, pre-professional programs, and a more active social scene. Both schools have a good mix of students from various backgrounds and geographic locations.

• How do the costs of attendance compare?

  The overall cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room, and board, is generally comparable between Allegheny College and Lafayette College. However, financial aid packages can vary significantly based on individual circumstances. It's recommended to compare the net cost after financial aid for each institution to determine the most affordable option for your family.

• What are the strengths of the faculty at each institution?

  Both Allegheny and Lafayette boast highly qualified and dedicated faculty. Allegheny College emphasizes close student-faculty interaction and a strong mentoring culture. Lafayette College faculty are also committed to teaching and research, with a particular strength in providing research opportunities for undergraduates, especially in engineering and the sciences. Both colleges have a high percentage of faculty with doctoral degrees.

• What are the career services and outcomes like at each college?

  Both colleges offer robust career services to assist students with internships, job searches, and graduate school applications. Lafayette College, with its strong engineering and pre-professional programs, often sees a higher percentage of graduates entering those fields directly after graduation. Allegheny College graduates are well-prepared for a variety of careers and graduate programs, with a strong emphasis on critical thinking and communication skills, making them competitive in diverse fields.

• How do the extracurricular activities and social scenes differ?

  Both colleges offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, including clubs, organizations, and athletic programs. Lafayette College has a more active social scene, with a larger Greek life presence and more on-campus events. Allegheny College fosters a strong sense of community through its smaller size and offers a variety of activities, including outdoor recreation, and a vibrant arts scene.

• Which college is better for students interested in engineering?

  Lafayette College is generally considered the stronger choice for students specifically interested in engineering. It offers ABET-accredited engineering programs and a well-established engineering department with strong industry connections. While Allegheny College does not have an engineering program, it offers pre-engineering tracks and opportunities for students interested in related fields.

• Which college is better for students seeking a strong liberal arts education?

  Both Allegheny College and Lafayette College provide excellent liberal arts educations. However, Allegheny College's curriculum is specifically designed around a liberal arts framework, with its unique Allegheny College Curriculum. Lafayette College also offers a strong liberal arts foundation, but it is balanced with a greater emphasis on pre-professional programs.

• How do the athletic programs compare?

  Both colleges compete in NCAA Division III athletics. Lafayette College competes in the Patriot League for Division I football. Lafayette has a more prominent athletic presence, particularly in football. Allegheny College offers a wide range of sports and emphasizes participation and community involvement in its athletic programs.