Amherst College vs Haverford College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the key differences between Amherst College and Haverford College?

  Amherst College and Haverford College are both highly selective liberal arts colleges, but they differ in several key aspects. Amherst is located in a more rural setting in western Massachusetts, while Haverford is situated in a suburban environment just outside of Philadelphia. Amherst has a larger student body, offering a broader range of courses and resources. Haverford, known for its Honor Code and Quaker values, emphasizes community governance and a strong sense of ethical responsibility. While both colleges offer open curricula, Haverford's is more structured around distribution requirements.

• How do the academic programs at Amherst and Haverford compare?

  Both Amherst and Haverford offer rigorous academic programs across the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Amherst is known for its 'open curriculum,' allowing students to design their own course of study with minimal requirements. Haverford also has an open curriculum, but it includes distribution requirements across different academic areas. Both colleges offer opportunities for independent research, study abroad, and interdisciplinary learning. Amherst benefits from its membership in the Five College Consortium (with Smith, Mount Holyoke, UMass Amherst, and Hampshire), providing students access to a wider range of courses and resources. Haverford's close proximity to Bryn Mawr College and Swarthmore College allows for cross-registration and collaborative programs within the Tri-College Consortium.

• What is the campus environment like at Amherst versus Haverford?

  Amherst's campus is located in a small town, offering a more traditional college town experience. The campus is larger and more spread out, with a wider range of facilities and activities. Haverford's campus is smaller and more intimate, fostering a strong sense of community. The Honor Code at Haverford plays a significant role in shaping the campus culture, emphasizing trust, integrity, and student self-governance. Both colleges offer a variety of extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations, but Haverford's student government and Quaker traditions are particularly distinctive.

• How do the social scenes differ between Amherst and Haverford?

  Amherst, with its larger student body and Five College Consortium affiliation, offers a more diverse social scene with a wider range of options for socializing and entertainment. Haverford's smaller size and strong sense of community create a more close-knit social environment. Haverford's traditions, such as Customs Week and the Coop, contribute to a unique and engaging social experience. Both colleges offer opportunities for students to connect with peers through clubs, organizations, and campus events, but the overall atmosphere and social dynamics differ due to their respective sizes and institutional cultures.

• What are the career services and alumni networks like at Amherst and Haverford?

  Both Amherst and Haverford provide comprehensive career services to help students explore career options, develop professional skills, and connect with employers. They offer resources such as career counseling, resume workshops, internship opportunities, and on-campus recruiting events. Both colleges also have strong alumni networks that can provide valuable support and connections for students and graduates. Amherst's larger alumni base may offer a broader range of career opportunities, while Haverford's alumni network is known for its strong sense of community and willingness to help fellow Haverfordians.

• How do the costs and financial aid packages compare between Amherst and Haverford?

  Both Amherst and Haverford are committed to meeting the full demonstrated financial need of all admitted students. The cost of attendance is similar at both institutions, and both offer generous financial aid packages that include grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities. The specific amount of financial aid awarded will vary depending on each family's individual circumstances. It is recommended to use the net price calculators on each college's website to estimate the cost of attendance based on your family's financial situation.

• What are the similarities between Amherst College and Haverford College?

  Despite their differences, Amherst and Haverford share many similarities. Both are highly selective liberal arts colleges with a strong emphasis on academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, and critical thinking. They both offer small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a supportive learning environment. Both colleges are committed to providing students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in a variety of fields. They both value diversity, inclusion, and social responsibility. Both institutions are consistently ranked among the top liberal arts colleges in the United States.

• Which college is better for me: Amherst or Haverford?

  The 'better' college depends entirely on your individual preferences, learning style, and goals. If you prefer a larger campus in a more rural setting with access to a wider range of resources through a consortium, Amherst might be a better fit. If you value a smaller, more intimate community with a strong emphasis on ethical responsibility and student self-governance, Haverford might be a better choice. Consider visiting both campuses, talking to current students and faculty, and reflecting on which environment feels more conducive to your personal and academic growth.