Barnard College vs Bard College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the key differences between Barnard College and Bard College?

  Barnard College is a women's college affiliated with Columbia University in New York City, offering a liberal arts education within a large university setting. Bard College, located in Annandale-on-Hudson, New York, is a coeducational liberal arts college known for its interdisciplinary approach and strong arts programs. Barnard students have access to Columbia's resources, while Bard offers a more self-contained, intimate campus environment.

• How do the locations of Barnard and Bard impact the student experience?

  Barnard's location in Manhattan provides students with unparalleled access to cultural institutions, internships, and career opportunities in a major city. Bard's rural setting offers a more secluded and immersive academic experience, fostering a close-knit community and a focus on intellectual exploration away from urban distractions.

• What are the academic strengths of Barnard College?

  Barnard excels in the humanities, social sciences, and STEM fields, particularly those with connections to Columbia University's research facilities. Its location allows for strong programs in areas like urban studies, political science, and pre-professional tracks such as pre-med and pre-law.

• What are the academic strengths of Bard College?

  Bard is renowned for its arts programs, including visual arts, music, theater, and dance. It also has strong programs in the humanities and social sciences, with a focus on interdisciplinary studies and critical thinking. The Bard Prison Initiative is a particularly notable and unique program.

• How does the campus culture differ between Barnard and Bard?

  Barnard's campus culture is influenced by its affiliation with Columbia, offering a blend of a small college atmosphere within a larger university environment. Students benefit from both Barnard's close-knit community and Columbia's diverse student body and resources. Bard's campus culture is known for its intellectual curiosity, artistic expression, and strong sense of community, fostered by its residential campus and emphasis on student engagement.

• What is the student body like at Barnard versus Bard?

  Barnard's student body is composed entirely of women, creating a unique environment focused on women's leadership and empowerment. Bard is coeducational and attracts a diverse student body known for its intellectual curiosity, artistic talent, and commitment to social justice.

• What are the opportunities for cross-registration and collaboration between Barnard and Columbia University?

  Barnard students have extensive opportunities to cross-register for courses at Columbia University, participate in Columbia's extracurricular activities, and access Columbia's libraries and resources. This allows Barnard students to experience the benefits of a large research university while maintaining the advantages of a small women's college.

• What is Bard College's 'Citizen Science' program?

  Bard's 'Citizen Science' program is a unique, intensive three-week program for incoming first-year students. It introduces students to scientific inquiry and critical thinking through hands-on research projects, regardless of their intended major. This program emphasizes the importance of scientific literacy for all students.

• How do the costs of attendance compare between Barnard and Bard?

  The cost of attendance at both Barnard and Bard is significant, reflecting their status as selective private institutions. Tuition and fees are generally comparable, but students should consider the cost of living in New York City when evaluating Barnard. Both colleges offer financial aid packages to eligible students, and it's important to compare individual aid offers carefully.

• What are the career services and alumni networks like at Barnard and Bard?

  Barnard benefits from its strong ties to Columbia University, providing students with access to Columbia's extensive career services and alumni network. Bard also has a dedicated career development office and a supportive alumni network, particularly strong in the arts and humanities. Both colleges offer resources to help students explore career options, secure internships, and find employment after graduation.

• What kind of student typically thrives at Barnard College?

  A student who thrives at Barnard is typically ambitious, independent, and eager to take advantage of the opportunities offered by both Barnard and Columbia University. They are interested in a rigorous academic environment, value women's leadership, and appreciate the cultural and professional opportunities of New York City.

• What kind of student typically thrives at Bard College?

  A student who thrives at Bard is typically intellectually curious, creative, and passionate about learning. They appreciate a close-knit community, value interdisciplinary studies, and are drawn to Bard's emphasis on critical thinking and artistic expression. They often seek a more secluded and immersive academic environment.