Carthage College vs Lewis University

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Carthage College and Lewis University?

  Carthage College is a private, four-year liberal arts college affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, known for its strong focus on undergraduate education and a residential campus environment. Lewis University, on the other hand, is a private Catholic university in the Lasallian tradition, offering both undergraduate and graduate programs with a broader range of professional and pre-professional programs alongside its liberal arts offerings. Lewis also has a larger student body and a more diverse range of academic programs.

• How do the academic programs at Carthage and Lewis compare?

  Carthage excels in its core liberal arts disciplines, pre-health programs, and performing arts. It emphasizes experiential learning through undergraduate research, internships, and study abroad. Lewis University offers a wider array of programs, including strong programs in aviation, business, computer science, and nursing, in addition to its liberal arts offerings. Lewis also provides graduate-level studies, which Carthage does not.

• What is the campus environment like at each school?

  Carthage College boasts a beautiful lakeside campus on Lake Michigan, fostering a close-knit community with a strong emphasis on student engagement. It's primarily a residential campus. Lewis University has a more suburban campus setting and a larger student population, leading to a more diverse and potentially less intimate campus feel. While residential, Lewis also caters to commuter students.

• How do the costs of attending Carthage and Lewis compare?

  Tuition and fees can vary annually, so it's best to check the official websites for the most up-to-date information. Generally, private institutions like Carthage and Lewis have similar tuition ranges. However, the overall cost can differ based on financial aid packages, scholarships, and living expenses. Be sure to compare the net cost (cost after aid) for both schools based on your individual circumstances.

• What are the athletic opportunities at Carthage and Lewis?

  Carthage College is a member of the NCAA Division III, offering a wide range of varsity sports. They have a strong athletic tradition, particularly in wrestling and volleyball. Lewis University competes in NCAA Division II, offering a similar range of sports but with the potential for athletic scholarships. Both schools provide opportunities for student-athletes to compete at a high level.

• What kind of student would thrive at Carthage College?

  Carthage is a great fit for students who value a close-knit community, a strong liberal arts foundation, and a beautiful lakeside setting. Students who are highly engaged in campus life, seek personalized attention from faculty, and are interested in undergraduate research opportunities will likely thrive at Carthage.

• What kind of student would thrive at Lewis University?

  Lewis University is well-suited for students seeking a broader range of academic programs, including professional fields like aviation and nursing, within a Catholic, Lasallian tradition. Students who appreciate a larger university environment with diverse opportunities and graduate-level programs may find Lewis a good fit.

• What are the religious affiliations of Carthage and Lewis, and how does that impact campus life?

  Carthage College is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, while Lewis University is a Catholic university in the Lasallian tradition. While both institutions are faith-based, they are welcoming to students of all faiths and backgrounds. Their religious affiliations influence campus values, service opportunities, and some aspects of campus programming, but do not require students to adhere to specific religious practices.

• What are the career services and internship opportunities like at each school?

  Both Carthage and Lewis offer career services to help students with resume writing, interview skills, and job searching. Carthage emphasizes internships and undergraduate research as key components of career preparation. Lewis University, with its broader range of professional programs, often has strong connections with local industries and offers a variety of internship and career placement opportunities in fields like aviation, business, and healthcare.

• How do the locations of Carthage and Lewis impact student life and opportunities?

  Carthage College is located in Kenosha, Wisconsin, offering a beautiful lakeside setting and a smaller city environment. Students have access to local businesses and recreational activities on Lake Michigan. Lewis University is located in Romeoville, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago. This location provides access to the cultural, professional, and entertainment opportunities of a major metropolitan area, while still maintaining a suburban campus environment.