Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) vs Cornell

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) and Cornell University?

  Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) is a mid-sized private research university located in Cleveland, Ohio, known for its strong focus on science, engineering, medicine, and management. It emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and hands-on learning. Cornell University, on the other hand, is a large Ivy League research university located in Ithaca, New York. It offers a broader range of programs across various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, and agriculture, alongside its strong STEM offerings. Cornell's size and Ivy League status contribute to a more extensive alumni network and a wider array of resources.

• Which university is better for STEM fields?

  Both CWRU and Cornell are excellent for STEM, but they have different strengths. CWRU excels in biomedical engineering, materials science, and related fields, offering strong research opportunities and close collaborations with nearby hospitals and institutions like the Cleveland Clinic. Cornell is renowned for its engineering programs (especially electrical and computer engineering), computer science, physics, and biological sciences, benefiting from its larger faculty and extensive research facilities. The 'better' choice depends on your specific STEM interest and preferred learning environment.

• How do the campus environments compare?

  CWRU has a more urban campus, located in the University Circle neighborhood of Cleveland, surrounded by museums, hospitals, and cultural institutions. This provides students with easy access to internships and cultural experiences. Cornell's campus is more traditional and residential, situated on a hill overlooking Ithaca and Cayuga Lake. It offers a more self-contained campus experience with extensive green spaces and a strong sense of community. CWRU offers a more integrated urban experience, while Cornell provides a more classic college town atmosphere.

• What is the difference in cost of attendance?

  Cornell University generally has a higher cost of attendance than Case Western Reserve University. This difference reflects Cornell's Ivy League status and the resources it provides. However, both universities offer financial aid packages, and the net cost can vary significantly depending on individual circumstances. It's crucial to compare the financial aid offers from both institutions to determine the most affordable option.

• How do the research opportunities compare?

  Both CWRU and Cornell are research powerhouses, but the scale differs. Cornell, being a larger university, offers a wider range of research opportunities across more disciplines. CWRU, while smaller, provides more focused research opportunities, particularly in its areas of strength like biomedical engineering and materials science. Students at CWRU often have the chance to work closely with faculty on research projects due to the university's smaller size. Cornell offers a greater volume of research, while CWRU offers potentially more personalized research experiences.

• What are the class sizes like at CWRU and Cornell?

  CWRU generally has smaller class sizes than Cornell. This allows for more personalized attention from professors and greater interaction with classmates. Cornell, being a larger university, has some large introductory lecture courses, especially in popular majors. However, upper-level courses at Cornell tend to be smaller. If you prefer a more intimate learning environment, CWRU might be a better fit. If you are comfortable in larger lecture settings, Cornell's class sizes may not be a deterrent.

• How do the alumni networks compare?

  Cornell University boasts a significantly larger and more established alumni network due to its longer history and larger graduating classes. This extensive network can be a valuable asset for career opportunities and networking. CWRU's alumni network, while smaller, is still strong, particularly in the Midwest and in specific industries like healthcare and engineering. Cornell's alumni network offers broader reach, while CWRU's network provides more targeted connections in certain fields.

• Which university is better for pre-med students?

  Both CWRU and Cornell are excellent choices for pre-med students. CWRU has a strong connection to the Cleveland Clinic, providing unparalleled clinical and research opportunities. Cornell also has excellent pre-med advising and research opportunities, and its location in New York provides access to diverse healthcare settings. The 'better' choice depends on your preferred learning environment and the specific research or clinical experiences you seek. CWRU offers more direct access to the Cleveland Clinic, while Cornell provides a broader range of research and clinical settings.

• What is the social scene like at each university?

  CWRU's social scene is influenced by its urban location and its focus on academics. Students often participate in campus activities, explore the cultural attractions of University Circle, and engage in research or extracurriculars. Cornell's social scene is more centered around campus life, with a strong emphasis on Greek life, clubs, and outdoor activities. Ithaca offers a more traditional college town experience. CWRU offers a blend of academic and urban social opportunities, while Cornell provides a more classic and immersive college social experience.

• How do the universities compare in terms of diversity?

  Both CWRU and Cornell are committed to fostering diverse and inclusive campus communities. Cornell, given its larger size and broader reach, generally has a more diverse student body in terms of geographic origin and academic interests. CWRU also has a diverse student population, with a strong representation of international students. Both universities offer resources and programs to support students from diverse backgrounds. While both value diversity, Cornell's larger size naturally leads to a broader range of perspectives and backgrounds.