Claremont McKenna College vs Bucknell University

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the key academic differences between Claremont McKenna College (CMC) and Bucknell University?

  CMC is known for its focus on economics, government, and international relations, offering a strong liberal arts education with a pre-professional emphasis. Bucknell, while also a liberal arts institution, provides a broader range of programs, including strong engineering, management, and education departments. CMC's curriculum is often more focused and specialized, while Bucknell offers more flexibility and a wider variety of majors and minors.

• How does the campus environment differ between Claremont McKenna and Bucknell?

  CMC is located in Claremont, California, as part of the Claremont Consortium, offering a close-knit, academically focused environment with access to the resources and social life of five other undergraduate colleges. Bucknell is situated in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, a more rural setting, providing a traditional college town experience with a strong sense of community and a beautiful campus.

• What are the strengths of the student body at Claremont McKenna and Bucknell?

  CMC attracts highly motivated, intellectually curious students who are often interested in leadership, public policy, and business. The student body is generally very engaged in campus activities and political discourse. Bucknell students are known for being well-rounded, involved in a variety of activities, and possessing a strong work ethic. Bucknell fosters a collaborative environment with a focus on community and school spirit.

• How does the cost of attendance compare between Claremont McKenna and Bucknell?

  Both Claremont McKenna and Bucknell are private institutions, and the cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room, and board, is comparable. Financial aid is available at both institutions, and the actual cost for each student will vary depending on their individual financial circumstances. It's recommended to check the financial aid websites of both colleges for the most up-to-date information and to use their net price calculators.

• What are the career prospects like for graduates of Claremont McKenna and Bucknell?

  CMC graduates are highly sought after in fields like finance, consulting, government, and law. The college's strong alumni network and career services support students in securing internships and full-time positions. Bucknell graduates are successful in a variety of fields, including engineering, business, education, and the arts. Bucknell's career services are also robust, and the university has a strong alumni network that supports career development.

• How does the social life and extracurricular activities differ at Claremont McKenna and Bucknell?

  CMC's social life is heavily influenced by the Claremont Consortium, offering a wide range of social events, clubs, and organizations across the six colleges. The focus is often on intellectual pursuits and leadership development. Bucknell offers a more traditional college social scene, with a strong emphasis on Greek life, athletics, and campus-wide events. There are numerous clubs and organizations catering to a variety of interests.

• Which college is better for someone interested in a specific field, such as engineering or political science?

  If you are interested in engineering, Bucknell is the stronger choice due to its highly regarded engineering programs. For political science, government, or economics, Claremont McKenna is likely the better fit, given its specialized focus and strong faculty in these areas. However, both institutions offer excellent programs in many fields, so it's important to consider your specific interests and goals.

• What are the athletic programs like at Claremont McKenna and Bucknell?

  CMC is part of the Claremont-Mudd-Scripps (CMS) athletic program, which competes in NCAA Division III. CMS offers a wide range of sports and is known for its competitive teams. Bucknell is an NCAA Division I school, particularly strong in basketball, football, and other sports. Bucknell offers a more competitive athletic experience, with a higher profile in intercollegiate sports.

• How does the location of each college impact the student experience?

  CMC's location in Southern California provides access to a vibrant cultural scene, numerous internship opportunities, and a favorable climate. The proximity to Los Angeles and other Claremont Colleges enhances the social and academic experience. Bucknell's location in central Pennsylvania offers a more traditional college town experience, with access to outdoor recreation and a close-knit community. The location is more isolated, but the campus environment is very self-contained and supportive.

• What are the opportunities for research at Claremont McKenna and Bucknell?

  Both Claremont McKenna and Bucknell offer research opportunities for undergraduates. CMC emphasizes research in the social sciences and humanities, often involving faculty-student collaborations. Bucknell provides research opportunities across a wider range of disciplines, including engineering, the sciences, and the humanities. Both institutions encourage undergraduate research and provide resources to support student involvement.