Colby-Sawyer College vs University of New Hampshire-Main Campus (UNH)

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the primary differences in size and setting between Colby-Sawyer College and the University of New Hampshire (UNH)?

  Colby-Sawyer College is a small, private liberal arts college located in New London, New Hampshire, offering a close-knit community feel. UNH, on the other hand, is a large, public research university situated in Durham, New Hampshire, providing a more extensive and diverse campus environment. Colby-Sawyer has a significantly smaller student body, typically around 1,500 students, while UNH's undergraduate population is closer to 13,000.

• How do the academic focuses and program offerings differ between the two institutions?

  Colby-Sawyer excels in offering professionally-oriented liberal arts programs, with a strong emphasis on experiential learning and career preparation. Popular programs include Nursing, Business Administration, and Communication Studies. UNH offers a much broader range of academic disciplines, including STEM fields, humanities, and fine arts, with extensive research opportunities. UNH is known for its programs in Marine Biology, Engineering, and Business.

• What is the typical student life experience like at Colby-Sawyer versus UNH?

  At Colby-Sawyer, student life is characterized by a strong sense of community and close relationships with faculty. There are numerous clubs, organizations, and activities tailored to a smaller student body. UNH offers a more diverse and vibrant student life with a wider array of clubs, organizations, Greek life, and Division I athletics. Students at UNH have access to a larger network of peers and a greater variety of social and recreational opportunities.

• How do the costs of attending Colby-Sawyer and UNH compare?

  Colby-Sawyer, as a private institution, generally has a higher tuition cost compared to UNH, which is a public university. However, financial aid packages can vary significantly, so it's essential to compare the net cost (tuition minus financial aid) at both institutions based on your individual circumstances. UNH offers lower tuition rates for in-state residents of New Hampshire.

• What are the admission requirements and selectivity levels for Colby-Sawyer and UNH?

  UNH generally has a more selective admissions process than Colby-Sawyer. While both institutions consider factors like GPA, standardized test scores (though many programs are test-optional), essays, and extracurricular activities, UNH typically requires higher academic credentials for admission. Colby-Sawyer places a strong emphasis on a holistic review of applicants, considering their potential for success in a smaller, more personalized learning environment.

• What kind of career services and alumni networks do Colby-Sawyer and UNH offer?

  Both Colby-Sawyer and UNH provide career services to help students with internships, job placement, and career planning. UNH, with its larger size and broader alumni base, offers a more extensive alumni network across various industries. Colby-Sawyer, while having a smaller alumni network, fosters strong connections between alumni and current students, often leading to valuable mentorship and networking opportunities within specific fields.

• What are the athletic opportunities available at each school?

  UNH is a Division I school, offering a wide range of varsity sports and a more competitive athletic environment. Colby-Sawyer competes at the Division III level, providing a balance between academics and athletics. While UNH offers a more intense athletic experience, Colby-Sawyer provides opportunities for students to participate in sports while maintaining a strong focus on their academic pursuits.

• How does the faculty-to-student ratio compare at Colby-Sawyer and UNH?

  Colby-Sawyer boasts a lower faculty-to-student ratio, allowing for more personalized attention and closer interaction with professors. UNH, due to its larger size, has a higher faculty-to-student ratio, although students still have access to faculty through office hours and other resources. If you value smaller class sizes and more individualized instruction, Colby-Sawyer may be a better fit.

• What are the surrounding communities like in New London (Colby-Sawyer) and Durham (UNH)?

  New London, home to Colby-Sawyer, is a quintessential New England town offering a charming and safe environment. It's a smaller, more tight-knit community with local shops and restaurants. Durham, where UNH is located, is a larger college town with a more diverse range of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. Durham also offers easier access to larger cities like Portsmouth and Boston.

• Are there specific programs or areas where one school is particularly stronger than the other?

  Colby-Sawyer is particularly strong in its Nursing program and its commitment to experiential learning across all disciplines. UNH is renowned for its research capabilities, especially in areas like Marine Biology, Ocean Engineering, and Space Science. If you're interested in pursuing research opportunities or studying in a STEM field, UNH might be a better choice. If you prefer a hands-on, career-focused education in a smaller setting, Colby-Sawyer could be a great fit.