William & Mary (W&M) vs University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC)

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the key differences in location and campus environment between William & Mary and UNC-Chapel Hill?

  William & Mary is located in Williamsburg, Virginia, a historic town offering a blend of colonial charm and a smaller-town feel. The campus is known for its beautiful architecture and close-knit community. UNC-Chapel Hill is situated in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, a vibrant college town with a more urban feel and a wider range of off-campus activities and dining options. UNC's campus is larger and more spread out than William & Mary's.

• How do the academic reputations of William & Mary and UNC-Chapel Hill compare?

  Both William & Mary and UNC-Chapel Hill are highly regarded public universities with strong academic reputations. UNC-Chapel Hill is generally ranked higher nationally, often appearing in the top tier of public universities. William & Mary is also highly ranked and is known for its strong undergraduate focus and emphasis on research opportunities. Both universities offer a wide range of excellent academic programs.

• What are the typical class sizes and student-to-faculty ratios at each university?

  William & Mary generally has smaller class sizes and a lower student-to-faculty ratio than UNC-Chapel Hill, particularly at the undergraduate level. This can lead to more personalized attention from professors and greater opportunities for student-faculty interaction at William & Mary. UNC-Chapel Hill, while still offering a good student-to-faculty ratio, tends to have larger introductory classes.

• How do the undergraduate programs differ at William & Mary and UNC-Chapel Hill?

  Both universities offer a broad range of undergraduate programs. William & Mary is particularly strong in its liberal arts and sciences, with a notable emphasis on undergraduate research. UNC-Chapel Hill has a wider variety of programs, including strong professional schools like its business and journalism schools. UNC-Chapel Hill also has a larger student body, which can translate to more program options and resources.

• What is the cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, and room and board, at William & Mary and UNC-Chapel Hill?

  The cost of attendance varies depending on residency status (in-state vs. out-of-state). Generally, UNC-Chapel Hill offers a lower tuition rate for in-state students compared to William & Mary. However, out-of-state tuition at both institutions is comparable. Room and board costs are similar. Financial aid and scholarships are available at both universities to help offset the cost of attendance.

• What is the social life and campus culture like at William & Mary and UNC-Chapel Hill?

  William & Mary has a strong sense of community and a more traditional college experience, with a focus on campus events and activities. The social scene is often centered around the campus and the historic town of Williamsburg. UNC-Chapel Hill has a more diverse and vibrant social scene, with a wider range of options both on and off campus, including a lively Greek life and a strong athletic culture.

• How do the athletic programs compare at William & Mary and UNC-Chapel Hill?

  UNC-Chapel Hill is known for its highly successful athletic programs, particularly in basketball and soccer, competing in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). William & Mary competes in the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) and has a strong Division I athletic program, though it is not as nationally prominent as UNC-Chapel Hill's. Both schools offer a variety of sports and opportunities for student involvement.

• What are the career services and opportunities for internships and job placement at each university?

  Both William & Mary and UNC-Chapel Hill offer robust career services to help students with internships and job placement. UNC-Chapel Hill, with its larger alumni network and broader geographic reach, may offer a wider range of opportunities, particularly in certain fields. William & Mary's strong alumni network and focus on undergraduate research can also provide excellent career preparation and opportunities.

• What are the admission requirements and selectivity of William & Mary and UNC-Chapel Hill?

  Both William & Mary and UNC-Chapel Hill are highly selective universities. Admission requirements include a strong academic record, standardized test scores (though test-optional policies may be in place), essays, and letters of recommendation. The acceptance rates are competitive at both institutions, with UNC-Chapel Hill generally having a slightly higher acceptance rate due to its larger size.

• Which university is a better fit for me: William & Mary or UNC-Chapel Hill?

  The best fit depends on your individual preferences and priorities. If you prefer a smaller, more intimate campus environment with a strong focus on undergraduate research and a historic setting, William & Mary might be a better choice. If you are looking for a larger university with a more diverse social scene, a wider range of academic programs, and a strong athletic culture, UNC-Chapel Hill might be a better fit. Consider visiting both campuses, if possible, to get a feel for the environment and culture.