Connecticut College vs Cornell

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Connecticut College and Cornell University?

  Connecticut College is a small, private liberal arts college emphasizing undergraduate education and close faculty-student interaction. Cornell University, on the other hand, is a large, comprehensive research university with a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including professional schools like engineering, law, and medicine. Cornell offers a broader range of academic disciplines and research opportunities, while Connecticut College provides a more intimate and personalized learning environment.

• How do the campus environments compare?

  Connecticut College boasts a beautiful, traditional New England campus located in New London, Connecticut, offering a close-knit community feel. Cornell University's campus in Ithaca, New York, is significantly larger and more diverse, encompassing a wide range of architectural styles and natural landscapes, including gorges and waterfalls. Cornell's environment is more bustling and offers a wider array of activities and resources due to its size.

• What is the student body size and diversity like at each school?

  Connecticut College has a small student body of around 2,000 undergraduates, fostering a strong sense of community. Cornell University has a much larger and more diverse student body, with over 15,000 undergraduates and a significant graduate student population. Cornell's larger size translates to a greater variety of perspectives and backgrounds among its students.

• How do the academic programs differ?

  Connecticut College focuses primarily on undergraduate liberal arts education, with strengths in areas like humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Cornell University offers a much broader range of academic programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees in fields like engineering, business, agriculture, architecture, and medicine. Cornell's academic offerings are more comprehensive and research-oriented.

• What is the faculty-to-student ratio at each institution?

  Connecticut College prides itself on its low faculty-to-student ratio, which is approximately 9:1. This allows for more personalized attention and close interaction with professors. Cornell University's faculty-to-student ratio is higher, around 9:1 as well, but the larger class sizes in some departments may mean less individual attention compared to Connecticut College.

• What are the research opportunities like at each school?

  While Connecticut College offers undergraduate research opportunities, particularly through its centers and funded research programs, Cornell University provides significantly more extensive research opportunities due to its status as a major research university. Cornell has numerous research centers, institutes, and laboratories across various disciplines, offering students the chance to work alongside leading researchers.

• How do the costs of attendance compare?

  Both Connecticut College and Cornell University have high costs of attendance. However, as a private institution, Connecticut College's tuition is generally higher. Cornell University, while also expensive, offers a wider range of financial aid options, including need-based grants and merit-based scholarships. It's important to compare the net cost of attendance after financial aid for both schools based on your individual circumstances.

• What is the social life like at each school?

  Connecticut College offers a close-knit social environment with a strong emphasis on campus traditions and student-led activities. Cornell University's social life is more diverse and varied, with a wider range of clubs, organizations, and events catering to different interests. Cornell's location in Ithaca also provides access to a vibrant college town scene.

• What are the career services and alumni networks like?

  Both Connecticut College and Cornell University offer career services to help students with internships, job searches, and career planning. Cornell University's alumni network is significantly larger and more established due to its size and long history. This can provide Cornell graduates with a broader range of networking opportunities and career connections.

• Which school is better for someone interested in a specific pre-professional program (e.g., pre-med, pre-law)?

  While Connecticut College can prepare students for pre-professional programs, Cornell University generally offers more direct and comprehensive pathways, especially for fields like medicine, engineering, and law. Cornell has dedicated pre-professional advising and resources, as well as direct connections to its professional schools. However, students at Connecticut College have successfully pursued these fields after graduation.

• What are some notable academic programs at Connecticut College?

  Connecticut College is known for its strong programs in the humanities, social sciences, and sciences. Some particularly notable programs include its interdisciplinary centers, such as the Ammerman Center for Arts and Technology and the Goodwin-Niering Center for the Environment. The college also has a strong dance program.

• What are some notable academic programs at Cornell University?

  Cornell University is renowned for its programs in engineering, agriculture, architecture, hotel administration, and veterinary medicine. It also has strong programs in the humanities, social sciences, and sciences. Its College of Arts & Sciences is highly regarded, as are its professional schools.