Connecticut College vs Harvard

Frequently Asked Questions

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

  Connecticut College is a private liberal arts college emphasizing interdisciplinary learning and close faculty-student interaction. Harvard University, a world-renowned Ivy League research university, offers a vast array of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its extensive resources and global reach. Conn College prioritizes a tight-knit community and personalized education, while Harvard offers unparalleled opportunities for research, networking, and access to diverse fields of study.

• How do the academic environments compare?

  At Connecticut College, you'll find a strong emphasis on undergraduate education with small class sizes and a focus on the liberal arts. The curriculum is designed to encourage critical thinking and interdisciplinary exploration. Harvard, while also offering a strong liberal arts foundation, is a research-intensive environment with a broader range of academic disciplines, including professional schools like law, medicine, and business. You'll have access to cutting-edge research opportunities and a larger faculty body.

• What is the typical class size at each institution?

  Connecticut College prides itself on small class sizes, typically averaging around 16 students. This allows for more personalized attention from professors and greater opportunities for class participation. Harvard's class sizes can vary significantly, with some introductory courses being quite large (over 100 students) and smaller, upper-level courses resembling the size of those at Connecticut College.

• How do the campus cultures differ?

  Connecticut College fosters a close-knit, residential campus community where students are highly engaged in campus life. It's known for its supportive and collaborative environment. Harvard's campus culture is more diverse and multifaceted, reflecting its larger size and diverse student body. While there's a strong sense of community within specific houses and organizations, the overall atmosphere is more individualistic and driven.

• What are the differences in terms of research opportunities?

  While Connecticut College offers research opportunities for undergraduates, particularly through its centers and funded research programs, Harvard provides significantly more extensive research opportunities due to its vast resources, numerous research centers, and connections to leading researchers across various fields. At Harvard, you'll find opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research projects from your freshman year.

• How do the career services and alumni networks compare?

  Both Connecticut College and Harvard offer career services to help students with internships and job placement. However, Harvard's alumni network is significantly larger and more influential, providing graduates with access to a wider range of career opportunities and connections across the globe. Conn College's alumni network, while smaller, is known for being supportive and accessible to current students and recent graduates.

• What is the cost of attendance at each school?

  Both Connecticut College and Harvard have high costs of attendance. However, both institutions also offer generous financial aid packages to eligible students. It's important to compare the net cost (cost after financial aid) at each school based on your individual financial circumstances. You can use the net price calculators on each school's website to get an estimate.

• What are the admission rates for Connecticut College and Harvard University?

  Harvard University has a significantly lower acceptance rate than Connecticut College, making it much more selective. Connecticut College is considered a highly selective institution, but Harvard is among the most selective universities in the world. This means that admission to Harvard is considerably more competitive.

• What types of students thrive at each institution?

  Connecticut College is a great fit for students who value a close-knit community, personalized attention from faculty, and a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning. Students who are self-motivated, enjoy collaboration, and want to be actively involved in campus life will thrive there. Harvard is well-suited for students who are highly ambitious, intellectually curious, and seek access to unparalleled resources and opportunities. Students who are comfortable in a large and competitive environment and are driven to make a global impact will find Harvard a rewarding experience.

• What are some notable academic programs at each school?

  Connecticut College is known for its strong programs in the humanities, social sciences, and sciences, with particular strengths in areas like environmental studies, government, and dance. Harvard is renowned for its programs across a wide range of disciplines, including law, medicine, business, engineering, and the arts and sciences. Its programs consistently rank among the top in the world.