Connecticut College vs Scripps College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the key differences between Connecticut College and Scripps College?

  Connecticut College (Conn College) is a coeducational, private liberal arts college located in New London, Connecticut. It emphasizes a Connections curriculum, linking interdisciplinary study with real-world experience. Scripps College, on the other hand, is a women's liberal arts college in Claremont, California, and is part of the Claremont Colleges consortium. Scripps focuses on interdisciplinary humanities and a strong sense of community within a smaller, more intimate setting. Location, gender inclusivity, and curricular focus are key differentiators.

• How do the academic programs at Connecticut College and Scripps College compare?

  Both colleges offer strong liberal arts programs. Conn College is known for its interdisciplinary centers and its Connections curriculum, which encourages students to integrate their academic studies with internships, research, and community engagement. Scripps College emphasizes a core curriculum in the humanities and interdisciplinary studies, with a focus on critical thinking and writing. While both offer a wide range of majors, Scripps' affiliation with the Claremont Colleges provides access to a broader array of courses and resources.

• What is the campus environment like at each college?

  Conn College boasts a beautiful, arboretum-like campus overlooking the Thames River in New London, offering a traditional New England college experience. The campus culture is known for its strong sense of community and student involvement. Scripps College features a stunning Mediterranean-style campus in sunny Claremont, California. As part of the Claremont Colleges, students have access to the resources and social life of five undergraduate colleges, creating a vibrant and diverse environment. Scripps fosters a close-knit community specifically for women.

• How does the student body differ between Connecticut College and Scripps College?

  Connecticut College is coeducational, drawing students from across the United States and internationally. The student body is diverse in terms of backgrounds and interests. Scripps College is a women's college, attracting students who value a single-sex educational environment and a strong sense of female empowerment. While Scripps also draws students from diverse backgrounds, the shared experience of attending a women's college creates a unique community dynamic.

• What are the opportunities for extracurricular activities and student life at each college?

  Conn College offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including clubs, organizations, performing arts groups, and NCAA Division III athletics. Students are actively involved in campus governance and community service. Scripps College students can participate in activities within Scripps and across the Claremont Colleges, including clubs, organizations, performing arts, and athletic teams. The consortium model provides a vast array of options, while Scripps itself offers leadership opportunities specifically for women.

• How do the locations of Connecticut College and Scripps College impact the student experience?

  Conn College is located in New London, Connecticut, a small city with access to the Long Island Sound. Students can explore the local area, including beaches, museums, and historical sites. The college is also within driving distance of major cities like Boston and New York. Scripps College is situated in Claremont, California, a suburban city near Los Angeles. The Southern California location offers access to beaches, mountains, cultural attractions, and internship opportunities in various industries. The climate is also a significant difference, with Connecticut experiencing four distinct seasons and California enjoying a Mediterranean climate.

• What are the career services and post-graduation outcomes like at each college?

  Both Connecticut College and Scripps College provide comprehensive career services to help students prepare for their future careers. Conn College emphasizes the Connections curriculum to help students gain practical experience and make connections with professionals in their fields. Scripps College leverages its location in Southern California and its alumnae network to provide students with internship and job opportunities. Graduates from both colleges pursue a wide range of careers in fields such as business, education, healthcare, and the arts.

• How does the cost of attendance compare between Connecticut College and Scripps College, and what financial aid options are available?

  The cost of attendance at both Connecticut College and Scripps College is relatively similar, as both are private liberal arts institutions. Both colleges offer need-based financial aid packages, including grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Prospective students should visit the financial aid websites of each college to determine their eligibility for aid and to understand the specific costs associated with attending each institution. Merit-based scholarships may also be available.

• What are the advantages of attending a women's college like Scripps compared to a coeducational college like Connecticut College?

  Attending a women's college like Scripps can provide a unique educational experience focused on female empowerment and leadership development. Students often report a stronger sense of community and support in a single-sex environment. Scripps College specifically tailors its curriculum and extracurricular activities to meet the needs and interests of women. Connecticut College, as a coeducational institution, offers a more diverse social environment and prepares students for working in mixed-gender settings after graduation. The choice depends on individual preferences and learning styles.

• How does the Claremont Colleges consortium impact the Scripps College experience?

  The Claremont Colleges consortium significantly enhances the Scripps College experience by providing access to the resources and facilities of five undergraduate colleges: Pomona, Claremont McKenna, Harvey Mudd, Pitzer, and Scripps. Scripps students can take courses at any of the five colleges, participate in extracurricular activities across the consortium, and attend social events with students from all five campuses. This creates a vibrant and diverse intellectual and social environment, while still allowing students to benefit from the close-knit community of Scripps College.