Cornell vs Georgetown

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Cornell University and Georgetown University?

  Cornell University, located in Ithaca, New York, is a large, private Ivy League research university with a land-grant mission. It's known for its comprehensive range of programs, particularly in engineering, agriculture, and hospitality. Georgetown University, situated in Washington, D.C., is a private Jesuit university renowned for its strengths in international affairs, law, government, and the humanities. Cornell offers a more traditional college town experience, while Georgetown provides direct access to the political and cultural heart of the nation.

• Which university is better for students interested in international affairs?

  Georgetown University is generally considered stronger in international affairs due to its location in Washington, D.C., its prestigious School of Foreign Service, and its extensive network of alumni in government and international organizations. While Cornell offers excellent international studies programs, Georgetown's focus and resources in this area are more pronounced.

• How do the campus environments compare?

  Cornell's campus is located in a scenic, rural setting in the Finger Lakes region of New York. It's a classic college town environment with a strong sense of community. Georgetown's campus is in the historic Georgetown neighborhood of Washington, D.C., offering a vibrant urban experience with easy access to cultural attractions, government institutions, and internship opportunities.

• Which university is stronger in STEM fields?

  Cornell University is generally considered stronger in STEM fields, particularly in engineering, computer science, and the natural sciences. Its College of Engineering is highly ranked, and the university has a strong research focus in these areas. Georgetown also offers strong STEM programs, but its reputation is more heavily weighted towards the social sciences and humanities.

• What are the differences in the undergraduate academic structure?

  Cornell University is divided into several undergraduate colleges, each with its own admissions process and academic focus. This allows students to specialize early in areas like engineering, agriculture, or architecture. Georgetown University has four undergraduate schools: Georgetown College, the McDonough School of Business, the School of Nursing, and the School of Foreign Service. The curriculum at Georgetown tends to be more focused on a liberal arts foundation, even within the professional schools.

• How do the costs of attendance compare?

  The cost of attendance at both Cornell University and Georgetown University is very similar, placing them among the more expensive universities in the United States. Both institutions offer financial aid packages to eligible students, and the net cost will vary depending on individual financial circumstances. It's best to consult the financial aid websites of both universities for the most up-to-date information and to use their net price calculators.

• What are the career prospects like for graduates of each university?

  Graduates from both Cornell and Georgetown enjoy excellent career prospects. Cornell graduates are highly sought after in STEM fields, business, and hospitality, while Georgetown graduates excel in government, law, international affairs, and finance. Both universities have strong alumni networks that can provide valuable career support.

• How do the student bodies differ?

  Both Cornell and Georgetown attract a diverse and highly accomplished student body. Cornell's student body is larger and more geographically diverse, reflecting its land-grant mission. Georgetown's student body is also diverse, with a strong representation of students interested in public service and international affairs. Both universities have a vibrant campus culture with numerous student organizations and activities.

• Which university has a stronger focus on research?

  Cornell University has a stronger overall focus on research, given its status as a major research university and its extensive research facilities. While Georgetown also conducts significant research, its emphasis is more heavily weighted towards teaching and scholarship in the humanities and social sciences.

• What is the religious affiliation of each university?

  Cornell University is non-sectarian and has no formal religious affiliation. Georgetown University is a Jesuit university, meaning it is affiliated with the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits), a Catholic religious order. While Georgetown embraces its Jesuit identity, it welcomes students of all faiths and backgrounds.