Davidson College vs Hillsdale College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the core academic philosophies of Davidson College and Hillsdale College?

  Davidson College emphasizes a liberal arts education focused on developing critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and effective communication skills. It encourages students to explore a wide range of disciplines and engage in interdisciplinary learning. Hillsdale College, on the other hand, is rooted in the classical liberal arts tradition, emphasizing the study of Western civilization, the U.S. Constitution, and free-market economics. It aims to cultivate moral character and intellectual virtue in its students.

• How do the political and ideological climates differ between Davidson and Hillsdale?

  Davidson College generally fosters a more progressive and inclusive environment, with a focus on social justice and diversity. While diverse viewpoints are present, the overall campus culture leans left. Hillsdale College is known for its conservative and libertarian principles, attracting students and faculty who share these values. It actively promotes its commitment to traditional American values and limited government.

• What are the key differences in their approaches to institutional independence and funding?

  Davidson College accepts federal funding and participates in federal student aid programs. Hillsdale College famously refuses all federal and state government funding, including student aid, to maintain its independence and avoid government regulations. This allows Hillsdale to set its own curriculum and policies without external influence.

• How do the student bodies compare in terms of size and diversity?

  Davidson College has a student body of around 2,000 students, fostering a close-knit community. While striving for diversity, it is actively working to increase representation from underrepresented groups. Hillsdale College is smaller, with approximately 1,500 students. While Hillsdale values diversity of thought, its student body tends to be less diverse in terms of racial and ethnic backgrounds compared to Davidson.

• What are the strengths of Davidson College and Hillsdale College in terms of academic programs?

  Davidson College is particularly strong in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, offering a broad range of majors and minors. It is known for its rigorous academics and emphasis on undergraduate research. Hillsdale College excels in its core disciplines of history, political science, English, and economics, with a strong focus on classical texts and Western thought. It also offers pre-professional programs in areas like business and journalism grounded in its core values.

• How do the campuses and surrounding environments differ?

  Davidson College is located in the charming town of Davidson, North Carolina, a suburb of Charlotte. The campus is known for its beautiful architecture and green spaces, offering a traditional college town experience. Hillsdale College is situated in Hillsdale, Michigan, a small town in a rural setting. The campus features historic buildings and a close-knit community feel, with a focus on its distinct identity.

• What are the typical career paths pursued by graduates of Davidson and Hillsdale?

  Davidson College graduates pursue a wide range of careers in fields such as business, law, medicine, education, and public service. The college's strong liberal arts foundation prepares students for diverse professional paths. Hillsdale College graduates often enter fields such as law, government, journalism, education, and business, particularly those aligned with conservative or libertarian principles. The college's emphasis on classical education and American heritage prepares students for leadership roles in these areas.

• What are the similarities between Davidson College and Hillsdale College?

  Both Davidson College and Hillsdale College are highly selective liberal arts colleges with a strong emphasis on academic rigor and intellectual development. They both offer small class sizes and a close-knit community feel. Both institutions prioritize undergraduate education and foster a strong sense of community among their students.

• How do the costs of attendance compare between Davidson and Hillsdale?

  The sticker price for both Davidson and Hillsdale are comparable. However, Davidson offers need-based financial aid, making it more affordable for some students. Hillsdale, while not accepting federal aid, offers its own scholarships and grants. It's important to compare the net cost (after financial aid) for each institution based on your individual financial circumstances.

• What is the Honor Code like at Davidson and Hillsdale?

  Both Davidson and Hillsdale have strong honor codes that emphasize academic integrity and personal responsibility. At Davidson, the Honor Code is student-run and central to the college's culture. Hillsdale's Honor Code is also a cornerstone of the college's values, emphasizing honesty, integrity, and respect for others.