Dickinson College vs Furman University

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Dickinson College and Furman University?

  Dickinson College, located in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, is a highly selective liberal arts college with a strong emphasis on global education and sustainability. Furman University, situated in Greenville, South Carolina, is also a selective liberal arts college, but it distinguishes itself with a greater focus on undergraduate research opportunities and a more traditional campus environment. Dickinson has a slightly smaller student body and a more urban-adjacent setting, while Furman boasts a larger campus with a lake and a stronger emphasis on campus life.

• How do Dickinson and Furman compare in terms of academic focus?

  Both Dickinson and Furman offer a broad range of liberal arts programs. Dickinson is particularly known for its international studies, environmental science, and political science programs. Furman excels in areas like pre-med, business administration, and music. While both emphasize interdisciplinary learning, Dickinson's curriculum often incorporates a global perspective, while Furman's encourages significant undergraduate research involvement.

• What is the campus environment like at Dickinson versus Furman?

  Dickinson's campus is integrated into the historic town of Carlisle, offering students easy access to local shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The atmosphere is generally described as intellectually stimulating and socially conscious. Furman's campus is more self-contained, featuring a picturesque setting with a lake and extensive green spaces. The campus culture at Furman is often described as more traditional and community-oriented, with a strong emphasis on student engagement in campus activities.

• How do the student bodies at Dickinson and Furman differ?

  Dickinson's student body is slightly smaller and draws a larger percentage of students from the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions, with a significant international student population. Furman's student body is larger and draws a greater proportion of students from the Southeast. While both institutions value diversity, Dickinson tends to have a more globally diverse student population, while Furman's diversity is more regionally focused.

• What are the opportunities for study abroad at Dickinson and Furman?

  Both Dickinson and Furman offer extensive study abroad programs. Dickinson is renowned for its global study programs, with a wide array of options in various countries and a strong emphasis on language immersion. Furman also provides numerous study abroad opportunities, often tailored to specific academic disciplines and research interests. Both institutions encourage students to participate in international experiences to broaden their perspectives.

• How do the costs of attending Dickinson and Furman compare?

  The cost of attendance at both Dickinson and Furman is relatively similar, including tuition, fees, room, and board. However, the actual cost for individual students can vary significantly based on financial aid packages. Both institutions offer merit-based scholarships and need-based financial aid. It's best to directly compare the financial aid packages offered by each school based on your individual circumstances.

• What are the career services and alumni networks like at Dickinson and Furman?

  Both Dickinson and Furman provide comprehensive career services, including career counseling, internship assistance, and job placement support. Dickinson's alumni network is strong, particularly in fields related to government, law, and international affairs. Furman's alumni network is also robust, with a strong presence in business, healthcare, and education, especially in the Southeast region. Both institutions leverage their alumni networks to provide students with valuable career opportunities.

• What are the athletic programs like at Dickinson and Furman?

  Dickinson College competes in NCAA Division III athletics, emphasizing a balance between academics and athletics. They offer a variety of varsity sports, as well as club and intramural sports. Furman University competes in NCAA Division I athletics, offering a more competitive athletic environment. Furman has a wider range of Division I sports and a stronger emphasis on athletic performance. If you are looking for a more intense athletic experience, Furman might be a better fit.

• How do Dickinson and Furman approach undergraduate research?

  While both institutions value undergraduate research, Furman University places a particularly strong emphasis on it. Furman offers numerous research opportunities for undergraduates across various disciplines, often involving close collaboration with faculty members. Dickinson also provides research opportunities, but it may be less central to the overall academic experience compared to Furman. If research is a top priority, Furman might be a better choice.

• Which college is better for me: Dickinson or Furman?

  The best college for you depends on your individual preferences and priorities. If you value a strong global focus, a smaller campus integrated into a historic town, and a diverse student body with a significant international presence, Dickinson might be a better fit. If you prefer a more traditional campus environment, a strong emphasis on undergraduate research, a larger student body, and a greater focus on campus life, Furman might be a better choice. Consider visiting both campuses and speaking with current students to get a better sense of which environment feels right for you.