Franklin W Olin College of Engineering vs Rose-Hulman

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the primary differences between Olin College and Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology?

  Olin College is known for its project-based, entrepreneurial, and design-focused curriculum, emphasizing innovation and collaboration. Rose-Hulman, while also strong in hands-on learning, has a more traditional engineering curriculum with a greater emphasis on fundamental engineering principles and research. Olin is significantly smaller than Rose-Hulman, fostering a close-knit community, while Rose-Hulman offers a wider range of engineering disciplines and a larger alumni network.

• Which college is better for students interested in a highly collaborative and innovative learning environment?

  Olin College is generally considered the better choice for students who thrive in a highly collaborative and innovative environment. Its curriculum is built around team-based projects and encourages students to take risks and experiment. The smaller size also contributes to a more intimate and collaborative atmosphere.

• Which college is better for students seeking a more traditional and research-oriented engineering education?

  Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology is often preferred by students seeking a more traditional and research-oriented engineering education. While it also emphasizes hands-on learning, its curriculum is more structured and grounded in fundamental engineering principles. Rose-Hulman also offers more research opportunities and a wider range of engineering specializations.

• How do the class sizes and student-faculty ratios compare between Olin and Rose-Hulman?

  Olin College boasts a very low student-faculty ratio, typically around 8:1, and small class sizes, fostering close interaction between students and professors. Rose-Hulman also has a favorable student-faculty ratio, generally around 13:1, but its class sizes are typically larger than Olin's due to its larger student body.

• What types of engineering programs are offered at each college?

  Olin College primarily focuses on a more integrated engineering education, offering degrees in Electrical and Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Engineering (with individual concentration). Rose-Hulman offers a broader range of engineering disciplines, including Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Software Engineering, among others.

• How do the campuses and locations of Olin and Rose-Hulman differ?

  Olin College is located in Needham, Massachusetts, a suburb of Boston, providing access to a vibrant academic and technological hub. Rose-Hulman is located in Terre Haute, Indiana, a smaller city with a more traditional college town atmosphere. The location of Olin offers more immediate access to internships and networking opportunities in the Boston area's tech industry.

• What is the approach to grading and assessment at each institution?

  Olin College has a unique grading system that emphasizes feedback and growth over traditional letter grades, especially in the early years. While they do assign grades, the focus is on providing detailed feedback to help students learn and improve. Rose-Hulman uses a more traditional grading system with letter grades and a focus on quantitative assessment of performance.

• How do the career services and alumni networks compare?

  Both Olin College and Rose-Hulman have strong career services departments that assist students with internships, job placement, and career development. Rose-Hulman's larger alumni network can provide a broader range of connections and opportunities, while Olin's alumni network, though smaller, is highly engaged and supportive of current students.

• What is the general culture and social life like at each college?

  Olin College has a very strong sense of community and a highly collaborative culture. Social life is often centered around project work, extracurricular activities, and student-led initiatives. Rose-Hulman also has a strong sense of community, with a more traditional college social life that includes fraternities, sororities, and a wider range of clubs and organizations.

• Which college is more selective in its admissions process?

  Both Olin College and Rose-Hulman are highly selective institutions. Olin College typically has a lower acceptance rate due to its smaller size and unique educational model. Both colleges look for students with strong academic records, a passion for engineering, and a demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and solve problems.

• How do the tuition costs and financial aid packages compare?

  Tuition costs at both Olin College and Rose-Hulman are significant. Olin College has historically offered merit-based scholarships to all admitted students, significantly reducing the cost of attendance. Both institutions offer need-based financial aid packages to eligible students. It's important to compare the specific financial aid offers from each college based on your individual circumstances.

• Are there opportunities for interdisciplinary studies at both colleges?

  Yes, both Olin College and Rose-Hulman offer opportunities for interdisciplinary studies. Olin's curriculum is inherently interdisciplinary, encouraging students to integrate knowledge from different fields. Rose-Hulman also offers interdisciplinary programs and encourages students to pursue minors or concentrations in areas outside of their primary engineering discipline.