Gettysburg College vs Washington College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Gettysburg College and Washington College?

  Gettysburg College, located in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, is a highly selective liberal arts college known for its strong history and political science programs, particularly due to its proximity to the Gettysburg battlefield. It generally has a larger student body and a more competitive admissions process than Washington College. Washington College, situated in Chestertown, Maryland, is a smaller liberal arts college with a focus on environmental studies, writing, and the Eastern Shore. It offers a more intimate learning environment and a strong sense of community.

• How do the academic programs at Gettysburg and Washington College compare?

  Both colleges offer a wide range of liberal arts programs. Gettysburg is particularly strong in history, political science, and international studies, benefiting from its historical location and related resources. Washington College excels in environmental science, English (especially creative writing), and pre-professional programs like pre-med. While both offer similar core disciplines, their areas of distinct strength differ.

• What is the typical student body size and campus environment like at each college?

  Gettysburg College has a larger student body, typically around 2,600 students, creating a more bustling campus environment. Washington College is smaller, with approximately 1,400 students, fostering a close-knit community where students often have more direct interaction with faculty. Gettysburg's campus is located in a historic town with a strong connection to the Civil War, while Washington College's campus is in a more rural setting on Maryland's Eastern Shore.

• How do the admissions processes and acceptance rates differ between Gettysburg and Washington College?

  Gettysburg College is generally more selective, with a lower acceptance rate than Washington College. Both colleges consider factors like GPA, standardized test scores (though policies may vary), essays, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities. However, Gettysburg places a slightly higher emphasis on academic achievement, while Washington College may give more weight to demonstrated interest and a student's potential to contribute to their community.

• What are the opportunities for extracurricular activities and student life at Gettysburg and Washington College?

  Both colleges offer a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs, organizations, sports, and volunteer opportunities. Gettysburg College, due to its larger size, may have a wider range of options, including a more robust Greek life. Washington College emphasizes student involvement and leadership opportunities, with a focus on creating a vibrant campus community through student-led initiatives and events. Both offer NCAA Division III athletics.

• What is the cost of attendance and financial aid like at Gettysburg College and Washington College?

  The cost of attendance at both Gettysburg College and Washington College is significant, as is typical for private liberal arts colleges. Both institutions offer financial aid packages, including merit-based scholarships and need-based grants. It's important to visit each college's financial aid website to understand the specific costs and aid opportunities available, and to use their net price calculators to estimate your family's expected contribution.

• What are the career services and alumni networks like at Gettysburg and Washington College?

  Both Gettysburg College and Washington College provide career services to help students with internships, job searches, and career planning. Gettysburg's larger alumni network can provide a broader range of connections in various fields. Washington College's alumni network, while smaller, is known for being highly engaged and supportive of current students, particularly in fields related to environmental science and writing.

• Which college is better for students interested in history and political science?

  Gettysburg College is generally considered stronger in history and political science, largely due to its location and the resources available related to the Civil War. The college leverages its proximity to the Gettysburg battlefield for unique learning experiences and research opportunities in these fields. However, Washington College also offers strong programs in these areas, particularly for students interested in a more intimate and personalized learning environment.

• Which college is better for students interested in environmental science or creative writing?

  Washington College is particularly well-regarded for its environmental science and creative writing programs. The college's location on the Eastern Shore provides unique opportunities for environmental research and field work. Its creative writing program is also highly respected, with notable faculty and a strong emphasis on student writing and publication.

• What are the surrounding towns like, and how do they impact the student experience?

  Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, is a historic town with a strong tourism industry centered around the Civil War. This provides students with access to historical sites, museums, and related events. Chestertown, Maryland, is a smaller, more rural town on the Eastern Shore. It offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere and a strong sense of community. The different environments contribute to distinct campus cultures and student experiences.