Hamline University vs Augsburg University

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Hamline University and Augsburg University?

  Hamline University, Minnesota's first university, is known for its strong liberal arts focus, small class sizes, and emphasis on civic engagement. Augsburg University, affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, emphasizes experiential learning, urban studies, and a commitment to social justice. Hamline is generally perceived as more traditional, while Augsburg has a stronger focus on practical application and community involvement.

• How do the campus environments compare?

  Hamline's campus is located in a quiet, residential neighborhood in Saint Paul, offering a more traditional college town feel. Augsburg's campus is situated in the vibrant Cedar-Riverside neighborhood of Minneapolis, providing students with direct access to a diverse urban environment and numerous cultural opportunities. Augsburg's location is more integrated into the city, while Hamline offers a more self-contained campus experience.

• What are the academic strengths of each university?

  Hamline excels in areas like law, creative writing, political science, and education. Augsburg is particularly strong in programs like business, social work, music therapy, and urban studies. Both universities offer a wide range of undergraduate programs, but their areas of specialization differ.

• How do the costs of attending Hamline and Augsburg compare?

  Tuition costs are generally comparable between Hamline University and Augsburg University. However, the overall cost of attendance can vary depending on factors like room and board, scholarships, and financial aid packages. It's best to check the official websites of both universities for the most up-to-date tuition and fee information and to explore individual financial aid options.

• What is the student body like at each university?

  Both Hamline and Augsburg have diverse student bodies. Hamline tends to draw a slightly larger percentage of students from Minnesota and the Midwest, while Augsburg attracts a more diverse range of students from across the country and internationally, reflecting its urban location and commitment to global engagement. Augsburg also has a higher percentage of non-traditional students.

• What kind of extracurricular activities and student organizations are available?

  Both universities offer a wide array of extracurricular activities, including student government, clubs, sports, and volunteer opportunities. Hamline has a strong tradition of debate and forensics, while Augsburg has a vibrant performing arts scene and numerous organizations focused on social justice and community service. Both offer NCAA Division III athletics.

• How does the career services support differ between Hamline and Augsburg?

  Both Hamline and Augsburg provide career services to help students with internships, job searching, and career planning. Augsburg's career services often emphasize connections to the Minneapolis business community and non-profit organizations, reflecting its urban location. Hamline's career services offer a broader range of resources, including strong alumni networking opportunities, particularly in the legal and political fields.

• What is the religious affiliation of each university, and how does it impact campus life?

  Augsburg University is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). While the university welcomes students of all faiths, its Lutheran heritage influences its values and commitment to social justice. Hamline University has a historical connection to the Methodist Church, but it is now non-sectarian and welcomes students of all backgrounds. Religious life is present on both campuses, but Augsburg's Lutheran affiliation is more pronounced.

• Which university is better for students interested in a specific major, like business or law?

  For students interested in law, Hamline's strong pre-law program and proximity to the Mitchell Hamline School of Law make it a strong choice. For students interested in business, Augsburg's location in the heart of Minneapolis and its emphasis on experiential learning provide excellent opportunities for internships and networking within the business community. However, both universities offer solid programs in both fields, so it's important to consider other factors as well.

• What are the class sizes and student-to-faculty ratios like at Hamline and Augsburg?

  Both Hamline and Augsburg pride themselves on small class sizes and low student-to-faculty ratios, allowing for more personalized attention from professors. You can expect similar experiences in terms of class size and faculty interaction at both institutions. Check the university websites for the most current student-to-faculty ratio statistics.