Hampden-Sydney vs Washington and Lee

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the primary academic differences between Hampden-Sydney College and Washington and Lee University?

  Washington and Lee University (W&L) offers a broader range of academic programs, including a law school and a graduate business school, which Hampden-Sydney College (H-SC) does not. W&L also has a larger student body and faculty, leading to a wider variety of courses and research opportunities. Hampden-Sydney, however, focuses exclusively on undergraduate men, fostering a close-knit community and a strong emphasis on liberal arts education. H-SC is known for its rigorous core curriculum and emphasis on rhetoric and public speaking.

• How do the campus environments and student life differ at Hampden-Sydney and Washington and Lee?

  Hampden-Sydney College provides a traditionally all-male environment, fostering a strong sense of brotherhood and camaraderie. The campus is smaller and more intimate, promoting close relationships among students and faculty. Washington and Lee, while also having a strong sense of community, is co-educational, offering a more diverse social environment. W&L's campus is larger and has a more active social scene, with a wider array of extracurricular activities and Greek life opportunities.

• What is the cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, and room and board, at each institution?

  The cost of attendance at both Hampden-Sydney and Washington and Lee is relatively high. However, the specific costs can vary slightly from year to year. You should consult the official websites of both institutions for the most up-to-date information on tuition, fees, and room and board. Both schools offer financial aid and merit-based scholarships to help offset the cost of attendance.

• How do the admissions processes compare for Hampden-Sydney and Washington and Lee?

  Both Hampden-Sydney and Washington and Lee are selective institutions. W&L generally has a slightly lower acceptance rate due to a larger applicant pool. Both schools consider a student's academic record, standardized test scores (though test-optional policies may be in place), extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation. Hampden-Sydney's admissions process may place a greater emphasis on leadership potential and character, aligning with its mission of developing good men and good citizens.

• What are the career services and alumni networks like at Hampden-Sydney and Washington and Lee?

  Both institutions boast strong career services and robust alumni networks. Washington and Lee's larger alumni base and broader program offerings may provide a wider range of career opportunities and connections. Hampden-Sydney's alumni network is known for its loyalty and willingness to support its graduates, particularly in the Southeast. Both schools provide resources for internships, job placement, and career counseling.

• How do the athletic programs compare at Hampden-Sydney and Washington and Lee?

  Both Hampden-Sydney and Washington and Lee have competitive athletic programs. Hampden-Sydney is a member of the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC) and offers a variety of Division III sports. Washington and Lee competes in the ODAC as well, and also offers a range of Division III sports. W&L also has a strong reputation for its athletic programs, and both schools foster a strong sense of school spirit and community involvement through their athletic teams.

• What are the key differences in the student body demographics?

  The most significant difference in demographics is that Hampden-Sydney is an all-male institution, while Washington and Lee is co-educational. W&L's student body is also generally more diverse in terms of geographic origin and socioeconomic background due to its larger size and broader appeal. Both schools attract students who are academically motivated and engaged in their communities.

• Which school is better for someone interested in pre-law?

  Washington and Lee University is generally considered the stronger choice for students specifically interested in pre-law, due to its highly-regarded law school and the strong connections it provides. However, Hampden-Sydney College's emphasis on rhetoric and public speaking, along with its rigorous liberal arts curriculum, also provides excellent preparation for law school. Students at either institution can find success in pursuing a legal career.

• What are the strengths of Hampden-Sydney College?

  Hampden-Sydney College's strengths include its all-male environment, fostering a strong sense of brotherhood; its rigorous liberal arts curriculum with a focus on rhetoric and public speaking; its close-knit community and strong faculty-student relationships; and its dedicated alumni network. It is ideal for students seeking a traditional, single-sex college experience.

• What are the strengths of Washington and Lee University?

  Washington and Lee University's strengths include its co-educational environment; its broader range of academic programs, including a law school and graduate business school; its larger size and diverse student body; its strong career services and alumni network; and its vibrant social scene and extracurricular opportunities. It is a good fit for students seeking a more diverse and expansive college experience.