Haverford College vs Johns Hopkins

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Haverford College and Johns Hopkins University?

  Haverford College is a small, highly selective liberal arts college known for its strong sense of community, honor code, and Quaker values. It emphasizes undergraduate education and close faculty-student interaction. Johns Hopkins University, on the other hand, is a large, research-intensive university with a strong focus on graduate programs and research across various fields, including medicine, engineering, and public health. While Hopkins also has a strong undergraduate program, research opportunities are a more central part of the student experience.

• Which school is better for undergraduate education?

  Both Haverford and Johns Hopkins offer excellent undergraduate education, but they cater to different preferences. Haverford's small size and focus on undergraduate teaching provide a more intimate and personalized learning environment. Johns Hopkins, while larger, offers undergraduates access to world-class research facilities and opportunities, particularly in STEM fields. If you prioritize close relationships with faculty and a strong sense of community, Haverford might be a better fit. If you're eager to engage in research early on and prefer a larger university setting, Johns Hopkins could be more appealing.

• How do the academic programs compare?

  Haverford excels in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, offering a broad liberal arts curriculum. It's known for its interdisciplinary approach and emphasis on critical thinking. Johns Hopkins is renowned for its STEM programs, particularly in medicine, engineering, and public health. While it also offers strong programs in the humanities and social sciences, its strength lies in its research-oriented STEM fields. Consider your academic interests and whether you prefer a broad liberal arts education or a more specialized, research-focused curriculum.

• What is the campus culture like at Haverford versus Johns Hopkins?

  Haverford has a close-knit, collaborative campus culture fostered by its small size and honor code. Students are actively involved in campus governance and community life. Johns Hopkins has a more diverse and decentralized campus culture due to its larger size and multiple schools. While there's a strong sense of community within individual departments and student groups, the overall campus environment is more varied. Haverford emphasizes consensus-building and shared responsibility, while Johns Hopkins offers a wider range of social and extracurricular opportunities.

• How do the research opportunities compare?

  Johns Hopkins offers significantly more research opportunities for undergraduates due to its status as a major research university. Students can participate in cutting-edge research projects across various disciplines, often working alongside leading faculty members. Haverford also provides research opportunities, particularly through independent study projects and faculty-mentored research, but the scale and scope are generally smaller compared to Johns Hopkins. If research is a top priority, Johns Hopkins offers a clear advantage.

• What are the career prospects after graduating from Haverford and Johns Hopkins?

  Graduates from both Haverford and Johns Hopkins are highly sought after by employers and graduate schools. Haverford graduates often pursue careers in fields such as law, education, non-profit organizations, and government, leveraging their strong critical thinking and communication skills. Johns Hopkins graduates are well-prepared for careers in medicine, engineering, research, and other STEM-related fields. Both schools have strong alumni networks that can provide valuable career support. The 'better' school depends on your career goals.

• How does the location of each school affect the student experience?

  Haverford is located in a suburban setting in Haverford, Pennsylvania, just outside of Philadelphia. This provides a quieter, more residential campus environment while still offering easy access to the cultural and recreational opportunities of a major city. Johns Hopkins' main campus is located in Baltimore, Maryland, a vibrant urban environment. This offers students a more diverse and dynamic experience, with access to a wider range of cultural attractions, restaurants, and internship opportunities. Consider whether you prefer a more secluded suburban setting or a bustling urban environment.

• What is the cost of attendance and financial aid like at each school?

  Both Haverford and Johns Hopkins have high costs of attendance. However, both institutions also offer generous financial aid packages to students with demonstrated need. The specific amount of aid you receive will depend on your family's financial situation. It's important to compare the net cost of attendance (after financial aid) at each school to determine which is more affordable for you. Both schools are committed to making education accessible to talented students regardless of their financial background.

• How selective are Haverford and Johns Hopkins?

  Both Haverford and Johns Hopkins are highly selective institutions with low acceptance rates. They both seek academically strong students with diverse backgrounds and interests who demonstrate a commitment to learning and making a positive impact on the world. The admissions process is holistic, considering factors such as grades, test scores (if submitted), essays, extracurricular activities, and letters of recommendation. While both are competitive, Johns Hopkins, due to its larger size, may admit a slightly larger number of students overall.

• What are the notable traditions or unique aspects of each school?

  Haverford is known for its Honor Code, which governs student conduct and fosters a strong sense of trust and responsibility. It also has a unique tri-college consortium with Bryn Mawr and Swarthmore Colleges, allowing students to take courses and participate in activities at all three institutions. Johns Hopkins is known for its rigorous academic environment, its emphasis on research and innovation, and its strong ties to the city of Baltimore. It also has a number of unique traditions, such as the Lighting of the Quads during the holiday season.