Haverford College vs Oberlin College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the key academic differences between Haverford and Oberlin?

  Haverford emphasizes a rigorous liberal arts education with a strong focus on student autonomy and a unique honor code. It's known for its close-knit academic community and opportunities for research. Oberlin, while also a strong liberal arts college, distinguishes itself with its renowned Conservatory of Music, offering a wider range of artistic and performance-based programs alongside its traditional academic departments. Oberlin also has a slightly larger student body, which can lead to a broader range of course offerings.

• How do the campus cultures compare at Haverford and Oberlin?

  Haverford fosters a highly collaborative and self-governed environment, largely due to its honor code, which promotes trust and responsibility among students. Oberlin is known for its progressive and politically active student body, with a strong emphasis on social justice and activism. Both colleges value intellectual curiosity and community engagement, but Oberlin tends to be more outwardly focused on broader social issues, while Haverford's focus is more internally on the campus community.

• What are the strengths of Haverford's and Oberlin's science programs?

  Haverford's science programs are strong in research, providing ample opportunities for undergraduates to work closely with faculty on cutting-edge projects. The college's small size allows for personalized attention and access to resources. Oberlin also has strong science programs, particularly in biology and environmental studies, and benefits from its proximity to natural resources and research facilities. Oberlin's interdisciplinary approach often allows students to connect scientific study with other fields like politics and art.

• How do the locations of Haverford and Oberlin impact student life?

  Haverford is located in a suburban setting just outside of Philadelphia, offering a balance of a close-knit campus environment with easy access to a major city's cultural and professional opportunities. Oberlin is situated in a small town in Ohio, providing a more self-contained campus experience. While Oberlin offers a strong sense of community within the town, students may find themselves traveling to larger cities like Cleveland for more diverse entertainment and career options.

• What are the career services and alumni networks like at Haverford and Oberlin?

  Both Haverford and Oberlin have dedicated career services offices that provide students with resources for internships, job searching, and career counseling. Haverford's alumni network is known for being particularly supportive and accessible, especially within fields like finance and law. Oberlin's alumni network is strong in the arts, non-profit sector, and academia, reflecting the college's strengths in these areas. Both colleges emphasize connecting students with alumni for mentorship and networking opportunities.

• How does the Quaker tradition influence Haverford's campus life?

  Haverford College was founded by Quakers, and while it is no longer religiously affiliated, Quaker values such as community, equality, and social justice continue to influence campus life. This is reflected in the college's emphasis on consensus-based decision-making, the honor code, and a commitment to service and ethical behavior. While Oberlin also values social justice, it doesn't have the same historical connection to Quaker principles.

• What are the opportunities for studying abroad at Haverford and Oberlin?

  Both Haverford and Oberlin offer a wide range of study abroad programs in various countries and disciplines. Students can typically study abroad for a semester or a year. Both colleges work with students to find programs that align with their academic interests and goals. The specific programs available may vary, so it's best to check each college's website for the most up-to-date information.

• How do Haverford and Oberlin approach financial aid?

  Both Haverford and Oberlin are committed to meeting the demonstrated financial need of their students. They both offer need-based financial aid packages that may include grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. The specific amount of aid offered will vary depending on a family's financial circumstances. It's recommended to use the net price calculators on each college's website to get an estimate of the cost of attendance.

• What are some notable differences in the social scene at Haverford and Oberlin?

  Haverford's social scene is often described as more intimate and campus-focused, with a strong emphasis on student-organized events and activities. The honor code also influences social interactions, promoting a culture of respect and responsibility. Oberlin's social scene is known for being more diverse and politically engaged, with a wider range of student organizations and events reflecting the college's progressive values. Oberlin's proximity to its conservatory also adds a unique dimension to its social life, with frequent musical performances and artistic collaborations.

• How do Haverford and Oberlin compare in terms of student-faculty ratio and class sizes?

  Both Haverford and Oberlin boast low student-faculty ratios, ensuring personalized attention and close interaction with professors. Haverford typically has slightly smaller class sizes on average, fostering a more intimate learning environment. Oberlin's class sizes are still relatively small, but the larger student body may result in slightly larger introductory courses.