Haverford College vs Union College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the key differences in academic focus between Haverford College and Union College?

  Haverford College is known for its strong emphasis on the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, with a particularly robust program in the sciences and a commitment to interdisciplinary study. Union College, while offering a broad liberal arts curriculum, places a greater emphasis on engineering and pre-professional programs, alongside its strong humanities and social sciences departments. Union also has a well-regarded engineering program.

• How does the size and campus environment differ between Haverford and Union?

  Haverford College is a smaller institution with a student body of around 1,400 students, fostering a close-knit community and a highly collaborative academic environment. Its campus is known for its beautiful arboretum and Quaker traditions. Union College is larger, with approximately 2,200 students, offering a more diverse social scene and a broader range of extracurricular activities. Union's campus features a historic architecture and a more traditional college town feel.

• What are the strengths of Haverford's academic programs?

  Haverford excels in providing a rigorous liberal arts education with a strong emphasis on critical thinking, research, and collaboration. Its strengths lie in its highly engaged faculty, small class sizes, and opportunities for undergraduate research. The Honor Code at Haverford fosters a culture of trust and self-governance, which influences the academic and social environment.

• What are the strengths of Union College's academic programs?

  Union College is particularly strong in engineering, computer science, and pre-professional programs, offering students excellent preparation for careers in these fields. It also provides a solid foundation in the liberal arts, encouraging students to explore a variety of disciplines. Union's emphasis on undergraduate research and its term abroad programs are also notable strengths.

• How does the social life and campus culture compare at Haverford and Union?

  Haverford's social life is characterized by its close-knit community, with a focus on student self-governance and a strong emphasis on intellectual pursuits. Social events are often centered around campus activities and collaborations with nearby Bryn Mawr College. Union College offers a more diverse social scene, with a wider range of clubs, organizations, and social events. Its location in Schenectady, NY, provides students with access to a more traditional college town experience.

• What are the opportunities for undergraduate research at Haverford and Union?

  Both Haverford and Union College offer significant opportunities for undergraduate research. Haverford emphasizes research as an integral part of the undergraduate experience, with numerous opportunities to work closely with faculty on research projects. Union College also provides ample research opportunities, particularly in the sciences and engineering, with dedicated research facilities and funding for student projects.

• How do the career services and alumni networks differ between the two colleges?

  Both colleges provide career services to assist students with internships, job searches, and career planning. Haverford's alumni network is known for its strong connections and willingness to support students, particularly in the fields of academia and research. Union College's alumni network is also robust, with a strong presence in engineering, business, and other professional fields, providing valuable networking opportunities for students.

• What is the cost of attendance at Haverford and Union?

  The cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room, and board, is comparable at both Haverford and Union College. Both institutions offer financial aid and merit-based scholarships to help make education more affordable. Prospective students should consult the colleges' financial aid websites for detailed information on costs and aid packages.

• How does the location of each college impact the student experience?

  Haverford College is located in a suburban setting near Philadelphia, providing easy access to the cultural and professional opportunities of a major city. Union College is located in Schenectady, NY, offering a more traditional college town experience with access to the Adirondack Mountains and other outdoor recreational opportunities. Both locations offer distinct advantages depending on a student's preferences.

• Which college is a better fit for me: Haverford or Union?

  The best fit depends on your individual academic and social preferences. If you are seeking a small, highly collaborative environment with a strong emphasis on the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, Haverford might be a better choice. If you are interested in engineering, pre-professional programs, or a more diverse social scene, Union College could be a better fit. Consider visiting both campuses, talking to current students, and reflecting on your own academic and personal goals to make an informed decision.