Lafayette College vs Dickinson College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Lafayette College and Dickinson College?

  Lafayette College and Dickinson College, while both excellent liberal arts colleges in Pennsylvania, differ in several key aspects. Lafayette has a strong engineering program alongside its liberal arts offerings, making it a more attractive option for students interested in STEM fields with an engineering focus. Dickinson, on the other hand, is known for its global focus and emphasis on sustainability. Lafayette is located in Easton, a small city, while Dickinson is in Carlisle, a small town. Lafayette also tends to be slightly larger in terms of student population.

• How do the academic programs at Lafayette and Dickinson compare?

  Both colleges offer a wide range of strong liberal arts programs. However, Lafayette distinguishes itself with its ABET-accredited engineering programs (e.g., civil, mechanical, electrical, and chemical engineering). Dickinson excels in areas like international studies, environmental science, and sustainability. Both have strong humanities and social science departments. Consider your specific academic interests when deciding which college aligns better with your goals.

• What is the campus environment like at Lafayette versus Dickinson?

  Lafayette's campus is situated in Easton, PA, offering a blend of college town atmosphere and access to a small city's amenities. Dickinson's campus is located in Carlisle, PA, a more traditional college town setting with a close-knit community feel. Lafayette's campus has a more traditional feel, while Dickinson's has a more historic and quaint atmosphere. Both offer a vibrant campus life with various clubs, organizations, and activities.

• How do the costs and financial aid packages compare between Lafayette and Dickinson?

  Both Lafayette and Dickinson are private institutions with similar tuition costs. However, the actual cost to you will depend on the financial aid package you receive. Both colleges offer need-based and merit-based scholarships. It's crucial to compare the financial aid offers from both institutions carefully to determine which is more affordable for your family. Use their Net Price Calculators to get an estimate of your potential costs.

• What are the career services and internship opportunities like at each college?

  Both Lafayette and Dickinson have dedicated career services departments that provide students with resources for internships, job searching, and career counseling. Lafayette's location near larger cities like Philadelphia and New York City may provide more readily available internship opportunities in certain fields, particularly engineering and finance. Dickinson's strong alumni network and global programs can open doors to international internships and careers. Both colleges actively support students in securing meaningful experiential learning opportunities.

• How do the student bodies differ at Lafayette and Dickinson?

  While both colleges attract academically strong students, there are subtle differences. Lafayette tends to attract students interested in both liberal arts and engineering, leading to a slightly more diverse range of academic interests. Dickinson's student body is often drawn to its global focus and commitment to sustainability. Both colleges strive for a diverse student body in terms of background, ethnicity, and geographic origin.

• What are the athletic programs like at Lafayette and Dickinson?

  Lafayette College competes in NCAA Division I athletics (Patriot League), offering a higher level of competition and a more prominent athletic presence on campus. Dickinson College competes in NCAA Division III athletics (Centennial Conference), which emphasizes a balance between academics and athletics. If you are a serious athlete looking to compete at a high level, Lafayette might be a better fit. If you prefer a more balanced approach to athletics, Dickinson could be a better choice. Both offer a variety of intramural and club sports.

• Which college is better for students interested in international studies?

  While both colleges offer international study opportunities, Dickinson College is particularly well-regarded for its global focus and extensive study abroad programs. Dickinson has a long-standing commitment to international education and offers a wide range of programs in various countries. Lafayette also offers study abroad programs, but Dickinson's emphasis on global engagement is a defining characteristic.

• Which college is better for students interested in engineering?

  Lafayette College is the clear choice for students interested in engineering. It offers ABET-accredited engineering programs in various disciplines, providing students with a strong foundation in engineering principles and practical skills. Dickinson does not offer an engineering program.

• What are the class sizes and student-to-faculty ratios like at Lafayette and Dickinson?

  Both Lafayette and Dickinson pride themselves on small class sizes and low student-to-faculty ratios, fostering a close-knit learning environment and allowing for personalized attention from professors. You can expect similar experiences in terms of class size and faculty interaction at both institutions. This allows for more discussion-based learning and closer relationships with professors.