Lehigh vs Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT)

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the key academic strengths of Lehigh University?

  Lehigh University is particularly strong in engineering, business, and the humanities. Its College of Engineering is highly regarded, and the university offers a robust business program through the College of Business. Lehigh also has a strong focus on undergraduate research and a vibrant campus culture.

• What are the key academic strengths of Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT)?

  RIT excels in technology-focused fields, including engineering, computer science, imaging science, and the arts. It is known for its co-op program, which provides students with valuable hands-on experience. RIT also has a strong reputation in areas like game design, film, and photography, thanks to its College of Art and Design.

• How does the campus environment differ between Lehigh and RIT?

  Lehigh University has a more traditional, residential campus located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, with a strong sense of community and a focus on Greek life. RIT, located in Rochester, New York, has a more modern campus with a greater emphasis on technology and innovation. RIT's campus is also known for its diverse student body and a more practical, career-oriented atmosphere.

• What are the typical class sizes at Lehigh and RIT?

  Both Lehigh and RIT generally have a good student-to-faculty ratio, leading to relatively small class sizes, especially in upper-level courses. However, you might find slightly smaller class sizes at Lehigh, particularly in the humanities and social sciences, fostering more personalized learning experiences. RIT's class sizes are also manageable, but may be slightly larger in some of the more popular technology-focused programs.

• How does the co-op program at RIT compare to internship opportunities at Lehigh?

  RIT is renowned for its extensive co-op program, which provides students with significant, paid work experience in their field of study. This is a major differentiator. Lehigh also offers internship opportunities, but they are not as integrated into the curriculum as RIT's co-op program. Lehigh's internships are valuable, but the co-op at RIT provides a more structured and immersive experience.

• What is the cost of attendance at Lehigh versus RIT?

  The cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room, and board, is comparable at both Lehigh and RIT. However, the specific costs can vary depending on the program of study and individual financial aid packages. It's recommended to check the most recent tuition and fees information on each university's website and explore financial aid options.

• What are the career services like at Lehigh and RIT?

  Both universities offer robust career services to help students with job searching, resume writing, and interview preparation. RIT's career services are particularly strong due to the university's focus on practical experience and its extensive network of industry partners, especially because of the co-op program. Lehigh also has excellent career services, particularly for students in business and engineering, with strong connections to employers.

• How does the social life and campus culture differ between Lehigh and RIT?

  Lehigh has a more traditional college social scene, with a strong Greek life presence and a focus on campus events and activities. RIT has a more diverse and less traditional social environment, with a focus on student clubs, organizations, and events related to technology and the arts. Both universities offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, but the overall atmosphere differs.

• Which university is better for engineering?

  Both Lehigh and RIT have strong engineering programs. Lehigh's College of Engineering is highly respected and offers a broad range of engineering disciplines. RIT's engineering programs are also excellent, with a focus on practical application and hands-on experience, particularly through its co-op program. The 'better' choice depends on your specific interests and learning style. If you prefer a more traditional academic environment, Lehigh might be a good fit. If you prefer a more hands-on, career-focused approach, RIT could be a better choice.

• Which university is better for business?

  Lehigh's College of Business is highly regarded and offers a strong business education with a focus on finance and accounting. RIT also offers business programs, but Lehigh's program is generally considered to be more established and has a stronger reputation. If you are primarily interested in business, Lehigh might be the better choice.

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

  Lehigh's location in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, offers a more traditional college town experience, with easy access to Philadelphia and New York City. RIT's location in Rochester, New York, provides access to a larger city with a diverse range of cultural and recreational opportunities, as well as proximity to the Finger Lakes region. The location impacts the types of activities available and the overall feel of the campus environment.

• What are the research opportunities like at Lehigh and RIT?

  Both Lehigh and RIT offer research opportunities for undergraduate students. Lehigh has a strong emphasis on undergraduate research, with numerous opportunities to work with faculty on various projects. RIT also provides research opportunities, particularly in its technology-focused fields, and encourages student involvement in research projects.