Macalester College vs Bates College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the key academic differences between Macalester College and Bates College?

  Macalester College is known for its strong emphasis on internationalism, social justice, and a broad liberal arts curriculum. It offers a wide range of majors, with notable strengths in political science, economics, and the humanities. Bates College, while also a liberal arts institution, has a slightly more focused approach, with a reputation for strong programs in the sciences, particularly biology and environmental studies, as well as a robust humanities and social sciences curriculum. Bates also emphasizes a strong sense of community and a more traditional liberal arts experience.

• How do the campus environments and locations compare?

  Macalester College is located in St. Paul, Minnesota, a vibrant urban area with access to the Twin Cities' cultural and professional opportunities. The campus itself is known for its beautiful, historic architecture and a close-knit community feel. Bates College is situated in Lewiston, Maine, a smaller city with a more rural New England setting. The Bates campus is also picturesque, with a strong emphasis on outdoor activities and a close connection to the natural environment. Both campuses offer a strong sense of community, but the surrounding environments differ significantly.

• What is the student body like at each college?

  Macalester College attracts a diverse student body, with a significant international student population and a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. Students are often politically active and engaged in social issues. Bates College also has a diverse student body, though perhaps with a slightly less pronounced international focus. Bates students are known for being highly engaged, intellectually curious, and involved in a wide range of extracurricular activities. Both colleges foster a collaborative and supportive learning environment.

• How do the colleges compare in terms of cost and financial aid?

  Both Macalester College and Bates College are highly selective and offer generous financial aid packages. The overall cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room, and board, is comparable at both institutions. Both colleges are committed to meeting the demonstrated financial need of admitted students. Prospective students should research the specific financial aid policies and deadlines of each college to determine the best fit for their individual circumstances.

• What are the strengths of the extracurricular activities and campus life at each college?

  Macalester College offers a wide array of extracurricular activities, including a strong emphasis on student government, debate, and Model United Nations. The college also has a vibrant arts scene and numerous student organizations. Bates College is known for its strong athletic programs, particularly in Division III sports, as well as a wide range of clubs, organizations, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Both colleges provide ample opportunities for students to get involved and build community outside of the classroom.

• How do the career services and post-graduate outcomes differ?

  Both Macalester and Bates provide robust career services to help students prepare for their future careers. Macalester's location in the Twin Cities provides access to a wide range of internship and job opportunities, particularly in the non-profit and government sectors. Bates, while located in a smaller city, has a strong alumni network and a focus on career preparation, with a particular emphasis on helping students find opportunities in the Northeast and beyond. Both colleges boast impressive post-graduate outcomes, with graduates pursuing advanced degrees, entering various professional fields, and making significant contributions to society.

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

  Macalester College is generally considered to have a stronger emphasis on international studies due to its curriculum, diverse student body, and location. However, both colleges offer excellent opportunities for international study and engagement. Macalester's curriculum is specifically designed to foster global awareness, while Bates also provides opportunities for students to study abroad and engage with global issues.

• How do the admissions processes compare?

  Both Macalester and Bates are highly selective colleges that consider a holistic review of each applicant. They both look at academic performance, extracurricular involvement, essays, and letters of recommendation. The specific requirements and deadlines are similar, but prospective students should carefully review the admissions websites of each college for the most up-to-date information and application requirements.

• What are the key differences in the campus culture?

  Macalester's campus culture is often described as politically active, socially conscious, and internationally focused. Students are encouraged to engage in critical thinking and social justice. Bates has a more traditional liberal arts culture, with a strong emphasis on community, intellectual curiosity, and a balance between academics and extracurricular activities. Both colleges foster a supportive and inclusive environment, but the specific emphasis and priorities may differ.

• Which college is a better fit for students interested in science?

  Bates College is generally considered to have a stronger reputation for its science programs, particularly in biology and environmental studies. However, Macalester also offers strong science programs and opportunities for research. Students interested in science should carefully research the specific programs, faculty, and research opportunities at each college to determine the best fit for their academic goals.