Macalester College vs Colorado College

Frequently Asked Questions

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

  Macalester College offers a more traditional liberal arts curriculum with a strong emphasis on internationalism and social justice. Colorado College, on the other hand, is known for its unique Block Plan, where students take one course at a time for three and a half weeks. This allows for intense focus and immersive learning experiences. Macalester also has a slightly broader range of majors, while Colorado College excels in areas like environmental science and creative writing.

• How does the Block Plan at Colorado College work, and how does it compare to Macalester's academic structure?

  Colorado College's Block Plan is a distinctive feature. Students take one course at a time, allowing for deep dives into subjects. This contrasts with Macalester's more conventional semester-based system, where students typically take four courses concurrently. The Block Plan can be advantageous for students who thrive in focused environments, while Macalester's structure may suit those who prefer to explore multiple subjects simultaneously.

• What is the student body like at Macalester College versus Colorado College?

  Macalester College has a reputation for being highly diverse and internationally-minded, attracting students from around the world. Colorado College also has a diverse student body, though it tends to draw a higher percentage of students from the Western United States. Both colleges foster a strong sense of community, but the specific demographics and geographic representation differ.

• How do the campus environments and locations compare?

  Macalester College is located in the vibrant city of Saint Paul, Minnesota, offering easy access to the Twin Cities' cultural and professional opportunities. Colorado College is situated in Colorado Springs, Colorado, providing access to the Rocky Mountains and outdoor recreational activities. Macalester offers a more urban experience, while Colorado College provides a more outdoors-oriented environment.

• What are the strengths of Macalester College in terms of academics and student life?

  Macalester excels in its strong international focus, commitment to social justice, and rigorous academics. It offers a wide range of majors and a supportive community. Students benefit from its location in a major metropolitan area, providing numerous internship and research opportunities. The college also has a strong alumni network.

• What are the strengths of Colorado College in terms of academics and student life?

  Colorado College is renowned for its innovative Block Plan, which fosters deep learning and allows for immersive experiences. It has a strong emphasis on experiential learning and outdoor activities. The college's location in Colorado Springs provides access to stunning natural landscapes and a vibrant outdoor culture. It also has a close-knit community.

• How do the costs of attendance compare between Macalester College and Colorado College?

  Both Macalester College and Colorado College are private institutions with relatively high tuition costs. However, financial aid packages are available at both schools to help make education more affordable. It's recommended to compare the net cost (after financial aid) for each institution based on your individual financial circumstances.

• What are the opportunities for research and internships at each college?

  Both Macalester and Colorado College offer robust research and internship opportunities. Macalester, located in the Twin Cities, provides access to a wide range of internships in various fields. Colorado College, while having fewer immediate internship opportunities, offers strong support for students seeking internships and research experiences, including funding for summer research and internships. Both colleges encourage undergraduate research.

• How do the campus cultures and social scenes differ?

  Macalester's campus culture is often described as politically active, socially conscious, and globally-minded. The social scene is diverse and includes a variety of student organizations and events. Colorado College has a more outdoorsy and adventurous culture, with a strong emphasis on community and experiential learning. The social scene is active, with a focus on outdoor activities and campus events.

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

  Macalester College is generally considered to have a stronger emphasis on international studies, given its historical focus on internationalism and its diverse student body. However, both colleges offer opportunities for international study and engagement. Colorado College also has strong programs related to global issues.

• Which college is better for students interested in outdoor activities?

  Colorado College is the clear choice for students passionate about outdoor activities. Its location in Colorado Springs provides unparalleled access to the Rocky Mountains for hiking, skiing, climbing, and other outdoor pursuits. While Macalester offers some outdoor opportunities, its location is less conducive to frequent outdoor adventures.

• How do the alumni networks of Macalester and Colorado College compare?

  Both Macalester and Colorado College have active and supportive alumni networks. Macalester's network is particularly strong in international affairs, social justice, and the arts, while Colorado College's network is well-connected in fields related to environmental science, outdoor recreation, and the Western United States. Both networks provide valuable career support and networking opportunities.