Marietta College vs Denison University

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the key differences between Marietta College and Denison University?

  Marietta College and Denison University offer distinct educational experiences. Marietta College, located in a smaller town, emphasizes a close-knit community and hands-on learning, particularly in fields like petroleum engineering and liberal arts. Denison University, a highly selective liberal arts college in Granville, Ohio, focuses on a broader liberal arts education with a strong emphasis on research and pre-professional preparation. Denison boasts a larger endowment and a more extensive range of academic programs and resources compared to Marietta.

• How do the academic programs at Marietta College and Denison University compare?

  Denison University offers a wider array of majors and minors across the liberal arts, sciences, and fine arts. They are known for their strong programs in economics, political science, and environmental studies. Marietta College, while also offering a liberal arts curriculum, is particularly recognized for its petroleum engineering program and its strong programs in communication and theatre. If you're interested in a specialized field like petroleum engineering, Marietta might be a better fit. For a broader liberal arts experience with more program options, Denison is a strong choice.

• What is the campus environment like at Marietta College versus Denison University?

  Marietta College offers a more intimate and community-focused environment due to its smaller size and location in a smaller town. Students often describe it as feeling like a family. Denison University, while still offering a close-knit community, has a larger student body and a more vibrant campus life with a wider range of clubs, organizations, and activities. Denison's campus is also known for its beautiful architecture and extensive green spaces.

• How do the costs of attending Marietta College and Denison University compare?

  Both Marietta College and Denison University are private institutions, and their tuition costs are relatively similar. However, the overall cost of attendance can vary depending on financial aid packages and scholarship opportunities. Denison University, with its larger endowment, may be able to offer more generous financial aid packages to qualified students. It's essential to compare the net cost (cost after financial aid) at both institutions to determine which is more affordable for you.

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

  Both Marietta College and Denison University offer career services to help students with internships, job placement, and career planning. Denison University's career services are generally considered to be more extensive due to the university's larger alumni network and stronger connections with employers in various industries. Marietta College, however, leverages its location and industry connections to provide strong internship opportunities, particularly in the energy sector and related fields.

• What is the student-faculty ratio at Marietta College and Denison University?

  Both institutions pride themselves on small class sizes and close interaction between students and faculty. Marietta College typically has a slightly lower student-faculty ratio, which can lead to more personalized attention in the classroom. Denison University also maintains a low student-faculty ratio, ensuring that students have ample opportunities to engage with their professors.

• What are the athletic programs like at Marietta College and Denison University?

  Both Marietta College and Denison University offer a variety of NCAA Division III athletic programs. Denison University has a more extensive athletic program with a wider range of varsity sports and a strong tradition of athletic success. Marietta College also has a competitive athletic program, particularly known for its rowing program. If athletics are a significant part of your college experience, Denison might offer more options.

• What kind of student is likely to thrive at Marietta College versus Denison University?

  A student who thrives at Marietta College is often someone who values a close-knit community, hands-on learning, and a more personalized educational experience. They may be drawn to specific programs like petroleum engineering or communication. A student who thrives at Denison University is typically someone who seeks a broader liberal arts education, enjoys a vibrant campus life, and is interested in research opportunities and pre-professional preparation. They are often academically driven and engaged in a variety of extracurricular activities.

• How do the locations of Marietta College and Denison University impact the student experience?

  Marietta College is located in Marietta, Ohio, a smaller town that offers a more traditional college town experience. The town provides a supportive community and easy access to outdoor activities. Denison University is located in Granville, Ohio, a charming village that is also close to Columbus, the state capital. This proximity to a major city provides students with access to a wider range of cultural events, internships, and job opportunities.

• What are the graduation rates and alumni outcomes for Marietta College and Denison University?

  Denison University generally has a higher graduation rate than Marietta College, reflecting its more selective admissions process and greater resources. Both institutions have successful alumni networks, but Denison University's alumni network is larger and more established, providing graduates with valuable connections and career opportunities. Both schools prepare students for successful careers and graduate studies, but Denison's broader reach may offer more diverse pathways.