Northeastern vs University of New Hampshire-Main Campus (UNH)

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the key differences in location between Northeastern University and the University of New Hampshire (UNH)?

  Northeastern University is located in the heart of Boston, Massachusetts, offering a vibrant urban experience with access to numerous cultural attractions, job opportunities, and a bustling city life. UNH, on the other hand, is situated in Durham, New Hampshire, providing a more suburban and traditional college town environment with a focus on outdoor activities and a close-knit community feel. The location significantly impacts the overall campus atmosphere and available experiences.

• How does the academic focus differ between Northeastern and UNH?

  Northeastern University is renowned for its emphasis on experiential learning, particularly its co-op program, which integrates classroom study with professional work experience. This focus prepares students for careers through practical application. UNH offers a strong liberal arts foundation with a variety of programs, including notable strengths in marine science, engineering, and business. While UNH also offers experiential learning opportunities, the co-op program is not as central to the overall academic experience as it is at Northeastern.

• What are the strengths of the co-op programs at Northeastern and how does it compare to UNH's internship opportunities?

  Northeastern's co-op program is a defining feature, providing students with multiple opportunities to gain paid work experience in their field of study. This program is integrated into the curriculum, allowing students to alternate between academic semesters and professional work terms. UNH offers internship opportunities, which are valuable for gaining practical experience, but they are typically shorter in duration and less integrated into the academic schedule compared to Northeastern's co-op program. UNH's career services also provide support for students seeking internships.

• How does the cost of attendance compare between Northeastern and UNH?

  Generally, Northeastern University has a higher overall cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room, and board, compared to the University of New Hampshire. However, financial aid packages and scholarships can significantly impact the net cost for individual students. It's essential to compare the specific financial aid offers you receive from each institution to determine the most affordable option for your circumstances.

• What is the student life like at Northeastern versus UNH?

  Northeastern offers a dynamic student life with a diverse student body and access to the cultural and social opportunities of a major city. Students can easily explore Boston's museums, theaters, and nightlife. UNH provides a more traditional college experience with a strong sense of community, a focus on campus events, and easy access to outdoor recreation, such as hiking and skiing. The student life at UNH is often characterized by a more close-knit and supportive environment.

• What are the admission requirements and selectivity of Northeastern and UNH?

  Northeastern University is generally considered more selective than UNH. Admission to Northeastern typically requires a strong academic record, competitive standardized test scores (though test-optional policies may be in place), and a well-rounded application demonstrating extracurricular involvement and leadership. UNH has a more accessible admission process, though it still considers academic performance and other factors. Admission requirements and selectivity can vary year to year, so it's always best to check the most current information on each university's website.

• How do the campus environments differ?

  Northeastern's campus is integrated into the city of Boston, with buildings interspersed among city streets. This provides a unique urban campus experience. UNH has a more traditional, self-contained campus in Durham, with a mix of historic and modern buildings, green spaces, and a more rural feel. The campus environment at UNH fosters a strong sense of community and offers easy access to outdoor activities.

• What are the career services like at each university?

  Both Northeastern and UNH offer career services to assist students with career exploration, resume writing, interviewing skills, and job placement. Northeastern's career services are particularly strong due to the university's emphasis on co-op programs and its extensive network of employer partners. UNH's career services also provide valuable resources and support, with a focus on internships and job placement within various industries.

• What are the notable academic programs at each university?

  Northeastern is particularly strong in engineering, computer science, business, health sciences, and the arts, with its co-op program enhancing the practical application of these fields. UNH excels in marine science, environmental science, engineering, business, and the liberal arts. Both universities offer a wide range of programs, but their areas of specialization differ.

• How does the alumni network compare?

  Both universities have active alumni networks. Northeastern's alumni network is extensive, particularly due to its global reach and the diverse career paths of its graduates, many of whom have benefited from the co-op program. UNH's alumni network is strong, especially within New England and in fields related to its areas of academic strength. Both networks provide valuable resources and support for students and alumni.