Randolph-Macon College vs Ursinus College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences in location and campus setting between Randolph-Macon College and Ursinus College?

  Randolph-Macon College is located in Ashland, Virginia, a small, historic town offering a close-knit community feel. Ursinus College, on the other hand, is situated in Collegeville, Pennsylvania, a suburban setting that provides a balance between a quieter campus environment and access to larger metropolitan areas like Philadelphia.

• How do the academic focuses of Randolph-Macon College and Ursinus College differ?

  Both colleges offer strong liberal arts educations, but Randolph-Macon is known for its strong programs in business, economics, and political science, while Ursinus is recognized for its science programs, particularly in biology and pre-med, and its interdisciplinary Common Intellectual Experience.

• What is the typical student body size at Randolph-Macon College versus Ursinus College?

  Randolph-Macon College generally has a slightly larger student body, typically around 1,500 students, compared to Ursinus College, which usually enrolls around 1,600 students. Both offer a small college experience with close interaction with faculty.

• How do the athletic programs compare between Randolph-Macon College and Ursinus College?

  Both Randolph-Macon and Ursinus are NCAA Division III schools with a variety of athletic programs. Randolph-Macon competes in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC) and is particularly known for its successful men's basketball program. Ursinus competes in the Centennial Conference and has a strong tradition in sports like field hockey and wrestling.

• What are the key differences in campus culture and student life at Randolph-Macon College and Ursinus College?

  Randolph-Macon has a strong emphasis on Greek life, with a significant portion of the student body participating in fraternities and sororities. Ursinus, while also having Greek life, offers a broader range of student organizations and activities, with a focus on community engagement and intellectual exploration.

• How do the career services and internship opportunities compare at Randolph-Macon College and Ursinus College?

  Both colleges provide career services to assist students with internships and job placement. Randolph-Macon leverages its location near Richmond, Virginia, for internship opportunities in government and business. Ursinus benefits from its proximity to Philadelphia, offering internships in various fields, including healthcare, finance, and the arts.

• What are the similarities in the academic rigor and faculty engagement at Randolph-Macon College and Ursinus College?

  Both Randolph-Macon and Ursinus are committed to providing a rigorous academic experience with a strong emphasis on faculty-student interaction. You can expect small class sizes, personalized attention from professors, and opportunities for undergraduate research at both institutions.

• How do the tuition costs and financial aid packages typically compare between Randolph-Macon College and Ursinus College?

  Tuition costs are generally comparable between Randolph-Macon and Ursinus. Both colleges offer a range of financial aid options, including merit-based scholarships and need-based grants. It's best to check each college's website for the most up-to-date information and to use their net price calculators to estimate your individual cost.

• What unique programs or initiatives does Randolph-Macon College offer that Ursinus College does not?

  Randolph-Macon offers the EDGE Career Center, which is dedicated to career preparation and internship placement. They also have a unique January Term (J-Term) that allows students to focus on a single course or project for intensive learning.

• What unique programs or initiatives does Ursinus College offer that Randolph-Macon College does not?

  Ursinus College is known for its Common Intellectual Experience (CIE), a core curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning. They also have a strong focus on undergraduate research, with opportunities for students to present their work at national conferences.