Rice University vs The New School

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the primary academic focuses of Rice University and The New School?

  Rice University excels in STEM fields, architecture, music, and the humanities, offering a strong foundation in research and traditional disciplines. The New School, on the other hand, is renowned for its progressive approach to social sciences, humanities, design, performing arts, and public policy, emphasizing critical thinking and social justice.

• How do the campus environments differ between Rice and The New School?

  Rice University boasts a traditional, residential campus in Houston, Texas, fostering a close-knit community with a strong emphasis on student life and campus traditions. The New School is integrated into the urban landscape of New York City, offering a vibrant and diverse environment with access to numerous cultural and professional opportunities.

• What is the typical class size and student-faculty ratio at each university?

  Rice University maintains a low student-faculty ratio, typically around 6:1, with many classes having fewer than 20 students, allowing for personalized attention. The New School also emphasizes small class sizes, particularly within its individual colleges, but the overall student-faculty ratio can vary depending on the specific program.

• What types of students thrive at Rice University versus The New School?

  Rice University is a great fit for students who are academically driven, enjoy a collaborative environment, and appreciate a strong sense of community. The New School attracts students who are creative, independent, socially conscious, and thrive in an urban setting with a focus on interdisciplinary learning and social impact.

• How do the costs of attendance compare between Rice and The New School?

  The cost of attendance at both Rice University and The New School can be significant. However, Rice University is known for its generous financial aid packages, often meeting 100% of demonstrated need. The New School also offers financial aid, but the overall cost may be higher depending on the program and living expenses in New York City.

• What are the career prospects like for graduates of Rice University and The New School?

  Rice University graduates are highly sought after in fields such as engineering, medicine, business, and academia, benefiting from the university's strong research reputation and alumni network. The New School graduates excel in creative industries, social advocacy, design, and public policy, leveraging the university's connections to New York City's professional landscape.

• What are the admission requirements and selectivity for each institution?

  Both Rice University and The New School are highly selective institutions. Rice University places a strong emphasis on academic excellence, standardized test scores (though test-optional policies may apply), and extracurricular involvement. The New School also considers academic performance but places greater emphasis on portfolios, auditions, and personal essays that demonstrate creativity, critical thinking, and a commitment to social justice.

• Does Rice or The New School offer more opportunities for interdisciplinary studies?

  While both universities offer interdisciplinary opportunities, The New School is particularly known for its emphasis on interdisciplinary learning. Its structure, comprising several distinct colleges, encourages students to cross boundaries and integrate different fields of study. Rice also offers interdisciplinary programs and research opportunities, but its core strengths lie within more traditional academic departments.

• How do the locations of Rice and The New School impact student life?

  Rice University's location in Houston provides a more traditional campus experience with a focus on on-campus activities and a strong sense of community. The New School's location in New York City offers unparalleled access to cultural events, internships, and professional networking opportunities, but requires students to navigate a large and complex urban environment.

• What are some unique programs or offerings at Rice University that The New School doesn't have, and vice versa?

  Rice University is known for its strong architecture program, its Shepherd School of Music, and its Baker Institute for Public Policy. The New School is unique for its Parsons School of Design, its Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts, and its focus on social justice-oriented programs like social research and public and urban policy.