Rollins College vs Barry University

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Rollins College and Barry University?

  Rollins College is a small, private liberal arts college known for its strong focus on undergraduate education and personalized learning environment. Barry University, on the other hand, is a larger, private Catholic university with a broader range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including professional fields like nursing, law, and business. Rollins emphasizes a residential campus experience, while Barry caters to a more diverse student population, including commuters and working adults.

• How do the academic programs at Rollins College and Barry University compare?

  Rollins College excels in liberal arts disciplines, offering a well-rounded education with a strong emphasis on critical thinking and communication skills. Barry University provides a wider array of programs, including pre-professional tracks and graduate studies. If you're interested in a specific professional field like healthcare or law, Barry might be a better fit. If you prefer a broad liberal arts foundation, Rollins is an excellent choice.

• What is the campus environment like at Rollins College versus Barry University?

  Rollins College boasts a beautiful, historic campus on the shores of Lake Virginia, fostering a close-knit community. The campus life is very active with many student organizations and events. Barry University has a more urban campus in Miami Shores, offering access to the city's resources and opportunities. While Barry has a vibrant campus life, it tends to be more commuter-focused than Rollins.

• How do the tuition costs and financial aid options compare between Rollins College and Barry University?

  Both Rollins College and Barry University are private institutions, so tuition costs are significant. Rollins College generally has a higher sticker price. However, both institutions offer various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans. It's essential to compare the net cost (tuition minus financial aid) at each school based on your individual financial situation. Contact the financial aid offices at both colleges to get personalized estimates.

• What are the class sizes and student-to-faculty ratios like at Rollins College and Barry University?

  Rollins College prides itself on small class sizes and a low student-to-faculty ratio, allowing for more personalized attention from professors. Barry University generally has larger class sizes, especially in introductory courses, but still maintains a reasonable student-to-faculty ratio. If you thrive in a smaller, more intimate learning environment, Rollins might be a better fit.

• What are the career services and internship opportunities like at Rollins College and Barry University?

  Both Rollins College and Barry University offer career services to help students with internships, job searching, and career planning. Rollins benefits from its strong alumni network and location in Winter Park, providing access to internships in various industries. Barry University's location in Miami offers diverse internship opportunities, particularly in fields like business, healthcare, and international affairs. The best choice depends on your specific career interests.

• What is the location like for Rollins College and Barry University, and how does it impact student life?

  Rollins College is located in Winter Park, Florida, a charming and affluent suburb of Orlando. This provides a more traditional college town atmosphere with a focus on campus life. Barry University is located in Miami Shores, a suburb of Miami, Florida. This offers students access to the vibrant culture, diverse communities, and career opportunities of a major metropolitan area. Your preference for a college town versus a city environment will influence your choice.

• What are the religious affiliations of Rollins College and Barry University, and how does that affect campus life?

  Rollins College has historical ties to the Congregational Church but is now non-sectarian, welcoming students of all faiths and backgrounds. Barry University is a Catholic university founded by the Adrian Dominican Sisters. While rooted in Catholic values, Barry also welcomes students of all faiths. Barry's Catholic identity is reflected in its mission, service opportunities, and some campus traditions.

• How do the athletic programs compare at Rollins College and Barry University?

  Both Rollins College and Barry University have NCAA Division II athletic programs. Rollins College is known for its strong men's and women's lacrosse, golf, and basketball programs. Barry University has a strong reputation in soccer, tennis, and rowing. If you're a student-athlete, research the specific programs and coaching staff at each school to see which aligns best with your athletic goals.

• What kind of student typically thrives at Rollins College versus Barry University?

  Rollins College is a great fit for students who value a close-knit community, personalized attention from professors, and a strong liberal arts foundation. Students who are independent, self-motivated, and enjoy a traditional college experience tend to thrive at Rollins. Barry University is well-suited for students seeking a diverse learning environment, a wider range of academic programs (including pre-professional tracks), and access to the opportunities of a major city. Students who are career-focused and appreciate a more diverse student body often find Barry to be a good fit.