Saint Anselm College vs Merrimack

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Saint Anselm College and Merrimack College?

  Saint Anselm College is a private, Benedictine, liberal arts college with a strong emphasis on its core curriculum and a residential campus experience. Merrimack College, also private, has a more career-focused approach, offering a wider range of professional programs alongside its liberal arts offerings. Merrimack has seen significant growth in recent years, expanding its graduate programs and campus facilities, while Saint Anselm maintains a more traditional, smaller college atmosphere.

• How do the academic programs compare between Saint Anselm and Merrimack?

  Saint Anselm excels in traditional liberal arts disciplines like political science, history, English, and nursing. Merrimack offers a broader range of programs, including engineering, business, health sciences, and education, alongside its liberal arts offerings. If you're interested in a specific professional field, Merrimack might be a better fit. If you prefer a classic liberal arts education, Saint Anselm is a strong choice.

• What is the campus environment like at each college?

  Saint Anselm has a more traditional, close-knit campus community rooted in its Benedictine values. It's known for its strong sense of community and residential life. Merrimack's campus is more dynamic and rapidly evolving, reflecting its growth and expansion. It offers a more diverse range of activities and a more modern feel, with newer facilities and a growing student body.

• How do the costs of attending Saint Anselm and Merrimack compare?

  Both Saint Anselm and Merrimack are private institutions, so tuition costs are comparable. However, the actual cost can vary significantly based on financial aid and scholarships. It's best to check each college's website for the most up-to-date tuition and fee information and to use their net price calculators to estimate your individual cost of attendance.

• What are the athletic programs like at Saint Anselm and Merrimack?

  Saint Anselm competes in NCAA Division II, primarily in the Northeast-10 Conference. They offer a variety of varsity sports, with a strong emphasis on basketball, hockey, and lacrosse. Merrimack College competes in NCAA Division I, primarily in the Northeast Conference. Merrimack's athletic program has grown significantly in recent years, offering a wider range of Division I sports, including hockey, basketball, and football. If you're looking for a Division I athletic experience, Merrimack is the clear choice.

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

  Both Saint Anselm and Merrimack offer career services to help students with internships, job searching, and career planning. Merrimack's career services are particularly strong in connecting students with opportunities in professional fields like engineering, business, and healthcare, reflecting its career-focused approach. Saint Anselm's career services are well-regarded for helping students explore various career paths within the liberal arts and connecting them with alumni networks.

• What is the location like for each college?

  Saint Anselm College is located in Manchester, New Hampshire, the state's largest city. This provides access to urban amenities while maintaining a more secluded campus feel. Merrimack College is located in North Andover, Massachusetts, a suburban town north of Boston. This location offers convenient access to Boston's cultural and professional opportunities, as well as the surrounding Merrimack Valley region.

• What is the student-faculty ratio like at each college?

  Saint Anselm typically has a lower student-faculty ratio than Merrimack, which allows for more personalized attention and smaller class sizes. This is a hallmark of Saint Anselm's commitment to a close-knit learning environment. While Merrimack's student-faculty ratio may be slightly higher, they still prioritize student engagement and offer various support services to ensure student success.

• What kind of student typically thrives at Saint Anselm versus Merrimack?

  A student who thrives at Saint Anselm is often someone who values a strong sense of community, a traditional liberal arts education, and a close-knit campus environment. They are often drawn to the Benedictine values and the emphasis on intellectual exploration. A student who thrives at Merrimack is often someone who is career-focused, enjoys a dynamic and growing campus environment, and is looking for a wider range of academic and extracurricular opportunities. They are often drawn to the college's strong professional programs and its proximity to Boston.

• How does the religious affiliation impact the student experience at Saint Anselm?

  Saint Anselm College is a Benedictine institution, and its Catholic identity is woven into the fabric of the college. While students of all faiths are welcome, the Benedictine values of community, hospitality, and service are emphasized. There are opportunities for religious engagement, but participation is not mandatory. The Benedictine tradition contributes to a strong sense of community and ethical leadership.