The University of the South vs Hillsdale College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the primary differences in academic focus between The University of the South (Sewanee) and Hillsdale College?

  The University of the South, often called Sewanee, emphasizes a broad liberal arts education with a strong focus on the humanities and social sciences. While Hillsdale College also offers a liberal arts curriculum, it places a particular emphasis on the study of the U.S. Constitution, American history, and Western civilization, often from a conservative perspective. Sewanee is affiliated with the Episcopal Church, influencing its campus culture, while Hillsdale maintains a non-sectarian Christian identity.

• How do the campus cultures differ between Sewanee and Hillsdale?

  Sewanee is known for its close-knit community, Southern traditions, and a more relaxed atmosphere. Its location in rural Tennessee contributes to a strong sense of place and a focus on outdoor activities. Hillsdale College, located in Michigan, fosters a more politically and socially conservative environment, with a strong emphasis on intellectual debate and traditional values. While both offer a strong sense of community, the values and traditions emphasized differ significantly.

• What are the differences in political and social environments at Sewanee and Hillsdale?

  Sewanee generally has a more moderate to liberal political environment, reflecting the broader trends in higher education. Hillsdale College, on the other hand, is known for its conservative political and social environment. This difference is reflected in the speakers invited to campus, the student organizations available, and the general discourse within the college community. Students seeking a more conservative environment may find Hillsdale a better fit, while those seeking a more moderate to liberal environment may prefer Sewanee.

• How do the student bodies compare in terms of size and diversity?

  Sewanee has a slightly larger undergraduate student body than Hillsdale. While both institutions attract students from across the country, Sewanee tends to draw a larger proportion of students from the Southeast. In terms of diversity, Sewanee has been actively working to increase the representation of underrepresented groups on campus. Hillsdale, while committed to equal opportunity, may have a less diverse student body in terms of race and ethnicity compared to Sewanee.

• What are the key differences in financial aid and tuition policies?

  Both Sewanee and Hillsdale offer financial aid packages to students based on need and merit. However, Hillsdale College distinguishes itself by its policy of not accepting federal funding, which allows it to maintain its independence and avoid certain federal regulations. This also means that Hillsdale does not participate in federal student loan programs. Sewanee, as a more traditional institution, does accept federal funding and participates in federal student loan programs. Prospective students should carefully compare the financial aid packages offered by each institution and consider the implications of Hillsdale's unique funding model.

• How do the career services and alumni networks compare between the two colleges?

  Both Sewanee and Hillsdale offer career services to help students with internships, job placement, and graduate school applications. Sewanee's alumni network is particularly strong in the South, while Hillsdale's alumni network is well-connected in conservative political and intellectual circles. The strength of each network may be more beneficial depending on a student's career aspirations and geographic preferences.

• What are the similarities between Sewanee and Hillsdale?

  Despite their differences, both Sewanee and Hillsdale share some important similarities. Both are small, residential liberal arts colleges that emphasize close interaction between students and faculty. They both offer a challenging academic environment and aim to provide students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in their chosen fields. Both institutions also foster a strong sense of community and encourage student involvement in extracurricular activities.

• How does the location of each college impact the student experience?

  Sewanee is located in a rural setting atop the Cumberland Plateau in Tennessee, offering a beautiful natural environment and a strong sense of isolation. This location fosters a close-knit campus community and provides opportunities for outdoor activities. Hillsdale College is located in the town of Hillsdale, Michigan, which is a more traditional college town. While not as isolated as Sewanee, Hillsdale still offers a strong sense of community and access to local amenities. The choice between the two depends on whether a student prefers a more rural or a more town-centered environment.

• What types of students thrive at Sewanee versus Hillsdale?

  Sewanee tends to attract students who appreciate a strong sense of community, Southern traditions, and a more relaxed atmosphere. Students who enjoy outdoor activities and a close-knit campus environment often thrive at Sewanee. Hillsdale College, on the other hand, tends to attract students who are intellectually curious, politically conservative, and value traditional American values. Students who enjoy intellectual debate and a more structured environment often thrive at Hillsdale.

• What are the notable academic programs at each institution?

  Sewanee is known for its strong programs in English, history, and environmental studies, as well as its pre-health programs. Hillsdale College is particularly well-regarded for its programs in political science, history, and economics, with a strong emphasis on constitutional studies and American history. While both offer a range of liberal arts disciplines, their areas of particular strength reflect their distinct academic focuses.