Siena College vs Marist

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Siena College and Marist College?

  Siena College, rooted in Franciscan values, emphasizes a strong liberal arts foundation with a focus on community engagement and ethical leadership. Marist College, while also offering a liberal arts core, is known for its career-oriented programs, particularly in communications, business, and technology, and its strong connection to the Hudson River Valley.

• How do the academic programs at Siena and Marist compare?

  Siena excels in programs like business, education, and health professions, with a strong emphasis on experiential learning and small class sizes. Marist is recognized for its programs in communications, fashion merchandising, and computer science, often incorporating cutting-edge technology and industry partnerships into the curriculum.

• What is the campus environment like at each college?

  Siena's campus has a close-knit, community-focused atmosphere, fostering strong relationships between students and faculty. Marist's campus, located on the Hudson River, offers a more vibrant and bustling environment with a wider range of extracurricular activities and a stronger emphasis on student life.

• How do the locations of Siena and Marist impact the student experience?

  Siena College is located in Loudonville, NY, a suburb of Albany, offering access to state government and a growing tech sector. Marist College, situated in Poughkeepsie, NY, provides a beautiful riverfront setting and access to the cultural and professional opportunities of the Hudson Valley, with convenient train access to New York City.

• What are the typical class sizes and student-to-faculty ratios at Siena and Marist?

  Siena College prides itself on its small class sizes, typically averaging around 20 students, and a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1, fostering personalized attention. Marist College also maintains relatively small class sizes, averaging around 22 students, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1.

• How do Siena and Marist approach career services and internship opportunities?

  Siena integrates career development into the curriculum, offering extensive internship opportunities and career counseling services from freshman year. Marist has a strong career services center with connections to major companies, particularly in the New York City area, and emphasizes experiential learning through internships and co-ops.

• What is the cost of attendance at Siena College versus Marist College?

  The cost of attendance can vary depending on financial aid and scholarships. Generally, Marist College tends to have a slightly higher tuition cost than Siena College. It's best to check each college's website for the most up-to-date tuition and fee information and to explore available financial aid options.

• What types of students typically thrive at Siena College and Marist College?

  Siena College is a great fit for students who value a close-knit community, a strong liberal arts foundation, and a commitment to service. Marist College appeals to students seeking a more career-focused education, a vibrant campus life, and access to opportunities in the Hudson Valley and New York City.

• What are the athletic programs like at Siena and Marist?

  Both Siena and Marist are NCAA Division I schools. Siena is known for its basketball program, while Marist has strong programs in rowing and basketball. Both offer a variety of varsity and intramural sports.

• What are the religious affiliations of Siena and Marist?

  Siena College is a Franciscan college, emphasizing values of service, community, and ethical leadership. Marist College is named after the Marist Brothers, a Catholic religious order, and while it maintains its Catholic heritage, it welcomes students of all faiths.