Swarthmore vs NorthWestern

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Swarthmore College and Northwestern University?

  Swarthmore College is a highly selective, private liberal arts college known for its rigorous academics, small class sizes, and strong emphasis on social justice. Northwestern University, on the other hand, is a large, private research university offering a wider range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including professional schools like journalism, engineering, and law. Swarthmore prioritizes a close-knit community and personalized learning, while Northwestern offers more diverse academic and extracurricular opportunities due to its larger size and research focus.

• Which school is more selective: Swarthmore or Northwestern?

  Both Swarthmore and Northwestern are highly selective, but Swarthmore generally has a slightly lower acceptance rate. This means that, statistically, it may be marginally more difficult to gain admission to Swarthmore. However, both institutions seek exceptional students with strong academic records and compelling extracurricular involvement.

• How do the academic environments compare?

  Swarthmore emphasizes a liberal arts education with a focus on critical thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and close interaction with faculty. Northwestern offers a broader range of academic programs, including pre-professional tracks, and emphasizes research opportunities for undergraduates. While both institutions offer challenging academics, Swarthmore's academic environment is more intimate and discussion-based, while Northwestern's is more diverse and research-oriented.

• What is the typical class size at each school?

  Swarthmore is known for its small class sizes, with a student-faculty ratio of around 8:1. This allows for more personalized attention and close interaction with professors. Northwestern's class sizes vary depending on the program, but introductory courses can be larger, especially in popular majors. However, upper-level courses and seminars tend to be smaller, offering more opportunities for student-faculty interaction.

• What are the strengths of each school's academic programs?

  Swarthmore is particularly strong in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Its engineering program is also highly regarded. Northwestern excels in journalism, communication, theater, music, engineering, and business, in addition to strong programs in the liberal arts and sciences. Consider your specific academic interests when evaluating each school's strengths.

• How do the campuses and locations differ?

  Swarthmore is located in a suburban setting in Swarthmore, Pennsylvania, about 11 miles southwest of Philadelphia. The campus is known for its beautiful arboretum. Northwestern's main campus is located in Evanston, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago, on the shores of Lake Michigan. This location provides easy access to the cultural and professional opportunities of a major city. Northwestern also has a campus in downtown Chicago.

• What is student life like at Swarthmore versus Northwestern?

  Swarthmore has a close-knit and socially conscious student body. Student life revolves around academics, extracurricular activities, and a strong sense of community. Northwestern offers a more diverse range of student activities and organizations due to its larger size. Students at Northwestern have access to a vibrant campus life, including Big Ten athletics, performing arts, and numerous clubs and organizations. Both schools offer a supportive and engaging environment, but the scale and scope differ significantly.

• What are the career opportunities available to graduates of each school?

  Graduates of both Swarthmore and Northwestern are highly sought after by employers. Swarthmore graduates often pursue careers in academia, non-profit organizations, government, and the private sector. Northwestern graduates have access to a wider range of career opportunities due to the university's professional schools and location in a major metropolitan area. Northwestern's career services are also extensive, providing students with resources for internships, job placement, and networking.

• How does the cost of attendance compare?

  The cost of attendance at both Swarthmore and Northwestern is high and comparable. However, both institutions offer generous financial aid packages to students with demonstrated need. It's important to research the specific financial aid policies of each school and determine which institution offers the most favorable package for your individual circumstances. Use the Net Price Calculators on each school's website to get an estimate of your potential cost.

• Which school is better for students interested in research?

  While both schools offer research opportunities, Northwestern University, as a major research university, generally provides more extensive and diverse research opportunities for undergraduates. Northwestern has numerous research centers and institutes, and students can participate in research projects across a wide range of disciplines. Swarthmore also offers research opportunities, particularly in the sciences, and students often work closely with faculty on research projects. However, the scale and scope of research activities are generally larger at Northwestern.