The New School vs Bard College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between The New School and Bard College?

  The New School, located in the heart of New York City, offers a highly urban and diverse environment with a strong focus on design, social sciences, and performing arts. Bard College, situated in Annandale-on-Hudson, New York, provides a more intimate, residential liberal arts experience with a renowned focus on humanities and the arts. The New School emphasizes practical application and professional development, while Bard prioritizes critical thinking and intellectual exploration within a close-knit community.

• Which college is better for students interested in design and fashion?

  The New School, particularly Parsons School of Design, is widely recognized as a leading institution for design and fashion. It offers a comprehensive range of programs, industry connections, and resources specifically tailored to these fields. While Bard offers art programs, The New School provides a more specialized and career-focused approach to design and fashion education.

• How do the campus environments compare?

  The New School is integrated into the vibrant landscape of New York City, with its various schools and buildings spread throughout Greenwich Village. This offers students constant access to cultural events, internships, and a dynamic urban lifestyle. Bard College, in contrast, boasts a traditional, self-contained campus in a rural setting. This provides a more immersive and focused academic environment, fostering a strong sense of community among students.

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

  The New School excels in design, social sciences (particularly sociology and urban studies), performing arts, and media studies. Its programs often incorporate experiential learning and real-world projects. Bard College is renowned for its humanities programs, including literature, philosophy, and history, as well as its strong arts programs and its innovative Citizen Science program. Bard emphasizes critical thinking, writing, and interdisciplinary approaches to learning.

• How do the class sizes and faculty interaction compare?

  Bard College generally has smaller class sizes than The New School, fostering closer relationships between students and faculty. Bard emphasizes a seminar-style learning environment, encouraging active participation and in-depth discussions. While The New School also offers smaller classes, particularly in specialized programs, some introductory courses may be larger due to its urban setting and diverse student body. Both institutions value faculty mentorship, but the smaller scale of Bard often allows for more personalized attention.

• What is the cost of attendance and financial aid like at each college?

  Both The New School and Bard College are relatively expensive institutions. However, both offer financial aid packages to eligible students. It's crucial to compare the net cost (cost after financial aid) at each school based on your individual financial circumstances. Visit their respective financial aid websites and use their net price calculators to get an estimate of your potential costs.

• Which college is better for students who want to be actively involved in social and political issues?

  Both The New School and Bard College attract students who are passionate about social and political issues. The New School's location in New York City provides direct access to activism and advocacy opportunities. Bard College has a strong history of social engagement and offers programs like the Bard Prison Initiative, demonstrating its commitment to social justice. The 'better' choice depends on the specific issues you're interested in and the type of engagement you prefer – urban activism versus community-based initiatives.

• How do the career services and internship opportunities compare?

  The New School benefits from its location in New York City, offering students unparalleled access to internships and career opportunities across various industries, particularly in design, media, and the arts. Bard College leverages its alumni network and partnerships to provide internship opportunities, though they may be more focused on non-profit organizations, arts institutions, and research positions. Both colleges offer career counseling and resources to help students prepare for their careers.

• What are the housing options like at each college?

  The New School offers a variety of residence halls in Greenwich Village, providing students with an urban living experience. Housing options range from traditional dorms to apartment-style living. Bard College provides primarily on-campus housing, fostering a residential college experience. Students typically live in dormitories throughout their time at Bard, contributing to the strong sense of community.

• Which college is a better fit for students seeking a traditional college experience?

  Bard College offers a more traditional, residential college experience with a focus on liberal arts education and a close-knit campus community. The New School provides a more unconventional and urban experience, emphasizing practical application and professional development within the context of New York City. If you're looking for a classic college campus and a strong sense of community, Bard might be a better fit. If you prefer an urban environment and a focus on career preparation, The New School could be a better choice.