Virginia Wesleyan University (VWU) vs Brown University

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the overall academic environment like at Virginia Wesleyan University compared to Brown University?

  Virginia Wesleyan University offers a more intimate and personalized academic experience. With a smaller student body, classes tend to be smaller, fostering closer relationships with professors and more individualized attention. Brown University, being a larger and more research-focused institution, provides a broader range of academic programs and resources, including extensive research opportunities and a more diverse student body. Brown's Open Curriculum allows students significant freedom in designing their course of study, while Virginia Wesleyan offers a more structured curriculum with a focus on liberal arts.

• How do the admission requirements differ between Virginia Wesleyan and Brown?

  Brown University has significantly more selective admission standards than Virginia Wesleyan University. Brown typically requires higher standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), a more rigorous high school curriculum, and a more competitive application process overall. Virginia Wesleyan's admission requirements are less stringent, focusing more on a holistic review of the applicant, including their academic record, extracurricular activities, and personal essays. Brown's acceptance rate is considerably lower than Virginia Wesleyan's.

• What are the major differences in campus life and student activities?

  Campus life at Virginia Wesleyan is characterized by a close-knit community feel, with a strong emphasis on student involvement in clubs, organizations, and athletics. The smaller size allows for easier participation and a greater sense of belonging. Brown University offers a much wider array of student activities, clubs, and organizations due to its larger student body. Brown also has a vibrant social scene, with a diverse range of events and opportunities for students to engage with each other and the surrounding city of Providence, Rhode Island. Both universities offer Division III athletics, but Brown also competes at the Division I level.

• How does the cost of attendance compare between the two universities?

  The cost of attendance at Brown University is generally higher than at Virginia Wesleyan University, including tuition, fees, room, and board. Brown's higher cost reflects its status as a private, highly selective university with extensive resources. Virginia Wesleyan, while still a private institution, typically has a lower overall cost, making it potentially more accessible for students from a wider range of financial backgrounds. Financial aid packages and scholarships are available at both institutions, but the amount and type of aid may vary.

• What are the career services and post-graduate opportunities like at each university?

  Brown University's career services are extensive, providing students with access to a vast alumni network, internship opportunities, and career counseling resources. Brown's reputation and location in a major metropolitan area also provide students with access to a wide range of career opportunities. Virginia Wesleyan University offers career services tailored to its students, including career counseling, resume workshops, and internship assistance. While the scope of opportunities may be different, both universities aim to prepare students for successful careers after graduation. Brown graduates often pursue advanced degrees or high-profile careers, while Virginia Wesleyan graduates find success in a variety of fields.

• How does the location and surrounding environment influence the student experience?

  Virginia Wesleyan University is located in Virginia Beach, Virginia, offering students access to beaches, outdoor recreation, and a more relaxed atmosphere. The campus is suburban, providing a safe and comfortable environment. Brown University is situated in Providence, Rhode Island, a vibrant city with a rich history, diverse culture, and a thriving arts scene. Students at Brown have access to a wider range of cultural events, dining options, and urban experiences. The location of each university significantly shapes the social and extracurricular opportunities available to students.

• What are the strengths of the academic programs at each university?

  Brown University is renowned for its Open Curriculum, allowing students to design their own academic paths. It excels in areas like research, humanities, and pre-professional programs. Virginia Wesleyan University is strong in liberal arts, offering a well-rounded education with a focus on personalized learning and close faculty-student interaction. It has notable programs in areas like marine science and education, leveraging its coastal location.

• How does the faculty-student ratio compare at Virginia Wesleyan and Brown?

  Virginia Wesleyan University generally has a lower faculty-student ratio than Brown University. This means that students at Virginia Wesleyan typically have more opportunities for direct interaction with professors, smaller class sizes, and more individualized attention. Brown University, while still providing a good faculty-student ratio, has a larger student body, which can result in slightly larger class sizes, particularly in introductory courses. However, Brown also offers extensive research opportunities where students work closely with faculty.