Washington and Lee vs Davidson College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the primary academic differences between Washington and Lee (W&L) and Davidson College?

  Washington and Lee University offers a distinctive undergraduate experience rooted in the liberal arts, with a unique emphasis on its undergraduate business program through the Williams School of Commerce, Economics, and Politics. Davidson College, also a highly regarded liberal arts institution, focuses solely on undergraduate education and emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and close faculty-student interaction across all departments. While both offer strong humanities and sciences, W&L's business school provides a specific advantage for students interested in pursuing business-related fields directly after graduation.

• How do the campus cultures compare at Washington and Lee and Davidson?

  Washington and Lee is known for its strong sense of tradition, including its honor system and student-run activities. The campus culture emphasizes civility and leadership development. Davidson College also boasts a strong honor code and a close-knit community, but it tends to be perceived as more progressive and focused on social justice issues. Both institutions foster a supportive environment, but W&L's traditions are more pronounced, while Davidson's student body is often seen as more politically active.

• What are the differences in location and surrounding environment between the two colleges?

  Washington and Lee University is located in Lexington, Virginia, a small, historic town in the Shenandoah Valley. The setting is more rural and offers access to outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking. Davidson College is situated in Davidson, North Carolina, a charming college town near Charlotte. Davidson's location provides easier access to a larger metropolitan area with more diverse cultural and professional opportunities compared to Lexington.

• How do the student bodies differ in terms of size and demographics?

  Davidson College is slightly smaller than Washington and Lee University. Both institutions attract academically talented students from across the country and internationally. While both strive for diversity, Davidson is often perceived as having a slightly more diverse student body in terms of socioeconomic background and ethnicity. However, both institutions are committed to creating inclusive environments for all students.

• What are the key differences in financial aid and tuition costs between Washington and Lee and Davidson?

  Both Washington and Lee and Davidson are committed to meeting the demonstrated financial need of their students. While tuition costs are comparable, the specific financial aid packages offered can vary significantly based on individual circumstances. It's essential to compare the net cost (tuition minus financial aid) at each institution based on your family's financial situation. Both schools offer merit-based scholarships in addition to need-based aid.

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

  Both Washington and Lee and Davidson offer robust career services, including internship support, resume workshops, and networking opportunities. W&L's alumni network is particularly strong in the fields of law, business, and journalism, while Davidson's alumni network is well-connected across various sectors, including finance, consulting, and non-profit organizations. Both alumni networks are highly engaged and supportive of current students and recent graduates.

• What are the athletic programs like at Washington and Lee and Davidson?

  Washington and Lee University competes in NCAA Division III, emphasizing a balance between academics and athletics. They offer a wide range of varsity sports and a strong intramural program. Davidson College competes in NCAA Division I for most sports, offering a more competitive athletic environment. Davidson is particularly known for its basketball program. Both institutions provide opportunities for students to participate in athletics at various levels.

• What are the most popular majors at each institution?

  At Washington and Lee, popular majors include Business Administration, Economics, Politics, English, and History. At Davidson College, popular majors include Economics, Political Science, Biology, English, and Psychology. Both institutions offer a wide range of majors across the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.

• How do the study abroad programs compare?

  Both Washington and Lee and Davidson offer extensive study abroad programs, providing students with opportunities to study in various countries around the world. The specific programs available may differ, but both institutions emphasize the importance of global engagement and offer support for students seeking international experiences. Students should research the specific programs offered at each institution to find the best fit for their academic and personal interests.

• What are some of the unique academic programs or opportunities offered at each college?

  Washington and Lee offers a unique Spring Term during which students can take intensive courses, travel abroad, or pursue independent research projects. The Williams School of Commerce, Economics, and Politics provides specialized business-related courses and opportunities. Davidson College emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and offers programs like the Center for Interdisciplinary Studies. Davidson also has a strong focus on undergraduate research opportunities across all disciplines.