Wofford College vs Presbyterian College

Wofford College and Presbyterian College, both esteemed liberal arts institutions in South Carolina, offer distinct educational experiences. Wofford, with an acceptance rate of 65%, boasts a diverse student body, with 48% male and 52% female students. Presbyterian College, with a slightly lower acceptance rate of 60%, has a more balanced gender ratio, with 49% male and 51% female students. While Wofford's popular majors include Business Administration, Biology, and Psychology, Presbyterian College's strengths lie in Business Administration, Biology, and Nursing. Both colleges boast impressive graduation rates, with Wofford at 84% and Presbyterian College at 79%. Explore the detailed comparison table below to discover more key differences and find the college that best aligns with your academic aspirations and personal preferences.
Presbyterian College logo

Presbyterian College

Wofford College logo

Wofford College

Overview

Location Clinton, South Carolina Spartanburg, South Carolina
Campus setting Town: Distant City: Small
College type 4 year 4 year
Control/business model Private (Non Profit) Private (Non Profit)
Calendar system Semester 4-1-4
Degrees offered Undergraduate and Graduate Undergraduate
Students retention rate 76.0% 88.0%
Common app member Yes Yes
Religious affiliation Presbyterian Methodism

Admission

Acceptance rate 71.0% 52.4%
Application fees $179
SAT range 1010 - 1220 1185 - 1330
ACT range 19 - 26 27 - 32
Students submitting SAT score 39.0% 29.0%
Students submitting ACT score 27.0% 28.0%
Total number of applicants 1,964 4,351
Total number of admissions given out 1,394 2,282
Admitted students who chose to enroll 226 459
Yield rate 16.2% 20.1%
Test scores (SAT/ACT) N/A N/A
High school GPA Required Required
Recommendation letters Not required Required
High school transcript Not required Not required
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL) Not required Required

Tuition and Fees

Sticker price $55,750 $62,196
Average net price $21,170 $30,608
Tuition $38,220 $47,845
Room & board
Room/dormitory: $5,400

Meal plan: $5,700
Room/dormitory: $7,930

Meal plan: $6,415
Available payment plans
  • Tuition payment plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

95.0%
Average amount $33,202
97.0%
Average amount $33,575
Students receiving federal student loan 86.0%
Average amount $3,939
44.0%
Average amount $5,306
Students taking out private loans 8.0%
Average amount $12,162
7.0%
Average amount $19,842

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 991
Men 48.5% Women 51.5%
1,765
Men 48.3% Women 51.7%
Graduate students 240
Men 25.8% Women 74.2%
N/A
Racial/ethnic diversity
Low
Very Low
Out-of-state students 42.2% 41.0%
International students 2.7% 1.7%
Campus local/setting Town: Distant City: Small
Dormitory capacity 1,122 1,648
First year students are required to live on campus? No No
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from South Carolina Georgia Florida North Carolina Virginia South Carolina North Carolina Georgia Florida Tennessee

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Health Professions
  • Biological and Biomedical Sciences
  • Business
  • Psychology
  • Social Sciences
  • Physical Science
  • Foreign Languages and Literatures
  • Social Sciences
  • Business
  • Visual & Performing Arts
Students to faculty ratio 11:1 11:1
Institutional accreditation Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Outcome

Graduation rate 59.2% 80.3%
Dropout rate 8.4% 2.0%
Transferred out 31.3% 17.7%
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $100,950
  • Year 2: $118,465
  • Year 3: $119,548
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $41,314
  • Year 2: $42,363
  • Year 3: $50,307
Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $22,824
  • Year 3: $39,461
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $32,474
  • Year 2: $33,518
  • Year 3: N/A
English Language and Literature, General (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $25,927
  • Year 2: $25,194
  • Year 3: N/A
Biology, General (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $16,663
  • Year 3: N/A
Mathematics (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $36,312
  • Year 3: N/A
Political Science and Government (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $21,479
  • Year 2: $24,035
  • Year 3: N/A
History (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $20,696
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: N/A
Finance and Financial Management Services (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $48,463
  • Year 2: $47,729
  • Year 3: $59,172
Business/Managerial Economics (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $43,696
  • Year 2: $41,565
  • Year 3: $54,511
English Language and Literature, General (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $27,266
  • Year 2: $38,289
  • Year 3: $49,861
Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $32,197
  • Year 2: $34,526
  • Year 3: $43,254
Biology, General (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $20,359
  • Year 2: $27,488
  • Year 3: $36,690
Computer Science (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $42,682
  • Year 3: N/A
Chemistry (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $34,920
  • Year 2: $40,485
  • Year 3: N/A
Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $27,373
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: N/A
Economics (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $38,472
  • Year 3: N/A
Political Science and Government (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $28,241
  • Year 2: $20,140
  • Year 3: N/A

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are the primary academic differences between Wofford College and Presbyterian College?

    Wofford College and Presbyterian College both offer strong liberal arts educations, but they have distinct focuses. Wofford is known for its emphasis on pre-professional programs, particularly in business and pre-med, and boasts a strong alumni network. Presbyterian College emphasizes a close-knit community and a commitment to service, with notable programs in pharmacy and education. Wofford generally has a slightly wider range of majors, while Presbyterian College may offer more specialized programs in certain areas.

  • How do the campus environments and student life compare at Wofford and Presbyterian College?

    Both colleges offer a traditional, residential college experience. Wofford College is located in Spartanburg, South Carolina, and has a more urban-adjacent feel, with easy access to city amenities. Presbyterian College, situated in Clinton, South Carolina, provides a more rural and intimate campus environment. Student life at both institutions is active, with numerous clubs, organizations, and Division I athletics. Presbyterian College often emphasizes a stronger sense of community due to its smaller size.

  • What is the cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, and room and board, at Wofford and Presbyterian College?

    The cost of attendance is a significant factor. While both are private institutions, tuition and fees can vary. It's best to consult the official websites of Wofford College and Presbyterian College for the most up-to-date information on tuition, fees, and room and board costs. Financial aid packages, including scholarships and grants, are available at both institutions to help offset these costs. Be sure to compare the net cost after financial aid when making your decision.

  • How do the admission requirements and selectivity differ between Wofford and Presbyterian College?

    Both colleges are selective, but their admission profiles may vary slightly. Wofford College generally has a slightly higher average SAT/ACT score and a more competitive applicant pool. Presbyterian College may have a slightly higher acceptance rate. Admission requirements typically include a high school transcript, standardized test scores (though test-optional policies are common), letters of recommendation, and an essay. It's crucial to review the specific requirements for each college on their respective websites.

  • What are the athletic programs like at Wofford and Presbyterian College?

    Both Wofford College and Presbyterian College are members of NCAA Division I. Wofford is part of the Southern Conference, known for its strong football and basketball programs. Presbyterian College also competes in Division I, with a variety of sports. Both schools offer opportunities for student-athletes to compete at a high level. The specific sports offered and the level of competitiveness may vary, so research the teams that interest you most.

  • What are the career services and alumni networks like at Wofford and Presbyterian College?

    Both colleges provide career services to assist students with internships, job searches, and career planning. Wofford College often benefits from a particularly strong and active alumni network, especially in the Southeast, which can provide valuable networking opportunities. Presbyterian College also has a supportive alumni network, particularly for students interested in careers in healthcare and education, given the strength of their programs in those areas. Both schools are committed to helping their graduates succeed.

  • How does the location of each college impact the student experience?

    Wofford College's location in Spartanburg, South Carolina, offers students access to a city environment with cultural events, dining, and entertainment options. The campus is also close to larger cities like Greenville. Presbyterian College's location in Clinton, South Carolina, provides a more close-knit, small-town atmosphere. Students at Presbyterian College often enjoy a strong sense of community and a focus on campus-based activities. The best location depends on your personal preferences for urban versus rural settings.

  • What are the religious affiliations of Wofford and Presbyterian College?

    Wofford College was founded by the Methodist Church, and while it maintains a historical connection, it is now a non-denominational institution. Presbyterian College was founded by the Presbyterian Church and retains a strong connection to its Presbyterian heritage. Both colleges welcome students of all faiths and backgrounds, but the historical context may influence the campus culture and values.

  • Which college is better for a student interested in pre-med or pre-health programs?

    Both Wofford College and Presbyterian College offer strong pre-med and pre-health programs. Wofford has a well-established pre-med track with a strong track record of placing students in medical schools. Presbyterian College is particularly known for its pharmacy program, which is a direct entry program. The best choice depends on your specific interests and career goals within the healthcare field. Consider the specific program offerings, faculty expertise, and research opportunities at each institution.

  • How do the campus cultures differ at Wofford and Presbyterian College?

    Wofford College often fosters a culture that is focused on academic achievement, leadership development, and pre-professional preparation. Presbyterian College emphasizes a strong sense of community, service, and ethical leadership. Both colleges value a supportive and inclusive environment, but the specific emphasis may vary. Visiting both campuses and talking to current students is the best way to get a feel for the campus culture.

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