Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) vs Dartmouth

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the primary academic focuses of Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) and Dartmouth College?

  WPI is renowned for its strong emphasis on STEM fields, particularly engineering, computer science, and robotics. Its project-based curriculum, known as the WPI Plan, encourages hands-on learning and real-world problem-solving. Dartmouth, while also strong in STEM, offers a broader liberal arts education with notable programs in the humanities, social sciences, and arts, in addition to its professional schools like the Tuck School of Business and the Geisel School of Medicine.

• How do the campus cultures differ between WPI and Dartmouth?

  WPI's campus culture is generally described as collaborative, focused, and career-oriented, with a strong emphasis on teamwork and practical application of knowledge. Dartmouth's culture is often characterized as more traditional, with a strong sense of community fostered by its rural setting and emphasis on undergraduate education. Dartmouth also has a more prominent Greek life presence than WPI.

• What is the difference in location and campus environment between WPI and Dartmouth?

  WPI is located in Worcester, Massachusetts, a mid-sized city with access to urban amenities and internship opportunities in the Boston area. Dartmouth is situated in Hanover, New Hampshire, a small, rural town that provides a more secluded and close-knit campus environment. The surrounding natural beauty of the Upper Valley is a significant draw for Dartmouth students.

• How do the undergraduate class sizes and student-faculty ratios compare?

  WPI typically has smaller class sizes and a lower student-faculty ratio than Dartmouth. This allows for more personalized attention from professors and greater opportunities for student-faculty interaction. While Dartmouth also values close student-faculty relationships, its larger undergraduate population can sometimes make access to professors more competitive.

• What are the key differences in the academic calendars of WPI and Dartmouth?

  WPI operates on a unique seven-week term system, allowing students to focus intensely on one or two subjects at a time. This provides opportunities for in-depth study and project work. Dartmouth follows a quarter system (D-Plan), with four ten-week terms per year. This allows students to take a wider variety of courses and potentially study abroad or pursue internships during any term.

• How do the research opportunities differ between WPI and Dartmouth?

  Both WPI and Dartmouth offer significant research opportunities for undergraduates. WPI's project-based curriculum naturally lends itself to research, particularly in engineering and science. Dartmouth's strength in liberal arts and its graduate programs provide research opportunities across a broader range of disciplines, including the humanities and social sciences, in addition to STEM fields.

• What are the strengths of WPI and Dartmouth in terms of career preparation and job placement?

  WPI excels in preparing students for careers in STEM fields, with a strong focus on practical skills and industry connections. Its project-based curriculum and career services provide students with valuable experience and networking opportunities. Dartmouth's strong alumni network and broad liberal arts education prepare students for a wide range of careers, including business, law, medicine, and public service. Dartmouth's career services are also highly regarded.

• How do the costs of attendance and financial aid packages compare between WPI and Dartmouth?

  The cost of attendance at both WPI and Dartmouth is relatively similar. Both institutions offer need-based financial aid packages to eligible students. Dartmouth is known for its generous financial aid policies, including meeting 100% of demonstrated need for all admitted students. WPI also provides substantial financial aid and merit-based scholarships.

• What types of students typically thrive at WPI versus Dartmouth?

  Students who are passionate about STEM, enjoy hands-on learning, and thrive in a collaborative environment often find WPI to be a great fit. Students who are seeking a well-rounded liberal arts education, value a strong sense of community, and are interested in exploring a variety of academic disciplines may be more drawn to Dartmouth.

• Are there any notable differences in the athletic programs offered at WPI and Dartmouth?

  Dartmouth competes in NCAA Division I athletics as part of the Ivy League, offering a wide range of varsity sports. WPI competes in NCAA Division III athletics, which emphasizes the student-athlete experience and does not offer athletic scholarships. While both schools offer a variety of sports and recreational activities, the level of competition and emphasis on athletics differ significantly.