When evaluating schools for higher education, many factors come into play. In this comparison, we will explore two prestigious institutions: Brown University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). By analyzing various aspects such as costs, admissions, academics, and outcomes, we hope to provide a comprehensive overview of each school to help students make an informed decision.
Brown Overview
Brown University, founded in 1764, is an Ivy League institution located in Providence, Rhode Island. Known for its strong liberal arts curriculum, Brown offers a wide range of programs and a unique open curriculum that allows students to explore their interests without being restricted by core requirements. Its beautiful campus, diverse student body, and emphasis on undergraduate research are among Brown’s most notable features.
Brown Costs & Tuition
For the 2021-2022 academic year, Brown’s tuition is $62,950, with a total cost of attendance (including room, board, and fees) estimated at $81,178. Financial aid is available to students, and Brown guarantees to meet 100% of demonstrated financial need. Approximately 47% of students receive financial aid, with an average award of $55,000.
Brown Admissions
Brown University is highly selective, with an 8.6% acceptance rate for the class of 2025. The middle 50% SAT scores for admitted students range from 1420-1570, while ACT scores range from 33-36. Brown values a diverse range of experiences and backgrounds, and its holistic admissions process considers not only academic achievement but also extracurricular involvement and personal qualities.
Brown Degrees Offered
Brown offers over 80 undergraduate concentrations, including popular majors such as biology, economics, computer science, and engineering. Graduate programs are also available in various fields, including medicine and public health through Brown’s Warren Alpert Medical School.
Brown Academics
Renowned for its open curriculum, Brown allows students to design their education by choosing from a wide array of courses without core requirements. Brown emphasizes student-centered learning, fostering a collaborative and supportive academic environment. The student-faculty ratio is 6:1, with 70% of classes having fewer than 20 students.
Brown Diversity
Brown is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. In Fall 2021, 49% of domestic students were students of color, while 17% of the student body were international students. The university also offers a variety of resources and initiatives to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Brown Students
Brown has a total undergraduate enrollment of 7,160, with students representing all 50 states and over 100 countries. The campus is known for its vibrant and collaborative atmosphere, with numerous clubs, activities, and events for students to engage in. Brown’s residential system promotes a strong sense of community and belonging.
Brown Campus
Brown’s picturesque campus spans over 143 acres, with a mix of historical and modern architecture. The campus is located within walking distance of Providence’s vibrant downtown, offering students access to cultural events, shopping, and dining. Brown’s facilities include state-of-the-art research centers, libraries, and recreational spaces.
Brown Alumni
Brown boasts an impressive network of over 100,000 alumni who have made significant contributions to various fields, including government, entertainment, science, and business. Notable alumni include John F. Kennedy Jr., Emma Watson, and Janet Yellen.
Brown Rankings
Brown is consistently ranked amongst the top universities in the U.S. and worldwide. In the 2022 U.S. News & World Report rankings, Brown was ranked #14 among National Universities and #1 in Best Undergraduate Teaching.
Brown Outcomes
Brown has a strong track record of preparing students for successful careers and graduate studies. The six-year graduation rate is 96%, and 94% of graduates are employed or pursuing further education within six months of graduation. Brown alumni have a median starting salary of $66,500.
MIT Overview
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is a world-renowned research institution located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Founded in 1861, MIT is known for its cutting-edge research and education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, as well as its strong programs in economics, architecture, and management. MIT’s mission is to advance knowledge and educate students to serve the nation and the world.
MIT Costs & Tuition
For the 2021-2022 academic year, MIT’s tuition is $55,510, with a total cost of attendance (including room, board, and fees) estimated at $77,020. MIT is committed to providing financial aid to students, with 58% of undergraduates receiving need-based aid and 76% receiving some form of aid. The average need-based aid award is $53,450.
MIT Admissions
MIT is extremely selective, with an acceptance rate of 4% for the class of 2025. The middle 50% SAT scores for admitted students range from 1510-1580, while ACT scores range from 34-36. MIT seeks students who demonstrate exceptional academic ability, creativity, and potential for significant contributions to their chosen fields.
MIT Degrees Offered
MIT offers over 50 undergraduate majors across five schools: the School of Engineering, the School of Science, the School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences, the Sloan School of Management, and the School of Architecture and Planning. Additionally, MIT is home to numerous graduate programs and professional education opportunities.
MIT Academics
MIT’s curriculum is rigorous, emphasizing a strong foundation in STEM subjects and problem-solving skills. The student-faculty ratio is 3:1, with 67% of classes having fewer than 20 students. Undergraduates are encouraged to participate in research, with the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) providing hands-on experience in labs and research groups.
MIT Diversity
MIT values diversity, with 48% of domestic students identifying as students of color and 13% of the student body being international students in Fall 2021. MIT actively supports diversity, equity, and inclusion through various initiatives, resources, and offices.
MIT Students
MIT has a total undergraduate enrollment of 4,603, with students from all 50 states and over 120 countries. Students are known for their collaborative and innovative spirit, participating in a wide range of clubs, organizations, and events. MIT’s residential system fosters a tight-knit community, with each dormitory offering a unique culture and atmosphere.
MIT Campus
Located along the Charles River, MIT’s 166-acre campus features a mix of historic and modern architecture. The campus is situated in the vibrant Kendall Square area, with quick access to downtown Boston and Cambridge. MIT’s facilities include advanced research labs, libraries, and recreational spaces.
MIT Alumni
MIT’s alumni network consists of over 139,000 individuals who have made significant contributions in fields such as technology, business, science, and public service. Notable alumni include Buzz Aldrin, Ben Bernanke, and Kofi Annan.
MIT Rankings
MIT is consistently ranked as one of the top universities in the U.S. and worldwide. In the 2022 U.S. News & World Report rankings, MIT was ranked #4 among National Universities and #2 in Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs.
MIT Outcome
MIT has a strong reputation for producing successful graduates, with a six-year graduation rate of 94%. Within six months of graduation, 92% of graduates are employed or pursuing further education. MIT alumni have a median starting salary of $84,300.
Brown vs MIT Cost Comparison
When comparing the costs of attending Brown and MIT, the total cost of attendance at Brown is slightly higher at $81,178 compared to MIT’s $77,020. However, both schools offer substantial financial aid, with Brown meeting 100% of demonstrated need and MIT providing an average need-based aid award of $53,450. Ultimately, the actual cost for individual students will depend on their financial aid packages.
Brown vs MIT Admissions Difficulty
Both Brown and MIT are highly selective institutions, with Brown’s acceptance rate at 8.6% and MIT’s at 4%. While both schools have rigorous admissions standards and seek students with strong academic backgrounds, MIT’s lower acceptance rate indicates a higher level of competition. Additionally, MIT’s focus on STEM fields may lead to a different applicant pool compared to Brown’s more liberal arts-oriented approach.
Brown vs MIT Academic Difficulty
Brown and MIT both offer challenging academic experiences, but their approaches differ significantly. Brown’s open curriculum and emphasis on student-centered learning encourage exploration and collaboration, while MIT’s curriculum is more structured and focused on problem-solving in STEM fields. Both institutions have low student-faculty ratios and a strong focus on undergraduate research.
Brown vs MIT Outcome Comparison
When comparing the outcomes of Brown and MIT graduates, both schools have high graduation rates (96% for Brown, 94% for MIT) and excellent post-graduation placement in employment or further education (94% for Brown, 92% for MIT). However, MIT alumni tend to have higher median starting salaries ($84,300) compared to Brown alumni ($66,500). This difference may be attributed to MIT’s focus on STEM fields, which often yield higher-paying jobs.
