Choosing the right college or university can be a daunting task. In this comparison, we will look at two schools: Washington College and Stevenson University. Each institution offers unique benefits and opportunities for students, but it’s essential to examine various aspects such as cost, admissions, academics, and outcomes to make an informed decision. In this guide, we’ll provide an overview of each school and examine these factors to help you decide on the best institution for your education journey.
Washington College Overview
Washington College is a private liberal arts college in Chestertown, Maryland. Established in 1782, it is the 10th oldest college in the United States and was founded under the patronage of George Washington. The college has a strong commitment to a liberal arts education and encourages its students to engage in interdisciplinary studies, which foster critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. With approximately 1,450 undergraduate students, Washington College offers a close-knit community and a strong commitment to student success.
Washington College Costs & Tuition
The estimated total cost of attendance at Washington College for the 2021-2022 academic year is $63,216. This amount includes tuition, room and board, books and supplies, and other fees. The college offers need-based financial aid and merit scholarships to help students offset the cost of attendance. Approximately 98% of students receive some form of financial aid, with an average grant or scholarship award of $32,000.
Washington College Admissions
Washington College has a competitive admissions process, with an acceptance rate of around 46%. Prospective students need to submit an application, either through the Common App or the Washington College Application, as well as high school transcripts, a personal essay, and a letter of recommendation. The college is test-optional, meaning that applicants do not need to submit SAT or ACT scores. The average high school GPA of admitted students is 3.6.
Washington College Degrees Offered
Washington College offers over 40 undergraduate majors and minors, as well as select pre-professional programs and a master’s degree in psychology. Some popular major areas include business, psychology, biology, and environmental studies. The college emphasizes a strong liberal arts foundation, with requirements in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and the arts.
Washington College Academics
Students at Washington College will find a focus on small class sizes and close interactions with faculty. The student-to-faculty ratio is 12:1, providing a personalized and engaging learning environment. The college also emphasizes experiential learning, offering opportunities for internships, study abroad programs, and undergraduate research. The robust Career Services office helps students find internships, research, and job opportunities for post-graduation success.
Washington College Diversity
Washington College is committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion on its campus, with around 27% of the student body identifying as students of color. The college offers numerous resources and programs to support diversity and inclusivity initiatives, including organizations such as the Office of Intercultural Affairs, the Anti-Racism Coalition, and the Multicultural Student Union.
Washington College Students
Students at Washington College can participate in over 90 clubs and organizations, covering areas such as academics, arts, culture, sports, and service. There are also several fraternities and sororities on campus, as well as club and intramural sports teams. The college encourages student engagement in community service, with various programs and opportunities for local and global volunteer work.
Washington College Campus
The Washington College campus spans approximately 112 acres, with a blend of historic and modern facilities. The college has recently invested in new buildings and renovations, including a state-of-the-art science center, a newly expanded fitness center, and a waterfront location for environmental studies. Students have access to a variety of campus resources, such as the library, computer labs, and the Center for Environment & Society.
Washington College Alumni
Washington College boasts a strong alumni network, with over 13,000 graduates in various fields. Prominent alumni include journalist and author James M. Cain, former Maryland Governor Harry Hughes, and U.S. Senator Thomas V. Mike Miller Jr. The college focuses on maintaining strong connections with alumni through events, networking, and mentorship opportunities.
Washington College Rankings
Washington College is ranked #96 in National Liberal Arts Colleges by U.S. News & World Report and #141 in High School Counselor Rankings. The Princeton Review also lists Washington College among the “380 Best Colleges” and “Best Northeastern” schools.
Washington College Outcomes
Washington College has a 75% six-year graduation rate, with 95% of graduates either employed or enrolled in graduate programs within six months of graduation. The college’s Career Services office provides resources for job and internship searches, career counseling, and networking.
Stevenson University Overview
Stevenson University is a private university located in Owings Mills, Maryland. Founded in 1947 as Villa Julie College, Stevenson offers both undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of fields, with a focus on career preparation. The university has approximately 3,600 students, with a 16:1 student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention for students.
Stevenson University Costs & Tuition
The estimated total cost of attendance at Stevenson University for the 2021-2022 academic year is $54,962. This figure includes tuition, room and board, fees, and books and supplies. Approximately 96% of students receive some form of financial aid, with the average aid package being $26,000.
Stevenson University Admissions
Stevenson University has a more competitive admissions process, with an acceptance rate of around 73%. Prospective students must submit an application, high school transcripts, a personal essay, and at least one letter of recommendation. Like Washington College, Stevenson is test-optional and does not require SAT or ACT scores for admissions. The average high school GPA of admitted students is 3.4.
Stevenson University Degrees Offered
Stevenson University offers over 30 undergraduate majors and minors, as well as several master’s degree programs and a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) program. Popular majors include nursing, business, criminal justice, and education. In addition to traditional majors, Stevenson offers several accelerated bachelor’s to master’s programs, allowing students to complete both degrees in a shorter amount of time.
Stevenson University Academics
Academic life at Stevenson focuses on small class sizes, with an average class size of just 17 students. The university also emphasizes experiential learning through internships, research, and service-learning opportunities. Stevenson’s Career Connection Center provides support for students in finding internships, jobs, and other career development opportunities.
Stevenson University Diversity
Stevenson University is committed to diversity and inclusion, with approximately 40% of its student body identifying as students of color. The university has a variety of programs, resources, and organizations dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusivity on campus, such as the Office of Multicultural Affairs and the Center for Inclusive Excellence.
Stevenson University Students
Students at Stevenson can participate in over 50 clubs and organizations, including academic, cultural, service, and recreational groups. The university also offers intramural and club sports, as well as several fraternities and sororities. Stevenson’s campus life includes a variety of events and activities throughout the academic year, promoting a sense of community among students.
Stevenson University Campus
Stevenson University has two campuses in the Baltimore area – one in Owings Mills and one in Greenspring. The campuses feature modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, labs, and athletic facilities. The university also recently opened a new student center, providing a hub for student activities and events.
Stevenson University Alumni
Stevenson University has more than 17,000 alumni working in a wide range of industries, from healthcare and business to education and public service. The university’s Office of Alumni Relations helps maintain relationships with alumni through events, networking opportunities, and mentorship programs.
Stevenson University Rankings
Stevenson University is ranked #87 in Regional Universities North by U.S. News & World Report and #41 in Best Value Schools. The university is also ranked #10 on the list of Best Colleges for Nursing in Maryland by Niche.
Stevenson University Outcomes
Stevenson University has a 62% six-year graduation rate, with 91% of graduates employed or enrolled in graduate programs within six months of graduation. The university’s Career Connection Center plays a significant role in helping students achieve successful post-graduation outcomes through job searches, internships, and networking opportunities.
Washington College vs Stevenson University Cost Comparison
When comparing the total cost of attendance between the two schools, Washington College is more expensive, with an estimated cost of $63,216 for the 2021-2022 academic year, compared to Stevenson University’s $54,962. However, it’s essential to consider financial aid packages and scholarships offered by each institution. Washington College offers an average grant or scholarship award of $32,000, while Stevenson University offers an average aid package of $26,000.
Washington College vs Stevenson University Admissions Difficulty
Both schools have competitive admissions processes, but Washington College is slightly more selective, with an acceptance rate of 46% compared to Stevenson University’s rate of 73%. However, both schools are test-optional, allowing students to apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores. The average high school GPA for Washington College admitted students is 3.6, while the average GPA for Stevenson University admitted students is 3.4.
Washington College vs Stevenson University Academic Difficulty
Comparing the academic rigor at both schools, Washington College emphasizes a strong liberal arts foundation through a diverse range of majors. Stevenson University focuses on career preparation through its academic programs. Both schools have small class sizes and a low student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention for students. Students at both institutions can expect challenging coursework and opportunities for experiential learning through internships, research, and service-learning projects.
Washington College vs Stevenson University Outcome Comparison
The six-year graduation rate at Washington College is 75%, while Stevenson University’s rate is 62%. Post-graduation outcomes are comparable, with 95% of Washington College graduates employed or enrolled in graduate programs within six months of graduation, compared to 91% for Stevenson University graduates. Both schools offer strong career services resources to support students in their post-graduation endeavors.
In conclusion, choosing between Washington College and Stevenson University depends on a variety of factors, such as cost, academic programs, and campus life. Both institutions offer unique benefits and opportunities for students, so it’s essential to visit the campuses, speak with current students and faculty, and consider your academic and career goals when making your decision.
