Barnard College vs Bucknell University Introduction
Choosing the right college is an important decision for students and their families. In this comparison, we will look at two institutions: Barnard College and Bucknell University. Both schools have their unique strengths and offerings, so it’s essential to consider various factors such as cost, admissions, academics, and outcomes to make an informed decision. Read on to find detailed comparisons of these two schools.
Barnard College Overview
Barnard College, founded in 1889, is an all-women’s liberal arts college affiliated with Columbia University in New York City. Barnard offers a distinctive, empowering environment for its students to explore their academic interests, find their voices, and develop strong leadership skills. The collaboration with Columbia University allows students to have access to extensive resources, including a shared library system and participation in many academic and extracurricular programs.
Barnard College Costs & Tuition
Barnard College is a private institution with a comprehensive cost, including tuition, room & board, and fees, of around $77,000 per year. However, the college is committed to meeting 100% of a student’s demonstrated financial need through various forms of financial aid, including grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study opportunities. Nearly 50% of enrolled students receive some form of financial aid, with an average package amount of approximately $44,000.
Barnard College Admissions
Admissions at Barnard College are highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of about 11%. To apply, prospective students must submit a Common Application, high school transcript, letters of recommendation, and standardized test scores (SAT or ACT). Of admitted students, the middle 50% of SAT scores range from 1360 to 1520, while the middle 50% of ACT scores range from 31 to 34. In addition to these requirements, applicants must also submit supplemental essays, which play a significant role in the admissions process.
Barnard College Degrees Offered
Barnard offers over 50 majors and programs spanning a wide range of disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Popular majors at the college include Psychology, English, Economics, Political Science, and Biology. Additionally, students can cross-register for courses at Columbia University, pursuing joint-degree or double major programs.
Barnard College Academics
Barnard College is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and distinguished faculty, who are leaders in their respective fields. The college boasts a 9:1 student-to-faculty ratio, allowing for small class sizes and personalized attention. Barnard also offers multiple study abroad programs, independent research opportunities, and internship placements to help students gain real-world experience in their fields of interest.
Barnard College Diversity
Barnard College is well-known for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, with students from diverse backgrounds representing over 40 countries. Approximately 57% of the student body identifies as women of color. The college’s Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion works to foster an inclusive campus culture where all students feel welcomed and supported.
Barnard College Students
Barnard College enrolls around 2,600 undergraduate students, creating a close-knit community atmosphere. Students at Barnard are known for their intellectual curiosity, activism, and collaborative spirit. Many students participate in extracurricular activities such as student government, community service, and various clubs and organizations. The college also offers a vibrant arts scene, with dance, theater, and music performances throughout the year.
Barnard College Campus
Barnard College’s campus is located in Manhattan’s Morningside Heights neighborhood, a lively and diverse community near the Hudson River. The campus features modern residence halls, state-of-the-art academic facilities, and picturesque green spaces. Students also have access to Columbia University’s campus and resources, expanding their options for academic, social, and cultural experiences.
Barnard College Alumni
Barnard College has a strong network of over 35,000 alumnae worldwide, many of whom have made significant contributions in various fields, including business, government, science, and the arts. Notable alumnae include Zora Neale Hurston, Cynthia Nixon, Martha Stewart, and Twyla Tharp.
Barnard College Rankings
According to U.S. News & World Report, Barnard College is ranked #28 among National Liberal Arts Colleges and #33 in Best Value Schools.
Barnard College Outcomes
Graduates of Barnard College are well-prepared for success in their careers and further education. The college has a strong track record in helping students secure employment, graduate school acceptances, or prestigious fellowships within six months of graduation. The median starting salary for Barnard College graduates is around $61,000.
Bucknell University Overview
Bucknell University, founded in 1846, is a private liberal arts university located in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. The university offers a diverse range of academic programs, including engineering, management, and liberal arts, attracting a broad spectrum of students. Bucknell emphasizes hands-on learning experiences, research opportunities, and a strong sense of community among its students.
Bucknell University Costs & Tuition
The total cost of attending Bucknell University, including tuition, room & board, and fees, is approximately $74,000 per year. The university offers financial aid packages to help students fund their education, with around 62% of students receiving some form of financial aid. The average financial aid package is about $38,000.
Bucknell University Admissions
Admissions at Bucknell University are moderately competitive, with an acceptance rate of around 33%. Prospective students must submit a Common Application, high school transcript, letters of recommendation, and standardized test scores (SAT or ACT). The middle 50% of SAT scores for admitted students range from 1250 to 1420, while the middle 50% of ACT scores range from 28 to 32.
Bucknell University Degrees Offered
Bucknell offers over 60 majors and programs across three colleges: the College of Arts & Sciences, the College of Engineering, and the Freeman College of Management. Popular majors at the university include Engineering, Business, Social Sciences, and Health Professions. Students can also create their interdisciplinary majors or participate in dual-degree programs.
Bucknell University Academics
Bucknell University is known for its commitment to academic excellence and personal attention. With a 9:1 student-to-faculty ratio and a majority of classes having fewer than 20 students, Bucknell provides an intimate and engaging learning environment. The university also offers study abroad programs, undergraduate research opportunities, and co-op experiences to help students gain valuable real-world skills.
Bucknell University Diversity
Bucknell University is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive campus community. Approximately 27% of the student body identifies as students of color, and the university actively supports various diversity and inclusion initiatives, including the Office of Multicultural Student Services and the Bucknell Institute for Public Policy.
Bucknell University Students
Bucknell University has a total enrollment of around 3,600 undergraduate students, fostering a close-knit community atmosphere. Students at Bucknell are known for their strong work ethic, leadership skills, and commitment to service. The university offers over 200 student clubs and organizations, giving students ample opportunities to explore their interests and develop lifelong friendships.
Bucknell University Campus
The Bucknell campus spans 450 acres in the scenic Susquehanna River Valley, featuring a mix of historic and modern buildings, state-of-the-art facilities, and a picturesque natural setting. The university offers a vibrant campus life, with various events, performances, and recreational activities for students to enjoy.
Bucknell University Alumni
Bucknell University has a strong network of over 50,000 alumni worldwide, many of whom have made significant achievements in their respective fields. Notable alumni include Edward McKernan, Les Moonves, and Philip Roth.
Bucknell University Rankings
U.S. News & World Report ranks Bucknell University #35 among National Liberal Arts Colleges and #46 in Best Value Schools.
Bucknell University Outcome
Graduates of Bucknell University are well-prepared for success in their careers, further education, or other pursuits. Within six months of graduation, around 96% of graduates are employed, attending graduate school, or participating in service or other activities. The median starting salary for Bucknell University graduates is approximately $58,000.
Comparisons
Barnard College vs Bucknell University Cost Comparison
Both Barnard College and Bucknell University have similar total costs, with Barnard at around $77,000 per year and Bucknell at approximately $74,000 per year. However, the average financial aid package at Barnard is higher ($44,000) than at Bucknell ($38,000). Additionally, Barnard meets 100% of a student’s demonstrated financial need, while Bucknell’s commitment to financial aid varies.
Barnard College vs Bucknell University Admissions Difficulty
Barnard College has a significantly lower acceptance rate (11%) compared to Bucknell University (33%), making it more difficult to gain admission. Additionally, the middle 50% of SAT and ACT scores for admitted students at Barnard are generally higher than those at Bucknell, indicating a more competitive applicant pool.
Barnard College vs Bucknell University Academic Difficulty
Both Barnard College and Bucknell University offer rigorous academic programs, with both schools having a 9:1 student-to-faculty ratio and small class sizes. However, Barnard’s affiliation with Columbia University allows students to access more extensive resources and course offerings, potentially increasing the level of academic challenge.
Barnard College vs Bucknell University Outcome Comparison
Graduates of both Barnard College and Bucknell University have strong post-graduation outcomes, with both schools reporting high rates of employment, graduate school attendance, and other pursuits within six months of graduation. However, the median starting salary for Barnard graduates is slightly higher ($61,000) than for Bucknell graduates ($58,000).
