Choosing the right college can be a daunting task as each institution offers unique experiences and opportunities. In this comparison, we will explore two renowned schools: Boston College (BC) and Tufts University. We will delve into various aspects of both institutions, such as costs, admissions, academics, diversity, campus life, and outcomes, to help prospective students make an informed decision.
BC Overview
Boston College, founded in 1863, is a private Jesuit Catholic research university located in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts. With approximately 14,000 students, BC offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Known for its strong liberal arts foundation, the college emphasizes the development of well-rounded individuals with strong critical thinking skills and a commitment to social justice.
BC Costs & Tuition
The cost of attending BC for the 2021-2022 academic year is estimated at $76,370. This includes tuition, fees, room, and board. Financial aid and scholarship opportunities are available for students based on need and merit.
BC Admissions
Admitting around 27% of applicants, BC has a competitive admissions process. Prospective students should present a strong academic record, extracurricular involvement, and demonstrated leadership. The middle 50% SAT range for admitted students is 1340-1500, and the ACT range is 31-34.
BC Degrees Offered
Boston College offers more than 50 undergraduate majors and over 30 interdisciplinary minors across four schools: the Morrissey College of Arts and Sciences, the Carroll School of Management, the Connell School of Nursing, and the Lynch School of Education and Human Development.
BC Academics
With a student-faculty ratio of 13:1 and an average class size of 27 students, BC provides individualized attention and a strong focus on undergraduate teaching. BC emphasizes the importance of a well-rounded education through its Core Curriculum, which includes courses in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and mathematics.
BC Diversity
Boston College has a diverse student body, with students coming from all 50 states and more than 80 countries. The college is committed to fostering an inclusive environment and offers various support services and resources to promote diversity and inclusion on campus.
BC Students
BC students are known for their commitment to excellence in academics, leadership, and service. Campus life includes over 300 student-run clubs and organizations, offering ample opportunity for students to get involved and make a difference in their community.
BC Campus
The picturesque BC campus spans 338 acres and features stunning gothic architecture. The campus offers state-of-the-art facilities, including academic buildings, residence halls, and athletic complexes. The college also boasts a strong sense of community and tradition, with events such as the annual Pops on the Heights concert and the iconic Red Bandana Run.
BC Alumni
Boston College alumni have made significant contributions across various fields, including business, politics, and entertainment. Notable alumni include U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, former NFL quarterback Matt Ryan, and award-winning actress Amy Poehler.
BC Rankings
Boston College consistently ranks among the top national universities in the United States. According to the 2022 U.S. News & World Report, BC ranks #35 in National Universities and #41 in Best Value Schools.
BC Outcomes
Graduates of BC enjoy strong employment outcomes, with 96% of the Class of 2020 employed, in graduate school, or participating in a service program within six months of graduation. The median starting salary for BC alumni is $60,000.
Tufts University Overview
Founded in 1852, Tufts University is a private research university located in Medford, Massachusetts. With an enrollment of approximately 11,800 students, Tufts is known for its strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies, research opportunities, and commitment to civic engagement.
Tufts Costs & Tuition
The estimated cost of attendance for the 2021-2022 academic year at Tufts is $79,520, which includes tuition, fees, room, and board. Financial aid is available for eligible students based on need and merit.
Tufts Admissions
Admission to Tufts is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of around 15%. Prospective students should have a strong academic record, involvement in extracurricular activities, and demonstrated leadership. The middle 50% SAT range for admitted students is 1420-1550, and the ACT range is 33-35.
Tufts Degrees Offered
Tufts University offers over 150 undergraduate majors and minors across its schools: the School of Arts and Sciences, the School of Engineering, the School of the Museum of Fine Arts (SMFA) at Tufts, and the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine.
Tufts Academics
With a student-faculty ratio of 9:1 and an average class size of 20 students, Tufts offers a supportive and engaging learning environment. The university encourages students to explore multiple disciplines, collaborate on research projects, and take advantage of experiential learning opportunities.
Tufts Diversity
Tufts University has a diverse student population, with students hailing from all 50 states and over 100 countries. The university is committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming campus environment and provides various resources and support services to promote diversity and inclusion.
Tufts Students
Tufts students are known for their intellectual curiosity, commitment to civic engagement, and passion for making a difference in the world. The university offers over 350 student-led clubs and organizations, providing ample opportunities for students to get involved on campus and in their local community.
Tufts Campus
Tufts’ picturesque campus spans 150 acres in Medford and Somerville, featuring a mix of historic and modern architecture. The campus offers state-of-the-art facilities, including academic buildings, residence halls, and athletic complexes. Tufts’ campus also hosts various events and traditions, such as the annual Spring Fling concert and the Tufts Marathon Challenge.
Tufts Alumni
Tufts University alumni have made significant contributions in various fields, including business, politics, and entertainment. Notable alumni include eBay founder Pierre Omidyar, former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Susan Rice, and Emmy award-winning actor Hank Azaria.
Tufts Rankings
Tufts University consistently ranks among the top national universities in the United States. According to the 2022 U.S. News & World Report, Tufts ranks #30 in National Universities and #23 in Best Value Schools.
Tufts Outcomes
Graduates of Tufts University enjoy strong employment outcomes, with 92% of the Class of 2020 employed, in graduate school, or participating in a service program within six months of graduation. The median starting salary for Tufts alumni is $65,000.
BC vs Tufts Cost Comparison
While both Boston College and Tufts University are private institutions with relatively high costs, there are some differences in the costs and financial aid opportunities available at each school. The estimated cost of attendance for the 2021-2022 academic year at BC is $76,370, while the cost at Tufts is slightly higher at $79,520. Both schools offer financial aid and scholarship opportunities based on need and merit. It is essential for prospective students to consider the total cost, including tuition, fees, room, and board, and explore financial aid options when making their decision.
BC vs Tufts Admissions Difficulty
Admissions to both Boston College and Tufts University are highly competitive. BC has an acceptance rate of around 27%, while Tufts has an even lower rate of approximately 15%. Both schools seek students with strong academic records, extracurricular involvement, and demonstrated leadership. The middle 50% SAT range for admitted students at BC is 1340-1500, and the ACT range is 31-34. At Tufts, the middle 50% SAT range is 1420-1550, and the ACT range is 33-35. Prospective students should be prepared to present a well-rounded application to increase their chances of acceptance.
BC vs Tufts Academic Difficulty
Both Boston College and Tufts University are known for their rigorous academic programs and commitment to a well-rounded education. BC emphasizes a strong liberal arts foundation with its Core Curriculum, while Tufts encourages interdisciplinary studies and research opportunities. With low student-faculty ratios and small class sizes, both schools provide individualized attention and support for their students.
BC vs Tufts Outcome Comparison
Graduates of both Boston College and Tufts University enjoy strong employment outcomes. The Class of 2020 from BC had a 96% employment, graduate school, or service program participation rate within six months of graduation, with a median starting salary of $60,000. In comparison, 92% of Tufts’ Class of 2020 were employed, in graduate school, or participating in a service program within six months of graduation, with a median starting salary of $65,000. Both institutions have a strong alumni network and provide students with ample resources and support to succeed in their professional lives.
