Comparing and contrasting two universities can be challenging, especially when the institutions in question have different strengths and characteristics. In this article, we will examine Harvard University and the University of Kansas, comparing their costs, admissions, academics, diversity, student life, campus, alumni, rankings, and outcomes. By the end of this comparison, you will have a better understanding of what each school offers and how they differ.
Harvard University Overview
Harvard University, founded in 1636, is a prestigious Ivy League institution located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Harvard has a strong reputation for its rigorous academic programs, world-renowned faculty, and diverse student body. With an undergraduate enrollment of approximately 6,700 students, Harvard offers a wide range of degree programs and extracurricular activities for students to engage in.
Harvard University Costs & Tuition
As a private university, Harvard’s tuition is on the higher end, with the total cost of attendance estimated at around $72,391 per year for the 2021-2022 academic year. However, Harvard is committed to making education affordable for all students, offering a comprehensive financial aid program that meets 100% of demonstrated financial need. Approximately 70% of Harvard students receive some form of aid, with 55% receiving need-based scholarships.
Harvard University Admissions
Admission to Harvard is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of approximately 4.6% for the class of 2025. The university employs a holistic admissions process, taking into account factors such as academic performance, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. Standardized test scores are optional for the 2021-2022 application cycle due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Harvard University Degrees Offered
Harvard offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across its various schools and divisions. The university is particularly well-known for its strong programs in business, law, medicine, and political science. Additionally, Harvard provides students with numerous opportunities for research and experiential learning through internships, study abroad programs, and other initiatives.
Harvard University Academics
Academic life at Harvard is centered around a liberal arts curriculum, with students having the opportunity to explore a variety of subjects before declaring a concentration. The faculty at Harvard is renowned for their expertise and accomplishments, providing students with a challenging and engaging educational experience. The average class size at Harvard is typically small, allowing for a high degree of interaction between students and professors.
Harvard University Diversity
Harvard is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus community, with students hailing from all 50 states and over 80 countries. The university offers numerous resources and programs to support students from various backgrounds, including the Office of Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging, the Harvard Foundation for Intercultural and Race Relations, and various affinity groups and cultural organizations.
Harvard University Students
Students at Harvard are active in a wide range of extracurricular activities, from clubs and organizations to athletics and community service. There are over 450 student-run organizations on campus, catering to a variety of interests and passions. Additionally, Harvard is a member of the NCAA Division I Ivy League, offering 42 varsity sports teams for student-athletes to participate in.
Harvard University Campus
Harvard’s campus is located in the historic city of Cambridge, just a short distance from downtown Boston. The campus is characterized by its red-brick buildings, expansive green spaces, and the picturesque Charles River. The university provides a range of resources and facilities for students, including state-of-the-art research centers, extensive libraries, and modern athletic complexes.
Harvard University Alumni
Harvard boasts a powerful and influential alumni network, with graduates occupying positions of leadership in various industries and fields around the world. Notable alumni include eight U.S. presidents, numerous Nobel laureates, and countless business leaders, artists, and scholars.
Harvard University Rankings
Harvard consistently ranks among the top universities globally, with U.S. News & World Report ranking it as the 2nd best National University in its 2021 rankings. The university also ranks highly in various subject areas, including business, law, medicine, and political science.
Harvard University Outcomes
Graduates of Harvard can expect strong outcomes in terms of career prospects and earning potential. According to PayScale, the average starting salary for Harvard alumni is around $70,300, with mid-career salaries averaging around $129,800.
University of Kansas Overview
The University of Kansas (KU) is a public research university founded in 1865. Located in Lawrence, Kansas, KU is the state’s flagship institution and has a total undergraduate enrollment of around 19,000 students. The university offers a diverse range of degree programs, with strong academic programs in fields such as business, engineering, and journalism.
University of Kansas Costs & Tuition
As a public university, the University of Kansas offers lower tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students compared to private institutions like Harvard. For the 2021-2022 academic year, the estimated tuition and fees for in-state students are $10,182, while out-of-state students can expect to pay $27,358. The total cost of attendance, including room and board, is estimated at $24,042 for in-state students and $41,218 for out-of-state students.
University of Kansas Admissions
Admission to the University of Kansas is less competitive than Harvard, with an acceptance rate of around 92% for the fall 2020 semester. The university has a rolling admissions process and evaluates applicants based on factors such as academic performance, standardized test scores, and extracurricular involvement. For the 2021-2022 application cycle, KU has implemented a test-optional policy for first-year applicants.
University of Kansas Degrees Offered
KU offers over 200 undergraduate majors, minors, and certificates across its various schools and colleges. The university is particularly well-regarded for its programs in business, engineering, and journalism, as well as its strong emphasis on research and experiential learning opportunities.
University of Kansas Academics
The academic experience at the University of Kansas is grounded in a strong liberal arts foundation, with students having the opportunity to explore a variety of subjects and disciplines. The university also places a strong emphasis on research and experiential learning, providing students with numerous opportunities to engage in hands-on projects, internships, and study abroad programs.
University of Kansas Diversity
KU is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion on its campus, with students representing all 50 states and over 100 countries. The university offers a range of resources and programs to support students from diverse backgrounds, including the Office of Multicultural Affairs, the Emily Taylor Center for Women & Gender Equity, and various affinity groups and cultural organizations.
University of Kansas Students
Student life at KU is active and vibrant, with over 600 student-run organizations and clubs that cater to a wide range of interests and passions. The university also offers numerous opportunities for students to get involved in community service, leadership development, and recreational activities.
University of Kansas Campus
KU’s main campus is located in the picturesque city of Lawrence, which is consistently ranked as one of the best college towns in America. The campus features a mix of historic and modern buildings, with state-of-the-art facilities for academics, research, and athletics.
University of Kansas Alumni
The University of Kansas has a strong alumni network, with graduates occupying positions of leadership in various industries and fields. Notable alumni include journalist and political commentator Bill Moyers, basketball coach Dean Smith, and former U.S. Senator Bob Dole.
University of Kansas Rankings
KU is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the United States, with U.S. News & World Report ranking it as the 124th best National University in its 2021 rankings. The university’s School of Engineering, School of Business, and School of Journalism and Mass Communications also receive high rankings in their respective fields.
University of Kansas Outcomes
Graduates of the University of Kansas can expect solid outcomes in terms of career prospects and earning potential. According to PayScale, the average starting salary for KU alumni is around $51,000, with mid-career salaries averaging around $95,200.
Harvard University vs University of Kansas Cost Comparison
When comparing the costs of attending Harvard University and the University of Kansas, there is a significant difference due to the nature of private versus public institutions. Harvard’s estimated cost of attendance for the 2021-2022 academic year is around $72,391, while the University of Kansas’ total cost of attendance is estimated at $24,042 for in-state students and $41,218 for out-of-state students.
However, it is important to note that Harvard offers a comprehensive financial aid program that meets 100% of demonstrated financial need. Approximately 70% of Harvard students receive some form of aid, with 55% receiving need-based scholarships. In contrast, the University of Kansas also offers financial aid packages, but the extent of aid may not be as comprehensive as Harvard’s.
Harvard University vs University of Kansas Admissions Difficulty
Admissions at Harvard University are highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of approximately 4.6% for the class of 2025. The university employs a holistic admissions process, taking into account factors such as academic performance, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. Standardized test scores are optional for the 2021-2022 application cycle due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
In contrast, the University of Kansas has a much higher acceptance rate of around 92% for the fall 2020 semester. The admissions process at KU is less competitive and more accessible for applicants, with a rolling admissions process and a test-optional policy for the 2021-2022 application cycle.
Harvard University vs University of Kansas Academic Difficulty
Harvard University is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and world-class faculty, providing students with a challenging and engaging educational experience. The university is particularly well-known for its strong programs in business, law, medicine, and political science.
The University of Kansas also offers a diverse range of degree programs and a strong liberal arts foundation, with well-regarded programs in business, engineering, and journalism. However, the overall academic rigor and prestige of Harvard’s programs are generally considered to be at a higher level than those offered at the University of Kansas.
Harvard University vs University of Kansas Outcome Comparison
Graduates of both Harvard University and the University of Kansas can expect positive outcomes in terms of career prospects and earning potential. However, the outcomes for Harvard alumni are generally stronger, with higher average starting and mid-career salaries compared to KU alumni.
According to PayScale, the average starting salary for Harvard alumni is around $70,300, with mid-career salaries averaging around $129,800. In comparison, the average starting salary for KU alumni is around $51,000, with mid-career salaries averaging around $95,200.
In conclusion, both Harvard University and the University of Kansas offer unique educational experiences and opportunities for students. While Harvard is known for its prestige, rigorous academics, and strong outcomes, the University of Kansas provides a more accessible and affordable option for those seeking a quality education at a public institution. Ultimately, the choice between these two universities will depend on a student’s individual needs, preferences, and goals.
