Introduction
This article aims to provide a comprehensive comparison of two prominent schools: The Citadel and Marymount University. In this piece, we will explore the various factors that distinguish these institutions, including costs, tuition rates, admissions, degrees offered, academics, diversity, students, campus, alumni, rankings, and outcomes. This comparison will be valuable for prospective students looking to choose between these two institutions.
The Citadel Overview
The Citadel, also known as The Military College of South Carolina, is a public institution located in Charleston, South Carolina. Established in 1842, the school is known for its strong military tradition and leadership-focused education. While The Citadel offers various undergraduate and graduate degree programs, its primary focus is on producing principled leaders capable of serving in various sectors, including the military and civilian professions.
The Citadel Costs & Tuition
As a public institution, The Citadel offers relatively affordable tuition rates. For the academic year 2020-2021, in-state undergraduate students can expect to pay around $12,516, while out-of-state students will have to budget for a more substantial $34,988. Graduate tuition is slightly higher, with in-state students paying around $20,000 per year and out-of-state students paying around $40,000 per year.
The Citadel Admissions
Admission to The Citadel is moderately competitive, with an acceptance rate of around 75%. Prospective students are required to submit their high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, and a personal essay. Additionally, applicants must pass a physical fitness exam and meet specific medical requirements to be considered for admission.
The Citadel Degrees Offered
The Citadel offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various fields, including business, education, engineering, health sciences, humanities, and social sciences. Some of the most popular majors at the school include criminal justice, business administration, and political science.
The Citadel Academics
Academic life at The Citadel is characterized by a rigorous curriculum, small class sizes, and a focus on leadership development. The school has a student-faculty ratio of 12:1, which allows for personalized attention and a supportive learning environment. Additionally, The Citadel emphasizes practical experience and real-world applications of knowledge, with many students participating in internships, research opportunities, and study abroad programs.
The Citadel Diversity
The Citadel strives to create a diverse and inclusive campus community, and over the past decade, the school has seen a significant increase in the number of minority students enrolled. Currently, around 24% of the student body identifies as a racial or ethnic minority. Additionally, The Citadel has various programs and initiatives in place to support underrepresented students, including the Office of Multicultural Student Services and the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council.
The Citadel Students
Students at The Citadel come from diverse backgrounds and are united by a shared commitment to military service and leadership development. The Corps of Cadets, which consists of around 2,300 undergraduate students, is organized into a military structure, with cadets living in barracks and participating in daily military activities. The Citadel also has a small population of civilian students who pursue graduate degrees or participate in evening undergraduate programs.
The Citadel Campus
The Citadel’s picturesque campus is situated along the Ashley River in Charleston, South Carolina. The campus features a mix of historic and modern buildings, green spaces, and state-of-the-art facilities. Notable landmarks include the historic Summerall Chapel, the Corps of Cadets Parade Ground, and the Swain Boating Center. Additionally, the campus is located just a few minutes from downtown Charleston, offering students access to a vibrant city with a rich history and cultural scene.
The Citadel Alumni
The Citadel boasts an impressive alumni network, with graduates serving in leadership positions in the military, government, and private sector. Prominent alumni include former U.S. Senator Ernest “Fritz” Hollings, Medal of Honor recipient Charles “Chuck” Liteky, and novelist Pat Conroy.
The Citadel Rankings
The Citadel consistently ranks among the top public colleges in the South and is recognized for its strong ROTC program and commitment to leadership development. In recent years, U.S. News & World Report has ranked The Citadel #1 for public colleges in the South, #2 in the category of “Best Colleges for Veterans,” and #3 for the “Best Value Schools” in the Southern region.
The Citadel Outcomes
Graduates of The Citadel have a strong track record of success in both the military and civilian sectors. The school reports that 98% of the class of 2019 secured employment, entered the military, or continued their education within six months of graduation. Additionally, The Citadel is known for its strong alumni network, which offers connections and resources to help graduates navigate their post-college careers.
Marymount University Overview
Marymount University is a private, Catholic-affiliated institution located in Arlington, Virginia. Founded in 1950 by the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary, the school is known for its commitment to intellectual curiosity, service, and a values-centered education. Marymount offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, including business, education, health sciences, and liberal arts.
Marymount University Costs & Tuition
As a private institution, Marymount University has higher tuition rates than its public counterparts. For the academic year 2020-2021, undergraduate students can expect to pay around $31,926 in tuition and fees. Graduate tuition rates vary by program but generally range from $17,000 to $22,000 per year.
Marymount University Admissions
Admission to Marymount University is fairly competitive, with an acceptance rate of around 81%. Applicants must submit their high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, and a personal essay. Additionally, some programs may have specific requirements, such as a portfolio for art and design majors.
Marymount University Degrees Offered
Marymount University offers a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various fields, including business, education, health sciences, and liberal arts. Some of the most popular majors at the school include nursing, business administration, and psychology.
Marymount University Academics
Academic life at Marymount University is characterized by a rigorous curriculum, small class sizes, and a commitment to experiential learning. The University has a student-faculty ratio of 12:1, which allows for personalized attention and a supportive learning environment. Additionally, Marymount emphasizes practical experience and real-world applications of knowledge, with many students participating in internships, research opportunities, and study abroad programs.
Marymount University Diversity
Marymount University is dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus community. The University has a diverse student body, with approximately 49% of students identifying as a racial or ethnic minority. Additionally, Marymount has various programs and initiatives in place to support underrepresented students, including the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and the Center for Global Education.
Marymount University Students
Students at Marymount University come from a variety of backgrounds and are united by a shared commitment to intellectual curiosity, service, and a values-centered education. The University has a total enrollment of around 3,300 students, with approximately 2,400 undergraduate and 900 graduate students. Marymount also offers a vibrant campus life, with numerous clubs, organizations, and activities available for students to participate in.
Marymount University Campus
Marymount University’s scenic campus is located in Arlington, Virginia, just a short drive from Washington, D.C. The 21-acre campus features a mix of historic and modern buildings, green spaces, and state-of-the-art facilities. Additionally, the campus is located near several public transportation options, providing students with easy access to the numerous cultural, professional, and recreational opportunities available in the Washington, D.C. metro area.
Marymount University Alumni
Marymount University boasts a strong alumni network, with graduates serving in leadership positions in various fields, including education, healthcare, and public service. Prominent alumni include television journalist Katie Couric, former U.S. Representative Tom Davis, and children’s author Carmen Agra Deedy.
Marymount University Rankings
Marymount University consistently ranks among the top regional universities in the South and is recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and a values-centered education. In recent years, U.S. News & World Report has ranked Marymount University #52 among “Best Regional Universities – South” and #27 among “Best Value Schools” in the Southern region.
Marymount University Outcomes
Graduates of Marymount University have a strong track record of success in their chosen fields. The University reports that 95% of the class of 2019 secured employment, entered the military, or continued their education within six months of graduation. Additionally, Marymount is known for its strong alumni network, which offers connections and resources to help graduates navigate their post-college careers.
The Citadel vs Marymount University Cost Comparison
The costs associated with attending The Citadel and Marymount University vary significantly due to the differences between public and private institutions. In-state undergraduate students at The Citadel can expect to pay around $12,516 in tuition and fees, while out-of-state students will have to budget for around $34,988. On the other hand, undergraduate students at Marymount University can expect to pay around $31,926 in tuition and fees, regardless of their residency status.
Additionally, graduate tuition rates differ between the two institutions, with in-state students at The Citadel paying around $20,000 per year and out-of-state students paying around $40,000 per year. In comparison, graduate tuition rates at Marymount University generally range from $17,000 to $22,000 per year, depending on the program.
When comparing costs, it is essential for prospective students to consider factors such as financial aid, scholarships, and the potential return on investment when deciding which school to attend.
The Citadel vs Marymount University Admissions Difficulty
Both The Citadel and Marymount University have moderately competitive admissions processes. The Citadel has an acceptance rate of around 75%, while Marymount University has an acceptance rate of around 81%. Both institutions require prospective students to submit high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, and a personal essay. Additionally, The Citadel has specific physical fitness and medical requirements that applicants must meet.
While both schools have similar acceptance rates, the unique military focus of The Citadel may make it a more challenging choice for some students. Prospective students should carefully consider their personal interests, goals, and values when determining which school is the best fit.
The Citadel vs Marymount University Academic Difficulty
Both The Citadel and Marymount University offer rigorous academic programs and small class sizes, which can contribute to challenging learning environments. The Citadel has a strong focus on leadership development and practical experience, with many students participating in internships, research opportunities, and study abroad programs. Likewise, Marymount University emphasizes experiential learning and real-world applications of knowledge.
Given the military focus of The Citadel, students may face additional challenges related to the Corps of Cadets’ structure and daily military activities. In comparison, Marymount University offers a more traditional college experience, with a strong emphasis on intellectual curiosity, service, and a values-centered education.
The Citadel vs Marymount University Outcome Comparison
Both The Citadel and Marymount University have strong track records of success for their graduates. The Citadel reports that 98% of the class of 2019 secured employment, entered the military, or continued their education within six months of graduation. In comparison, Marymount University reports that 95% of the class of 2019 achieved similar outcomes.
While both schools boast impressive post-college outcomes, prospective students should consider factors such as their intended career path, alumni networks, and potential return on investment when choosing between these two institutions.
