Agnes Scott College vs Smith College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the key differences between Agnes Scott College and Smith College?

  Agnes Scott College, located in Decatur, Georgia, is known for its SUMMIT program, a global learning and leadership development experience integrated into the curriculum. It's a smaller liberal arts college with a strong emphasis on social justice and global citizenship. Smith College, situated in Northampton, Massachusetts, is one of the largest women's colleges in the US and a member of the Seven Sisters. It offers a broader range of academic programs and research opportunities, and its open curriculum allows students greater flexibility in course selection. Smith also has a larger endowment and a more extensive alumnae network.

• How do the campus environments compare?

  Agnes Scott offers a close-knit, intimate campus environment in a suburban setting near Atlanta. The campus is known for its beautiful architecture and strong sense of community. Smith College boasts a larger, more traditional college campus in a vibrant college town. Northampton offers a wider array of cultural and social activities, and the campus itself is known for its extensive botanical garden and diverse architectural styles.

• What are the academic strengths of each college?

  Agnes Scott excels in areas like leadership development, global learning, and interdisciplinary studies. Its SUMMIT program is a distinctive feature. Smith College is strong across a wide range of disciplines, particularly in the humanities, social sciences, and sciences. It offers more specialized programs and research opportunities due to its larger size and resources.

• How do the student bodies differ?

  While both are women's colleges, Agnes Scott typically has a smaller and more diverse student body, with a higher percentage of students from underrepresented backgrounds. Smith College has a larger student body, drawing students from across the US and internationally. Both colleges attract academically strong and engaged students.

• What is the cost of attendance and financial aid like at Agnes Scott and Smith?

  Both Agnes Scott and Smith College have similar tuition costs. However, financial aid packages can vary significantly based on individual circumstances. Both institutions offer need-based and merit-based scholarships. It's best to compare the net cost (cost after financial aid) for each college based on your specific financial situation by using their net price calculators and applying for financial aid.

• What are the career services and alumnae networks like at each college?

  Smith College, due to its larger size and longer history, has a more extensive and established alumnae network, which can be a valuable resource for internships and job opportunities. Agnes Scott's career services are focused on personalized guidance and connecting students with opportunities aligned with their SUMMIT program and leadership goals. Both colleges offer career counseling, resume workshops, and internship support.

• What are the similarities between Agnes Scott College and Smith College?

  Both Agnes Scott and Smith College are highly respected liberal arts colleges dedicated to the education of women. They both offer a challenging academic environment, a strong sense of community, and a commitment to social justice. Both colleges emphasize critical thinking, leadership development, and preparing students for successful careers and lives.

• How does the location of each college impact the student experience?

  Agnes Scott's location in Decatur, near Atlanta, provides students with access to a major metropolitan area for internships, cultural events, and social opportunities. Smith College's location in Northampton, Massachusetts, offers a classic New England college town experience with a vibrant arts scene and proximity to other colleges in the Five College Consortium.

• What is the Five College Consortium and how does it relate to Smith College?

  The Five College Consortium is a cooperative arrangement between Smith College, Amherst College, Mount Holyoke College, Hampshire College, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Smith College students can cross-register for courses at the other four institutions, use their libraries, and participate in extracurricular activities, effectively expanding their academic and social opportunities.

• How does the SUMMIT program at Agnes Scott differentiate it from Smith College?

  The SUMMIT program at Agnes Scott is a distinctive feature that integrates global learning and leadership development into the curriculum. All Agnes Scott students participate in a global journey and develop leadership skills through various programs and experiences. Smith College does not have a comparable program that is integrated into the core curriculum in the same way, although it offers study abroad programs and leadership development opportunities.