Brandeis vs William & Mary (W&M)

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Brandeis University and William & Mary?

  Brandeis University, located in Waltham, Massachusetts, is a private research university known for its strong emphasis on social justice and its relatively small size. William & Mary, located in Williamsburg, Virginia, is a public research university with a rich history and a strong liberal arts focus. Key differences include Brandeis's more modern founding and its nonsectarian approach rooted in Jewish values, compared to William & Mary's colonial origins and status as the second-oldest institution of higher education in the United States. Brandeis tends to have a more politically active student body, while William & Mary is known for its strong alumni network and traditions.

• Which school is more selective: Brandeis or William & Mary?

  William & Mary is generally considered slightly more selective than Brandeis University. Both institutions are highly competitive, but William & Mary typically has a lower acceptance rate.

• How do the academic programs at Brandeis and William & Mary compare?

  Both Brandeis and William & Mary offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Brandeis is particularly strong in the humanities, social sciences, and sciences, with notable programs in Near Eastern and Judaic Studies, economics, and biology. William & Mary excels in history, government, law, and business. Both universities emphasize research opportunities for undergraduates, but William & Mary's public policy programs are particularly well-regarded.

• What is the campus culture like at Brandeis versus William & Mary?

  Brandeis has a vibrant and politically engaged campus culture, with a strong emphasis on social justice and activism. The student body is diverse and actively involved in campus life. William & Mary has a more traditional campus culture, steeped in history and tradition. Students are known for their intellectual curiosity and engagement in campus activities, including a strong Greek life presence. While both campuses are welcoming, Brandeis tends to be more progressive, while William & Mary has a more classic collegiate feel.

• How do the locations of Brandeis and William & Mary affect the student experience?

  Brandeis's location in Waltham, Massachusetts, provides easy access to the cultural and professional opportunities of Boston. Students can easily take advantage of internships, museums, and entertainment options in the city. William & Mary's location in Williamsburg, Virginia, offers a more historical and quaint setting. While not as close to a major metropolitan area, Williamsburg provides a unique environment with historical sites and a strong sense of community. The proximity to Washington D.C. also provides opportunities for internships and government-related experiences.

• What are the costs of attending Brandeis and William & Mary?

  Brandeis University, as a private institution, typically has a higher tuition cost than William & Mary, especially for out-of-state students. William & Mary offers lower tuition rates for Virginia residents. However, both universities offer financial aid and scholarships to help students afford the cost of attendance. It's important to compare the net cost of attendance (after financial aid) for each school based on your individual financial situation.

• What are the career prospects like for graduates of Brandeis and William & Mary?

  Graduates from both Brandeis and William & Mary enjoy strong career prospects. Brandeis graduates often find employment in fields such as technology, finance, non-profits, and research, particularly in the Boston area. William & Mary graduates are well-represented in government, law, business, and education, often finding opportunities in the Mid-Atlantic region and beyond. Both universities have strong career services departments to assist students with internships and job placement.

• Which school is better for students interested in research?

  Both Brandeis and William & Mary are research universities that offer ample opportunities for undergraduate research. Brandeis has a strong focus on scientific research, particularly in fields like biology and neuroscience. William & Mary also provides research opportunities across various disciplines, including the humanities and social sciences. The 'best' school for research depends on your specific research interests and the faculty expertise available at each institution.

• How do the alumni networks of Brandeis and William & Mary compare?

  William & Mary boasts a very strong and well-established alumni network, given its long history. This network can be a valuable resource for internships, job opportunities, and mentorship. Brandeis, while a younger institution, has a growing and increasingly influential alumni network, particularly in fields related to social justice, technology, and business. Both networks are dedicated to supporting their graduates, but William & Mary's network is generally larger and more geographically dispersed.

• What are the student-faculty ratios at Brandeis and William & Mary?

  Brandeis University generally has a lower student-to-faculty ratio than William & Mary. This often translates to smaller class sizes and more individualized attention from professors. While William & Mary also values close student-faculty interaction, its larger size may result in slightly larger class sizes, especially in introductory courses.