Brown University vs Bowdoin College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Brown University and Bowdoin College?

  Brown University is a medium-sized Ivy League research university located in Providence, Rhode Island, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. It's known for its Open Curriculum, allowing students significant freedom in course selection. Bowdoin College, on the other hand, is a small, highly selective liberal arts college in Brunswick, Maine, focused primarily on undergraduate education. Bowdoin emphasizes close student-faculty interaction and a strong sense of community.

• How do the academic environments compare?

  Brown's Open Curriculum allows students to design their own course of study with minimal core requirements, fostering independent learning and exploration. Bowdoin has a more structured curriculum, though still flexible, with distribution requirements across various disciplines. Both institutions are academically rigorous, but Brown offers a broader range of academic departments and research opportunities due to its larger size and graduate programs, while Bowdoin provides a more intimate and personalized learning experience.

• What is the size difference between Brown and Bowdoin?

  Brown University has a significantly larger undergraduate population, typically around 7,000 students. Bowdoin College is much smaller, with an undergraduate enrollment of approximately 2,000 students. This difference in size impacts class sizes, campus culture, and the availability of resources.

• How do the campus cultures differ?

  Brown's campus culture is often described as progressive, intellectually curious, and politically active. Its urban location in Providence provides access to a vibrant city life. Bowdoin's campus culture is known for its strong sense of community, close-knit student body, and emphasis on outdoor activities due to its location in Maine. It's generally considered more preppy and outdoorsy than Brown.

• What are the strengths of each school in terms of academics?

  Brown excels in fields like computer science, engineering, public health, and creative writing, benefiting from its research university status and graduate programs. Bowdoin is particularly strong in government and legal studies, economics, environmental studies, and the humanities, offering exceptional undergraduate research opportunities and close faculty mentorship.

• What is the cost of attendance and financial aid like at each school?

  Both Brown and Bowdoin have high costs of attendance. However, both institutions also offer generous financial aid packages. Bowdoin is known for its commitment to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need with grants, not loans. Brown also has a strong financial aid program, but the specific aid packages may vary based on individual circumstances. It's best to use their respective net price calculators to estimate your individual cost.

• How do the locations of Brown and Bowdoin affect student life?

  Brown's location in Providence, Rhode Island, offers students access to a diverse city with a thriving arts and culture scene, internship opportunities, and a variety of restaurants and entertainment options. Bowdoin's location in Brunswick, Maine, provides a more rural and quieter environment, ideal for students who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and kayaking. The proximity to the Maine coast is also a significant draw.

• What are the career prospects like for graduates of Brown and Bowdoin?

  Graduates from both Brown and Bowdoin are highly sought after by employers. Brown's graduates often pursue careers in technology, finance, consulting, medicine, and academia, benefiting from the university's strong alumni network and career services. Bowdoin's graduates find success in fields like finance, consulting, government, non-profit organizations, and education, often leveraging the college's strong liberal arts foundation and alumni connections.

• How do the admissions processes compare?

  Both Brown and Bowdoin are highly selective institutions with competitive admissions processes. They both look for students with strong academic records, compelling essays, and significant extracurricular involvement. Brown, as an Ivy League university, may place slightly more emphasis on standardized test scores (though policies vary), while Bowdoin, as a liberal arts college, may prioritize demonstrated interest and a strong fit with the college's values and community.

• What kind of student thrives at Brown versus Bowdoin?

  Brown is a good fit for students who are independent, self-motivated, and eager to explore a wide range of academic interests. Students who thrive at Brown appreciate the freedom of the Open Curriculum and the opportunities to engage in research and interdisciplinary studies. Bowdoin is well-suited for students who value a close-knit community, personalized attention from faculty, and a strong liberal arts education. Students who enjoy outdoor activities and a more rural setting will also find Bowdoin appealing.