Bucknell University vs Gettysburg College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Bucknell University and Gettysburg College?

  Bucknell University and Gettysburg College are both highly regarded liberal arts colleges, but they differ in several key aspects. Bucknell is a larger institution with a broader range of academic programs, including engineering and management programs alongside its strong liberal arts offerings. Gettysburg is exclusively focused on undergraduate liberal arts education, offering a more intimate and immersive liberal arts experience. Bucknell's campus is located in a more rural setting, while Gettysburg is situated in a historic town with closer proximity to major metropolitan areas like Baltimore and Washington D.C.

• Which college is larger: Bucknell or Gettysburg?

  Bucknell University is significantly larger than Gettysburg College. Bucknell has a student body of approximately 3,700 undergraduate students, while Gettysburg College has around 2,600 undergraduates. This difference in size can impact class sizes, campus atmosphere, and the availability of resources.

• How do the academic programs at Bucknell and Gettysburg compare?

  Bucknell offers a wider array of academic programs, including highly regarded engineering and management schools in addition to its strong liberal arts core. Gettysburg focuses exclusively on undergraduate liberal arts disciplines, providing a deep and comprehensive liberal arts education. If you're interested in engineering or business programs, Bucknell is the clear choice. If you're solely focused on a traditional liberal arts education, both are excellent, but Gettysburg offers a more concentrated experience.

• What is the campus environment like at Bucknell versus Gettysburg?

  Bucknell's campus is located in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, a more rural setting that provides a traditional college town atmosphere. Gettysburg College is located in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, a historic town with a vibrant downtown area and closer proximity to major cities. Bucknell's rural setting fosters a close-knit campus community, while Gettysburg's location offers more opportunities for off-campus activities and internships in nearby metropolitan areas.

• How do the costs of attending Bucknell and Gettysburg compare?

  The cost of attendance at both Bucknell University and Gettysburg College is relatively similar. Both are private institutions with comparable tuition and fees. However, the actual cost for each student will vary depending on financial aid packages and individual circumstances. It's best to consult the financial aid offices of both institutions for personalized estimates.

• What are the career services and internship opportunities like at each school?

  Both Bucknell and Gettysburg offer robust career services and internship opportunities. Bucknell's Career Development Center leverages its alumni network and location to provide opportunities in various fields, including engineering, business, and the liberal arts. Gettysburg's Center for Career Engagement benefits from its proximity to Washington D.C. and Baltimore, offering internships in government, non-profit organizations, and other sectors. Both schools actively support students in their career exploration and job search processes.

• What is the student life like at Bucknell and Gettysburg?

  Both Bucknell and Gettysburg offer vibrant student life with a wide range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations. Bucknell's larger size means a greater variety of options, while Gettysburg's smaller size fosters a more intimate and connected community. Both schools have active Greek life, strong athletic programs, and numerous opportunities for student involvement in the arts, community service, and leadership development.

• Which school is better for students interested in research opportunities?

  Both Bucknell and Gettysburg offer undergraduate research opportunities, but Bucknell's engineering and science programs provide a broader range of research options in those fields. Gettysburg's focus on liberal arts allows for in-depth research experiences within those disciplines. Both institutions encourage student-faculty collaboration and provide resources to support undergraduate research projects.

• How do the alumni networks of Bucknell and Gettysburg compare?

  Both Bucknell and Gettysburg have strong and active alumni networks. Bucknell's larger alumni base provides a wider reach across various industries and geographic locations. Gettysburg's alumni network is known for its strong connections within the liberal arts and public service sectors. Both alumni networks are valuable resources for students seeking internships, mentorship, and career opportunities.

• What are the admission requirements for Bucknell and Gettysburg?

  Both Bucknell and Gettysburg are highly selective institutions with rigorous admission requirements. They both consider factors such as GPA, standardized test scores (though test-optional policies may be in place), essays, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities. Both schools seek well-rounded students with a strong academic record and a demonstrated commitment to learning and leadership. It's best to check each school's website for the most up-to-date admission requirements and deadlines.