Colgate University vs Boston College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Colgate University and Boston College?

  Colgate University is a small, highly selective liberal arts college located in rural Hamilton, New York, known for its strong sense of community and focus on undergraduate education. Boston College, on the other hand, is a larger Jesuit research university in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, offering a broader range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a stronger emphasis on research opportunities and a more urban setting.

• How do the academic programs at Colgate and Boston College compare?

  Both institutions offer excellent academic programs. Colgate excels in the liberal arts, with particular strengths in political science, economics, and natural sciences. Boston College has strong programs across various disciplines, including business, law, nursing, and education, in addition to its strong liberal arts offerings. BC also offers more pre-professional programs than Colgate.

• What is the campus environment like at each school?

  Colgate offers a close-knit, residential campus experience where students are highly engaged in campus life. Its rural setting fosters a strong sense of community. Boston College has a more diverse and bustling campus environment, being closer to a major city. While BC also has a strong campus community, students have easier access to off-campus activities and internships in Boston.

• How do the student bodies differ between Colgate and Boston College?

  Both schools attract academically talented students. Colgate's student body is smaller and drawn from a national and international pool, with a strong emphasis on intellectual curiosity and engagement. Boston College has a larger and more diverse student body, with a significant portion of students coming from the Northeast region. BC also has a larger population of students who identify as Catholic.

• What are the career opportunities like after graduating from Colgate versus Boston College?

  Both Colgate and Boston College graduates are highly sought after by employers. Colgate's strong alumni network and career services provide excellent support for students seeking jobs in various fields, particularly in finance, consulting, and non-profit sectors. Boston College's location and strong professional schools offer a wider range of career opportunities, especially in Boston and the surrounding areas, with strong placement in finance, healthcare, and technology.

• How do the costs of attending Colgate and Boston College compare?

  The cost of attendance at both Colgate and Boston College is relatively similar. Both institutions offer financial aid packages to eligible students. It's best to check each school's website for the most up-to-date tuition and fee information and to explore their net price calculators to estimate your individual cost.

• What is the role of athletics at Colgate and Boston College?

  Athletics are an important part of the student experience at both schools. Colgate competes in the Patriot League (Division I) and has a strong tradition in sports like hockey and football. Boston College competes in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), a major Division I conference, and is known for its competitive football, basketball, and hockey programs. BC offers a more intense and widely followed athletic experience due to its larger size and ACC affiliation.

• What is the religious affiliation of Colgate and Boston College, and how does it impact campus life?

  Colgate University is non-denominational, though it has historical ties to the Baptist Church. While religion is present on campus, it doesn't heavily influence the overall student experience. Boston College is a Jesuit, Catholic university, and its Catholic identity is more prominent. This is reflected in its core curriculum, campus ministry programs, and emphasis on service and social justice. However, students of all faiths are welcome and supported at both institutions.

• Which school is better for someone who wants a more intimate learning environment?

  Colgate University is generally better for students seeking a more intimate learning environment. Its smaller class sizes, lower student-to-faculty ratio, and emphasis on undergraduate education create a more personalized and supportive academic experience. While Boston College also offers opportunities for close interaction with faculty, its larger size can make it more challenging to find that intimate environment.

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

  While both schools offer research opportunities, Boston College generally provides a wider range of research opportunities, particularly for undergraduates. As a research university, BC has more resources and faculty engaged in cutting-edge research across various disciplines. Colgate also offers research opportunities, especially in the sciences, but the scale and scope are generally smaller.