Baruch College vs Old Westbury

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Baruch College and SUNY Old Westbury?

  Baruch College, located in Manhattan, is known for its strong business programs and urban environment. It's a commuter school with a focus on career preparation. SUNY Old Westbury, situated on Long Island, offers a more traditional campus experience with a greater emphasis on liberal arts and a residential setting. It tends to have smaller class sizes and a more personalized learning environment.

• Which college is better for business-related majors?

  Baruch College is generally considered superior for business majors, particularly through its Zicklin School of Business. It offers a wide range of specialized business programs and has strong connections to the New York City business community. While SUNY Old Westbury offers business programs, they are not as highly ranked or specialized as those at Baruch.

• How do the campus environments compare?

  Baruch College has a primarily urban, commuter-focused campus in the heart of Manhattan. The campus is integrated into the city, offering access to numerous resources and opportunities. SUNY Old Westbury provides a more traditional, suburban campus setting with green spaces and a greater sense of community. It's a more residential campus, fostering a different kind of student life.

• What are the typical class sizes at Baruch and SUNY Old Westbury?

  Generally, SUNY Old Westbury has smaller class sizes than Baruch College. Baruch, being a larger school in a city setting, often has larger lecture halls, especially for introductory courses. SUNY Old Westbury's smaller size allows for more individualized attention and interaction with professors.

• Which college is more affordable?

  Both Baruch College and SUNY Old Westbury are public institutions, making them relatively affordable options for New York residents. However, tuition and fees can vary depending on residency status and specific programs. It's best to check the official websites of both colleges for the most up-to-date cost information and financial aid opportunities. CUNY schools like Baruch are generally more affordable than SUNY schools.

• What types of students typically attend each college?

  Baruch College attracts a diverse student body, many of whom are first-generation college students and come from immigrant backgrounds. Students are often highly career-focused and driven. SUNY Old Westbury also has a diverse student population, but it tends to attract students seeking a more traditional college experience with a focus on liberal arts and social justice.

• How do the career services and internship opportunities compare?

  Baruch College benefits from its location in New York City, offering students access to a wide range of internship and job opportunities in various industries, particularly finance and business. Its career services are well-established and focused on connecting students with employers. SUNY Old Westbury also provides career services and internship opportunities, but the scope and focus may be different, with a greater emphasis on fields related to liberal arts and public service.

• What are the strengths of SUNY Old Westbury?

  SUNY Old Westbury excels in providing a personalized learning environment with smaller class sizes and a strong sense of community. It's known for its commitment to social justice and offers programs in areas like media and communications, education, and liberal arts. The campus environment is more traditional and residential, fostering a close-knit student body.

• What are the strengths of Baruch College?

  Baruch College's primary strength lies in its Zicklin School of Business, which is highly regarded and offers a wide array of specialized business programs. Its location in Manhattan provides unparalleled access to internships and career opportunities in the business world. Baruch is also known for its diverse student body and its focus on career preparation.

• Which college is better for students interested in a residential campus experience?

  SUNY Old Westbury is the better choice for students seeking a traditional residential campus experience. It offers on-campus housing and a more self-contained campus environment, fostering a stronger sense of community among students. Baruch College is primarily a commuter school, with limited on-campus housing options.

• How do the academic cultures differ between the two colleges?

  Baruch College has a more competitive and career-oriented academic culture, driven by its focus on business and its location in a major financial center. SUNY Old Westbury fosters a more collaborative and supportive academic environment, with a greater emphasis on critical thinking, social responsibility, and interdisciplinary learning.

• What kind of extracurricular activities are available at each college?

  Both colleges offer a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs, organizations, and sports teams. Baruch College has a wide range of student organizations catering to diverse interests, reflecting its large and diverse student body. SUNY Old Westbury also offers a variety of clubs and activities, with a particular emphasis on organizations related to social justice, community service, and the arts.