Franklin W Olin College of Engineering vs Notre Dame

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the primary differences in academic focus between Olin College and Notre Dame?

  Olin College is exclusively focused on undergraduate engineering education, emphasizing innovation, design thinking, and a hands-on, project-based curriculum. Notre Dame, on the other hand, is a comprehensive research university with a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including engineering, arts and letters, science, business, and law. While Notre Dame offers engineering programs, it also provides a broader liberal arts education and research opportunities across many fields.

• How do the campus environments and student life differ between Olin College and Notre Dame?

  Olin College has a small, tight-knit community with a strong emphasis on collaboration and student involvement in shaping the college's direction. Its campus is modern and designed to foster interaction. Notre Dame has a larger, more traditional campus with a strong sense of tradition and school spirit. Student life at Notre Dame is characterized by a vibrant residential community, numerous clubs and organizations, and a strong emphasis on faith and service.

• What is the typical class size and student-to-faculty ratio at Olin College versus Notre Dame?

  Olin College prides itself on small class sizes and a low student-to-faculty ratio (around 8:1), allowing for personalized attention and close interaction with professors. Notre Dame also strives for a supportive learning environment, but its larger size results in slightly larger class sizes, especially in introductory courses. The student-to-faculty ratio at Notre Dame is approximately 10:1.

• How do the research opportunities compare between Olin College and Notre Dame?

  While Olin College focuses primarily on undergraduate education and project-based learning, it offers research opportunities for undergraduates, often integrated into the curriculum. Notre Dame, as a major research university, provides extensive research opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students across various disciplines, with numerous research centers and institutes. Notre Dame's research scope is significantly broader due to its graduate programs and larger faculty.

• What are the career prospects like for graduates of Olin College versus Notre Dame?

  Olin College graduates are highly sought after for their innovative thinking, problem-solving skills, and hands-on experience, often finding roles in technology companies, startups, and design firms. Notre Dame graduates benefit from the university's strong alumni network and reputation, securing positions in a wide range of industries, including finance, consulting, engineering, and non-profit organizations. Both institutions have strong career services to support their students.

• How does the cost of attendance compare between Olin College and Notre Dame, and what financial aid options are available?

  The cost of attendance at both Olin College and Notre Dame is significant, but both institutions offer generous financial aid packages to eligible students. Olin College has historically offered merit-based scholarships, while Notre Dame provides need-based financial aid. It's essential to visit each college's financial aid website and use their net price calculators to estimate your individual cost of attendance and potential aid eligibility.

• What types of engineering programs are offered at Olin College versus Notre Dame?

  Olin College offers a general engineering degree with the opportunity to concentrate in areas like mechanical, electrical, or computer engineering, but the emphasis is on interdisciplinary problem-solving. Notre Dame offers more specialized engineering degrees, such as aerospace, chemical, civil, computer, electrical, and mechanical engineering, as well as bioengineering. Notre Dame's broader engineering department allows for more focused study within a specific engineering discipline.

• How do the admissions processes differ between Olin College and Notre Dame?

  Both Olin College and Notre Dame have highly selective admissions processes. Olin College places a strong emphasis on demonstrated passion for engineering, design thinking, and collaboration, often using a unique 'Candidate's Weekend' as part of the evaluation. Notre Dame considers a wide range of factors, including academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, essays, and letters of recommendation, with a holistic review process that emphasizes character and leadership potential.

• What are the key similarities between Olin College and Notre Dame?

  Both Olin College and Notre Dame are highly respected institutions committed to providing a rigorous and transformative educational experience. They both emphasize a strong sense of community, offer opportunities for students to engage in meaningful research and projects, and prepare graduates for successful careers. Both institutions also value ethical leadership and social responsibility.

• Which college is a better fit for me: Olin College or Notre Dame?

  The best fit depends on your individual interests and goals. If you are passionate about engineering, thrive in a small, collaborative environment, and value a hands-on, project-based curriculum, Olin College might be a great choice. If you desire a broader academic experience with a strong emphasis on tradition, faith, and a wide range of disciplines, Notre Dame could be a better fit. Consider visiting both campuses, talking to current students, and reflecting on your own priorities to make an informed decision.