Haverford College vs Bard College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Haverford and Bard in terms of academic focus?

  Haverford emphasizes a rigorous liberal arts education with a strong focus on science and research opportunities, particularly within its Tri-College Consortium (Haverford, Bryn Mawr, and Swarthmore). Bard, while also a liberal arts college, is known for its interdisciplinary approach, strong arts programs (especially writing, music, and theater), and its unique Bard Prison Initiative.

• How do the campus cultures compare at Haverford and Bard?

  Haverford is known for its Honor Code, which fosters a strong sense of community and student self-governance. The campus culture is collaborative and academically focused. Bard has a more individualistic and artistically driven atmosphere, with a greater emphasis on creative expression and intellectual exploration outside of traditional academic boundaries. Bard is also known for its politically active student body.

• What is the size difference between Haverford and Bard?

  Haverford is a smaller college with an undergraduate enrollment of around 1,400 students, fostering a close-knit community. Bard is slightly larger, with an undergraduate enrollment of approximately 2,000 students, offering a broader range of perspectives and experiences.

• How do the locations of Haverford and Bard affect the student experience?

  Haverford is located in a suburban setting in Haverford, Pennsylvania, just outside of Philadelphia. This provides students with access to the city's cultural and professional opportunities while maintaining a quieter campus environment. Bard is situated in Annandale-on-Hudson, New York, a more rural setting in the Hudson Valley. This offers a more secluded and immersive college experience, with a strong connection to the natural environment and a vibrant arts scene in the surrounding area.

• What are the strengths of Haverford's science programs compared to Bard's?

  Haverford's science programs benefit from the Tri-College Consortium, allowing students to take courses and conduct research at Bryn Mawr and Swarthmore. This provides access to a wider range of resources and faculty expertise, particularly in fields like biology, chemistry, and physics. While Bard offers strong science programs, Haverford's consortium affiliation gives it a distinct advantage in terms of research opportunities and program breadth.

• How do Bard's arts programs compare to those at Haverford?

  Bard is renowned for its arts programs, particularly in writing, music, theater, and film. The college has a strong emphasis on creative expression and offers numerous opportunities for students to develop their artistic talents. Haverford also has arts programs, but they are generally smaller and less central to the college's identity compared to Bard's.

• What is the significance of Haverford's Honor Code?

  Haverford's Honor Code is a cornerstone of the college's culture. It emphasizes trust, integrity, and student self-governance. Students are responsible for upholding academic and social standards, creating a community based on mutual respect and accountability. This system is unique and deeply ingrained in the Haverford experience.

• What is the Bard Prison Initiative, and why is it significant?

  The Bard Prison Initiative (BPI) is a highly regarded program that provides college education to incarcerated individuals. It is a significant part of Bard's commitment to social justice and offers students unique opportunities to engage with issues of inequality and criminal justice reform. BPI is a distinctive feature of Bard and reflects its progressive values.

• How do the career services and alumni networks compare between Haverford and Bard?

  Haverford's career services are strong, particularly for students interested in science, research, and fields that benefit from the Tri-College network. The alumni network is active and supportive. Bard's career services are tailored to students interested in the arts, humanities, and social justice. Its alumni network is also strong, particularly within creative industries and non-profit organizations.

• What are some similarities between Haverford and Bard?

  Both Haverford and Bard are highly selective liberal arts colleges that prioritize small class sizes, close relationships between students and faculty, and a commitment to intellectual inquiry. They both attract academically motivated students who are passionate about learning and making a difference in the world. Both colleges also emphasize critical thinking, writing skills, and interdisciplinary approaches to education.