Haverford College vs Reed College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the key academic differences between Haverford College and Reed College?

  Haverford College emphasizes a strong liberal arts curriculum with a focus on interdisciplinary study and a collaborative learning environment. It's known for its honor code, which fosters a high degree of trust and self-governance. Reed College, on the other hand, is renowned for its rigorous academics, particularly in the humanities and sciences. It has a more traditional, lecture-based approach, with a strong emphasis on independent research and critical thinking. Reed also requires a senior thesis for graduation.

• How do the campus cultures of Haverford and Reed compare?

  Haverford College fosters a close-knit, highly collaborative community. The honor code significantly shapes campus culture, promoting a sense of trust and respect. Students are actively involved in campus governance. Reed College has a more independent and intellectually driven culture. Students are encouraged to be self-reliant and pursue their academic interests with passion. The campus environment is known for its intellectual intensity and unconventional spirit.

• What are the strengths of Haverford College?

  Haverford College excels in providing a supportive and collaborative learning environment. Its small size allows for close interaction with faculty and a strong sense of community. The honor code promotes a high degree of trust and self-governance. Haverford is also known for its strong pre-med program and its proximity to Philadelphia, offering numerous internship and research opportunities.

• What are the strengths of Reed College?

  Reed College is highly regarded for its rigorous academics and its emphasis on critical thinking and independent research. It offers a challenging curriculum that prepares students for graduate studies and careers in academia. Reed's strong humanities and science programs, along with its emphasis on the senior thesis, are major draws. The college also has a vibrant intellectual community.

• How does the social life differ at Haverford and Reed?

  Haverford's social life is often described as more integrated with the academic environment, with a focus on campus events and activities. The proximity to Bryn Mawr College and Swarthmore College (the other two schools in the Tri-College Consortium) provides additional social opportunities. Reed's social life is more independent and less structured. Students often form close-knit groups based on shared academic interests. Portland, Oregon, offers a wide range of social and cultural activities.

• What are the financial aid and cost considerations for each college?

  Both Haverford and Reed are committed to meeting the demonstrated financial need of admitted students. They both offer generous financial aid packages. However, the specific costs and aid packages can vary from year to year, so it's essential to review the most current information on each college's website and to use their net price calculators to estimate your out-of-pocket expenses.

• What are the post-graduate outcomes for graduates of Haverford and Reed?

  Graduates from both Haverford and Reed are highly successful in their post-graduate endeavors. Haverford graduates often pursue advanced degrees or careers in fields like medicine, law, and education. Reed graduates are also well-prepared for graduate studies and careers in academia, research, and various professional fields. Both colleges have strong alumni networks that support their graduates.

• How does the location of each college impact the student experience?

  Haverford College is located in a suburban setting near Philadelphia, offering easy access to the city's cultural attractions, internship opportunities, and transportation. Reed College is situated in Portland, Oregon, a vibrant city known for its arts, culture, and outdoor recreation. Portland provides a diverse range of experiences for students, including access to a thriving job market and a unique cultural scene.

• What are the student-to-faculty ratios at Haverford and Reed?

  Both Haverford and Reed boast low student-to-faculty ratios, which contribute to the personalized learning experiences they offer. These low ratios allow for more individual attention from professors and greater opportunities for research and collaboration. You can expect a similar level of access to faculty at both institutions.

• Which college is better for a student interested in a specific major, such as pre-med or computer science?

  Haverford College has a particularly strong pre-med program, with excellent advising and opportunities for research. Reed College also offers pre-med advising, but its strengths lie more in the humanities and sciences. Both colleges offer computer science programs, but the specific focus and resources may vary. It's best to research the specific program details and faculty expertise at each college to determine which aligns best with your interests.