Keene State vs University of New Hampshire-Main Campus (UNH)

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences in size and campus environment between Keene State College and the University of New Hampshire (UNH)?

  Keene State College is a smaller, more intimate campus with a student population of around 4,000. This fosters a close-knit community feel, where students often know their professors and classmates well. UNH, on the other hand, is a much larger university, with over 15,000 undergraduates. This larger size provides a broader range of academic programs, extracurricular activities, and a more diverse student body. UNH's campus is also significantly larger, offering a more expansive environment.

• How do the academic programs compare at Keene State and UNH?

  UNH offers a wider array of academic programs, including doctoral programs, due to its status as a research university. It has strong programs in areas like engineering, business, and the sciences. Keene State, while offering a solid selection of undergraduate programs, particularly excels in education, arts, and humanities. The focus at Keene State tends to be more on undergraduate teaching, while UNH emphasizes both teaching and research.

• What is the cost of attendance like at Keene State versus UNH?

  Generally, Keene State College is more affordable than UNH, especially for in-state students. Tuition, fees, and room and board are typically lower at Keene State. However, the exact cost will depend on your residency status (in-state or out-of-state), financial aid eligibility, and living expenses. It's recommended to check the official websites of both institutions for the most up-to-date cost information and financial aid opportunities.

• How do the campus locations and surrounding areas differ?

  Keene State is located in the city of Keene, New Hampshire, a smaller, more traditional New England town. The campus is within walking distance of downtown Keene, offering access to shops, restaurants, and cultural events. UNH is situated in Durham, New Hampshire, a town that is also college-focused but has a more suburban feel. Durham is closer to the seacoast and larger cities like Portsmouth, providing more options for entertainment and employment.

• What are the opportunities for student life and extracurricular activities at each school?

  Both Keene State and UNH offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, including clubs, organizations, and sports. UNH, with its larger student body, typically has a greater variety of clubs and a more extensive Division I athletic program. Keene State provides a strong sense of community and a more accessible environment for students to get involved in campus activities. Both schools offer Greek life, though the presence and size of Greek organizations may differ.

• How do the admission requirements and selectivity compare?

  UNH generally has more selective admission standards than Keene State. UNH typically requires higher standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) and a stronger academic record. Keene State is also selective, but its admission process may place a greater emphasis on factors beyond standardized test scores, such as extracurricular activities and essays. It's always best to review the specific admission requirements on each school's website.

• What are the career services and internship opportunities like at Keene State and UNH?

  Both universities offer career services to help students with job searching, resume writing, and interview preparation. UNH, with its larger network and connections, may offer a broader range of internship opportunities, particularly in fields like engineering and business. Keene State, however, has strong connections within its specific program areas, such as education, and can provide excellent career support tailored to those fields. The location of UNH near larger cities also provides more internship possibilities.

• Which school is better for someone who wants a strong sense of community?

  Keene State College is generally considered to have a stronger sense of community due to its smaller size and more intimate campus environment. Students often report feeling a greater sense of belonging and closer relationships with their peers and professors. While UNH also has a strong community, its larger size can make it more challenging to foster the same level of close-knit relationships.

• How do the housing options differ at Keene State and UNH?

  Both schools offer on-campus housing options, including residence halls and apartments. UNH, being a larger university, has a greater variety of housing options. Keene State's housing is generally more accessible and may offer a more traditional college experience. Both schools also have off-campus housing options available for students who prefer to live independently.

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

  UNH is the better choice for students seeking significant research opportunities. As a research university, UNH provides more resources, funding, and faculty involvement in research projects across various disciplines. Keene State offers research opportunities, but they are typically less extensive compared to UNH.