Lehigh vs Stevens Tech

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Lehigh University and Stevens Institute of Technology?

  Lehigh University and Stevens Institute of Technology, while both strong STEM-focused institutions, differ in several key aspects. Lehigh offers a broader range of undergraduate programs, including strong business and arts & sciences colleges alongside its engineering school. Stevens is more heavily focused on STEM fields, particularly engineering, science, and technology management. Lehigh has a more traditional campus feel with a strong emphasis on residential life and a vibrant Greek system, while Stevens has a more urban, career-focused environment with closer ties to New York City.

• Which school is stronger in engineering programs?

  Both Lehigh and Stevens have excellent engineering programs. Stevens is generally considered to have a slight edge in certain specialized engineering fields, particularly those related to technology management, systems engineering, and quantitative finance. Lehigh's engineering programs are also highly regarded and offer a broader range of disciplines, with strengths in civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering. The best choice depends on your specific engineering interests.

• How do the locations of Lehigh and Stevens impact student life?

  Lehigh University is located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, a smaller city with a more traditional college town atmosphere. This fosters a strong sense of community on campus and provides a more immersive residential experience. Stevens Institute of Technology is located in Hoboken, New Jersey, directly across the Hudson River from New York City. This provides students with easy access to internships, cultural attractions, and career opportunities in one of the world's largest metropolitan areas. The location significantly shapes the overall student experience, with Lehigh offering a more self-contained campus environment and Stevens providing greater access to urban resources.

• Which school is more selective in admissions?

  Both Lehigh and Stevens are highly selective institutions. Historically, Stevens has had a slightly lower acceptance rate, making it marginally more selective. However, both schools require strong academic records, standardized test scores (though test-optional policies may apply), and compelling essays. The specific selectivity can fluctuate from year to year, so it's best to check the latest admissions statistics on each university's website.

• How do the career services and internship opportunities compare?

  Both Lehigh and Stevens offer robust career services and internship opportunities. Stevens' proximity to New York City provides students with a significant advantage in securing internships and jobs in finance, technology, and other industries. Lehigh also has a strong career services center and benefits from its alumni network and partnerships with companies in the Mid-Atlantic region. Both schools actively work to connect students with employers and provide resources for career development.

• What is the campus culture like at Lehigh versus Stevens?

  Lehigh has a more traditional campus culture with a strong emphasis on residential life, athletics, and Greek life. There's a greater sense of school spirit and a more active social scene centered around campus events. Stevens has a more career-focused and academically rigorous environment. While there are social activities and clubs, the emphasis is often on professional development and preparing for careers in STEM fields. The campus culture at Stevens is also influenced by its proximity to New York City, with students often taking advantage of the city's cultural and entertainment offerings.

• How do the tuition and financial aid packages compare between Lehigh and Stevens?

  Tuition at both Lehigh and Stevens is comparable, placing them among the more expensive private universities. However, the net cost can vary significantly depending on individual financial circumstances and the financial aid packages offered. Both schools offer merit-based scholarships and need-based financial aid. It's essential to compare the specific financial aid packages offered by each school based on your family's financial situation to determine the most affordable option.

• Which school is better for students interested in business programs?

  Lehigh University is generally considered to have a stronger business school than Stevens Institute of Technology. Lehigh's College of Business offers a wider range of undergraduate and graduate business programs, including finance, marketing, management, and accounting. While Stevens offers technology management programs, its focus is more on the intersection of technology and business rather than traditional business disciplines. If you're primarily interested in a business degree, Lehigh is likely the better choice.

• What are the class sizes and student-to-faculty ratios like at each school?

  Both Lehigh and Stevens pride themselves on offering a personalized learning environment with relatively small class sizes and favorable student-to-faculty ratios. Lehigh typically has a slightly larger student body, which can result in slightly larger class sizes in some introductory courses. However, both schools maintain a commitment to providing students with access to faculty and opportunities for individualized attention. You can expect smaller upper-level courses in your major at both institutions.

• Which school offers more opportunities for research?

  Both Lehigh and Stevens offer ample opportunities for undergraduate research. Both universities actively encourage undergraduate students to participate in research projects with faculty members. Stevens, with its strong focus on STEM, may have a slight advantage in research opportunities related to cutting-edge technologies and engineering disciplines. Lehigh also has a robust research program across various disciplines, including engineering, science, and the humanities. The best choice depends on your specific research interests and the faculty expertise available at each institution.