Middlebury College vs Haverford College

Frequently Asked Questions

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

  Middlebury College is known for its strong language programs, particularly its immersive language schools and international studies focus. It also has a robust environmental studies program. Haverford College, on the other hand, emphasizes a strong liberal arts curriculum with a focus on collaborative learning and independent research. It is particularly well-regarded for its humanities and social sciences programs, and its emphasis on student-faculty research.

• How do the campus environments and social scenes compare at Middlebury and Haverford?

  Middlebury College is located in a rural setting in Vermont, offering a close-knit community with a strong outdoor culture and access to skiing and hiking. The social scene is active, with a mix of on-campus events and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Haverford College is situated in a suburban setting near Philadelphia, providing easy access to a major city. The social scene is more low-key and emphasizes community, with a strong emphasis on student self-governance and a Quaker-influenced culture of respect and collaboration.

• What are the typical class sizes and student-faculty ratios at each institution?

  Both Middlebury and Haverford boast small class sizes and low student-faculty ratios, contributing to a personalized learning experience. However, Haverford generally has slightly smaller class sizes and a lower student-faculty ratio than Middlebury, fostering even closer interaction between students and professors.

• How do the financial aid and tuition costs compare at Middlebury and Haverford?

  Both Middlebury and Haverford are committed to meeting the demonstrated financial need of admitted students. While tuition costs are comparable, the actual cost of attendance will vary depending on individual financial circumstances. Prospective students should review the financial aid policies and net price calculators on each college's website to get a personalized estimate.

• What are the strengths of the career services at Middlebury and Haverford?

  Both colleges offer robust career services to support students in their career exploration and job search. Middlebury's career services often leverage its strong alumni network and international connections, particularly for students interested in international affairs and language-related fields. Haverford's career services emphasize internships, research opportunities, and networking within the Philadelphia area and beyond, with a focus on preparing students for graduate school and careers in various fields.

• How does the student body diversity compare at Middlebury and Haverford?

  Both Middlebury and Haverford strive for a diverse student body. Middlebury has a diverse student body with a significant international student population, reflecting its global focus. Haverford also has a diverse student body, with a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, and a focus on creating a welcoming environment for all students.

• What are the opportunities for undergraduate research at Middlebury and Haverford?

  Both colleges strongly encourage undergraduate research. Haverford is particularly known for its emphasis on student-faculty research, with numerous opportunities for students to collaborate with professors on research projects. Middlebury also offers research opportunities, particularly in its science and environmental studies programs, and encourages students to participate in research during the academic year and over the summer.

• How do the alumni networks of Middlebury and Haverford differ?

  Both colleges have active and supportive alumni networks. Middlebury's alumni network is geographically dispersed, reflecting its international focus and the global careers of its graduates. Haverford's alumni network is strong and supportive, with a focus on mentorship and career guidance, and a strong presence in the Philadelphia area and beyond.

• What are the main differences in campus culture and values?

  Middlebury emphasizes a culture of intellectual curiosity, outdoor adventure, and global engagement. It values academic rigor and a strong sense of community. Haverford emphasizes a culture of collaboration, intellectual inquiry, and social responsibility, rooted in its Quaker heritage. It values student self-governance, ethical conduct, and a commitment to social justice.

• Which college is better for students interested in a specific field, such as language studies or pre-med?

  Middlebury is an excellent choice for students interested in language studies, international relations, and environmental studies. Haverford is a strong choice for students interested in the humanities, social sciences, and pre-med, with a high rate of acceptance to medical schools. However, both colleges offer strong programs across a wide range of disciplines, and students can pursue their interests at either institution.