Oberlin College vs Occidental College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the key academic differences between Oberlin College and Occidental College?

  Oberlin College is renowned for its strong Conservatory of Music, offering a unique blend of liberal arts and musical training. While Occidental College also has a strong liberal arts focus, it doesn't have a dedicated conservatory. Oberlin emphasizes independent research and offers Winter Term, a month-long period for students to pursue self-designed projects. Occidental, on the other hand, is known for its Diplomacy and World Affairs program and its location in Los Angeles, providing access to internships and research opportunities in various fields.

• How do the campus environments and locations compare?

  Oberlin College is located in a small, quintessential college town in Ohio, offering a close-knit community feel. Occidental College is situated in the vibrant Eagle Rock neighborhood of Los Angeles, providing students with access to a major metropolitan area and diverse cultural experiences. Oberlin's campus is more self-contained, while Occidental's location allows for greater exploration of the city.

• What are the strengths of each college's student body and campus culture?

  Oberlin College attracts a highly engaged and socially conscious student body known for its activism and artistic expression. The campus culture is generally considered very progressive and collaborative. Occidental College also boasts a diverse and engaged student body, with a strong emphasis on social justice and global awareness. Its location in Los Angeles contributes to a more diverse range of perspectives and experiences within the student body.

• How do the costs of attendance and financial aid opportunities compare between Oberlin and Occidental?

  Both Oberlin College and Occidental College are private institutions with similar tuition costs. However, the overall cost of attendance can vary depending on factors like room and board and personal expenses. Both colleges offer need-based and merit-based financial aid packages. It's best to directly compare the financial aid offers you receive from each institution based on your individual circumstances.

• What are the popular majors and academic programs at each college?

  At Oberlin College, popular majors include music (due to the Conservatory), English, Politics, and Environmental Studies. Occidental College is known for its Diplomacy and World Affairs, Economics, Biology, and Media Arts and Culture programs. Both colleges offer a wide range of liberal arts disciplines, but these are some of their particularly strong and well-regarded areas.

• What are the career opportunities and alumni networks like for graduates of Oberlin and Occidental?

  Oberlin College graduates often pursue careers in the arts, non-profit sector, education, and research. The Oberlin alumni network is known for its strong connections and support for fellow graduates. Occidental College graduates find opportunities in a wider range of fields, including entertainment, business, government, and technology, benefiting from its Los Angeles location. Occidental's alumni network is also strong, particularly in California and on the West Coast.

• How do the residential life and campus activities differ between the two colleges?

  Oberlin College offers a traditional residential college experience with a variety of dorm options and a strong emphasis on campus-based activities and events. Occidental College also provides a residential experience, but its location in Los Angeles allows for greater access to off-campus activities and entertainment. Both colleges offer a range of clubs, organizations, and student-led initiatives.

• What are some unique features or programs that distinguish Oberlin from Occidental?

  Oberlin's Conservatory of Music and Winter Term are unique features that set it apart. Occidental College's 3-2 engineering program with Caltech and its location in Los Angeles, providing access to internships and research opportunities in various industries, are distinctive advantages.

• How do the graduation rates and student-faculty ratios compare?

  Both Oberlin College and Occidental College boast strong graduation rates, indicating a high level of student success. They also maintain relatively low student-faculty ratios, allowing for personalized attention and close interaction with professors. You can find the most up-to-date statistics on their respective websites.

• Which college might be a better fit for me based on my interests and goals?

  If you are passionate about music and want to combine it with a strong liberal arts education, Oberlin College is an excellent choice. If you are interested in diplomacy, international relations, or pursuing opportunities in a major metropolitan area like Los Angeles, Occidental College might be a better fit. Consider your academic interests, desired campus environment, and career aspirations when making your decision.