Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) vs Harvard

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the primary areas of study at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) and Harvard University?

  OHSU is primarily focused on health sciences, including medicine, dentistry, nursing, and pharmacy. Harvard offers a much broader range of disciplines, encompassing arts and sciences, law, business, medicine, education, and public health, among others. Harvard's scope is significantly wider.

• How do the research opportunities compare at OHSU and Harvard?

  Both universities are renowned for their research. OHSU excels in health-related research, providing extensive opportunities for students to engage in clinical trials, biomedical research, and translational science. Harvard also has world-class research facilities and a vast network of affiliated hospitals and research centers, covering a broader spectrum of fields, including humanities, social sciences, and STEM.

• What is the student population like at OHSU versus Harvard?

  OHSU has a smaller, more specialized student body, primarily consisting of graduate and professional students in the health sciences. Harvard has a much larger and more diverse student population, including undergraduates, graduate students, and professional students from various backgrounds and academic interests.

• What are the admission requirements like for OHSU and Harvard?

  Admission to OHSU programs, particularly in medicine, dentistry, and other health professions, is highly competitive and typically requires strong academic records, standardized test scores (such as the MCAT, DAT, etc.), relevant experience, and letters of recommendation. Harvard's admission process is also extremely competitive, considering academic excellence, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation for both undergraduate and graduate programs. Harvard often considers a more holistic view of the applicant.

• How does the cost of attendance compare between OHSU and Harvard?

  The cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, and living expenses, varies depending on the specific program and financial aid received. Both universities are expensive, but Harvard's undergraduate tuition is generally comparable to other top-tier private universities. OHSU's tuition can vary depending on the program, but it is generally competitive within the health sciences field. Both institutions offer financial aid and scholarships to help offset the cost of attendance.

• What is the campus environment like at OHSU and Harvard?

  OHSU's campus is primarily located in Portland, Oregon, with a focus on health sciences facilities and hospitals. The environment is geared towards a professional and research-oriented atmosphere. Harvard's campus is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and offers a more traditional university experience with a blend of historic buildings, diverse student activities, and a vibrant intellectual community.

• What career opportunities are available to graduates of OHSU and Harvard?

  OHSU graduates are well-prepared for careers in healthcare, research, and related fields, such as medicine, dentistry, nursing, pharmacy, and biomedical sciences. Harvard graduates have access to a wide range of career paths across various industries, including academia, law, business, government, and non-profit organizations, due to the breadth of programs offered.

• How do the faculty and resources compare at OHSU and Harvard?

  Both universities boast highly accomplished faculty. OHSU faculty are experts in their respective health science fields, providing specialized instruction and mentorship. Harvard has a large and diverse faculty, including Nobel laureates and leading scholars in various disciplines, offering a broad range of expertise and resources, including extensive libraries, research facilities, and support services.

• What is the overall reputation of OHSU and Harvard?

  Harvard is consistently ranked among the top universities globally, known for its academic excellence, prestige, and influence. OHSU is highly regarded as a leading health sciences university, recognized for its research, clinical care, and contributions to the field of medicine and related disciplines. Both institutions have excellent reputations within their respective areas of focus.

• Which university is better for me, OHSU or Harvard?

  The best choice depends on your academic and career goals. If you are passionate about health sciences and want to pursue a career in medicine, dentistry, nursing, or related fields, OHSU is an excellent choice. If you are interested in a broader range of disciplines and a more traditional university experience, with a focus on research, academics, and a wide range of career options, Harvard might be a better fit.