Reed College vs Oberlin College

Frequently Asked Questions

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

  Reed College is known for its rigorous, humanities-focused curriculum, emphasizing critical thinking and independent research, culminating in a thesis. Oberlin College offers a broader liberal arts education with a wider range of majors, including strong programs in music and environmental studies, alongside its humanities and sciences offerings. Oberlin also has a more structured curriculum in some departments, while Reed allows for greater student autonomy in course selection.

• How does the campus culture differ at Reed and Oberlin?

  Reed College fosters a highly intellectual and independent culture, often described as quirky and unconventional. Students are encouraged to challenge ideas and engage in lively debates. Oberlin College has a more socially conscious and politically active campus, with a strong emphasis on community engagement and social justice. Both colleges are known for their progressive values, but Oberlin's culture is generally considered more collaborative and less intensely focused on individual academic pursuits than Reed's.

• Which college is better for a student interested in music?

  Oberlin College is the clear choice for students passionate about music. It boasts a world-renowned Conservatory of Music, offering exceptional performance opportunities, a wide array of musical disciplines, and a highly competitive environment. While Reed offers some music courses, it does not have a dedicated conservatory and its music program is not as extensive.

• What are the typical class sizes at Reed and Oberlin?

  Both Reed College and Oberlin College prioritize small class sizes and close interaction with faculty. You can expect intimate seminar settings and personalized attention from professors at both institutions. However, Oberlin might have slightly larger classes in introductory courses compared to Reed, which often has very small class sizes across all levels.

• How do the locations of Reed and Oberlin impact the student experience?

  Reed College is located in Portland, Oregon, a vibrant and progressive city with a thriving arts and culture scene. Students have easy access to outdoor recreation and a diverse urban environment. Oberlin College is situated in a smaller, more rural town in Ohio. While Oberlin offers a close-knit community and a focus on local engagement, students may have fewer options for off-campus entertainment and activities compared to Portland.

• How do the costs of attendance compare at Reed and Oberlin?

  The overall cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room, and board, is generally comparable at Reed and Oberlin. Both are private institutions with relatively high tuition costs. However, financial aid packages can vary significantly based on individual circumstances. It's recommended to compare the net cost after financial aid awards from each college to determine the most affordable option for your situation.

• What are the strengths of the alumni networks at Reed and Oberlin?

  Both Reed and Oberlin have dedicated and active alumni networks. Reed's alumni are known for their intellectual curiosity and professional success in various fields, particularly academia and the arts. Oberlin's alumni network is strong in the arts, social justice, and environmental fields, with a focus on community and social impact. Both networks provide valuable career support and networking opportunities for students and graduates.

• Which college is better for a student who is unsure of their major?

  Oberlin College might be a slightly better fit for students who are undecided about their major. Its broader curriculum and wider range of academic departments allow for more exploration and flexibility. While Reed encourages interdisciplinary study, its focus on the humanities and its rigorous core curriculum might be less conducive to exploring a wide variety of subjects. However, both colleges offer excellent advising and support for students exploring their academic interests.

• How does the housing situation differ at Reed and Oberlin?

  Both colleges offer on-campus housing for most students. Reed College has a variety of housing options, including traditional dorms and more independent living arrangements. Oberlin College also provides a range of housing choices, including co-ops and themed housing. The specific housing experience can vary depending on the individual's preferences and the availability of different options at each college.

• What are the common extracurricular activities at Reed and Oberlin?

  Both colleges offer a wide range of extracurricular activities. At Reed, you'll find a strong emphasis on intellectual pursuits, with debate clubs, literary magazines, and student-led research groups. Oberlin has a more diverse range of activities, including a vibrant arts scene, student government, social justice organizations, and a variety of athletic teams. Both colleges encourage student involvement and offer opportunities for leadership and community engagement.