Rice University vs NorthWestern

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Rice University and Northwestern University?

  Rice University, located in Houston, Texas, is known for its strong engineering, natural sciences, and architecture programs, as well as its close-knit community and low student-to-faculty ratio. Northwestern University, situated in Evanston, Illinois (near Chicago), excels in journalism, communication, performing arts, and business, and offers a broader range of graduate programs and a larger overall student body. Rice is generally considered to have a more collaborative academic environment, while Northwestern is known for its competitive atmosphere and strong professional school connections.

• Which university is better for STEM fields?

  Both Rice and Northwestern are excellent for STEM, but they have different strengths. Rice is particularly strong in engineering, nanotechnology, and space science, benefiting from its location in Houston, a hub for the energy and aerospace industries. Northwestern is renowned for its biomedical engineering, materials science, and chemistry programs, with strong ties to research hospitals and industry in the Chicago area. Consider your specific STEM interests when deciding.

• How do the campus cultures compare?

  Rice University is known for its residential college system, which fosters a strong sense of community and tradition. The campus culture is generally considered collaborative, quirky, and welcoming. Northwestern University has a more diverse student body and a wider range of extracurricular activities. Its campus culture is more academically driven and career-focused, with a strong emphasis on professional development and networking.

• What are the differences in location and surrounding environment?

  Rice University is located in the heart of Houston, Texas, a large and diverse city with a thriving arts and culture scene, as well as numerous opportunities for internships and jobs in the energy, healthcare, and aerospace industries. Northwestern University is located in Evanston, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago. This location provides access to the cultural and professional opportunities of a major metropolitan area, while also offering a more traditional college town environment.

• How do the costs of attendance compare?

  The cost of attendance at both Rice and Northwestern is high, but they are generally comparable. Both universities offer generous financial aid packages to eligible students. It's important to consider the cost of living in Houston versus Evanston/Chicago when budgeting. Houston generally has a lower cost of living than the Chicago area.

• Which university is better for humanities and social sciences?

  Northwestern University generally has a stronger reputation in the humanities and social sciences, particularly in fields like journalism, communication, political science, and economics. Rice University also offers strong programs in these areas, but its reputation is more heavily weighted towards STEM fields. Northwestern's Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications is particularly well-regarded.

• What are the admission rates and selectivity like?

  Both Rice and Northwestern are highly selective universities with low acceptance rates. Admission to both institutions is extremely competitive and requires a strong academic record, high standardized test scores (though many students are admitted test-optional), and compelling extracurricular activities. The acceptance rates are typically within a few percentage points of each other, making them equally challenging to get into.

• How do the career services and internship opportunities compare?

  Both Rice and Northwestern offer excellent career services and internship opportunities. Northwestern benefits from its proximity to Chicago, a major business hub, providing students with access to a wide range of internships and job opportunities in various industries. Rice benefits from its location in Houston, particularly for opportunities in the energy, healthcare, and aerospace sectors. Both universities have strong alumni networks that can help students with their career goals.

• What is the student-to-faculty ratio at each university?

  Rice University boasts a very low student-to-faculty ratio, typically around 6:1, which allows for more personalized attention and closer relationships with professors. Northwestern University has a slightly higher student-to-faculty ratio, around 8:1, but still offers ample opportunities for interaction with faculty members.

• Which university is better for pre-med students?

  Both Rice and Northwestern are excellent choices for pre-med students. Northwestern has strong connections to its medical school and affiliated hospitals, providing ample research and clinical opportunities. Rice also has strong pre-med advising and research opportunities, particularly through its partnerships with the Texas Medical Center, the largest medical complex in the world. The 'better' choice depends on individual preferences and research interests.