Rice University vs Washington University in St Louis (WashU)

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the key academic differences between Rice University and Washington University in St. Louis?

  Both Rice and WashU offer rigorous academics, but they have distinct strengths. Rice is particularly strong in engineering, architecture, and the sciences, with a more intimate learning environment due to its smaller size. WashU boasts nationally recognized programs in medicine, law, and business, and generally has a broader range of graduate programs. WashU also has a strong emphasis on research across various disciplines.

• How does the campus environment differ between Rice and WashU?

  Rice University has a beautiful, compact campus in a vibrant urban setting (Houston, Texas). Its residential college system fosters a strong sense of community. WashU's campus is also stunning, with Collegiate Gothic architecture, and is located in a suburban setting (St. Louis, Missouri). WashU's campus is larger and offers a more traditional collegiate feel, with a greater emphasis on green spaces and a more spread-out layout.

• What is the cost of attendance at Rice University versus Washington University in St. Louis?

  Both universities have a high cost of attendance, but they also offer substantial financial aid. While tuition rates are comparable, the actual cost for each student will vary based on individual financial circumstances. Both universities are committed to meeting the demonstrated financial need of admitted students. It's recommended to use the net price calculators on each university's website to get a personalized estimate.

• How do the student bodies compare at Rice and WashU?

  Both universities attract high-achieving and diverse student bodies. Rice tends to have a slightly smaller undergraduate population, fostering a closer-knit community. WashU has a larger undergraduate population, offering a wider range of social and extracurricular opportunities. Both schools have a strong representation of students from across the United States and internationally.

• What are the strengths of the residential college system at Rice?

  Rice's residential college system is a defining feature of the undergraduate experience. Each college is a self-contained community, providing housing, dining, and social activities. This system fosters close relationships between students, faculty, and staff, creating a supportive and engaging environment. It promotes a strong sense of belonging and facilitates mentorship opportunities.

• How does the location of each university impact the student experience?

  Rice's location in Houston provides students with access to a major metropolitan city, offering numerous internship, research, and cultural opportunities. WashU's location in St. Louis offers a more suburban environment with access to a vibrant arts scene, a growing tech sector, and various outdoor recreational activities. Both cities offer unique advantages and disadvantages depending on individual preferences.

• What are the career services like at Rice and WashU?

  Both universities provide robust career services to help students with internships, job searches, and career planning. WashU, with its strong graduate programs, often has a wider network of alumni in various professional fields. Rice's career services are also excellent, particularly for students interested in engineering, architecture, and the sciences, leveraging its strong industry connections in Houston.

• How do research opportunities compare at Rice and WashU?

  Both universities are research-intensive institutions, offering ample opportunities for undergraduate research. WashU, with its larger size and extensive graduate programs, may offer a broader range of research areas. Rice also provides significant research opportunities, particularly in its areas of strength, and often allows undergraduates to get involved in research early in their academic careers.

• What are the social and extracurricular opportunities like at Rice and WashU?

  Both universities offer a wide array of social and extracurricular activities. WashU, with its larger student body, generally has a greater number of student organizations and a more diverse social scene. Rice's residential college system fosters a strong sense of community and provides numerous social events. Both universities have active Greek life, though it is more prominent at WashU.

• Which university is a better fit for me: Rice or WashU?

  The best fit depends on your individual preferences and academic interests. If you are looking for a smaller, more intimate community with a strong focus on engineering, architecture, and the sciences, Rice might be a better choice. If you prefer a larger university with a broader range of programs, a more traditional collegiate feel, and strong graduate programs in medicine, law, and business, WashU might be a better fit. Consider visiting both campuses, if possible, and talking to current students to get a better sense of the culture and environment.