Rose-Hulman vs Harvey Mudd College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the primary academic focuses of Rose-Hulman and Harvey Mudd?

  Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology is primarily focused on undergraduate engineering, science, and mathematics education. It emphasizes hands-on learning and preparing students for immediate entry into industry. Harvey Mudd College, while also focused on STEM fields, has a broader liberal arts component integrated into its curriculum. It aims to produce technically strong graduates with a well-rounded education and a focus on research and innovation.

• How do the class sizes and student-faculty ratios compare?

  Both institutions pride themselves on small class sizes and low student-faculty ratios. Rose-Hulman typically has an average class size of around 20 students and a student-faculty ratio of 13:1. Harvey Mudd has even smaller class sizes, averaging around 18 students, and a student-faculty ratio of approximately 8:1. This allows for more personalized attention and interaction with professors at both colleges, but Harvey Mudd offers a slightly more intimate academic environment.

• What is the campus culture like at each school?

  Rose-Hulman is known for its strong sense of community and collaborative learning environment. It has a more traditional, engineering-focused campus culture with a strong emphasis on teamwork and practical application. Harvey Mudd, as part of the Claremont Colleges consortium, offers a more diverse and intellectually stimulating environment. Students benefit from the resources and social opportunities of the five undergraduate colleges, fostering a broader range of interests and perspectives.

• How do the research opportunities differ between Rose-Hulman and Harvey Mudd?

  Both colleges offer undergraduate research opportunities, but the emphasis differs slightly. Rose-Hulman focuses on applied research projects often tied to industry needs, providing students with practical experience. Harvey Mudd emphasizes fundamental research, encouraging students to participate in cutting-edge projects with faculty and often leading to publications in academic journals. Harvey Mudd's proximity to other Claremont Colleges also expands research possibilities.

• What are the career outcomes for graduates of each institution?

  Graduates from both Rose-Hulman and Harvey Mudd are highly sought after by employers. Rose-Hulman graduates are well-prepared for immediate entry into engineering and technical roles, with a strong track record of securing jobs in industry. Harvey Mudd graduates are also successful in industry, but a higher percentage pursue graduate studies in STEM fields. Both colleges have excellent career services departments to assist students with internships and job placement.

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

  Rose-Hulman is located in Terre Haute, Indiana, a smaller city that provides a focused and supportive campus environment. The location allows for a close-knit community and easy access to outdoor activities. Harvey Mudd is located in Claremont, California, part of the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area. This provides students with access to a wider range of cultural, social, and professional opportunities, as well as a more diverse and vibrant environment.

• What are the key differences in the curriculum structure?

  Rose-Hulman's curriculum is heavily focused on engineering, science, and mathematics from the start. While there are some humanities requirements, the emphasis is on technical depth. Harvey Mudd's curriculum includes a significant core curriculum that integrates humanities, social sciences, and arts alongside STEM courses. This provides a broader educational foundation and encourages interdisciplinary thinking.

• How do the costs of attending Rose-Hulman and Harvey Mudd compare?

  The cost of attendance at both Rose-Hulman and Harvey Mudd is significant, but comparable. Tuition, fees, and living expenses are generally in the same range. Both institutions offer financial aid packages to eligible students, and the net cost of attendance can vary depending on individual circumstances. It's best to consult the financial aid offices of each college for specific cost estimates and aid opportunities.

• What types of students thrive at each institution?

  Rose-Hulman is a great fit for students who are passionate about hands-on engineering and want to immediately apply their knowledge in industry. Students who thrive at Rose-Hulman are typically collaborative, practical, and focused on technical problem-solving. Harvey Mudd is well-suited for students who are intellectually curious, enjoy interdisciplinary learning, and are interested in both fundamental research and practical applications of STEM knowledge. Students who thrive at Harvey Mudd are often independent thinkers, creative problem-solvers, and eager to engage with a diverse community.

• How does the grading system differ between the two colleges?

  Both Rose-Hulman and Harvey Mudd have rigorous academic standards. Rose-Hulman uses a traditional A-F grading system. Harvey Mudd also uses an A-F grading system, but with a greater emphasis on collaboration and learning from mistakes. Harvey Mudd also has a policy of not reporting grades for the first semester to allow students to adjust to the academic rigor without the pressure of grades.