Villanova University vs La Salle University

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Villanova University and La Salle University?

  Villanova University is a larger, private, Catholic (Augustinian) research university known for its strong academic programs, particularly in business, engineering, and law. La Salle University is a smaller, private, Catholic (Lasallian) university with a focus on liberal arts and professional programs, emphasizing a more personalized learning environment. Villanova generally has a higher tuition and a more selective admissions process.

• How do the academic programs compare between Villanova and La Salle?

  Villanova excels in areas like business (Villanova School of Business is highly ranked), engineering, nursing, and law. La Salle offers strong programs in business, nursing, education, and communication, with a greater emphasis on liberal arts foundations across all disciplines. Both offer a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, but Villanova has a broader selection, especially at the graduate level.

• What is the campus environment like at each university?

  Villanova's campus is located in a suburban setting in Villanova, Pennsylvania, offering a traditional college experience with a vibrant student life, including Division I athletics and numerous student organizations. La Salle's campus is located in a more urban setting in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, providing students with access to city resources and cultural opportunities. La Salle has a close-knit community feel due to its smaller size.

• How do the tuition and financial aid options compare?

  Villanova's tuition is generally higher than La Salle's. Both universities offer financial aid packages, including scholarships, grants, and loans. It's best to visit each university's financial aid website to determine your eligibility and potential aid amount. La Salle may offer more need-based aid due to its mission of serving a diverse student population.

• What are the religious affiliations of Villanova and La Salle?

  Both Villanova and La Salle are Catholic universities. Villanova is Augustinian, while La Salle is Lasallian. This means they are guided by different sets of values and traditions within the Catholic faith. Villanova emphasizes 'Veritas, Unitas, Caritas' (Truth, Unity, Charity), while La Salle focuses on 'Faith, Service, Community'.

• How do the athletic programs differ between the two universities?

  Villanova University competes in NCAA Division I athletics, primarily in the Big East Conference, and is particularly known for its successful men's basketball program. La Salle University also competes in NCAA Division I athletics, primarily in the Atlantic 10 Conference. While La Salle has a strong athletic tradition, Villanova's athletic programs generally receive more national attention.

• What are the career services and alumni networks like at each university?

  Both Villanova and La Salle offer career services to help students with internships, job placement, and career development. Villanova's alumni network is larger and more established, providing extensive networking opportunities. La Salle's alumni network is smaller but still active and supportive, particularly within the Philadelphia region.

• What is the student-faculty ratio at Villanova and La Salle?

  Villanova generally has a student-faculty ratio around 11:1, while La Salle's is typically around 12:1. This indicates that both universities offer relatively small class sizes and opportunities for personalized attention from professors. However, La Salle's slightly lower ratio may contribute to a more intimate learning environment.

• Which university is better for students interested in research opportunities?

  Villanova, as a research university, generally offers more extensive research opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students, particularly in STEM fields. La Salle also provides research opportunities, but they may be more limited in scope compared to Villanova.

• How does the location of each university impact student life and opportunities?

  Villanova's suburban location offers a more traditional, self-contained college experience. Students are primarily focused on campus activities and events. La Salle's urban location in Philadelphia provides students with easy access to internships, cultural attractions, and a wider range of social and professional opportunities. The urban setting can offer a more diverse and dynamic experience.