Washington University in St Louis (WashU) vs University of Michigan-Ann Arbor (UMich)

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences in campus environment between WashU and UMich?

  WashU offers a more intimate, self-contained campus experience in a vibrant urban setting within St. Louis. It's known for its beautiful, park-like campus and strong sense of community. UMich, on the other hand, boasts a larger, more sprawling campus in Ann Arbor, a classic college town. The atmosphere at UMich is more energetic and diverse, reflecting its larger student body and broader range of academic and extracurricular activities.

• How do the academic reputations of WashU and UMich compare?

  Both WashU and UMich are highly regarded universities with strong academic reputations. WashU is particularly known for its strengths in medicine, engineering, and business, and its emphasis on interdisciplinary studies. UMich is a comprehensive public research university with top-ranked programs across a wide range of disciplines, including engineering, law, business, and the humanities. Both institutions attract top faculty and students.

• What are the typical class sizes and student-faculty ratios at each university?

  WashU generally has smaller class sizes and a lower student-faculty ratio, fostering a more personalized learning environment. UMich, being a larger public university, tends to have larger introductory classes, especially in popular majors. However, upper-level courses often have smaller class sizes. While UMich's student-faculty ratio is higher than WashU's, students still have opportunities to connect with professors through office hours, research opportunities, and smaller discussion sections.

• How do the costs of attending WashU and UMich differ?

  WashU, as a private university, typically has a higher tuition cost than UMich, especially for out-of-state students. UMich offers lower tuition rates for Michigan residents. However, both universities offer financial aid and scholarships to help students afford the cost of attendance. It's important to research the specific financial aid packages offered by each institution based on your individual circumstances.

• What are the strengths of each university in terms of research opportunities?

  Both WashU and UMich are major research universities with extensive research opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students. WashU has a strong focus on medical research, with close ties to its renowned medical school and affiliated hospitals. UMich offers research opportunities across a broader range of disciplines, including engineering, social sciences, and the humanities, with numerous research centers and institutes on campus.

• How do the social scenes at WashU and UMich compare?

  WashU's social scene is often described as more close-knit and campus-focused, with a strong emphasis on student organizations and campus events. UMich's social scene is more diverse and vibrant, reflecting its larger student body and the lively atmosphere of Ann Arbor. There are numerous opportunities for students to get involved in Greek life, sports, clubs, and off-campus activities.

• What are the career services and internship opportunities like at each university?

  Both WashU and UMich have strong career services offices that provide students with resources and support for career exploration, internship placement, and job searching. WashU's location in St. Louis offers internship opportunities in various industries, including healthcare, finance, and technology. UMich's location in Ann Arbor, as well as its strong alumni network, provides access to internship and job opportunities across the country and around the world.

• How do the surrounding cities of St. Louis and Ann Arbor impact the student experience?

  St. Louis offers WashU students a vibrant urban environment with access to cultural attractions, restaurants, and entertainment venues. While St. Louis has its challenges, it also offers opportunities for community engagement and social impact. Ann Arbor is a classic college town that provides UMich students with a lively and supportive community. It's known for its progressive politics, thriving arts scene, and numerous restaurants and shops.

• What types of students typically thrive at WashU versus UMich?

  WashU tends to attract students who are academically driven, collaborative, and interested in a close-knit community. Students who thrive at WashU often appreciate a personalized learning environment and opportunities for interdisciplinary study. UMich tends to attract students who are independent, ambitious, and eager to explore a wide range of academic and extracurricular opportunities. Students who thrive at UMich often enjoy a large and diverse campus environment and the energy of a vibrant college town.

• Are there specific academic programs where one university clearly excels over the other?

  While both universities are strong across many disciplines, WashU is particularly renowned for its programs in medicine, social work, and architecture. UMich is consistently ranked highly for its programs in engineering, business, law, and music. Consider your specific academic interests when evaluating which university is a better fit for you.