Carleton College vs Brown University

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Carleton College and Brown University?

  Carleton College is a small, highly selective liberal arts college located in Northfield, Minnesota, known for its strong academics, close-knit community, and emphasis on undergraduate education. Brown University, on the other hand, is a medium-sized Ivy League research university in Providence, Rhode Island, offering a wider range of programs, including graduate studies and professional schools, and known for its Open Curriculum and research opportunities.

• How do the academic environments compare at Carleton and Brown?

  Carleton emphasizes a rigorous liberal arts education with a focus on critical thinking, writing, and interdisciplinary learning. Class sizes are generally small, and faculty are dedicated to teaching undergraduates. Brown's Open Curriculum allows students to design their own course of study, fostering intellectual exploration and independent learning. While Brown also has excellent teaching, its faculty are also heavily involved in research, and class sizes can vary significantly, especially in introductory courses.

• What is the difference in campus culture and student life?

  Carleton has a strong sense of community, with students often describing it as collaborative and supportive. Social life revolves around campus activities, clubs, and events. Brown's campus culture is more diverse and independent, with a wider range of social options both on and off campus, including a vibrant arts scene and access to the city of Providence.

• How do the locations of Carleton and Brown affect the student experience?

  Carleton's location in Northfield, Minnesota, provides a focused campus environment with a strong connection to nature. While Northfield is a smaller town, it offers a safe and supportive community. Brown's location in Providence, Rhode Island, offers students access to a larger city with diverse cultural attractions, internship opportunities, and a more urban environment.

• What are the strengths of Carleton College?

  Carleton excels in providing a top-tier liberal arts education with exceptional faculty dedicated to undergraduate teaching. Its strengths include a strong sense of community, a focus on critical thinking and writing, and a supportive environment for intellectual exploration. It is particularly strong in the sciences and humanities.

• What are the strengths of Brown University?

  Brown's strengths lie in its Open Curriculum, which empowers students to design their own academic path. It offers a wide range of academic programs, including graduate and professional schools, and provides extensive research opportunities. Its location in Providence offers access to a vibrant city and diverse cultural experiences.

• How do the costs of attending Carleton and Brown compare?

  Both Carleton and Brown are expensive institutions. The sticker price is similar, but the actual cost can vary significantly depending on financial aid packages. Both schools offer need-based financial aid, and it's important to compare the specific aid packages offered to determine the most affordable option.

• What types of students thrive at Carleton College?

  Students who thrive at Carleton are typically intellectually curious, enjoy a close-knit community, and are comfortable in a smaller town environment. They are often self-motivated learners who appreciate a rigorous academic experience and value collaboration with faculty and peers.

• What types of students thrive at Brown University?

  Students who thrive at Brown are typically independent, self-directed learners who are comfortable with a high degree of academic freedom. They are often intellectually adventurous and enjoy exploring a wide range of subjects. They also appreciate the resources and opportunities available at a large research university and the cultural attractions of a city.

• What are the career prospects for graduates of Carleton and Brown?

  Graduates from both Carleton and Brown are highly sought after by employers and graduate schools. Carleton graduates are well-prepared for careers in a variety of fields, including business, law, medicine, and education. Brown graduates have similar opportunities, with the added advantage of access to a wider network of alumni and connections in various industries.

• Do Carleton and Brown have similar acceptance rates?

  Both Carleton and Brown are highly selective, but Brown's acceptance rate is generally lower than Carleton's. This means that Brown is typically more competitive to get into than Carleton.

• How do the alumni networks compare between Carleton and Brown?

  Both Carleton and Brown have strong and active alumni networks. Brown's alumni network is larger and more geographically diverse due to the university's larger size and longer history. However, Carleton's alumni network is known for its strong sense of community and willingness to support current students and fellow alumni.