Dickinson College vs St. Mary's College of Maryland

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the primary academic differences between Dickinson College and St. Mary's College of Maryland?

  Dickinson College offers a broader range of academic programs, including a wider selection of majors and minors, and a stronger emphasis on pre-professional programs like pre-law and pre-med. St. Mary's College of Maryland, as the state's public honors college, excels in the liberal arts and sciences, with a particular focus on undergraduate research and a strong sense of community. Dickinson also has a more established international study program.

• How does the campus environment differ between Dickinson College and St. Mary's College of Maryland?

  Dickinson College is located in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, a historic town with a more urban feel compared to St. Mary's City, Maryland. St. Mary's College of Maryland is situated on a beautiful waterfront campus, offering a more rural and scenic environment. Dickinson's campus is more integrated with the town, while St. Mary's is more self-contained.

• What is the cost of attendance like at Dickinson College versus St. Mary's College of Maryland?

  Dickinson College is a private institution, so the overall cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room, and board, is significantly higher than St. Mary's College of Maryland, which is a public institution. However, financial aid and scholarships are available at both institutions to help offset costs. St. Mary's offers in-state tuition rates that are considerably lower than Dickinson's tuition.

• How do the student bodies compare at Dickinson College and St. Mary's College of Maryland?

  Dickinson College attracts a more geographically diverse student body, with students from across the United States and many international countries. St. Mary's College of Maryland primarily draws students from Maryland and surrounding states, though it also has a growing national and international presence. Both colleges foster a close-knit community, but the student body at Dickinson is generally larger.

• What are the strengths of the extracurricular activities and campus life at Dickinson College and St. Mary's College of Maryland?

  Dickinson College offers a wide array of extracurricular activities, including a strong Greek life presence, numerous clubs and organizations, and Division III athletics. St. Mary's College of Maryland emphasizes student involvement in research, community service, and a vibrant arts scene. Both colleges have active student governments and offer a variety of social events.

• How does the career support and alumni network differ between the two colleges?

  Both Dickinson College and St. Mary's College of Maryland provide career services to assist students with internships, job searches, and career planning. Dickinson, with its longer history and broader alumni network, may offer more established connections in certain fields, particularly in the Northeast and internationally. St. Mary's, while having a smaller alumni base, fosters a very engaged and supportive alumni network, especially within the state of Maryland and the Mid-Atlantic region.

• Which college is better for someone interested in international study?

  Dickinson College has a well-established and highly regarded international study program, with a long history of sending students abroad and offering a variety of programs. While St. Mary's College of Maryland also encourages international study, Dickinson's program is generally considered more extensive and integrated into the curriculum.

• What are the typical class sizes at Dickinson College and St. Mary's College of Maryland?

  Both Dickinson College and St. Mary's College of Maryland prioritize small class sizes and a low student-to-faculty ratio. You can expect to find a similar intimate learning environment at both institutions, with classes typically ranging from 15 to 25 students, especially in upper-level courses.

• How do the graduation rates compare between Dickinson College and St. Mary's College of Maryland?

  Both Dickinson College and St. Mary's College of Maryland have strong graduation rates, reflecting their commitment to student success. While the exact figures may fluctuate slightly year to year, both institutions consistently perform well in this area, indicating a high level of student retention and degree completion.

• Which college is a better fit for someone seeking a strong emphasis on undergraduate research?

  St. Mary's College of Maryland is particularly known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate research. The college provides numerous opportunities for students to engage in research projects with faculty, and it is a core component of the academic experience. While Dickinson College also supports undergraduate research, St. Mary's College of Maryland's focus is more pronounced.