Lehigh vs Lafayette College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Lehigh University and Lafayette College?

  Lehigh University is a larger research university with a broader range of graduate programs and a stronger emphasis on engineering and business. Lafayette College is a smaller, primarily undergraduate liberal arts college with a focus on engineering within a liberal arts context. Lehigh offers a more comprehensive university experience, while Lafayette provides a more intimate and personalized learning environment.

• How do the academic programs at Lehigh and Lafayette compare?

  Lehigh excels in engineering, business, and arts & sciences, offering a wider array of specialized programs and research opportunities, particularly at the graduate level. Lafayette is known for its strong engineering program integrated with a liberal arts curriculum, alongside robust offerings in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Both institutions offer high-quality education, but Lehigh provides greater depth and breadth in specific fields.

• What is the campus environment like at each school?

  Lehigh's campus is larger and more spread out, offering a more traditional university feel with a vibrant Greek life and a greater sense of scale. Lafayette's campus is more compact and intimate, fostering a close-knit community with a strong emphasis on student-faculty interaction and a more residential feel. Lehigh's environment is more bustling, while Lafayette's is more focused and personal.

• How do the costs of attending Lehigh and Lafayette compare?

  The cost of attendance at both Lehigh and Lafayette is relatively similar, including tuition, fees, room, and board. However, the actual cost can vary significantly depending on financial aid packages. It's best to compare individual financial aid offers from both institutions to determine which is more affordable for your specific circumstances.

• What are the career prospects like for graduates of Lehigh and Lafayette?

  Graduates from both Lehigh and Lafayette enjoy strong career prospects. Lehigh's strong engineering and business programs often lead to opportunities in those sectors, while Lafayette's liberal arts foundation combined with engineering provides a versatile skill set valued by employers across various industries. Both schools have strong alumni networks that can aid in career development.

• How do the student bodies at Lehigh and Lafayette differ?

  Lehigh has a larger and more diverse student body, drawing students from across the United States and internationally. Lafayette's student body is smaller and more regionally focused, primarily attracting students from the Northeast. While both institutions value diversity, Lehigh's larger size naturally leads to a more varied student population.

• What are the athletic programs like at Lehigh and Lafayette?

  Both Lehigh and Lafayette are Division I schools and members of the Patriot League, with a strong emphasis on academics and athletics. They have a historic rivalry, particularly in football. Lehigh's athletic program is slightly larger, but both institutions offer a wide range of varsity and intramural sports opportunities for students.

• What is the surrounding area like for each college?

  Lehigh University is located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, a mid-sized city with a rich industrial history and a growing arts and culture scene. Lafayette College is located in Easton, Pennsylvania, a smaller city with a more intimate and historic downtown area. Both locations offer access to outdoor activities and are within driving distance of major metropolitan areas like New York City and Philadelphia.

• Which school is better for engineering?

  Both Lehigh and Lafayette have excellent engineering programs. Lehigh offers a wider range of engineering disciplines and more extensive research opportunities, particularly at the graduate level. Lafayette's engineering program is known for its integration with the liberal arts, providing a broader educational foundation. The 'better' choice depends on your specific engineering interests and preferred learning environment.

• How do the research opportunities compare at Lehigh and Lafayette?

  Lehigh, as a research university, offers significantly more research opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students, with numerous labs, centers, and institutes dedicated to various fields of study. Lafayette provides research opportunities, particularly for undergraduates, but on a smaller scale. If research is a primary focus, Lehigh offers a more extensive and diverse range of options.