Swarthmore vs Bard College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the key academic differences between Swarthmore College and Bard College?

  Swarthmore College is known for its rigorous academics and strong emphasis on traditional liberal arts disciplines, particularly in the sciences and engineering. It offers a more structured curriculum with a focus on depth of study. Bard College, on the other hand, emphasizes interdisciplinary studies and a more flexible curriculum. It encourages students to design their own majors and explore a wider range of subjects, including the arts, with a strong focus on social justice and civic engagement.

• How does the campus environment differ between Swarthmore and Bard?

  Swarthmore boasts a beautiful, traditional campus with a strong sense of community and a focus on residential life. It's located in a suburban setting, offering a balance of campus life and access to the city of Philadelphia. Bard College has a more rural campus setting in the Hudson Valley of New York, with a focus on arts and culture. It has a more bohemian and independent atmosphere, with a strong emphasis on student self-governance and creative expression.

• What are the strengths of Swarthmore's academic programs?

  Swarthmore excels in STEM fields, including engineering, computer science, and the natural sciences. It also has strong programs in economics, political science, and philosophy. The college is known for its small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a highly selective student body, fostering a rigorous and intellectually stimulating environment.

• What are the strengths of Bard's academic programs?

  Bard is particularly strong in the arts, including music, theater, and visual arts. It also has notable programs in literature, languages, and social sciences. Bard's emphasis on interdisciplinary studies allows students to combine different fields of study, and its strong focus on social justice and civic engagement provides opportunities for real-world application of knowledge.

• How does the student body compare at Swarthmore and Bard?

  Swarthmore attracts a highly selective and academically driven student body. Students are often focused on academic achievement and career goals. Bard's student body is known for its creativity, independence, and social consciousness. It attracts students who are interested in the arts, social justice, and alternative approaches to education.

• What is the cost of attendance at Swarthmore and Bard?

  Both Swarthmore and Bard are expensive private institutions. The total cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room, and board, is comparable at both colleges. However, both colleges offer generous financial aid packages to students who demonstrate financial need. It's recommended to check the specific financial aid policies and net price calculators on each college's website to determine the actual cost for your family.

• What are the career prospects like for graduates of Swarthmore and Bard?

  Swarthmore graduates are highly sought after by employers and graduate schools. They are well-prepared for careers in a variety of fields, including business, law, medicine, and academia. Bard graduates also have strong career prospects, particularly in the arts, non-profit sector, and social justice fields. They are often drawn to careers that allow them to make a positive impact on society.

• How does the social life differ at Swarthmore and Bard?

  Swarthmore offers a more traditional college social life, with a strong emphasis on campus events, clubs, and activities. The college has a close-knit community and a focus on residential life. Bard's social life is more informal and student-driven. It emphasizes creativity, self-expression, and independent exploration. The college has a vibrant arts scene and a strong sense of community among students who share similar values.

• Which college is better for students interested in the arts?

  Bard College is generally considered the stronger choice for students interested in the arts. It has a well-regarded arts program, a vibrant arts scene, and a campus environment that fosters creativity and self-expression. While Swarthmore offers arts programs, Bard's focus on the arts is more pronounced.

• Which college is better for students interested in STEM fields?

  Swarthmore College is generally considered the stronger choice for students interested in STEM fields. It has a rigorous academic program, strong faculty, and excellent resources for students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. While Bard offers STEM programs, Swarthmore's focus is more pronounced.

• How does the location of each college impact the student experience?

  Swarthmore's suburban location provides easy access to Philadelphia, offering students opportunities for internships, cultural events, and city life. Bard's rural location in the Hudson Valley provides a more secluded and nature-focused environment, with access to outdoor activities and a thriving arts and culture scene in the surrounding area. The location significantly shapes the social and extracurricular opportunities available to students.

• What are the opportunities for research at Swarthmore and Bard?

  Both Swarthmore and Bard offer research opportunities for undergraduates. Swarthmore, with its strong emphasis on academics, provides numerous research opportunities, particularly in STEM fields, often involving close collaboration with faculty. Bard also encourages undergraduate research, especially in the arts and humanities, and often integrates research into the curriculum and senior projects.