Two of Virginia’s most prestigious universities, the University of Virginia (UVA) and the College of William & Mary (W&M), offer students a world-class education in a rich historical setting. However, each institution has its own unique strengths and characteristics that make it an attractive choice for prospective students. In this article, we will delve into a comprehensive comparison of UVA and W&M, exploring their academic programs, faculty, student life, and more.
Academic Programs
UVA
- Offers over 130 undergraduate and graduate programs
- Strong in humanities, social sciences, engineering, and medicine
- Highly ranked in the following programs:
- Arts & Humanities: #3 (US News & World Report 2023)
- Social Sciences: #10 (US News & World Report 2023)
- Engineering: #26 (US News & World Report 2023)
- Medicine: #29 (US News & World Report 2023)
W&M
- Offers over 90 undergraduate and graduate programs
- Strong in liberal arts, sciences, business, and law
- Highly ranked in the following programs:
- History: #10 (US News & World Report 2023)
- Public Policy: #6 (US News & World Report 2023)
- Accounting: #29 (Public Accounting Report 2023)
- Law: #60 (US News & World Report 2023)
Faculty
Both UVA and W&M have highly qualified and experienced faculty members. According to the National Science Foundation (NSF), UVA ranks among the top 25 universities in terms of federal research expenditures. W&M, on the other hand, has a faculty-to-student ratio of 1:13, providing students with individualized attention and mentorship opportunities.
Student Life
UVA
- Enrolls approximately 25,000 students
- Features a thriving Greek life, with over 50 fraternities and sororities
- Offers a wide range of student organizations, including academic clubs, athletic teams, and arts groups
- Home to the ACC Champion Virginia Cavaliers Athletics program
W&M
- Enrolls approximately 15,000 students
- Has a more intimate residential experience, with all first-year students living on campus
- Provides numerous opportunities for student engagement, including service learning, research, and internships
- Boasts a spirited athletic tradition, with the Tribe competing in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS)
*Tuition and Fees
| Undergraduate | Graduate | |
|---|---|---|
| UVA | $42,300 | $46,500 |
| W&M | $37,500 | $41,800 |
*Note: Tuition and fees for the 2023-2024 academic year
Tips and Tricks
- Visit both campuses: Take the time to experience the atmosphere and culture of each university firsthand.
- Attend virtual events: Join online webinars and panels to learn more about the programs and student life at UVA and W&M.
- Connect with current students: Reach out to students at both institutions to get their perspectives and insights.
- Consider your interests and goals: Choose the university that best aligns with your academic interests, career aspirations, and personal preferences.
- Apply wisely: Submit strong applications and pay attention to deadlines.
Pros and Cons
UVA
Pros:
* Prestigious academic reputation
* Extensive range of programs
* Vibrant student life with ample opportunities
* Strong athletics program
Cons:
* Large student population
* Higher tuition and fees
* Can be more competitive to get into
W&M
Pros:
* Smaller and more intimate campus
* Strong liberal arts foundation
* Excellent opportunities for research and internships
* Affordable tuition and fees compared to UVA
Cons:
* Fewer graduate programs than UVA
* Athletics program is less competitive at the national level
FAQs
- Which university is older? W&M was founded in 1693, making it the second oldest university in the United States. UVA was founded in 1819.
- What is the acceptance rate for UVA and W&M? The acceptance rate for UVA in Fall 2022 was 29%. The acceptance rate for W&M in Fall 2022 was 52%.
- Does UVA offer merit-based scholarships? Yes, UVA offers a variety of merit-based scholarships, including the Jefferson Scholars Foundation Scholarship and the Echols Scholars Program.
- What is the student-faculty ratio at W&M? The student-faculty ratio at W&M is 1:13.
- Is Greek life a significant part of student life at UVA? Yes, Greek life is a significant part of student life at UVA, with over 50 fraternities and sororities on campus.
- Does W&M have a medical school? No, W&M does not have a medical school.
- Is UVA or W&M closer to Washington, D.C.? W&M is closer to Washington, D.C., located approximately 120 miles from the nation’s capital. UVA is located approximately 160 miles from Washington, D.C.
- Which university has the most Nobel Laureates? UVA has produced 11 Nobel Laureates, while W&M has produced 1 Nobel Laureate.