Lehigh vs. Colgate: An In-Depth Examination

Introduction

Lehigh and Colgate Universities, both located in the scenic Northeastern United States, offer a compelling juxtaposition of academic excellence and campus culture. This comprehensive analysis delves into the key aspects of these institutions, evaluating their strengths, exploring their distinctions, and providing insights into the unique experiences they offer prospective students.

Academic Profile

Lehigh University

• Founded: 1865
• Location: Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
• Enrollment: 7,223 undergraduates
• Academic Programs: Engineering, business, arts and sciences, education
• Acceptance Rate: 32%
• SAT Score Range: 1280-1460
• ACT Score Range: 30-34

Lehigh University has long held a well-deserved reputation for its exceptional engineering programs. The P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in diverse engineering disciplines, with a focus on research and innovation. The university’s College of Business and Economics is equally renowned for its undergraduate and MBA programs in finance, marketing, and supply chain management.

Colgate University

• Founded: 1819
• Location: Hamilton, New York
• Enrollment: 2,900 undergraduates
• Academic Programs: Liberal arts and sciences
• Acceptance Rate: 27%
• SAT Score Range: 1310-1490
• ACT Score Range: 31-34

Colgate University provides an immersive liberal arts education that emphasizes critical thinking, written and oral communication, and a broad understanding of the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The university’s curriculum is designed to foster intellectual curiosity and develop students’ abilities to analyze, reason, and communicate effectively.

Campus Culture

Lehigh University

Lehigh’s Bethlehem campus spans 1,575 acres and is known for its picturesque natural setting along the Lehigh River. The campus features a mix of traditional and modern architecture, with a focus on sustainability. The university’s student body is diverse, coming from 48 states and 85 countries. Lehigh offers a vibrant campus life with more than 400 student organizations, ranging from sports clubs to academic societies to Greek life.

Colgate University

Colgate’s 575-acre campus is situated in the charming village of Hamilton, New York. The campus is characterized by its rolling hills, historic buildings, and tranquil landscapes. The university’s student body is relatively small, fostering a close-knit community. Colgate places a high value on extracurricular activities, with students participating in over 200 clubs, organizations, and athletic teams.

Student Life

Lehigh University

• Housing: Lehigh guarantees on-campus housing for all four years. The university offers a variety of housing options, including traditional residence halls, apartments, and Greek houses.
• Dining: Lehigh provides multiple dining halls and eateries, serving a wide range of culinary options. The university also operates a Food Court and convenience store for grab-and-go meals.
• Health and Wellness: Lehigh’s Health Center provides medical and counseling services to students. The university also has a fitness center, swimming pool, and various athletic facilities.

Colgate University

• Housing: Colgate guarantees on-campus housing for three years. The university offers a variety of housing options, including residence halls, theme houses, and fraternity and sorority houses.
• Dining: Colgate operates a central dining hall that serves meals throughout the day. The university also offers a variety of campus cafes and coffee shops.
• Health and Wellness: Colgate’s Health Center provides medical and counseling services to students. The university also has a fitness center, swimming pool, and various athletic facilities.

Cost of Attendance

Lehigh University

• Tuition and Fees: $58,820
• Room and Board: $14,398
• Estimated Total Cost of Attendance: $78,762

Colgate University

• Tuition and Fees: $60,840
• Room and Board: $15,934
• Estimated Total Cost of Attendance: $82,348

Conclusion

Deciding between Lehigh and Colgate is a matter of balancing academic interests, campus culture, and personal preferences. Lehigh offers a strong engineering and business focus, while Colgate provides a comprehensive liberal arts education. Lehigh has a larger campus and more extensive facilities, while Colgate fosters a close-knit community and emphasizes extracurricular activities. Ultimately, the best choice for each individual student depends on their unique aspirations and priorities.

Tables