Brown University vs Case Western: A Comprehensive Overview
Searching for the ideal college? Consider the differences between Brown University vs Case Western Reserve University, both offering rich academic experiences. To help you decide which institution is the right fit for you, we’ve compiled a comprehensive overview of both schools. From admissions to campus life to alumni networks, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in!
Introduction: Brief Overview of Brown University and Case Western
Founded in 1764 in Providence, Rhode Island, Brown University is a private Ivy League research university renowned for its innovative curriculum and diverse student body. With over 6,000 undergraduates and an acceptance rate of just 7%, Brown is a highly selective institution that attracts some of the brightest minds in the country.
On the other hand, Case Western Reserve University is located in Cleveland, Ohio. This private research university was founded in 1826 and boasts over 11,000 students, both undergraduate and graduate. The university has a selective admissions process; in 2020, it admitted about 27% of its applicants.
Despite their differences in location and size, both Brown University and Case Western Reserve University share a commitment to academic excellence and research. Brown is known for its open curriculum, which allows students to design their own course of study, while Case Western is recognized for its strong programs in engineering and the sciences. Both universities also offer a range of extracurricular activities and opportunities for students to engage with their communities and make a positive impact on the world.
Admissions Process: How to Get Accepted at Brown University vs Case Western
Both Brown and Case Western have highly competitive admissions processes that consider an applicant’s academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and personal qualities. Brown University requires students to submit either the Common Application or the Coalition Application, along with a number of supplemental essays. Admissions officers also consider test scores, high school transcripts, and letters of recommendation.
Case Western also requires either the Common Application or the Coalition Application, in addition to two letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and transcripts. Test scores are optional for the 2021-2022 admissions cycle. However, students who choose to submit test scores may do so.
It is important to note that both Brown and Case Western have holistic admissions processes, meaning that they consider the whole applicant and not just their academic achievements. Admissions officers are interested in learning about an applicant’s passions, interests, and unique experiences. Therefore, it is important for applicants to showcase their personality and individuality in their application materials.
In addition, both universities offer various resources to help applicants navigate the admissions process. Brown University has a dedicated Office of College Admission that provides information sessions, campus tours, and virtual events for prospective students. Case Western also offers campus tours and information sessions, as well as personalized counseling from admissions officers. It is highly recommended that applicants take advantage of these resources to gain a better understanding of each university and to make informed decisions about their college choices.
Campus Life: Dorms, Dining, and Social Activities of Brown University vs Case Western
Both schools provide students with a variety of campus resources to enhance their college experience. Brown University offers seven residential colleges that foster a sense of community among students. Each college has its own dining hall and shared spaces for group activities. Students can also take advantage of over 300 student-run clubs and organizations, including fraternities and sororities.
At Case Western, students live in more traditional residence halls and have access to a number of dining options on campus. The university also offers a multitude of extracurricular activities, including Greek life, academic clubs, and community service organizations. In addition, Case Western has a bustling arts scene that attracts both students and community members.
Furthermore, both universities offer various social events and activities throughout the year. Brown University hosts an annual Spring Weekend, which features concerts and other outdoor activities. Case Western Reserve University has a number of traditions, including the Homecoming parade and the annual Springfest celebration. These events provide students with opportunities to socialize and connect with their peers outside of the classroom.
Academics: Majors, Programs, and Research Opportunities
Both Brown and Case Western offer a wide range of academic programs that cater to various interests. Brown University is known for its open curriculum, which allows students to design their own courses of study. The university offers study-abroad programs in over 50 countries and has top-ranked graduate schools in medicine, engineering, and public policy. Brown also boasts an impressive research portfolio that spans diverse topics, including biomedicine, international relations, and entrepreneurship.
At Case Western, students can choose from over 95 undergraduate majors and minors. The university has strong programs in engineering, business, and the liberal arts. Additionally, Case Western is home to 17 research centers, including the Great Lakes Energy Institute and the Center for Synchrotron Biosciences.
Both universities offer numerous opportunities for undergraduate research. Brown University has a dedicated Office of Undergraduate Research and Creative Endeavors, which provides funding and support for students pursuing research projects. Case Western also has a strong emphasis on undergraduate research, with opportunities to work alongside faculty members on cutting-edge projects in fields such as biomedical engineering and materials science.
Faculty Profiles: Who’s Who at Brown University and Case Western
Both schools have highly qualified faculty members who are leaders in their respective fields. Brown University boasts a roster of accomplished professors, many of whom have received accolades such as Guggenheim Fellowships and MacArthur Genius Grants. Students benefit from small class sizes and personalized attention from their professors.
Similarly, Case Western has a distinguished faculty that includes Rhodes Scholars and Nobel laureates. Many professors are actively involved in research, and students have numerous opportunities to work alongside them in labs and research projects.
At Brown University, the faculty members are not only accomplished in their fields, but they are also dedicated to teaching and mentoring students. Professors often hold office hours and are available to meet with students outside of class to discuss coursework or research projects.
Additionally, many professors at Brown are involved in community outreach programs, providing students with opportunities to engage with the local community and apply their knowledge in real-world settings.
At Case Western, the faculty members are known for their interdisciplinary approach to teaching and research. Professors often collaborate across departments and schools to tackle complex problems and develop innovative solutions. This approach not only benefits students, who are exposed to a wide range of perspectives and ideas, but also contributes to groundbreaking research in fields such as medicine, engineering, and social sciences.
Athletic Programs: Sports Teams and Facilities of Brown University vs Case Western
Both Brown and Case Western offer a broad spectrum of athletic programs that cater to students with diverse interests. Brown University has 38 varsity sports teams, including basketball, soccer, and ice hockey. The university also has state-of-the-art athletic facilities, including the Olney-Margolies Athletic Center and the Marston Boathouse.
Case Western has 19 varsity athletic teams, including football and volleyball. The university is also home to the Veale Athletic Center, which features a fitness center, indoor track, and numerous courts for racquet sports and basketball.
In addition to varsity sports teams, both universities offer a variety of intramural and club sports for students who want to participate in athletics at a more casual level. Brown University has over 30 club sports teams, including ultimate frisbee, fencing, and sailing. Case Western also has a range of club sports, such as rugby, lacrosse, and equestrian.
Furthermore, both universities prioritize the health and wellness of their students by providing resources and support for physical activity. Brown University offers fitness classes, personal training, and wellness coaching through their Recreation department. Case Western has a program called “Spartan Recreation” which offers fitness classes, outdoor adventure trips, and intramural sports leagues.
Student Reviews: What Current Students Have to Say
Of course, the best way to get a sense of a school is to hear from current students. At Brown University, students praise the school’s open curriculum and diverse community. Many also appreciate the intellectual rigor of the coursework and the meaningful relationships they develop with their professors.
At Case Western, students rave about the university’s sense of community and supportive campus culture. They also appreciate the emphasis on research and hands-on learning opportunities.
Additionally, students at the University of Michigan speak highly of the school’s vast resources and opportunities for extracurricular involvement. Many students also appreciate the diverse student body and the welcoming atmosphere on campus. The university’s commitment to sustainability and social justice initiatives is also a point of pride for many students.
Cost of Attendance: Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid Options Between Brown University vs Case Western
While both Brown and Case Western are private universities, they have different tuition and financial aid policies. Brown University’s tuition for the 2021-2022 academic year is $60,696, with an additional $16,360 for room and board. However, the university meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students and offers need-based financial aid packages.
Case Western’s tuition for the 2021-2022 academic year is $53,906, with an additional $16,462 for room and board. The university offers both need-based financial aid and merit scholarships to eligible students.
It is important to note that the cost of attendance at both universities may vary depending on factors such as the student’s program of study, housing preferences, and personal expenses. Additionally, students may be able to reduce their overall costs by applying for external scholarships or participating in work-study programs.
Both Brown and Case Western also offer resources and support for students who may be experiencing financial hardship. This includes emergency funds, financial counseling, and assistance with budgeting and managing expenses.
Alumni Networks: Career Services and Networking Opportunities
Both universities have strong alumni networks that provide valuable resources for students and graduates. Brown University’s CareerLAB offers career counseling, job search assistance, and networking events for students and alumni. Additionally, the university’s BrownTogether campaign aims to bring together alumni, parents, and friends to support the university’s educational mission.
At Case Western, the Career Center provides similar resources, including career fairs, job listings, and resume reviews. The university’s alumni network is also highly engaged, with graduates serving as mentors, internship hosts, and network contacts for current students.
Brown University’s alumni network is not only strong, but also diverse. The university has alumni in various fields, including business, law, medicine, and the arts. This diversity provides students and graduates with a wide range of networking opportunities and access to different industries.
Similarly, Case Western’s alumni network is also diverse, with graduates working in fields such as engineering, technology, and healthcare. The university’s alumni association hosts events and programs that bring together alumni from different industries, providing students and graduates with opportunities to connect with professionals in their desired fields.
Location of Brown University vs Case Western: Proximity to City Centers and Surrounding Attractions
Both Brown and Case Western are located in urban settings with easy access to cultural and recreational opportunities. Brown University is situated in Providence, a vibrant city with a thriving arts scene and numerous historical landmarks. Students can explore the RISD Museum, catch a performance at the Trinity Repertory Company, or stroll through WaterFire, a renowned outdoor art installation.
Case Western is located in the cultural hub of Cleveland, with easy access to museums, theaters, and restaurants. The city’s University Circle neighborhood is home to several museums, including the Cleveland Museum of Art, and the Cleveland Orchestra, one of the top orchestras in the world, performs at Severance Hall.
In addition to the cultural and recreational opportunities in the surrounding cities, both Brown and Case Western offer their own unique attractions on campus. Brown University’s campus is home to the John Hay Library, which houses rare books and manuscripts, as well as the Brown University Botanical Gardens, which features over 10,000 plants from around the world.
Case Western’s campus is home to the Cleveland Botanical Garden, which features 10 acres of outdoor gardens and a glasshouse conservatory. The campus also boasts the Dittrick Medical History Center, which houses a collection of medical artifacts and rare books.
Campus Safety Measures: Security Protocols and Emergency Services
Both universities prioritize the safety and well-being of their students, faculty, and staff. Brown University’s Department of Public Safety provides 24/7 security services, including emergency response and crime prevention programming. The university also has a robust emergency notification system that alerts students and staff in the event of a crisis.
Similarly, Case Western has a comprehensive security program that includes a police department, emergency management team, and a campus safety app. The university also has a robust mental health support system that provides counseling and wellness services to students.
In addition to these security measures, both universities have implemented new safety protocols in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Brown University has implemented a testing program for all students, faculty, and staff, and has also implemented contact tracing measures. The university has also increased cleaning and disinfecting protocols in all campus buildings.
Case Western has also implemented a testing program for all students, faculty, and staff, and has implemented a mask mandate for all individuals on campus. The university has also increased cleaning and disinfecting protocols in all campus buildings, and has implemented social distancing measures in classrooms and common areas.
Extracurricular Activities: Clubs, Organizations, and Volunteer Opportunities
Both universities offer a plethora of extracurricular activities that allow students to explore their interests and develop new skills. At Brown, students can join clubs and organizations ranging from dance troupes to debate societies to outdoor adventure groups. The university also has a robust community service program that offers students opportunities to volunteer locally and globally.
Similarly, Case Western has over 200 student organizations, including student government, service clubs, and intramural sports teams. The university also provides students with ample opportunity to engage in community service and civic engagement initiatives.
Moreover, both universities have a strong emphasis on entrepreneurship and innovation. Brown has an entrepreneurship center that provides resources and support for students interested in starting their own businesses. The university also hosts an annual hackathon, where students can collaborate and develop innovative solutions to real-world problems. At Case Western, students can participate in the LaunchNET program, which offers mentorship, funding, and other resources to help students turn their ideas into successful ventures.
Additionally, both universities have a vibrant arts scene. Brown has a student-run theater group, a capella groups, and an art gallery that showcases student work. Case Western has a music conservatory, a theater program, and a museum of contemporary art. Both universities also host a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including concerts, film screenings, and art exhibitions.
Diversity and Inclusion on Campus: Efforts to Create a Welcoming Environment for All Students
Both universities are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus culture. Brown University has numerous initiatives and programs to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, including the Office of Institutional Equity and Diversity and the First-Generation College and Low-Income Student Center. The university also has a Multicultural Student Orientation program that helps students from historically underrepresented groups transition to college life.
Similarly, Case Western is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive community. The university has a number of programs and initiatives to advance diversity and inclusion, including the Social Justice Institute and the Office for Inclusion, Diversity, and Equal Opportunity. Additionally, Case Western has a robust support system for underrepresented students, including mentorship programs and affinity groups.
Furthermore, both universities have taken steps to ensure that their faculty and staff are also committed to promoting diversity and inclusion. Brown University has a Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan that includes training and development opportunities for faculty and staff to better understand and address issues related to diversity and inclusion. Similarly, Case Western has a Diversity 360 program that provides training and resources to faculty and staff to create a more inclusive campus environment.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways from the Comparison of Brown University vs Case Western
Overall, both Brown University and Case Western Reserve University are exceptional institutions that offer their students a wealth of academic and extracurricular opportunities. Whether you’re interested in exploring a particular academic field, getting involved in community service, or simply expanding your horizons, both universities have something to offer. By weighing the factors that matter most to you, you’ll be able to make an informed decision about which institution is the right fit for you. Good luck!
It’s important to note that while both universities have similarities, they also have distinct differences. Brown University is located in Providence, Rhode Island, which offers a vibrant city atmosphere with easy access to Boston and New York City.
On the other hand, Case Western Reserve University is located in Cleveland, Ohio, which offers a more laid-back, Midwestern feel. Additionally, Brown University is known for its open curriculum, which allows students to design their own academic path, while Case Western Reserve University has a strong focus on research and innovation. These differences should also be considered when making a decision about which university to attend.
