UC Davis vs Washington University in St. Louis

When it comes to choosing a university, there are a plethora of factors that students and parents have to consider. Two universities that are often compared to each other are UC Davis and Washington University in St. Louis. In this comprehensive analysis of UC Davis vs Washington University in St. Louis, we will compare and contrast these two universities across various crucial factors, and help you decide which school is right for you.

Location and Campus Size

The University of California, Davis is located in Davis, California, a small college town in the Sacramento Valley. The campus is spread over 5,300 acres, making it one of the largest in the UC system. In contrast, Washington University in St. Louis is located in St. Louis, Missouri, a large metropolitan city. The campus is spread over 169 acres, making it much smaller compared to UC Davis.

Each location has its pros and cons, with Davis offering a more rural, laid-back atmosphere and St. Louis offering more urban opportunities and city life.

Despite the size difference, both UC Davis and Washington University in St. Louis offer a variety of academic and extracurricular opportunities for students.

UC Davis is known for its strong programs in agriculture, veterinary medicine, and environmental science, while Washington University in St. Louis is known for its strong programs in business, engineering, and medicine. Both campuses also offer a range of student organizations, sports teams, and cultural events to enhance the student experience.

Student Body Demographics at UC Davis vs Washington University in St. Louis

UC Davis has a student population of over 39,000, with a diversity index of 0.59. The gender ratio is roughly equal, and the ethnic breakdown is 25% Asian, 25% Hispanic/Latino, 30% White, and 6% African American.

Washington University in St. Louis, on the other hand, has a much smaller student population of around 15,000, with a diversity index of 0.36. The gender ratio is also roughly equal, and the ethnic breakdown is 10% Asian, 6% Hispanic/Latino, 68% White, and 7% African American.

It is worth noting that both universities have made efforts to increase diversity on their campuses. UC Davis has implemented programs such as the African American and African Studies Program and the Chicanx and Latinx Studies Program to promote diversity and inclusivity.

Washington University has also taken steps to increase diversity, including the establishment of the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and the Diversity and Inclusion Summit.

Additionally, both universities have active student organizations dedicated to promoting diversity and cultural awareness. UC Davis has over 400 student organizations, including the Black Student Union and the Vietnamese Student Association.

Meanwhile, Washington University has over 300 student organizations, including the Association of Latin American Students and the Asian American Association.

Admission Requirements and Selectivity of UC Davis vs Washington University in St. Louis

UC Davis is a moderately selective university, with an acceptance rate of around 49%. The average SAT score range is 1140-1400. Washington University, on the other hand, is a highly selective university, with an acceptance rate of around 13%. The average SAT score range is 1490-1570, and the average ACT score range is 33-35.

It is important to note that admission requirements and selectivity can vary greatly depending on the program or major you are applying to. For example, some majors at UC Davis may have higher acceptance rates or lower SAT/ACT score requirements than others.

It is always recommended to research the specific requirements for your intended major before applying to any university.

Academic Programs and Majors Offered at UC Davis vs Washington University in St. Louis

UC Davis is known for its strong programs in agriculture, veterinary medicine, environmental science, and engineering. It offers over 100 undergraduate majors and over 90 graduate programs. Washington University is known for its strong programs in business, law, medicine, and social work. It offers over 90 undergraduate majors and over 100 graduate programs.

In addition to its strong programs in agriculture, veterinary medicine, environmental science, and engineering, UC Davis also offers exceptional programs in the fields of psychology, computer science, and economics.

The university’s psychology program is highly regarded for its research opportunities and hands-on experience, while its computer science program is known for its emphasis on innovation and entrepreneurship. The economics program at UC Davis is also highly ranked, with a focus on applied economics and policy analysis.

At Washington University, students can also pursue majors in the fields of architecture, art, and education. The university’s architecture program is particularly notable, with a focus on sustainable design and urban planning.

The art program at Washington University is also highly regarded, with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and experimentation.

Additionally, the university’s education program offers a range of specializations, including early childhood education, special education, and educational leadership.

Faculty and Class Sizes

UC Davis has over 2,400 faculty members, with a student-faculty ratio of 21:1. The average class size is around 29 students. Washington University has over 3,600 faculty members, with a student-faculty ratio of 7:1. The average class size is around 15 students.

It is important to note that class sizes can vary depending on the department and level of the course. For example, introductory courses tend to have larger class sizes, while upper-division and graduate courses have smaller class sizes.

Additionally, some departments may have more faculty members per student, resulting in smaller class sizes overall. It is always a good idea to research the specific department and courses you are interested in to get a better understanding of the class sizes at each university.

Research Opportunities and Facilities at UC Davis vs Washington University in St. Louis

UC Davis is a research-intensive university with over $800 million in research funding. It has over 100 research centers and institutes, including the Energy Efficiency Center, the Genome Center, and the UC Davis Health System.

Washington University is also a research-intensive university, with over $820 million in research funding. It has over 120 research centers and institutes, including the McDonnell Genome Institute, the Siteman Cancer Center, and the Institute for Public Health.

UC Davis offers a wide range of research opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students. Students can participate in research projects in various fields, including agriculture, engineering, and health sciences. The university also provides funding and resources for students to conduct their own research projects.

Washington University has a strong focus on interdisciplinary research, with many research centers and institutes collaborating across different fields.

The university also has a number of specialized research facilities, such as the Center for Cellular Imaging and the Genome Technology Access Center, which provide state-of-the-art equipment and expertise for researchers.

Campus Life and Student Activities

UC Davis has over 800 student organizations, including clubs for sports, arts, politics, religion, and service. It also has a strong Greek life culture, with over 50 fraternities and sororities.

On the other hand, Washington University has over 300 student organizations, including clubs for arts, culture, academics, and sports. It has a smaller Greek life culture, with 35 fraternities and sororities.

Aside from student organizations, UC Davis also offers a variety of campus events and activities throughout the year. These include concerts, festivals, and cultural celebrations. The university also has a state-of-the-art recreation center, which offers fitness classes, sports leagues, and outdoor adventure programs.

Similarly, Washington University hosts a number of events and activities on campus, such as guest lectures, art exhibits, and theater performances. The university also has a strong commitment to community service, with many opportunities for students to volunteer and give back to the St. Louis community.

Athletics and Sports Teams at UC Davis vs Washington University in St. Louis

UC Davis is a Division I school and a member of the Big West Conference. It has 23 intercollegiate sports teams, including basketball, football, volleyball, and soccer.

Meanwhile, Washington University is a Division III school and a member of the University Athletic Association. It has 19 intercollegiate sports teams, including basketball, football, volleyball, and soccer.

UC Davis has a strong tradition of excellence in athletics, with many of its teams consistently ranking among the top in the nation. The men’s basketball team has made several appearances in the NCAA tournament, while the women’s soccer team has won multiple conference championships. The football team has also had success, winning the conference championship in 2018.

Washington University’s sports teams may compete at a lower level than UC Davis, but they still have a strong athletic program.

The men’s and women’s cross country teams have won multiple national championships, while the women’s basketball team has made several appearances in the NCAA tournament. The football team has also had success, winning the conference championship in 2016.

Career Services and Alumni Network

UC Davis has a Career Services Center, which provides career counseling, job search assistance, and internship opportunities. Its alumni network is over 250,000 strong, with graduates working in a variety of industries and fields.

Washington University also has a Career Center which offers similar services. Its alumni network is much smaller, with around 120,000 graduates.

UC Davis’ Career Services Center offers a wide range of resources to help students and alumni succeed in their career paths. These resources include resume and cover letter reviews, mock interviews, and career fairs. The center also provides access to job and internship postings, as well as networking events with alumni and employers.

Washington University’s Career Center has a strong focus on helping students explore their career interests and develop their skills. The center offers career assessments, workshops on job search strategies, and opportunities to connect with alumni mentors.

In addition, the center partners with employers to provide internships and job opportunities for students and graduates.

Tuition, Scholarships, and Financial Aid Options at UC Davis vs Washington University in St. Louis

UC Davis’s tuition and fees for in-state students is around $14,000 per year, while out-of-state students pay around $44,000 per year. It offers numerous scholarships and financial aid options, including federal aid, state aid, and institutional aid.

Washington University’s tuition and fees total to around $60,000 per year, and it also offers numerous scholarships and financial aid options, including merit-based aid and need-based aid.

Additionally, UC Davis offers work-study programs for students who want to earn money while studying. The university also has a program called Aggie Grant, which provides financial assistance to students from low-income families.

On the other hand, Washington University has a program called the Danforth Scholars Program, which provides full-tuition scholarships and additional benefits to exceptional students.

It is important to note that both universities have financial aid offices that can assist students in finding the best financial aid options for their needs. Students are encouraged to apply for financial aid early and to explore all available options to make their education more affordable.

Campus Safety and Security Measures at UC Davis vs Washington University in St. Louis

UC Davis has a strong campus police force, with around 50 sworn officers. It has a variety of safety programs and services, including a campus-wide emergency alert system and a Safe Rides program.

Washington University also has a strong campus police force, with over 30 sworn officers. It also has a variety of safety programs and services, including a Night Rides program and a Student Health and Safety Council.

In addition to these safety programs and services, both UC Davis and Washington University have implemented various security measures to ensure the safety of their students, faculty, and staff. These measures include security cameras placed strategically throughout the campus, well-lit pathways and parking lots, and access control systems for buildings and residence halls.

Both universities also conduct regular safety audits to identify potential security risks and make necessary improvements.

Graduation Rates and Employment Outcomes

UC Davis has a 6-year graduation rate of around 87% and a median starting salary of around $55,000. Its graduates work in a variety of industries and fields, including agriculture, healthcare, and technology.

Meanwhile, Washington University has a 6-year graduation rate of around 94% and a median starting salary of around $70,000. Its graduates also work in a variety of industries and fields, including law, finance, and medicine.

However, graduation rates and starting salaries are not the only factors to consider when evaluating the employment outcomes of a university. Another important factor is the job placement rate, which measures the percentage of graduates who secure employment within a certain period after graduation.

According to recent data, UC Davis has a job placement rate of around 90%, while Washington University has a job placement rate of around 95%.

In addition to job placement rates, it is also important to consider the types of jobs that graduates are able to secure.

UC Davis graduates are known for their success in the agricultural industry, with many going on to work for major companies such as Monsanto and Syngenta. On the other hand, Washington University graduates are highly sought after in the legal and financial sectors, with many securing positions at top law firms and investment banks.

Rankings and Reputation of UC Davis vs Washington University in St. Louis

Both UC Davis and Washington University are highly respected universities with numerous accolades and rankings. UC Davis is ranked #38 in the 2022 US News & World Report National University Rankings, while Washington University is ranked #15 in the same year.

In addition to their impressive rankings, UC Davis and Washington University have a strong reputation for research and innovation.

UC Davis is home to several research centers and institutes, including the UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center and the UC Davis Genome Center. The university is also a leader in sustainable agriculture and environmental science research.

Meanwhile, Washington University is known for its cutting-edge medical research, with its School of Medicine consistently ranked among the top in the country. The university also has a strong focus on interdisciplinary research, with collaborations between its schools of engineering, medicine, and arts and sciences.

Both universities also have a diverse student body and offer a range of extracurricular activities. UC Davis has over 800 student organizations, including clubs for sports, arts, and community service. The university also has a strong commitment to sustainability, with initiatives such as a bike-sharing program and a student-run farm.

At the same time, Washington University has over 300 student organizations, including a student-run radio station and a chapter of the National Society of Black Engineers. The university also has a strong athletic program, with 19 varsity sports teams competing in the NCAA Division III.

Conclusion: Which School is Right for You?

Choosing between UC Davis vs Washington University in St. Louis ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.

If you are interested in agriculture, environmental science, or engineering and prefer a larger campus with a laid-back atmosphere, UC Davis may be the right choice for you. If you are interested in business, law, or medicine and prefer a smaller campus in an urban environment, Washington University in St. Louis may be the right choice for you.

Both are excellent universities with strong academic programs, faculty, research opportunities, and student activities. It’s up to you to decide which one is the best fit for your goals and aspirations.

However, there are other factors to consider when making your decision. For example, the cost of attendance may differ between the two schools, as well as the availability of financial aid and scholarships.

Additionally, the location of the school may play a role in your decision, as it can impact your access to internships, job opportunities, and cultural experiences.

Furthermore, it’s important to consider the campus culture and community. Each school has its own unique student body, traditions, and values. You may want to visit each campus, attend a class or two, and talk to current students to get a better sense of the campus culture and whether it aligns with your own interests and values.

AdmissionSight provides valuable guidance to students facing the decision between UC Davis and Washington University in St. Louis. By considering factors such as academic programs, industry connections, and campus culture, they assist students in making an informed choice.

Furthermore, AdmissionSight offers personalized strategies, essay review, and interview preparation to enhance students’ chances of gaining admission to either university, maximizing their potential for success.