Union College and Bucknell University are both private, selective schools known for their focus on undergraduate education. Union College, founded in 1795 in Schenectady, New York, is a liberal arts college that also offers accredited engineering programs. Bucknell University, established in 1846 in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, is a liberal arts university that combines arts and sciences with strong engineering and management programs. Both schools provide close learning environments and vibrant campus traditions, but they have significant differences. This analysis compares Union and Bucknell across five key areas: Academics, Campus Life, Finances, Admissions, and Post-Graduate Outcomes. It highlights the advantages of each school, especially the strengths of Union College, while keeping an even academic tone.
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‍Academics
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‍Both Union College and Bucknell University take pride in their challenging scholars based on the liberal arts tradition, along with options in STEM and professional areas. Each school has a low student-to-faculty ratio of about 9:1, which ensures small class sizes and close faculty mentorship throughout the undergraduate years (Union College, 2025; Bucknell University, 2025). Introductory classes at Union have about 24 students, while upper-level courses average around 14. Bucknell’s classes are similarly small, with most courses having fewer than 20 students (College Transitions, 2024a; Union College, 2025). These numbers highlight the importance both colleges place on personalized education and direct interaction between professors and students. Importantly, neither school uses graduate teaching assistants for undergraduate courses; all classes are taught by faculty, emphain undergraduate courses; all classes are taught by faculty, underscoring the focus on quality teaching and mentorship.

Union College offers a range of academic programs in traditional liberal arts, sciences, and engineering, making it one of the few small liberal arts colleges accredited in engineering. The curriculum promotes interdisciplinary study and flexibility. For instance, Union has combined-degree programs like the Leadership in Medicine program, a direct-entry health program, and a 3+3 law program in partnership with other institutions. Bucknell University is divided into the College of Arts & Sciences, the College of Engineering, and the Freeman College of Management, covering a wide range of programs. Bucknell excels in engineering and business education, often ranking among the top undergraduate engineering schools in the nation for institutions without doctoral programs (Bucknell University, 2025). Both schools offer a well-rounded liberal education, but students may see Union’s unique integration of engineering within a liberal arts context and Bucknell’s added focus on management and professional studies.

Undergraduate research is a key part of the academic experience at both institutions. Union College stands out for its high level of student research participation; around 80% of Union students take part in faculty-mentored research during their undergraduate years (Union College, 2025). Each year, Union holds a college-wide Steinmetz Symposium, where hundreds of students present original research across various fields. Bucknell students also have many research opportunities, with over 500 undergraduates collaborating with faculty on research projects each year (College Transitions, 2024b). In both cases, the research culture allows students to work closely with professors, often leading to co-authored papers or conference presentations. This helps students build analytical skills beyond the classroom. This hands-on learning approach highlights the commitment to undergraduate education at both colleges.

Another aspect of academics is global and experiential learning. Union and Bucknell both motivate students to expand their views through study abroad and real-world experiences. Union boasts a strong international program, with over 60% of its students participating in study abroad programs at some point, a figure well above the national average (Union College, 2025). The college offers full-term programs on six continents as well as shorter intensive “mini-terms” during the extended winter break, which makes use of Union’s trimester schedule (three 10-week terms). Bucknell, which follows a traditional semester calendar, also sends a large number of its students abroad—roughly 40% of Bucknell undergraduates study in another country throughout their college years (Bucknell University, 2025). Furthermore, both institutions include internships and other hands-on learning; for example, about 85% of Union students complete at least one internship before graduating (Union College, 2025). Bucknell’s interdisciplinary approach often connects classroom theory with practical projects and partnerships in the industry. Overall, both Union and Bucknell offer demanding, intimate learning environments with plentiful opportunities for research and global exposure. Union focuses on an interdisciplinary liberal arts education that incorporates engineering, whereas Bucknell emphasizes a liberal arts education enhanced by strong engineering and business programs. Yet the primary academic experience at either college centers around student-focused teaching and learning.
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‍Campus Life
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‍Campus life at Union College and Bucknell University is lively and closely connected to each school's location, residential character, and traditions. Union’s campus is in Schenectady, NY, a small city known for its charming blend of historic and modern buildings, including the iconic 16-sided Nott Memorial at the center, and eight acres of formal gardens. In contrast, Bucknell’s campus is in the rural town of Lewisburg, PA, surrounded by beautiful countryside and the Susquehanna River. Although Bucknell’s setting is more secluded, both campuses create a self-contained collegiate community with plenty of facilities and green space. Union’s location offers easy access to the larger Capital Region of New York and the Adirondack Mountains for cultural outings or outdoor activities. Bucknell’s more remote location encourages a strong sense of community and traditions centered on campus events.

Residential life is important at both schools, but Union goes further by housing nearly all students on campus for all four years. Union guarantees housing and expects students to live on campus during their entire undergraduate career, helping to form a close-knit community and vibrant campus atmosphere (Union College, 2025). The college has a unique Minerva Houses system. Every Union student and faculty member belongs to one of seven Minerva Houses that act as centers for academic and social activities. These houses host lectures, discussions, and social events, blending living and learning specifically and offering students additional community beyond traditional dorms. Similarly, about 87% of students at Bucknell live on campus (Bucknell University, 2025). Freshmen and sophomores typically live in on-campus housing, and many juniors and seniors choose to stay on campus, although some may move to off-campus apartments or sorority and fraternity houses nearby. Both colleges provide various housing options, from traditional halls to suite-style or themed residences, including Union’s Minerva House residences, which help foster camaraderie among students.

Student life outside classes includes a wide range of clubs, organizations, and athletics at both schools. Union College has over 130 student clubs and organizations, including academic and cultural groups, performing arts ensembles, and community service activities (Union College, 2025). Bucknell offers more than 200 clubs and student organizations, reflecting its larger student body. The athletic experiences differ between the two: Bucknell is an NCAA Division I school (Patriot League) for all its varsity sports, while Union competes in NCAA Division III for most sports (Liberty League), except for Division I men’s and women’s ice hockey. This means that Bucknell’s sports are part of a major collegiate sports culture, with popular events like Division I football and basketball drawing significant crowds. In contrast, Union’s sports, aside from ice hockey, are on a smaller scale but allow more students to participate. About one-third of Union students take part in intercollegiate varsity sports (Union College, 2025), and many others join extensive intramural and club sports programs, indicating strong student involvement in athletics even without the Division I spotlight. Bucknell’s Division I status brings a lively atmosphere to campus on game days and shows impressive student-athlete achievements (Bucknell consistently ranks among national leaders in student-athlete graduation rates). Both colleges manage athletics and academics well, but students interested in the excitement of Division I sports may prefer Bucknell, while those looking for broader participation in sports and a mix of Division I hockey with Division III athletics might find Union’s athletic culture appealing.

Greek life is also a significant part of campus social life at both schools. Fraternities and sororities have deep roots at Union and Bucknell, but their roles vary in size and integration with campus housing. Union College is known as the “Mother of Fraternities.” It was the birthplace of the American fraternity movement in the 19th century and hosts the historic Union Triad of fraternities. Today, Union has about ten fraternities and sororities (including both residential and non-residential chapters), with recruitment starting in the sophomore year (Union College, 2025). Greek organizations are active at Union, organizing social events and service projects, but they have not dominated the residential scene since 2004. Fraternity houses are now part of the broader residential system, allowing all students to participate in campus housing. Bucknell University has a notable Greek presence as well: roughly 49% of eligible students (sophomores and above) join Greek-letter organizations (Bucknell University, 2025). Bucknell currently recognizes seven fraternities and nine sororities, making Greek life an essential aspect of social life by hosting many weekend events and philanthropic activities. First-year students at both schools cannot join Greek life, giving them time to adjust to college and make friends before deciding whether to participate in the fraternity and sorority system. Overall, students at both Union and Bucknell experience active social lives that include Greek life and various alternative social options, from campus-wide events to clubs and house programs. Union’s social scene benefits from the Minerva Houses, which organize dinners, talks, and casual gatherings open to all students, creating an inclusive social space alongside the selective Greek system. Bucknell’s social life often centers around campus events, athletic games, and Greek-sponsored activities, offering a classic collegiate atmosphere for its students.

Both colleges focus on diversity and inclusion in campus life, though their student demographics vary slightly. Union has just over 2,000 undergraduates, making its student body geographically and culturally diverse. The college states that around 26% of domestic students come from underrepresented minority backgrounds and about 11% are international students (Union College, 2025). In contrast, Bucknell has around 3,900 undergraduates, with roughly 22% students of color and 5% international students (Bucknell University, 2025). So, Union has a higher percentage of international students and slightly more ethnic diversity among U.S. students, which stands out given its smaller size. Both schools provide resources and clubs focused on multicultural life, religious life, and community service, aiming to foster an inclusive environment. From multicultural centers to support programs for first-generation students, Union and Bucknell work hard to make all students feel welcomed and engaged on campus.
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In summary, campus life at Union College and Bucknell University is rich and varied. Union offers a residential experience fully integrated with academic and social programs (through its Minerva Houses and close community) in a setting where campus traditions meet city convenience. Bucknell features a traditional residential campus filled with Division I school spirit and an energetic social scene in a more rural, self-contained environment. Both colleges build strong community ties among students through living-learning communities, athletics, Greek life, and clubs, ensuring that undergraduate life is both supportive and engaging beyond the classroom.
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‍Finances
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‍Attending either Union College or Bucknell University is a major investment, as both are private schools with high costs that reflect the value of a residential education. For the 2025–2026 academic year, the total cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room, and board, is around $85,000 to $90,000 per year at each school (Bucknell University, 2025; Union College, 2025). This amount includes tuition, which is about $70,000 at both schools, standard housing and meal plans totaling around $17,000, and additional fees for personal expenses. Although these costs are quite high, most students do not pay the full price due to the extensive financial aid and scholarship options available at both institutions.

Union College and Bucknell University aim to make their education accessible to students from various economic backgrounds by offering need-based financial aid and merit scholarships (in the case of Union). At Union College, over 60% of undergraduates receive need-based grants or scholarships from the college, and more than 25% of students receive merit-based scholarships for academic achievement or other accomplishments (Union College, 2025). Union provides about $80 million in institutional scholarships and grants each year to support its 2,000 undergraduates. The average financial aid package at Union, for those with demonstrated need, surpasses $55,000 per year (Union College, 2025), which significantly lowers the net cost for most students receiving aid. Additionally, Union has created special financial aid programs, such as the “Making U Possible” grants, which offer extra Union-funded aid ranging from $20,000 to $40,000 per year to many middle-income families who struggle to afford the full cost but do not qualify for large need-based aid as determined by federal formulas. Merit scholarships at Union, which are not based on financial need, range from $10,000 to $46,000 per year and are renewable for four years. These awards recognize top academic performers, leadership, or other talents and help attract a diverse and talented student body.

Bucknell University's financial aid system is also substantial. Each year, Bucknell dedicates over $100 million to grants and scholarships for undergraduates (Bucknell University, 2025). About 58% of Bucknell students receive institutional grant aid based on need, and approximately 64% receive some form of financial assistance when factoring in federal, state, and outside scholarships (Bucknell University, 2025). Most of Bucknell’s aid is need-based, although the school does offer a few merit awards, often linked to specific scholarship programs or certain academic talents. For those who qualify, the average need-based aid package is in the high five figures, similar to Union’s. This helps bring the average net price, which accounts for scholarships and grants, down to a more manageable amount. Recent estimates suggest the average net cost is around $40,000 per year at both schools for students receiving aid (College Board, 2025). The exact net price varies based on individual family circumstances, but both colleges strive to meet most of the demonstrated need for admitted students. While neither Union nor Bucknell officially guarantees to meet 100% of every student's need like some larger schools with hefty endowments, they come close for many families, and the additional merit aid at Union can help bridge any funding gaps.

When looking at student outcomes and finances, it is valuable to consider student debt and return on investment. Both Union and Bucknell report that their students graduate with lower-than-average student loan debt. For instance, Bucknell's Class of 2025 graduates who borrowed had an average federal student loan debt of about $21,000, which is significantly below the national average of roughly $30,000 to $40,000 (Bucknell University, 2025). Union's outcomes are similar; most Union graduates manage to keep their loan debt low thanks to the aid they receive, and the college’s endowment, valued at around $530 million as of 2023, provides about 20% of the college’s operating budget each year, much of which goes to financial aid (Union College, 2023). Bucknell's larger endowment, approximately $1.17 billion in 2024, gives it a strong financial foundation for aid and campus resources (Bucknell University, 2024). In terms of return on investment, both schools prepare students for careers with competitive starting salaries. Recent graduates from Bucknell's Class of 2024 reported an average starting salary of about $73,000 (Bucknell University, 2025), reflecting strong outcomes in fields like engineering, finance, and technology. Union graduates also earn strong salaries, consistent with peer liberal arts colleges, and many pursue advanced degrees or enter high-paying sectors like engineering, healthcare, or finance, providing a solid return on their college investment over time.

Another factor to consider is how each school approaches scholarships beyond need. Union offers a wide range of merit scholarships, which is a significant strength. These scholarships help attract high-achieving students who may not qualify for need-based aid, enhancing the academic profile of the student body while easing financial burdens for families. Bucknell has traditionally focused more on need-based aid, but in recent years it has also introduced targeted scholarships for specific fields like STEM or for students in their honors program to attract top talent. Families comparing costs might find that merit aid offers from Union could lower its net price compared to Bucknell's in some cases, based on the student's qualifications. Conversely, families with high demonstrated need might receive similar aid packages from both schools because of their commitment to need-based assistance.

In summary, the finances at Union College and Bucknell University include high overall costs offset by strong financial aid. Both institutions invest heavily in their students through grants and scholarships, showing their commitment to making education accessible. Union stands out with a combination of need-based aid and strong merit scholarships, along with initiatives like Making U Possible, which can greatly benefit middle-class families and high achievers. Bucknell, with a larger financial base, also works to make attendance possible through significant need-based aid and has a good track record of low student debt. Prospective students should consider the net cost after aid instead of just the sticker price and assess the long-term value of the education and opportunities each college offers.


‍Admissions
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‍Gaining admission to Union College or Bucknell University is a competitive process, as both institutions attract more qualified applicants than they can enroll, and have seen rising selectivity in recent years. Admissions standards at both schools emphasize strong academic performance, personal character, and fit with the school’s community and programs. However, there are a few differences in admissions metrics and priorities that distinguish the two.

‍Selectivity and Acceptance Rates: Bucknell University is somewhat more selective in terms of acceptance rate. Recent data indicate Bucknell admits roughly one-third of its applicants, while Union College admits slightly under half. For example, for the Class of 2029 (entering fall 2025), Bucknell had around 11,500 applicants and admitted about 32% of them, enrolling a first-year class of just over 1,000 students (Bucknell University, 2025). Union College, for its Class of 2029, received about 9,249 applications and admitted 43% overall, enrolling a smaller freshman class of around 465 students (Union College, 2025). These figures show that while both colleges are selective, Bucknell’s acceptance rate is lower, reflecting a combination of factors: Bucknell’s applicant pool size and its enrollment target (Bucknell’s freshman class is roughly twice the size of Union’s, but its applicant pool was more than twice as large). It’s worth noting that both schools fill a substantial portion of their classes through Early Decision applications – at Union, about 30% of the incoming class is admitted via Early Decision I or II (Union College, 2025), and Bucknell also offers Early Decision rounds for students who have a clear first choice. Applying Early Decision can significantly boost one’s chances at these schools, given the higher acceptance rates in ED and the demonstration of strong interest.

‍Academic Profile of Admitted Students: The academic caliber of students at both institutions is high and quite comparable. Admitted student profiles show median standardized test scores and GPAs that align with top-tier liberal arts colleges. Both Union and Bucknell are test-optional, meaning applicants may choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. A majority of applicants now opt not to send scores – at Union, for instance, over half of admitted and enrolled students did not submit test scores (Union College, 2025). For those who do submit, the middle 50% SAT range of enrolled students is roughly 1300–1460 at Union and a similar range around 1330–1460 at Bucknell (Bucknell University, 2025; Union College, 2025). In fact, Union’s Class of 2029 profile shows middle 50% SAT scores of about 1320–1460 for enrolled students, and Bucknell’s middle 50% for SAT is typically in the high-600s per section (approximately 1340–1480 combined). ACT scores for both fall in the 30–34 range for the middle 50%. Perhaps more telling, around three-quarters of Union’s admitted students were in the top 20% of their high school class (Union College, 2025), and similarly, Bucknell’s incoming students generally present A-range GPAs (often around 3.7–3.9 unweighted on 4.0). These data underscore that both colleges seek academically strong students with rigorous high school backgrounds.

‍Holistic Admissions Factors: Beyond the numbers, Union and Bucknell practice holistic admissions, evaluating extracurricular involvement, leadership, essays, recommendations, and personal qualities. Both institutions value well-rounded and engaged students who will contribute to campus life. Union College tends to emphasize characteristics like intellectual curiosity and a spirit of interdisciplinarity – an applicant who has pursued a mix of interests (say, science and music, or engineering and art) might resonate with Union’s ethos of combining diverse fields. Bucknell, on the other hand, often highlights leadership and community engagement, as well as fit for specific programs (for example, an applicant to the College of Engineering should show aptitude in math/science and passion for engineering projects, whereas an applicant to the Freeman College of Management might demonstrate entrepreneurial activities or leadership in clubs). Neither school requires a specific set of high school courses beyond the usual college-preparatory curriculum, though successful applicants typically have taken the most challenging courses available to them (honors, AP, or IB courses) in core subjects. Both colleges also invite (but do not require) interviews, either with admissions staff or alumni, as an opportunity for students to showcase their personality and fit.
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‍Demographic and Diversity Considerations: In shaping their incoming classes, both Union and Bucknell strive for diversity across geography, background, and interests. Union’s admitted pool in recent years has included students from nearly every state and dozens of countries; in the Class of 2029, for instance, students came from 40 U.S. states and 50 countries (Union College, 2025). Bucknell’s Class of 2029 likewise represented around 38 states and 48 countries (Bucknell University, 2025). Union, being smaller, enrolls fewer absolute numbers of underrepresented students, but the percentage composition (as discussed in Campus Life) is a factor admissions officers monitor. Each school has initiatives to recruit first-generation college students and students from historically underrepresented groups – Union partners with programs like Posse and QuestBridge, and Bucknell has outreach efforts like its Journey to Bucknell program for multicultural recruitment. From an admissions standpoint, neither school is bound by strict formulas; instead, they take a broad view of how each applicant might contribute to the campus academically and socially.
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‍Admissions Summary: In summary, while Bucknell University is somewhat more competitive in terms of admit rate and volume of applications, Union College and Bucknell seek similar profiles of talented, motivated students. Applicants to either institution should have strong academic records, a track record of involvement or leadership, and a clear sense of why the college is a good fit for their goals. Union’s admissions might particularly appreciate students who are excited about combining different academic interests or taking advantage of unique programs like undergraduate research or terms abroad, whereas Bucknell’s admissions might key in on students who demonstrate leadership potential and enthusiasm for Bucknell’s blend of liberal arts and professional programs. Both colleges being test-optional means students can focus on highlighting their strengths in other areas if test scores are not reflective of their abilities. Ultimately, gaining admission to Union or Bucknell is an accomplishment – and those who do enroll can be confident they are joining a cohort of bright peers in a supportive environment.
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‍Post-Graduate Outcomes
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‍A critical measure of any undergraduate institution is the success of its graduates. Both Union College and Bucknell University have strong post-graduate outcomes, with the vast majority of students swiftly moving on to employment, graduate or professional school, or other meaningful pursuits after earning their bachelor’s degrees. Each college also offers robust career services and enjoys loyal alumni networks that help new graduates transition into the next phase of life.
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‍Employment and Graduate School Placement: Within months of graduation, an overwhelming proportion of Union and Bucknell alumni have secured their next steps. At Bucknell, approximately 93% of the Class of 2024 reported achieving a “successful outcome” within nine months of graduation – this statistic encompasses those who are employed full-time, enrolled in graduate or professional education, engaged in volunteer service (such as Teach for America or the Peace Corps), or otherwise productively occupied (Bucknell University, 2025). Bucknell’s outcome rate has been consistently high; for example, the Class of 2023 had a 96% placement rate within six months, and earlier classes hovered in the mid-90s as well (College Transitions, 2024b). Union College’s outcomes are equally impressive. For the most recent year of data available (Class of 2022), about 92% of Union graduates had landed at their next destination shortly after graduation – roughly 70% entered full-time employment and around 18% went directly on to graduate or professional school, with a small remainder involved in fellowships, military service, or travel, and only a few percent still seeking opportunities (College Transitions, 2024a). These numbers indicate that a Union or Bucknell education is highly valued by employers and graduate institutions alike.

In terms of the types of careers and graduate programs pursued, therconsiderable overlap and some differences is reflectinge is considerable overlap and some differences, reflecting each school’s strengths. Union College produces graduates who go into a wide variety of fields: recent alumni have launched careers in finance and business, engineering and technology, healthcare and medicine, law and public service, education, and the arts. Union’s top career fields for graduates include business/finance, engineering, healthcare, communications, and law, among others (Union College, 2025). Many Union alumni start at major companies – for instance, Union’s alumni can be found at organizations like IBM, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Fidelity Investments, Morgan Stanley, and Goldman Sachs, which are noted as some of the largest employers of Union graduates (College Transitions, 2024a). At the same time, a significant number of Union graduates choose to further their education: students from recent classes have entered graduate programs at prestigious institutions such as Albany Medical College, Johns Hopkins University, New York University, the University of Pennsylvania, Columbia University, and Duke University, to name a few. The college’s emphasis on undergraduate research and broad academic preparation positions its graduates well for advanced study; for example, Union’s Leadership in Medicine program students earn both a bachelor’s and a graduate degree (MBA or MS) en route to medical school, so those participants transition directly into medical programs after Union, contributing to the graduate school statistics.

Bucknell University’s graduates similarly find success across numerous industries. Owing in part to Bucknell’s engineering and management programs, many alumni embark on careers in engineering firms, technology companies, consulting, and financial services. It is common to see multiple Bucknell graduates working at firms like Deloitte, Ernst & Young, JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, Amazon, and Lockheed Martin, as well as in healthcare organizations and nonprofit sectors. Bucknell’s Career Center data shows the Class of 2024 working at a wide range of employers from Wall Street banks to Silicon Valley tech giants to national research labs (Bucknell University, 2025). About 20–25% of Bucknell graduates typically go straight to graduate school in fields such as law, medicine, business (MBA programs), and academic master’s or Ph.D. programs in the sciences and humanities. Top graduate school destinations for Bucknellians include institutions like Columbia University, University of Pennsylvania, Duke University, Georgetown University, and Yale University, among others (Bucknell University, 2025). Bucknell’s strong foundation in the liberal arts and sciences, combined with technical skills from engineering and management disciplines, gives its graduates flexibility in the job market and competitiveness in graduate admissions.
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‍Alumni Networks and Career Support: Both Union and Bucknell enjoy committed alumni networks that actively support current students and recent graduates. Bucknell’s alumni network numbers over 55,000 living alumni – a sizable community given the university’s undergraduate focus – and the university fosters connections through mentoring programs, internship pipelines, and an active alumni career network (Bucknell University, 2025). Alumni often return to campus for career panels or recruit Bucknell students for openings at their companies. The result is that Bucknell students benefit from a far-reaching support system, especially in the Northeastern U.S. (a large proportion of Bucknell grads remain in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast states after graduation). Union College, despite a smaller alumni base in absolute numbers, has an exceptionally distinguished and loyal alumni community relative to its size. Union counts among its alumni a U.S. President (Chester A. Arthur, Class of 1848), a Nobel Prize winner, a MacArthur “Genius Grant” Fellow, and numerous leaders in fields ranging from government and law to science and the arts (Union College, 2025). Such accomplished alumni enhance the value of Union’s network. Through the Becker Career Center at Union, students can tap into an alumni mentoring program and the extensive Union alumni directory to seek career advice and job leads. Union’s alumni network is especially strong in the Northeast corridor (New York City, Boston, etc.), and many students secure internships and first jobs through Union connections. In surveys, over 85% of Union alumni report being satisfied or very satisfied with their careers – a rate higher than alumni of many peer institutions – indicating that Union graduates feel well-prepared and find meaningful employment (Union College, 2025).

‍Graduate Outcomes in Context: It is also informative to consider outcomes like retention to sophomore year and graduation rates, as these are precursors to successful post-graduate outcomes. Bucknell boasts a first-year retention rate of 96%, meaning nearly all freshmen return for their sophomore year, and a six-year graduation rate of about 86% (Bucknell University, 2025). Union’s retention is somewhat lower (around 89% freshman retention) and a six-year graduation rate of around 85% (College Transitions, 2024a), which are still strong and in line with national averages for selective colleges. These metrics show that students are happy enough with their experience to stay and complete their degrees at high rates, which correlates with positive outcomes afterward.

Another angle is the long-term success and satisfaction of graduates. Both institutions perform well in measures of early- and mid-career success. Surveys of alumni indicate that a large majority from each school feel their education prepared them with the skills needed in the workforce – for instance, Bucknell seniors rate their gains in critical thinking, problem solving, and communication highly, and employers often note Bucknell and Union graduates’ strengths in these liberal arts skills (Bucknell University, 2025). In terms of earnings, according to external analyses such as PayScale or Stacker.com, both Union and Bucknell graduates have median mid-career salaries that rank among the top for liberal arts college alumni, reflecting the strong ROI (Stacker, 2021). Of course, salary is only one measure of success; many Union and Bucknell alumni pursue impactful but less highly paid paths such as teaching, public service, or research, and both colleges support those pathways as well (with many alumni winning Fulbright fellowships, joining service programs, or eventually entering academia).

In summary, post-graduate outcomes for Union College and Bucknell University graduates are excellent. Both schools see roughly 9 out of 10 students launch successfully into careers or further education shortly after graduation. Their alumni achievements – whether immediate job placement at leading companies, acceptance into top graduate schools, or long-term career satisfaction and prominence – speak to the quality of the undergraduate experience. If one were to tease out differences, one might say Union College’s outcomes highlight its broad liberal arts strength with an interdisciplinary twist (for example, an engineering major with a minor in economics who lands a job at a finance firm, or a humanities major who conducted research and goes on to a top Ph.D. program). Bucknell’s outcomes leverage its larger scale and professional programs (for example, many engineers and business majors moving directly into industry roles with competitive salaries, and a network effect of a larger alumni base in corporate settings). Importantly, both institutions have the resources – career centers, alumni networks, and internship connections – to actively assist students in making the leap from college to the wider world. A student choosing Union or Bucknell can be confident that, by graduation, they will be well-prepared to “hit the ground running” in whatever endeavor they choose, backed by a strong alumni community and the reputation of a top-tier undergraduate institution.
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‍Conclusion
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‍In comparing Union College and Bucknell University, it is clear that both schools provide excellent undergraduate education in residential liberal arts settings. Each has its own character and strengths. Union College offers a close-knit college environment known for blending liberal arts and engineering, rich research and international opportunities, and a tight campus community with historic traditions and innovative programs like the Minerva House system. Bucknell University provides a larger liberal arts experience with Division I energy, a wide range of academic programs, including highly ranked engineering and management options, and a lively campus life rooted in tradition and school spirit. Academically, students at both institutions benefit from small classes and close faculty interaction. Socially, they enjoy a variety of activities, whether in an urban-connected setting (Union) or a classic college-town atmosphere (Bucknell).

Importantly, both Union and Bucknell show a strong commitment to undergraduate success. They offer generous financial aid to help students afford their education, holistic admissions that create diverse learning communities, and robust career support that helps graduates launch meaningful careers and further studies. The comparison reveals many similarities in outcomes and quality, with differences in scale and focus: Union’s long-standing commitment to interdisciplinary liberal arts, including engineering and leadership programs, and Bucknell’s broader range of offerings and Division I profile. 

Union College stands out for its high student research engagement, global immersion rate, and the strong four-year residential experience. These factors together produce graduates who are versatile thinkers and leaders. These strengths are evident in the data and stories about Union’s success. Bucknell's strengths, such as its selectivity, large alumni network, and competitive engineering and business outcomes, also provide important context.

In conclusion, a prospective student choosing between Union College and Bucknell University would benefit from either choice academically. The decision may depend on personal preferences, such as whether one prefers a smaller college community with an integrated interdisciplinary approach and historical charm (Union), or a somewhat larger community with Division I athletics and distinct colleges for different fields (Bucknell). Both institutions represent the best of undergraduate-focused education, and both develop graduates who go on to rewarding careers and lives. By understanding the differences in academics, campus life, finances, admissions, and outcomes, students and families can see that while Union College and Bucknell University differ in feel, they are peers in providing a transformative college experience. Each college’s commitment to nurturing student potential and emphasizing undergraduate teaching ensures that its alumni enter the world equipped not only with knowledge and skills but also with the confidence and support to make a difference.


‍References:


1. Academics & Faculty

• U.S. News & World Report – Union College Overview
https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/union-college-2895
‍Used for: Engineering accreditation, student-faculty ratio, class sizes, trimester system.
• U.S. News & World Report – Bucknell University Overview
https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/bucknell-university-3370
‍Used for: Engineering and business programs, semester system, class sizes, Division I status.
• Union College Academics & Research
https://www.union.edu/academics
‍Used for: 80% student research participation, Steinmetz Symposium, study abroad (60%), internships (85%).
• Bucknell University Academics
https://www.bucknell.edu/academics
‍Used for: College structure (Arts & Sciences, Engineering, Management), undergraduate research, study abroad (40%).

2. Admissions & Student Profile

• Union College Common Data Set (2023–24)
https://www.union.edu/offices/institutional-research/common-data-set
‍Used for: Admit rate (~43%), SAT range (1320–1460), ACT (30–34), first-gen %, Pell %, international %.
• Bucknell University Common Data Set (2023–24)
https://www.bucknell.edu/about-bucknell/institutional-research-and-assessment/common-data-set
‍Used for: Admit rate (~32%), SAT range (1330–1480), ACT (30–34), yield, student body size.
• College Transitions – Union vs. Bucknell Admissions Profile
https://www.collegetransitions.com/dataverse/admission-profiles
‍Used for: Side-by-side admit rates, test scores, high school class rank, applicant volume.

3. Cost & Financial Aid

• Union College Tuition & Financial Aid
https://www.union.edu/admissions/financial-aid
‍Used for: Merit scholarships ($10K–$46K), need-based aid avg. ~$55K, Making U Possible grants, 60% receive aid.
• Bucknell University Financial Aid Overview
https://www.bucknell.edu/financial-aid
‍Used for: $100M+ in grants, 58% receive need-based aid, avg. aid package, merit scholarships (limited), avg. debt ~$21K.

4. Post-Graduation Outcomes

• Union College Career Outcomes – Class of 2022
https://www.union.edu/career-center/post-grad-outcomes
‍Used for: 92% placement rate, top employers (IBM, PwC, Goldman Sachs), grad school destinations, mid-career salary ~$125K.
• Bucknell University Career Outcomes – Class of 2024
https://www.bucknell.edu/career-outcomes
‍Used for: 93% placement rate, top employers (Deloitte, JPMorgan, Amazon), avg. starting salary ~$73K, grad school list.

5. Campus Life & Student Experience
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• Niche – Union vs. Bucknell Campus Life & Diversity
https://www.niche.com/colleges/union-college-new-york/campus-life/
‍https://www.niche.com/colleges/bucknell-university/campus-life/
‍Used for: Greek life stats (Union ~30–40%, Bucknell ~49%), Minerva Houses, Division I vs. III athletics, diversity %, student reviews.
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