Prospective undergraduates looking at Union College (NY) and Connecticut College will find two respected liberal arts schools with many similarities, including small classes, residential campuses, and strong outcomes. They also have clear differences in programs and campus culture. This essay compares these colleges using the latest data from 2023 to 2024. It covers academics, selectivity, costs, student life, outcomes, location, and overall reputation. Both schools are presented fairly, with facts and figures from reliable sources, while highlighting Union College’s unique strengths when relevant.


‍Academics and Academic Offerings
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‍Both Union College and Connecticut College are private liberal arts colleges known for their small class sizes and close student-faculty interaction. Each has around 1,900 to 2,100 undergraduates and a student-faculty ratio of about 9:1 (Union is 9:1; Connecticut College is about 9.4:1). This setup ensures that students receive personalized attention from professors. Classes are usually small. For example, the average course size at Connecticut College is 19 students (with introductory classes having about 23 and advanced seminars having around 11). Union reports that introductory classes have about 24 students, while upper-level classes average 14. Faculty at both schools are highly qualified, with 96 to 97% holding doctorates or terminal degrees. This means undergraduates benefit from expert instructors in every field.

‍Majors and academic programs: Both colleges offer a wide liberal arts curriculum, but Union stands out for its technical component; it is a liberal arts college with engineering programs. Union has over 40 majors, which include ABET-accredited programs in Mechanical, Electrical, Biomedical Engineering, and Computer Science. It also offers traditional arts and sciences, along with interdisciplinary majors and accelerated dual-degree options. Notable opportunities include Union’s Leadership in Medicine program, an 8-year B.A./M.S./M.D. partnership with Albany Medical College, and a 3+3 law degree option. Connecticut College offers about 41 majors and more than 45 minors across humanities, sciences, social sciences, and arts. While it lacks engineering programs, it features innovative interdisciplinary options and a "Connections" curriculum that emphasizes integrative learning. Both schools allow students to create self-designed majors and engage in undergraduate research. About 80% of Union students participate in faculty-mentored research, and Connecticut College also encourages research and conference presentations by undergraduates.

‍Popular fields of study: The most popular majors illustrate the strong liberal arts offerings at both colleges. At Connecticut College, the top majors for the class of 2024 were Psychology, Economics, Computer Science, Government (Political Science), and Biological Sciences. Other popular programs included Environmental Studies and Neuroscience. Union’s top majors are similar in the liberal arts but also include engineering. The eight most popular majors at Union are Economics, Psychology, Biology, Mechanical Engineering, Political Science, Biomedical Engineering, History, and Neuroscience. This shows that Union students can pursue accredited engineering degrees alongside traditional majors, highlighting a key distinction between the two schools.

‍Academic calendar and special programs: An important difference is Union’s trimester schedule, which includes three 10-week terms and a longer winter break. In contrast, Connecticut College follows a more common semester system. Both colleges emphasize experiential learning. About 60% of Union students study abroad, while Connecticut College offers around 80 study-away programs worldwide. Both institutions provide honors or scholarship opportunities. Connecticut College requires a senior integrative project as part of its Connections curriculum, while Union has honors societies and a senior thesis option for many majors. Overall, both colleges offer a rigorous liberal arts education, but Union’s inclusion of engineering and unique combined-degree programs may attract students looking for a STEM-oriented liberal arts experience. In contrast, Connecticut College’s interdisciplinary Connections curriculum exemplifies a modern approach to integrative learning.
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‍Selectivity and Admissions Profile
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Admissions selectivity at both Union and Connecticut College is similar. They are labeled as “more selective” liberal arts colleges by U.S. News. Both institutions are challenging to get into, but they are not as difficult as the most elite liberal arts colleges. In the latest admissions cycle, Union College had an acceptance rate of about 43%, while Connecticut College's rate was around 38%. This means that out of more than 9,000 applicants to Union, 4,019 were admitted for the incoming Class of 2029. At Connecticut College, approximately 2,866 out of about 7,338 applications were accepted for the same class. Both colleges also fill a significant part of their classes through Early Decision, which shows strong interest from committed candidates. For example, around 30% of Union’s incoming class was admitted through Early Decision rounds.

‍Standardized test scores paint a clear picture. Both schools are test-optional, and the majority of applicants choose not to submit SAT or ACT scores. At Union, 67% of enrolling students did not provide test scores. For those who do submit, the middle 50% score ranges are quite high, demonstrating strong academic profiles. At Union College, the middle 50% of students who submitted scores scored roughly 1320–1460 on the SAT combined and 30–34 on the ACT. Connecticut College has similar ranges: among students who submitted, the SAT middle 50% was about 1160–1400 combined, and ACT was 28–32. Notably, the midrange for admitted students at Connecticut College's latest class was EBRW 708–753 and Math 660–760 on the SAT, which is roughly equivalent to upper-1300s combined. This indicates many high-achieving students. Overall, both colleges attract students with strong academic records, and their admissions metrics, such as GPA ranges and test scores, show a significant overlap. Their admissions processes consider the whole applicant; for example, Union requires high school rank if available and recommendations, while Connecticut College emphasizes the rigor of the curriculum. Typically, about 59% of incoming students at Connecticut College have high school GPAs of 3.75 or above.

Once enrolled, students at both schools are academically accomplished. At Union, around 76% of incoming students ranked in the top 20% of their high school classes, with an average incoming GPA of around 3.6–3.7 on a 100-point scale. Connecticut College similarly reports that most of its freshmen have A-range GPAs, with 59% holding GPAs of 3.75 or higher in high school. Both colleges seek well-rounded students. While neither requires standardized admission tests, high submitted scores can strengthen an application. Connecticut College’s admit rate is slightly lower, but both schools are in a similar range where about 1 in 2 to 1 in 3 applicants are accepted. Importantly, each practice needs aware admissions. Union explicitly states it is need-aware, and Connecticut College is also need-aware, even though it aims to meet full financial need. This means that the ability to pay may be considered for some applicants, though they do strive to address financial needs for those admitted.

For a quick quantitative comparison of recent admissions figures: Admissions Metric (Class of 2029)



As the table shows, the two colleges enroll similar-sized freshmen classes with comparable academic caliber. These data underscore that neither school has a clear edge in selectivity or student quality – both attract academically strong, motivated students from across the country and internationally.
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Attending either Union College or Connecticut Collge invoves a significant investment, as both are private schools with total fees of around $80,000 to $90,000 per year before financial aid. For the 2025 to 2026 academic year, Union's total cost (tuition, fees, room, and board) is $89,316, while Connecticut College's is about $89,660. Tuition alone at Connecticut College is roughly $70,000, with about $19,000 for room and board, which is very similar to Union's breakdown. These prices have been on the rise, and both colleges rank among the more expensive options in the U.S. However, most students do not pay full price because of strong financial aid and scholarship programs at each institution.Costs and Financial Aid
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‍Attending either Union College or Connecticut College involves a significant investment, as both are private schools with total fees around $80,000 to $90,000 per year before financial aid. For the 2025 to 2026 academic year, Union's total cost (tuition, fees, room, and board) is $89,316, while Connecticut College's is about $89,660. Tuition alone at Connecticut College is roughly $70,000, with about $19,000 for room and board, which is very similar to Union's breakdown. These prices have been on the rise, and both colleges rank among the more expensive options in the U.S. However, most students do not pay full price because of strong financial aid and scholarship programs at each institution.

Both Union and Connecticut College say they cover 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students, making them more affordable for families across different income levels. Connecticut College meets full need for all students, with an average percent of need met at 100%. Union states that it meets the full demonstrated need for those who apply by the financial aid deadlines. This means that if you are accepted, the colleges will use a mix of grants, work-study, and limited loans to fill the gap between the cost of attendance and your expected family contribution. For example, the average need-based financial aid package at Union is over $55,000 per year, while at Connecticut College, the average need-based grant for freshmen is about $52,000. As a result, the average net price after aid can be much lower than the sticker cost. College Board data show that Connecticut's average net price after grants is around $42,941, which varies by family income, and similar figures would apply at Union, given comparable aid. 

Both schools also offer merit scholarships to attract strong students. Union automatically considers all applicants for merit awards, which range from $10,000 to $46,000 per year. Over 25% of Union students receive merit scholarships, even those who may not qualify for need-based aid. Connecticut College recently introduced merit awards, starting with the Class of 2021. In the current first-year class, 26% received merit funding only, with no need-based aid, reflecting the college’s effort to attract top students. Notably, 97% of first-year students at Connecticut College receive some form of institutional grant aid, whether need-based or merit. This is similar to Union's figure of over 60% receiving need-based aid plus additional merit awards. Both colleges consider finances in admissions for marginal cases, but once admitted, they try to make attendance affordable for students.

‍To illustrate costs and aid side by side:
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• Tuition & Fees (2023–24): ~$70,000 at both colleges

• Total Cost of Attendance: About $89,000/year (including housing, meals, etc.

• A verage Financial Aid Package: ~$53,000 (Conn freshman avg); ~$55,000 (Union need-based avg).

• Students on Aid: ~54% of Conn first-years get need-based aid (47% of all undergrads on need-based aid) and 26% merit-only; at Union >60% get need-based aid, and ~25% get merit awards.

• Full-Need Met: Yes, both colleges meet 100% of demonstrated need (no gap).

• Average Graduate Debt: Connecticut College’s Class of 2024 average debt was about $37,972 (indicative of moderate borrowing), similar data for Union is not listed here, but likely in the same range given their aid.

Both colleges are dedicated to making their education affordable for admitted students, despite their high sticker prices. Families in significant financial need can anticipate substantial grant aid. Middle-income families often receive some form of need-based or merit aid as well. A key difference is that Union, which has a slightly larger endowment per student, offers a "Making U Possible" grant program. This provides $20,000 to $40,000 in aid to some families who are just above the need-based thresholds. At the same time, Connecticut College guarantees that every student can receive funding for an internship, up to $3,000, through its Career Action Program. Although this doesn't lower tuition, it offers valuable paid learning opportunities.

In short, cost should not be the main factor when deciding between these two schools for most students. Your net cost will vary based on your financial circumstances, but both institutions are costly with generous aid options. Students who gain admission to either college can typically compare their aid offers. Connecticut College meets 100% of demonstrated need without loans for lower-income families as part of its full-need commitment. Union's aid packages often contain a manageable blend of grants and federal student loans, with an average loan default rate close to 0%. This indicates that graduates are able to repay their loans. The main point is that neither Union nor Connecticut College should be overlooked because of their sticker prices. Both have strong support systems to make a liberal arts education accessible, regardless of income.


‍Student Life, Housing, and Diversity
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‍Despite their academic rigor, both Union College and Connecticut College provide a vibrant campus life with a strong sense of community due to their small size and residential nature. Almost all undergraduates live on campus for all four years, with around 90% at Union and 99% at Connecticut College. This living arrangement allows social interactions and extracurricular activities to flourish on campus, creating a solid community feeling.

Housing and residential systems. Union and Connecticut College have different housing cultures. Union College features a unique Minerva House system where freshmen are randomly assigned to one of seven houses. These houses serve as centers for academic, social, and leadership activities, sponsoring events and discussions and providing an inclusive social network outside of traditional dormitories. Union also has theme houses and standard residence halls, with around 90% of students living on campus in a combination of dorms, suites, and college-owned apartments. In contrast, Connecticut College offers traditional dormitory “houses,” dividing the campus into several residential areas: north, south, and central. There are no fraternities or sororities at Connecticut College, which is an intentional choice to maintain inclusivity in social life. Social events often focus on dorm houses and campus-wide gatherings. Each dorm at Conn organizes events like study breaks, brunches, and friendly competitions. Students are encouraged to help plan social and educational programs for their house, sometimes with faculty mentors involved.

Union College does allow fraternities and sororities as an optional part of social life, with about one-third of students choosing to join. There are 10 residential Greek organizations at Union, along with a few non-residential ones. Recruitment is deferred until the sophomore year, allowing newcomers to settle in first. This means students interested in Greek life can find it at Union, where these organizations contribute to social events, charity, and networking. However, those who prefer a campus life without Greek involvement may favor Connecticut College. It's important to note that Greek life at Union is just one of many social options available. All Union students belong to Minerva Houses, regardless of Greek membership, and not everyone joins Greek organizations. In short, Union offers a robust Greek life experience alongside its inclusive Minerva system, while Connecticut College nurtures a sense of community through campus-wide activities and dorm traditions without fraternities or sororities. Both styles foster a close-knit student culture, just in different ways.

Clubs and extracurriculars. Both colleges feature a wide variety of student clubs and activities, including performing arts, student government, club sports, and cultural organizations. Union College has over 130 campus clubs, covering academic societies, cultural and identity groups, the arts, media, and more. At Union, students can also participate in community service activities through the Kenney Community Center, internships, and campus leadership roles. Connecticut College offers over 80 student-led clubs, and students can create their own if desired. Popular activities at Conn include a cappella groups, theater and dance productions, an outdoors club, and various identity and cultural organizations. Both campuses promote student engagement, with many students participating in multiple activities. The high on-campus living rate enhances participation.

Diversity and inclusion. Both colleges are working to increase diversity in their student demographics. Union’s Class of 2029 is 44% female and 56% male, with a historically higher male percentage partly due to its engineering program. In contrast, Connecticut College is about 61% female and 39% male, reflecting a typical gender balance in liberal arts schools. Racially and ethnically, the campuses primarily consist of white students, but there is significant minority representation. Union’s incoming class includes approximately 26% domestic students of color (14% Hispanic, 11% Black, 7% Asian, 6% multiracial) along with about 6-11% international students. Connecticut College’s latest class is similar, featuring around 24% domestic BIPOC students (14% Hispanic, 6% Black, 5% Asian, 7% multiracial) and 8% international. This results in about a third of students at each college coming from nonwhite or international backgrounds. Additionally, first-generation college students represent 10-15% of the student body at each institution (Union’s class had 23% first-gen, which is quite high; Conn doesn’t have a recent public figure, but it likely accounts for a smaller yet notable percentage). Both colleges welcome students from across the United States (30+ states each) and many countries. For example, Union draws about 38% of its students from New England and 30% from New York, while Connecticut College’s largest state representation is Massachusetts (26%), followed by New York (16%), Connecticut (14%), New Jersey (6%), and California (5%). This suggests that both schools attract a primarily East Coast student body with some geographic diversity.

Campus culture and social atmosphere. Life on both campuses is busy and interactive, allowing students to form close relationships with professors and peers. Being small communities, they emphasize student governance and traditions. Union, established in 1795, has numerous traditions (like the Steinmetz Symposium, Lobster Fest, homecoming, etc.), and its Minerva Houses add another layer to the integration of social and academic life. Connecticut College, founded in 1911, has its traditions (Camel mascot events, the Floralia spring festival, etc.) and promotes a collaborative atmosphere described as inclusive and non-competitive, aided by the absence of Greek life. Both campuses have honor codes and student-run judicial systems that encourage trust and responsibility.

Both colleges maintain offices for diversity and inclusion as well as multiple cultural centers. Union focuses on enhancing diversity and has seen recent increases in the percentage of Pell-eligible and underrepresented students. Connecticut College has a history as a women’s college (until 1969) and today prioritizes gender inclusivity and equity; about 2% of students did not disclose their gender or identify as nonbinary. Neither school has a religious affiliation and both welcome students of all faiths and backgrounds, offering various spiritual life groups and resources.

Recreation and athletics. In terms of extracurricular activities, athletics are a key outlet at both institutions. Union fields NCAA Division III teams, along with Division I men’s and women’s ice hockey, with about one-third of students participating in intercollegiate sports. Union is part of the Liberty League (D-III) and ECAC Hockey (D-I hockey). Connecticut College is a member of the NESCAC, competing in Division III in sports such as soccer, basketball, and swimming, and it is known for strong sailing and squash teams. Athletics at both colleges are non-scholarship; they help foster school spirit without dominating campus life. Club sports and intramurals are also popular, and both colleges boast modern fitness centers and excellent facilities, including Conn’s waterfront sailing center and Union’s renovated Frank L. Messa Rink for hockey.

In conclusion, student life at Union and Connecticut College is dynamic and residential. Union may attract those who want fraternity and sorority options or a slightly larger selection of clubs, thanks to its slightly larger size and Minerva system. Connecticut College, on the other hand, offers a close community without Greek life, where dorm life and campus events shape the social scene. Both colleges ensure that students have a wealth of activities beyond academics, ranging from arts performances to community service. Since students live on campus, there’s a strong sense of camaraderie and school spirit at each institution.



‍Student Outcomes and Post-Graduation Success
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‍When you choose a college, it is important to consider outcomes such as graduation rates, career placement, and alumni earnings. Union College and Connecticut College perform well in these areas, showing high graduation rates and successful alumni, which reflects their quality of education.

Graduation and retention rates. Students at both colleges are likely to graduate on time. Union College has a four-year graduation rate of about 75% and a six-year rate of around 85%. This places Union in the top 10% of colleges nationwide for completion. Connecticut College has similar rates: about 74% to 77% of students graduate in four years, and around 82% to 85% do so in six years, depending on the class. For example, the Class of 2021 had an 84% graduation rate after six years, while the pandemic-affected Class of 2024 saw 72% finish in four years. Both schools also have strong freshman retention rates; typically, about 89% to 91% of first-year students return for their sophomore year. This indicates that students feel satisfied and supported within the college community. The high retention and graduation rates signal that students succeed and continue at both Union and Conn, with very few dropping out or transferring.

Career outcomes and employment. Graduates from both schools perform well in the job market and in gaining admission to graduate programs. Union College gathers “first destination” data, and in a recent class, 90% of graduates were employed or in graduate school shortly after graduation, with roughly 10% pursuing travel, fellowships (like Union’s Minerva Fellows program), or other gap experiences. One survey found that 60% of graduates were employed, 30% were in further education, and 10% were in fellowships or other positions immediately after graduation. Connecticut College reports similar results: within one year of graduation, most Conn alumni are employed, in grad school, or in full-time service programs. Connecticut’s “One Year Out” survey for the Class of 2018 highlighted employers such as Connecticut College itself, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, J.P. Morgan, and Fulbright fellowships. Top graduate school destinations included Columbia, NYU, Brandeis, Tufts, and the University of Connecticut. This reflects a variety of paths, with some going directly into elite grad programs and others into fields like finance, tech, education, healthcare, consulting, or nonprofit work. Both colleges have strong career centers – Union’s Becker Career Center and Conn’s Hale Center for Career Development – which provide personalized advising, alumni mentoring, and funding for internships. Conn’s $3,000 funded internship guarantee is a notable benefit. Many students participate in internships; about 85% of students at Union complete at least one internship during their undergraduate studies. Connecticut’s funded internship program ensures every student can afford an internship experience before senior year.

Alumni salaries and return on investment. While earnings vary by field, data suggest that Union graduates tend to earn slightly more in early-career salaries, likely due to their engineering and tech majors. According to U.S. Department of Education data compiled by Research.com, the median alumni salary for Union College is around $51,300 early in their careers, while Connecticut College’s median alumni salary is about $44,155 a few years post-graduation. Another source shows that ten years after starting college (about six to seven years after graduating), the median income for former students is roughly $60,000 or more for Conn alumni and slightly higher for Union alumni. Additionally, PayScale’s return on investment rankings have often favored Union; for instance, Union was ranked #8 among national liberal arts colleges in ROI, reflecting strong outcomes in salaries compared to college costs. Connecticut College alumni also fare well; Princeton Review lists a mid-career median salary for Conn alumni at around $131,200 (with a starting median of $75,200). This suggests that many Conn graduates move into high-paying careers over time, though these figures might be self-reported and skewed towards certain industries. Union’s mid-career figures are similar or higher; one Forbes estimate placed Union’s median salary for alumni ten to twenty years after graduation at around $155,700. The conclusion is that graduates from both schools achieve above-average earnings, and the difference in medians likely reflects the mix of majors. Engineering and economics majors, more common at Union, generally have higher starting salaries compared to arts or education majors, more typical at Conn.

Graduate and professional school placement. Many students from both colleges pursue advanced degrees. At Union College, about 30% of each class immediately enter graduate or professional school (master’s, Ph.D., law, medicine, etc.), while many others do so after working for a year or two. Union alumni have strong placement in medical and law schools, supported by its advising and special programs (the Leadership in Medicine program provides a direct path to Albany Medical College). Connecticut College also has a significant number of alumni earning advanced degrees; in one recent year, about 20% to 30% entered graduate programs within a year of graduating (and that percentage increases over time). Conn’s top graduate school destinations include institutions like Columbia, NYU, and Brandeis, indicating that its students are competitive for both Ivy League and other prestigious programs. Both colleges offer advisory programs for pre-health and pre-law fields, and both can showcase alumni successes like Fulbright scholars, Ph.D. graduates, and MBAs/JDs from top schools. Connecticut College has produced notable scholars in fields such as environmental science and international relations, while Union has a strong history of alumni in engineering, business, and public service, including former U.S. President Chester A. Arthur, Class of 1848.

Networking and alumni support. The strong outcomes are also supported by active alumni networks. Alumni from Union and Conn often mentor and hire recent graduates. For example, Union’s Career Center runs a comprehensive alumni mentoring network and “UConnect” programs, while Connecticut College has its Conn Alumni Online Community and career advisory network. With around 20,000 to 30,000 living alumni from each college, these networks are global but are especially concentrated in the Northeast (New York and Boston areas), which can be helpful for internships and jobs in those regions. Both institutions note that within six months to a year of graduation, typically over 95% of graduates are employed, in grad school, or involved in meaningful service, which is a crucial indicator of success.

Finally, looking at some student outcome metrics side-by-side:

• First-year retention: ~89% Union, ~90% Conn (very high).

• 4-year graduation rate: ~75% Union, ~74–77% Conn (well above national average).

• 6-year graduation rate: ~85% Union, ~82–84% Conn.

• Median early-career earnings: ~$51K (Union) vs ~$44K (Conn).

• % employed or in grad school ~6 months after grad: ~90%+ for both (exact figures vary by class/year, but both report outcomes in that range).

Notable alumni: Union’s alumni include engineers, entrepreneurs, a U.S. president, and leaders in STEM and finance. Conn’s alumni include notable journalists, diplomats, scientists, and many in education and the arts. While the achievements of individuals vary, both groups of alumni have strong success records in different fields. This highlights the value of their liberal arts education.

In summary, students from Union College and Connecticut College can expect to graduate on time and prepared, with plenty of support to start their careers or continue their studies. Union has a slight advantage in technical fields, which can lead to better career outcomes, such as higher average salaries. However, Connecticut College performs well in grad school placements and overall alumni satisfaction. Both schools provide a liberal arts education that proves beneficial in the long run, whether measured by employment, income, or personal growth.


‍Location and Campus Facilities
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‍Though both colleges are in the Northeast, Union College and Connecticut College offer different environments and opportunities. Union College is in Schenectady, New York, a small city near Albany. Connecticut College is located in New London, Connecticut, a historic coastal town on Long Island Sound. Each campus has its own character, from architecture to the surrounding community.

Union’s campus is known as the first planned college campus in America, featuring a mix of historic and modern buildings set around open lawns. The centerpiece is the 16-sided Nott Memorial, a National Historic Landmark from 1875 and an iconic symbol of Union. The campus covers 100 acres in downtown Schenectady and includes formal gardens, like the 8-acre Jackson’s Garden, and green spaces. The architecture ranges from the ornate Nott Memorial and Memorial Chapel to new science and engineering facilities. An aerial view of Union shows a blend of classic and contemporary buildings surrounding a grassy quad and library. Students appreciate that the campus feels intimate and self-contained while also being integrated with the city. It is just steps away from downtown restaurants, coffee shops, and the Mohawk Harbor waterfront development. Schenectady has seen a revival with new businesses and the Proctors Theater district, providing off-campus entertainment. Union students enjoy an urban vibe with theaters, eateries, and internship opportunities in a small city, plus they are only 20 minutes from Albany, the state capital, for additional cultural and government internships.

Connecticut College’s campus is often described as scenic and traditional New England. It sits on a hill overlooking the Thames River and New London. The campus spans about 750 acres, including the 426-acre Connecticut College Arboretum, which connects to the main campus. This gives Connecticut College a park-like environment with walking trails, gardens, and an on-campus lake. The academic and residential buildings are mostly Collegiate Gothic or Georgian style, featuring ivy-covered facades and views of Long Island Sound from certain spots. A notable facility is the Cummings Arts Center, which includes the Greer Music Library and art studios. The recently modernized Shain Library has also received architectural awards. One unique aspect of Connecticut College is that it functions as an arboretum and botanical garden open to the public. Students can relax there, conduct environmental studies research, or take botany classes that use the space. New London is smaller than Schenectady, with a population of about 27,000, and has a quaint seaport feel, complete with beaches and a ferry to Long Island. While New London may not offer a big city experience, it has some arts venues and eateries. Students often engage with the community through volunteering or outings. The campus is somewhat separated from the town, which creates a more insular college atmosphere.

Both colleges have invested in modern facilities for academics, arts, and recreation:

‍Academic facilities: Union has a science and engineering complex, including the recently opened Integrated Science and Engineering Complex, to support STEM programs, along with dedicated labs for undergraduate research. Connecticut College has state-of-the-art labs in its science center and a well-known marine research facility due to its partnership with local resources. This location supports marine biology and environmental science studies. Both colleges have excellent libraries: Union’s Schaffer Library and Conn’s Shain Library, which was renovated in 2015. Each library houses extensive collections and study spaces, with Conn’s library featuring special collections like the Rachel Carson archives, reflecting its strengths in environmental studies.

‍Arts and performance: Connecticut College has multiple performance venues, including Palmer Auditorium, Tansill Theater, and Evans Hall, along with an art museum on campus called the Lyman Allyn Art Museum. The college has a strong arts tradition, especially in dance, and historically hosted the American Dance Festival for decades. Union College has the Yulman Theater for performing arts, a fine arts building, and its own art gallery. Both have vibrant music scenes; Union’s Memorial Chapel is often used for concerts, and Conn’s Harkness Chapel serves as a beautiful performance space.

‍Athletic and recreation facilities: Union’s sports complex includes Frank Bailey Field for football and lacrosse, Achilles Center with a hockey arena and swimming pool, and a large fitness center. The campus also has indoor tennis courts and a rowing boathouse off-campus. Connecticut College features the Charles Luce Field House, an indoor pool, extensive outdoor fields, and a waterfront sailing center, since sailing is a club sport. Conn’s location allows for marine activities like sailing and coastal ecology fieldwork. Both campuses have comprehensive fitness centers and offer outdoor recreation programs. Union students might ski in the nearby Adirondacks, while Conn students might kayak on the river or hike in the arboretum.

Neither campus is in a major city, but both have decent access to urban areas. Union is about 3 hours by train from New York City and 3.5 hours from Boston, and it is also about 4 hours from Montreal. It sits in a metro area of about 1 million, which provides internship and cultural opportunities, such as state government roles in Albany and corporate internships with companies like General Electric, founded in Schenectady. Connecticut College is roughly 2 hours from both Boston and New York City by train or car, as New London is along the Amtrak Northeast Corridor line. Some students leverage this for internships or weekend trips. Being in New England, Conn is also near Providence, about 1 hour away, and not far from Hartford, the capital of Connecticut. While day-to-day life happens on the small campus, students at both colleges occasionally take advantage of these nearby cities for research, networking, or leisure.

Both colleges encourage community involvement. Union students often participate in community service projects in Schenectady. The college highlights partnerships with local schools and organizations through the Kenney Community Center. Connecticut College promotes community learning via its Holleran Center for Community Action, and many students volunteer in New London, which has needs in education, arts, and social justice. Conn’s Office of Community Partnerships facilitates internships and projects in the surrounding region.

In summary, Union offers an urban-suburban campus with historic charm and access to a small city’s resources. In contrast, Connecticut College provides a more secluded, park-like campus with coastal New England charm and an arboretum. Students who prefer a defined campus with plenty of green space and natural beauty might lean toward Connecticut College, while those who enjoy a mix of campus and city life might prefer Union. Union’s campus is beautiful and green but situated within a city. Both campuses are safe, self-contained, and focused on undergraduates, providing modern facilities to support student life and learning.


‍Overall Reputation and Conclusion
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‍Union College and Connecticut College both have strong reputations in American higher education for delivering high-quality liberal arts education with personal attention. They are often ranked among the top liberal arts colleges in the country. In the 2024 U.S. News & World Report rankings, Union was ranked #45, while Connecticut College was ranked #46, indicating their similar academic prestige. Connecticut College has climbed in recent rankings, and Union consistently maintains a spot in the top 50. Other measures also recognize their quality: Washington Monthly ranks Connecticut College among the top 25 liberal arts colleges for contributions to the public good, and both schools frequently appear in guides from Forbes and the Princeton Review.

Both institutions are known for their academic rigor and variety. Union, established in 1795, is one of the oldest colleges in the U.S. and was part of a historic group known as the “Union Trio” of fraternities, showcasing its deep roots in American college history. It has also been labeled a “Hidden Ivy,” recognized for its strong engineering and science programs alongside liberal arts. Connecticut College, founded in 1911 in response to Wesleyan’s all-male status at the time, emerged as a progressive liberal arts college, particularly noted for its strengths in arts, international studies, environmental science, and psychology. It pioneered a holistic education for women and later continued that ethos in a coeducational setup. Its Connections curriculum is often cited as an innovative model that prepares students for interdisciplinary thinking and global citizenship.

Both colleges emphasize their dedication to undergraduate teaching, fostering inclusive communities, and developing well-rounded graduates. However, their campus cultures vary slightly. Union's environment is characterized by innovation, blending technical and liberal arts, and integrating curricular and extracurricular activities through Minerva Houses. In contrast, Connecticut College is often described as progressive and close-knit, with a strong honor code and a focus on shared governance, allowing students to participate in college policies. For instance, Connecticut College has an honor code that students take seriously, and its student government collaborates closely with the administration. Union has a similar student honor code and promotes ethical, interdisciplinary education; its motto is "Under the laws of Minerva, we all become brothers and sisters," reflecting a sense of unity.

Some notable distinctions include accolades for Union's strong undergraduate research output and STEM focus. It sends a significant number of graduates on to earn STEM PhDs and has produced notable figures like astronaut engineers and leading scientists. Connecticut College is recognized for its international programs, with a popular study abroad option, and its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. For example, it was among the early signers of the ACUPCC climate commitment and offers many courses involving community-based learning. Both colleges have been acknowledged for their value as well: Union was included in U.S. News' "Best Value Schools" list, indicating strong academics for the tuition cost, and Connecticut College's full-need met policy and funded internships enhance its appeal.

Graduates from both colleges are highly regarded by employers. Companies recruiting in the Northeast often recognize Union and Connecticut College for producing talented liberal arts graduates. Alumni loyalty is evident in high giving rates and active alumni associations. The name "Union College" carries additional prestige in engineering circles since few liberal arts colleges have ABET-accredited engineering programs; it stands alongside institutions like Bucknell and Lafayette in that niche, gaining respect from tech and engineering firms. Connecticut College is recognized in fields such as education, non-profits, and the arts due to its strong alumni presence. It is part of the NESCAC, an association of respected New England colleges, sometimes referred to as the "Little Ivies." The absence of fraternities at Connecticut College is also a notable aspect of its identity, promoting collaboration over competition, appealing to certain families and students.

Highlighting Union College, one can say Union provides a dual experience: an intimate liberal arts education consistently ranked among the nation’s best, along with opportunities in engineering and research typically found at larger universities. Its long history of academic excellence, combined with a powerful alumni network, particularly in STEM and industry, gives Union graduates a significant advantage. Union’s blend of broad education and specialized skills results in graduates who are versatile and employable, as indicated by ROI rankings and outcomes. Union’s lively campus life, from Minerva Houses to Division I hockey, contributes to a rich college experience.

On the other hand, Connecticut College can also be praised. Conn exemplifies a modern liberal arts college, offering challenging academics within a creative curriculum (Connections) that connects various fields, all in a welcoming environment that values equity and inclusion. Its beautiful arboretum campus and strong student-faculty relationships foster intellectual growth. The commitment to meeting 100% of students' financial needs and providing guaranteed internships reflects Conn’s dedication to student success outside the classroom. Connecticut College focuses on cultivating globally aware, well-rounded individuals, evident through alumni who impact public service, research, and creative sectors.

In conclusion, choosing between Union College and Connecticut College may depend on personal preferences since both are excellent options. Academically, both offer small classes, accessible professors, and opportunities for deep engagement in majors and beyond. If you are drawn to engineering or prefer a stronger STEM emphasis alongside liberal arts or are interested in Greek life and a larger range of technical facilities, Union College may be the better fit. Its slight advantage in early-career earnings suggests it is an excellent starting point for careers in business, tech, and engineering, while also excelling in the humanities and social sciences. Conversely, if you seek a social atmosphere free of Greek life, a more gender-balanced student body, and a progressive campus culture focused on interdisciplinary learning, Connecticut College might be more appealing. Conn’s lovely arboretum campus and guaranteed internship funding are attractive for students who prioritize a good environment and hands-on learning.

Both colleges hold strong reputations for academic quality and student experience. They share more similarities than differences: personalized education, engaging residential life, a commitment to diversity, and impressive outcomes. Students at both institutions report high satisfaction and a sense of community. Union College and Connecticut College stand out as peer institutions where undergraduates can excel, ensuring that prospective students can feel confident that either choice will lead to an enriching four years and a path to success. By considering their specific strengths—Union’s engineering expertise and historic tradition versus Conn’s interdisciplinary curriculum and coastal location—students can choose the college that aligns best with their goals and personalities. Ultimately, both Union and Connecticut College represent the best in undergraduate-focused liberal arts education in 2024, blending rigorous academics, supportive environments, and strong outcomes for their graduates.


‍Sources:
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• Union College vs. Connecticut College – Side-by-Side Comparison, CollegeDroid (data on acceptance rates, enrollment, academics, costs, etc.)

• “Compare Union College vs. Connecticut College,” CollegeSimply (statistics on graduation rates and alumni earnings)

• Sokoloff, Natasha. Where Connecticut schools ranked in the 2025 U.S. News & World Report's top college list, CT Insider, Sept. 24, 2024 (Connecticut College #55 National Liberal Arts College)

• Union College profile – Borderless (Union College ranked #40 National Liberal Arts College in 2025, and admissions/test score data)

• Union College Common Data Set 2022-23 (Institutional Research report) – PDF via Union.edu (information on Greek life participation and housing)

• Connecticut College – Outcomes and Impact page (career outcomes data, e.g. 95% of Class of 2024 employed or in grad school one year after graduation)

• Union College Career Dashboard, Union.edu (alumni career satisfaction and industry information)

• Britannica, “Union College” (historical facts: Union’s early adoption of engineering in 1845, founding of fraternities, etc.)

• Union College Admissions and Aid webpages, Union.edu (financial aid statistics: percent receiving need-based aid, merit scholarships, full-need met policy)

• Connecticut College Admissions – Cost & Financial Aid, Conncoll.edu (statement of meeting full demonstrated need for admitted students)