What is the University of New Hampshire like?

Thinking about UNH for college; does anyone know about the academics, social scene, or general campus environment? How does it compare to other New England schools?

The University of New Hampshire (UNH) is a public research institution with a deep commitment to undergraduate education and a vibrant campus. Its main campus in Durham, NH is not far from Boston, so you get a traditional college town feel with big city amenities within reach.

In terms of academics, UNH offers around 200 programs of study across its eleven colleges and schools. Some of its recognized programs include business, engineering, and environmental science. The school has ample research opportunities, even for undergraduate students. It's part of the R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity category, which is the highest level of research activity for universities in the U.S.

Socially, there's a lot going on at UNH. The school has over 200 student organizations, so you're likely to find a group that shares your interests, from academic societies to cultural clubs to sports teams. And speaking of sports, UNH's Division I athletics, especially its hockey and football teams, have a dedicated following and add to the campus spirit.

UNH is also well-known for its sustainability initiatives. The university's main campus is a living laboratory for sustainability, with numerous ongoing research projects focused on making the campus more green.

In comparison to other New England schools, UNH falls between a small liberal arts college and a larger state university. It strikes a balance with a medium-sized student body of around 11,500 undergraduates, providing a close-knit community feel while still offering the resources of a larger institution.

It's always valuable to try and visit the campus or reach out to current students or alumni so you can get more personalized views and learn additional insights that may factor into your decision.