Bucknell vs Lehigh: Which has a better engineering program?

Hi all, I've been accepted to both Bucknell University and Lehigh University and I'm planning on majoring in engineering. Can someone give me a rundown of which school has a better engineering program, and what the big differences are in terms of campus life, location, and reputation? Thanks so much!

Congratulations on your acceptances! Both Bucknell and Lehigh are excellent institutions and have strong engineering programs. I'll break down the two schools in terms of academics, campus life, and location for you.

Academics:

Both Lehigh and Bucknell have well-regarded engineering programs. Lehigh's P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science is slightly larger and offers a broader range of engineering disciplines, including materials science, bioengineering, and more. Bucknell's College of Engineering is also highly regarded but has fewer areas of focus.

In terms of rankings, they're often pretty close, but it's important to remember that rankings are subjective and shouldn't be the only factor in your decision. Your experience will largely depend on the specific engineering discipline you choose and your academic and professional goals.

Campus Life:

Both schools are located in smaller towns, promoting tight-knit campus communities and opportunities for student engagement. Bucknell is known for its strong sense of community along with a vibrant and active Greek life. Lehigh also has a strong Greek life presence but has a slightly more diversified campus scene. While both campuses offer a variety of clubs and activities, the student experience might vary based on personal preferences and fit.

Location:

Bucknell is located in Lewisburg, a small, picturesque town in central Pennsylvania. The area offers a quiet, rural setting with access to nature and outdoor recreational activities like hiking, biking, and more. Lehigh, on the other hand, is situated in Bethlehem, which is part of the Lehigh Valley. The surrounding area is larger and more urban than Lewisburg, offering access to more off-campus entertainment, dining, and cultural experiences. However, both schools are within a reasonable driving distance of larger cities like Philadelphia and New York City.

Reputation:

Both schools enjoy good reputations. Lehigh may have a slightly stronger reputation overall, and their engineering program can be more widely recognized, partially due to its broader range of disciplines and historical strength. However, Bucknell has a solid reputation as well, and its engineering program has produced numerous successful graduates.

In summary, neither school is definitively "better" in terms of engineering; what matters most is finding the best fit for you—taking into consideration the specific engineering discipline you want to pursue, campus life, and location.

I'd recommend visiting both campuses if possible, talking to current students in your desired major, and researching the specific academic programs further to help make your decision. Good luck!