The age-old rivalry between two of Washington D.C.'s most prestigious institutions: George Washington University (GWU) and Georgetown University. Both universities boast rich histories, academic excellence, and prime locations in the nation's capital. However, there are distinct differences between these two institutions that can make one more suitable to your needs than the other.
In this article, we will delve into five key differences between GWU and Georgetown, exploring their unique strengths, weaknesses, and characteristics. Whether you're a prospective student, a curious alum, or simply a D.C. enthusiast, this comparison will provide valuable insights into these two esteemed universities.
Academics: Programs and Specializations
Both GWU and Georgetown offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. However, there are notable differences in their academic focuses and specializations.
GWU is renowned for its programs in business, international affairs, and public health. The university's School of Business, in particular, is highly regarded for its MBA and undergraduate business programs. Additionally, GWU's School of Public Health and Health Services is a leading institution in the field, with a strong focus on research and community engagement.
Georgetown, on the other hand, is famous for its programs in law, medicine, and foreign service. The university's Georgetown University Law Center is one of the top-ranked law schools in the country, and its School of Medicine is known for its rigorous academic programs and innovative research initiatives. Georgetown's Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service is also highly respected, offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs in international relations, diplomacy, and global governance.
Programs and Specializations: Key Statistics
- GWU:
- 100+ undergraduate majors and 200+ graduate programs
- Top-ranked programs in business, international affairs, and public health
- Strong research focus in areas like biomedical sciences and engineering
- Georgetown:
- 48 undergraduate majors and 30+ graduate programs
- Top-ranked programs in law, medicine, and foreign service
- Strong research focus in areas like global health, economic development, and international relations
Admissions: Acceptance Rates and Requirements
Admissions requirements and acceptance rates can be significant factors in choosing between GWU and Georgetown.
GWU has a slightly higher acceptance rate, with around 40% of applicants admitted to the class of 2024. The middle 50% of admitted students typically have a high school GPA of 3.7 or higher, an SAT score of 1280-1450, or an ACT score of 28-32.
Georgetown, on the other hand, is more selective, with an acceptance rate of around 14% for the class of 2024. The middle 50% of admitted students typically have a high school GPA of 4.1 or higher, an SAT score of 1370-1530, or an ACT score of 31-34.
Admissions Requirements: Key Statistics
- GWU:
- Acceptance rate: 40% (Class of 2024)
- Middle 50% GPA: 3.7 or higher
- Middle 50% SAT: 1280-1450
- Middle 50% ACT: 28-32
- Georgetown:
- Acceptance rate: 14% (Class of 2024)
- Middle 50% GPA: 4.1 or higher
- Middle 50% SAT: 1370-1530
- Middle 50% ACT: 31-34
Cost and Financial Aid: Tuition, Fees, and Scholarships
The cost of attending GWU and Georgetown can be significant, but both universities offer various forms of financial aid to help make them more accessible.
GWU's tuition and fees for the 2022-2023 academic year are around $57,000, with room and board adding an additional $10,000-$15,000. However, the university offers a range of scholarships, grants, and loans to help students cover these costs. In fact, GWU provides over $300 million in financial aid each year.
Georgetown's tuition and fees for the 2022-2023 academic year are slightly higher, at around $61,000, with room and board adding an additional $10,000-$15,000. However, Georgetown also offers a range of scholarships, grants, and loans, including the Georgetown University Scholarship, which provides full-ride scholarships to select students.
Cost and Financial Aid: Key Statistics
- GWU:
- Tuition and fees: $57,000 (2022-2023)
- Room and board: $10,000-$15,000 (2022-2023)
- Total financial aid: $300 million+ (2022-2023)
- Georgetown:
- Tuition and fees: $61,000 (2022-2023)
- Room and board: $10,000-$15,000 (2022-2023)
- Total financial aid: $200 million+ (2022-2023)
Student Life: Campus Culture and Extracurricular Activities
Both GWU and Georgetown offer a rich and diverse campus culture, with a wide range of extracurricular activities and student organizations.
GWU has a strong focus on community service, with over 100 student organizations dedicated to volunteer work and social justice. The university also has a thriving arts and cultural scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and performance venues.
Georgetown, on the other hand, has a strong tradition of academic rigor and intellectual curiosity. The university's student organizations reflect this, with many groups focused on debate, policy, and research. Georgetown also has a lively social scene, with numerous student-run events and activities.
Student Life: Key Statistics
- GWU:
- 100+ student organizations
- Strong focus on community service and social justice
- Thriving arts and cultural scene
- Georgetown:
- 200+ student organizations
- Strong tradition of academic rigor and intellectual curiosity
- Lively social scene with numerous student-run events
Location: Washington D.C. and Beyond
Both GWU and Georgetown are located in the heart of Washington D.C., providing students with unparalleled access to internships, job opportunities, and cultural attractions.
GWU's campus is situated in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood, within walking distance of the White House, the National Mall, and numerous government agencies.
Georgetown's campus is located in the Georgetown neighborhood, overlooking the Potomac River and within walking distance of many embassies, think tanks, and cultural institutions.
Location: Key Statistics
- GWU:
- Located in Foggy Bottom neighborhood
- Walking distance to White House, National Mall, and government agencies
- Georgetown:
- Located in Georgetown neighborhood
- Overlooking Potomac River and within walking distance of embassies, think tanks, and cultural institutions
Gallery of GWU vs Georgetown
In conclusion, while both GWU and Georgetown are excellent institutions, they have distinct differences in their academic programs, admissions requirements, cost and financial aid, student life, and location. By considering these factors, prospective students can make an informed decision about which university is the best fit for their academic and personal goals.
We hope this article has provided valuable insights into the differences between GWU and Georgetown. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them below!
What is the main difference between GWU and Georgetown?
+The main difference between GWU and Georgetown is their academic focus and specializations. GWU is known for its programs in business, international affairs, and public health, while Georgetown is renowned for its programs in law, medicine, and foreign service.
Which university is more selective?
+Georgetown is more selective, with an acceptance rate of around 14% compared to GWU's acceptance rate of around 40%.
What is the cost of attending GWU and Georgetown?
+The cost of attending GWU and Georgetown varies, but both universities offer financial aid and scholarships to help make them more accessible. GWU's tuition and fees are around $57,000, while Georgetown's tuition and fees are around $61,000.