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Which Kansas College/University has the best math program?
I live really close to K-State, University of Kansas, and Washburn University. I'm also open to the idea of attending Wichita University. I would prefer to attend a public college/university over a private one.
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4 answers
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Lisa’s Answer
Genevieve,
Congrats for pursuing a STEM major! Very impressive.
I don’t know which schools would be the best for you, but I can offer you a few first steps when searching for schools.
1. Look for Math programs that offer BA/BS, MS and PhD degrees at the same school. More than likely, you’ll get a good mix of quality faculty who are teaching in this program and access to research.
2. Even if you are interested in Pure Math, also look for programs with multiple concentrations within the Math major or as a minor. This will give you options to prepare yourself for a job or graduate degrees. For example, look for preparation to with work with NASA or in Computer Science, robotics, architecture, engineering, etc.
3. Look for schools with funding for STEM majors. This may be a good indicator that the program is growing and will be cutting edge.
4. Think about your career goals or what you have a passion for doing, and when you visit these campuses (in-person or virtually) ask them how they will prepare you to meet such goals.
I hope this helps and all the best!
Lisa
Congrats for pursuing a STEM major! Very impressive.
I don’t know which schools would be the best for you, but I can offer you a few first steps when searching for schools.
1. Look for Math programs that offer BA/BS, MS and PhD degrees at the same school. More than likely, you’ll get a good mix of quality faculty who are teaching in this program and access to research.
2. Even if you are interested in Pure Math, also look for programs with multiple concentrations within the Math major or as a minor. This will give you options to prepare yourself for a job or graduate degrees. For example, look for preparation to with work with NASA or in Computer Science, robotics, architecture, engineering, etc.
3. Look for schools with funding for STEM majors. This may be a good indicator that the program is growing and will be cutting edge.
4. Think about your career goals or what you have a passion for doing, and when you visit these campuses (in-person or virtually) ask them how they will prepare you to meet such goals.
I hope this helps and all the best!
Lisa
Thanks for the well wishes and advice Lisa!!
Genevieve
Updated
Ramesh’s Answer
You have good advice in the comments above. Of the schools you list University of Kansas Graduate program ranks highest in US News ranking. Graduate ranking is a good indication of depth of the program. Talk to your high school math teachers, they will have more context on the program that fits your interests. As noted in one of the comments visiting the University and discussing your interests with the faculty is a good idea.
In general going to your best in-state public university is a good option for undergraduate degree. This keeps cost down, and each state's flagship university offers a sound undergraduate degree.
However, you should investigate highly ranked out of state private schools for Expected Family contribution. While the full cost tuition may be high, the expected family contribution amount in some situations may be comparable to in-state tuition. This article has information on Expected Family Contribution - https://www.forbes.com/advisor/student-loans/expected-family-contribution/ . If this is a workable option you can consider some private schools with strong math programs that also have generous student aid.
Good luck with your plans.
In general going to your best in-state public university is a good option for undergraduate degree. This keeps cost down, and each state's flagship university offers a sound undergraduate degree.
However, you should investigate highly ranked out of state private schools for Expected Family contribution. While the full cost tuition may be high, the expected family contribution amount in some situations may be comparable to in-state tuition. This article has information on Expected Family Contribution - https://www.forbes.com/advisor/student-loans/expected-family-contribution/ . If this is a workable option you can consider some private schools with strong math programs that also have generous student aid.
Good luck with your plans.
Thank you! That was really helpful, I 'll be sure to look into your resources.
Genevieve
Updated
Joseph’s Answer
KU is listed but the best thing would be to visit the school. Interview with and advisor.
Thank you!
Genevieve
Updated
Lionel’s Answer
I recommend exploring each college/university math website to check national rankings, department awards etc. I don't believe you can make a bad choice. Good luck!
Thanks for the advice!
Genevieve