5 answers
Asked
413 views
What is the best way to tell if a college has programs as prestigious as they say they are? ?
I am not sure how to choose a college that will have the programs that I am looking for.
Login to comment
5 answers
Updated
James’s Answer
Figure out what it is that you measure prestige by and how you define it. Then see if what you can find about the school lines up with that. As far as the programs you are looking for you can check the school's website to see if they offer specific programs that align with your interests and goals.
Updated
Marcus’s Answer
I noticed that you've received some outstanding feedback, which is truly impressive. However, I'd like to suggest one more thing. It would be beneficial for you to personally visit and interact with both faculty and students. This will provide you with a more authentic understanding and also give you a sense of the overall environment.
Updated
Beverly’s Answer
Hi Riley,
Good question about programs and their value! I agree with Jane that checking into the college info is a great first step along with connecting with alumni. Check pass rates for specific programs like Nursing and look at the placement of teachers, social workers and the like.
One way to find these facts is to look at the college's annual report, institutional advancement, and consumer information on the college website.
Lastly, speak with staff, faculty and students--go beyond the admissions office so you can get inside information on the programs. Show up on campus to speak with people casually as well as formally. Sometimes a conversation with a student or parent in the college dining cafe or bookstore will give you an insider's view of the college.
Best wishes with your college search!
Good question about programs and their value! I agree with Jane that checking into the college info is a great first step along with connecting with alumni. Check pass rates for specific programs like Nursing and look at the placement of teachers, social workers and the like.
One way to find these facts is to look at the college's annual report, institutional advancement, and consumer information on the college website.
Lastly, speak with staff, faculty and students--go beyond the admissions office so you can get inside information on the programs. Show up on campus to speak with people casually as well as formally. Sometimes a conversation with a student or parent in the college dining cafe or bookstore will give you an insider's view of the college.
Best wishes with your college search!
Updated
Jane’s Answer
Hi Riley - I encourage you to take the time to research to ensure the college has what you are looking for. You can do this in several ways. First of all, you can look up descriptions of the programs, courses, and even professors online. Additionally and perhaps even more helpful, you can connect with current or alumni students to hear about their experience and any candid feedback they may have. You can also ask these students about how they've applied those programs of study to their career choices.
Every college and program is unique so it's best to know what is most important for you, and then to do your 'due diligence' to see what may offer a good match.
Every college and program is unique so it's best to know what is most important for you, and then to do your 'due diligence' to see what may offer a good match.
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
Riley
Updated
Sydney’s Answer
Building on the previous guidance, numerous independent websites and publications exist that compare schools and assist students and employers in determining which institutions to focus on for either attending or hiring. These resources evaluate factors such as average standardized test scores, graduation rates, and post-graduation employment. To begin, try searching for university rankings on Google.
However, it's important to remember that the most renowned or top-ranked university may not necessarily be the best fit for your specific needs. Consider aspects such as the learning environment, including class size, faculty-to-student ratios, cost, and location (whether it's rural, urban, or suburban). Also, think about how close it is to your support network, its alumni, and other relevant factors. These considerations should be at the forefront of your decision-making process for college, as they will significantly impact your learning and development. I hope you find this advice beneficial!
However, it's important to remember that the most renowned or top-ranked university may not necessarily be the best fit for your specific needs. Consider aspects such as the learning environment, including class size, faculty-to-student ratios, cost, and location (whether it's rural, urban, or suburban). Also, think about how close it is to your support network, its alumni, and other relevant factors. These considerations should be at the forefront of your decision-making process for college, as they will significantly impact your learning and development. I hope you find this advice beneficial!