Europe is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities, from ancient universities with centuries-old traditions to modern, cutting-edge institutions.

European universities are responsible for producing some of the greatest minds in history. 

From Nobel laureates to influential political leaders, these establishments have played an essential role in shaping education and the modern world as we know it.

The universities outlined below each have a long-standing history of excellence, providing various degree programs and research opportunities. 

Each university selected from Switzerland to the United Kingdom offers unique benefits to those seeking a top-notch education. 

When researching universities, the options can be daunting for prospective students. With so many institutions to choose from, it can take time to narrow down the best options. 

To help make the decision easier, we have compiled a list of 10 of the best universities in Europe that every student should know about. Read on to find out more about these fantastic universities and why they should be on your radar.

Here are 10 of the best universities in Europe.

University of Amsterdam (Amsterdam, NL)

The University of Amsterdam has a long list of awards and achievements to its name. One impressive feat is UvA’s Economics and Business program’s triple crown of accreditation from the AMBA, EQUIS, and AACSB.

UvA also has an outstanding list of famous alumni, which includes astronauts, Nobel Prize winners, and Prime Ministers. 

Some of their most notable graduates include Charles Michel (President of the European Council), Melvin V Peebles (American actor and filmmaker), and Sutan Sjahrir (former Prime Minister of Indonesia). 

At UvA, students can choose from hundreds of courses and programs in areas such as humanities, law, economics, and science. 

You might consider UvA if you value research-led teaching, opportunities for international exchange, and the high quality of life that is found in Amsterdam. 

London School of Economics and Political Science (London, EN)

Founded in 1895 by the Fabian Society, a group of British intellectuals and social reformers, LSE has long been a leader in economics, political science, law, and international relations. 

Throughout its long history, this university has established a reputation for excellence in research. 

It has consistently ranked as one of the top universities in the world. In fact, according to the latest QS World University Rankings, LSE is ranked third in the world for Social Sciences. 

With a student body of over 12,000 students from 160 countries, LSE is a very attractive choice for students who want to attend a diverse college. 

They also boast a range of exciting extracurricular activities, including student-run societies and organizations, sports teams, and student media outlets. 

King’s College London (London, EN)

Kings College is known for its achievements in research and education, having received several awards, including the Queen’s Anniversary Prize for Higher Education in 2016 and the Times Higher Education Award for Outstanding Contribution to Innovation and Technology in 2018.

This university has produced remarkable alumni such as Mahatma Gandhi and Alexander Graham Bell.

Kings College offers a wide range of degree programs in the fields of medicine, humanities, natural sciences, and engineering. 

The university also provides career services and job fairs, helping students find employment after graduation.

Overall, Kings College London is an excellent choice for those looking for a top-notch education while also getting the chance to experience the culture and lifestyle in the vibrant city of London.

University of Manchester (Manchester, EN)

The University of Manchester has a rich history that dates back to 1824. In 2004 the famous industrial city’s two pronounced colleges (the University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology and Victoria University) combined to form the University of Manchester as we know it today.  

The university is home to some of the world’s leading researchers and has won numerous awards for its innovation, including the Nobel Prize and the Turing Award. 

In total, they have produced 25 Nobel Prize winners, including physicist Ernest Rutherford who discovered the structure of the atom. 

With over 40,000 students enrolled, the University of Manchester is the largest single-site campus in the UK. Outside of the UK, the institution also has a strong presence, with campuses in China, India, and Singapore. 

University of Edinburgh (Edinburgh, UK)

The University of Edinburgh is one of Europe’s most prestigious and highly respected institutions. Ranked 6th in Europe and 29th in the world by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023.

Edinburgh offers an impressive range of courses, with 300 undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs to choose from. 

In addition, it is known for its excellence in research and is a select member of the Russell Group.

The University has several unique features which make it an attractive choice for students. It provides a range of student societies, from music and drama to political activism and international studies. 

It also has a vibrant campus culture, with numerous festivals, art galleries, museums, and a wealth of sporting facilities.

Edinburgh provides a world-class education and a stimulating learning environment that challenges and inspires students. With a strong sense of community and a wealth of resources, it offers considerable opportunities for students to reach their full potential.

ETH Zurich (Zurich, CH)

ETH Zurich is one of the top universities in Europe and a premier destination for students seeking an elite education. 

This university has an impressive faculty roster, which allows students ample opportunity to work closely with leading experts in their field. 

The history of ETH Zurich is fascinating. In the 19th century, the university was founded with the mission to excel in engineering and natural sciences by the Swiss Federal Government. 

Over time it has grown to encompass many more disciplines. However, ETH Zurich is still known for its research excellence and cutting-edge technology. 

ETH Zurich has also produced some of the most famous people from Europe. Such as physicist Albert Einstein, who, sometime after graduating, went on to teach at the university. 

For students looking to receive a world-class education, ETH Zurich is an excellent choice. 

With its stellar faculty, impressive research, and history of producing notable figures, ETH Zurich is a great option for anyone looking to take their education to the next level.

Imperial College London (London, EN)

If you are looking for one of the top universities in Europe, Imperial College London is definitely worth considering. Located in the heart of London, ICL is a prestigious institution and is ranked among Europe’s best universities. 

At ICL, students have a wide variety of courses to choose from, ranging from natural sciences, engineering, and technology to medicine and business. 

Imperial College London boasts some impressive statistics regarding student life. 

The college has a high number of international students and is also home to several prestigious societies, such as the Royal Society, the Institute of Electrical Engineers, and the Royal Academy of Engineering. 

It also offers 90+ sports clubs, including exciting outdoor sports such as mountaineering and windsurfing.

With so much going on both inside and outside the classroom, Imperial College London is an excellent option for any student looking for an unforgettable experience.

University College London (London, EN)

Founded in 1826, UCL has a long history of excellence in academics and research. UCL is based in London, England, and has over 38,000 students enrolled in its various programs. 

Currently, UCL has 30 Nobel Prize winners, making it the highest number of any university in the UK. 

UCL has been highly placed in all the major university rankings, such as the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, QS World University Rankings, and Academic Ranking of World Universities. 

QS has ranked UCL in the top 10 for two years consecutively. Additionally, the university was recognized as one of the leading European universities for international student diversity in 2018.

University of Cambridge (Cambridge, EN)

The University of Cambridge is a renowned institution with a long and distinguished history. 

Its alumni have gone on to accomplish great success and its departments are acclaimed for their many outstanding achievements.

Cambridge’s highly esteemed departments and constituent colleges are recognized around the world. 

Some of the school’s noted facilities include the Cavendish Laboratory, a leading center for physics research; the Mathematical Laboratory, home to several eminent mathematicians; and Trinity College, known for producing world-famous scientists, political minds, and writers. 

Scholars Francis Crick and James Watson were credited with discovering the structure of DNA while working at the Cavendish Laboratory at Cambridge. The university has achieved many more notable successes, such as being the alma mater of several Nobel Prize winners.  

Oxford University (Oxford, EN)

Founded in 1096, the University of Oxford is one of the oldest collegiate institutions in the world and consistently ranks as one of the top universities globally. 

Many famous scholars have studied or taught at the University of Oxford—such as JRR Tolkien, Albert Einstein, Sir Stephen Hawking, Bill Clinton, and Tim Berners-Lee. 

Oxford is also one of the largest universities in the world, made up of 39 colleges scattered throughout the historic city. 

In 2022, the university was ranked first among European universities and fifth in the world by US News. 

Equally as impressive, the university consistently proves to be among the best research-intensive universities, with four separate departments in the top five for research quality.

In addition to its academic excellence, Oxford is known for its beautiful campus buildings, including the Radcliffe Camera Library and the Christ Church Cathedral. 

For students seeking culture and history, the university is also home to some of the finest museums in England.

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From the museums and neon nightlife of Tokyo, to the vast forests and mountains, to intimate tea ceremonies and historic temples, Japan is appealing to nature lovers, entrepreneurs, and global adventurers. 

Navigating between cities is easy by train, and the trains are renowned for being punctual. 

Japanese universities welcome international students, and many offer scholarships and degree programs taught in English. Opportunities are available for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral studies. 

And you won’t be alone. The number of U.S. students studying in Japan has increased every year since 2014. 

U.S. News and World Report’s  2022 Best Countries to Study Abroad list ranks the U.S. and Great Britain first and second, with Japan closely following at number 6. 

Japan received high marks for quality of life, heritage, entrepreneurship and cultural influence. The country is also seen as highly progressive and modern.

Whether regarding the arts or natural resources or technology, Japan is a country that values history and culture while celebrating innovation. Studying at a university in Japan could be the adventure of a lifetime.

This ranking is based on a weighted score assigned to each school based on its position in other ranking lists in major online publications. The sources for those rankings are at the end of this article.

10. Waseda University (Tokyo, JP)

Global citizenship for its students is a prime goal of Waseda University, located in Shinjuku, Tokyo. It aims to earn the status of a global university by 2032, the college’s 150^th anniversary.

Waseda has thirteen undergraduate schools and twenty-three graduate schools, with campuses at six locations. 

Among its many notable alumni are nine prime ministers of Japan, world-renowned writer Haruki Murakami, and former CEOs of Sony, Honda, and Toshiba.

Diversity is a point of pride for Waseda, as evidenced by its being home to Japan’s international students. 

Over 5000 international students from 100 countries study there. In addition to classes, students congregate at the Intercultural Communication Center, where the university’s goal to develop good global citizens flourishes through events, dialogue and interactions between students, faculty and staff.

As part of the Waseda experience, students receive a cap stamped with their name, department, school seal and the phrase “This certifies that the owner is a student of Waseda.” The cap was specially designed to be distinctive and is considered a status symbol.

Between semesters, students enjoy a two-month break from studies, when they can explore Tokyo – considered one of the safest cities in the world – or travel further. The famous cherry blossoms – sakura – abound on campus and beyond.

Waseda believes their students can help bridge cultures and work across the globe to research, address and resolve complex global challenges.

9. Kyushu University (Fukuoka, JP)

Kyushu University is commonly referred to as Kyudai and is located in Fukuoka on the island of Kyushu. Fukuoka is ranked the number one city to live in in Japan. Kyudai’s campus is one of the largest in the country.

Over 2300 international students from 102 countries and regions study there. The university is recognized in the top 20 schools in all of Asia, and in the top 10 for research institutions.

Notable alumni include the first Japanese commander of the International Space Station, and the inventor of Siri.

The university has a 9 to 1 student to faculty ratio, with the School of Engineering boasting the most students. The schools of medicine, science, and economics are not far behind, and studies in agriculture, design, education, and many other subjects can be pursued.

The university’s annual Design Festival is held in November and is the biggest event of the year. Performances, interactive art, and exhibitions attract 20,000 visitors. The campus is decorated for the event, amplifying the beauty of the autumn season.

8. Keio University (Tokyo, JP)

This private university is situated in Minato, Tokyo, and has eleven campuses. It is one of only two universities in Japan, along with the University of Tokyo, to be a member of the World Economic Forum’s Global University Leaders Forum.

The school values both collaboration and jitsugaku, or empirical science, a way of learning through reason, observation and verification. It is considered the first Japanese university to welcome international students, first accepting them over 140 years ago.

Over 900 classes are conducted in English, and numerous degrees, both undergraduate and graduate, are offered entirely in English.

Research is valued and supported, with Keio dedicating top-notch facilities to science and technology. Keio University Hospital is among the best in Japan for education and research, as well as treatment.

It’s not all academics – they play hard in Keio, too. The university has a proud history of athletic accomplishment; almost 150 students and graduates have competed in the Olympics and Paralympics. To date, they’ve earned 5 gold, 13 silver, and 10 bronze medals. 

7. Hokkaido University (Sapporo, JP)

Hokkaido University, located in Sapporo, offers scholarships to international students, including students who enter their Modern Japanese Studies Program. 

The MJSP is taught in both English and Japanese, helping students gain fluency in the language while they learn about the culture, politics, and history of Japan. 

Hokkaido also offers a 5-year Integrated Science Program, aimed mainly at international students who seek an accelerated program that will earn a Bachelor’s followed by a Master’s Degree. Students may specialize in biology, physics, or chemistry.

Over 18,000 students attend the university, which originated as Sapporo Agricultural College. Nowadays, the most popular undergraduate programs are engineering, medicine, and science, but agriculture is still offered at the undergrad and graduate levels. 

Hokkaido is home to the Institute of Seismology and Volcanology, which collaborates with observatories to help predict earthquakes and evaluate seismological data.  

And in 2021, the university established the Institute for the Advancement of Sustainability, which promotes a green and sustainable campus. 

The main campus is stunning, with ginkgo trees lining the streets. Their bright yellow leaves in fall are part of the expansive greenspace, inviting nearby visitors as well as tourists. 

In keeping with its interest in natural beauty, the University logo incorporates a flower, trillium, which grows on campus. 

The design represents the six directions – East, West, South, North, Heaven and Earth – which symbolizes how information is shared between Hokkaido University and the world. 

6. Tokyo Institute of Technology (Tokyo, JP)

Known as Tokyo Tech, this prestigious research university specializes in science and technology, and admittance is considered highly competitive.

The university is home to the supercomputer Tsubame and is at the forefront of supercomputing, as well as a leader in the field of condensed matter research. 

About half of the 10,500 students are in undergraduate programs, and the other half are in master’s and doctoral programs. 

Tokyo Tech’s ambitious long-term goal is to be known as the world’s top science and technology university. Among the ways they plan to earn that title is by promoting international collaborative research.

The school’s seal features a stylized bird, and is called “Swallow at the Window.” In Japan, swallows signify good fortune. 

Students at Tokyo Tech have an opportunity to earn that good fortune by studying at state-of-the-art facilities in the midst of the world-class city of Tokyo. Who knows, they just might become part of the process of creating the best science and technology university on the planet. 

5. Nagoya University (Nagoya, JP)

Nagoya University, commonly referred to as Meidai or NU, is well-known for research in the sciences. Their G30 International Programs, established in 2011, are full degree programs where all classes are taught in English. 

NU’s concept of “courageous intellectuals” refers to students and faculty who prize audacity, courage and creativity. 

As proof, six Nobel Laureates have been affiliated with NU since 2000, and the university ranks in the top 5 in terms of the number of patents registered in the U.S. and Japan. 

Still teaching at NU is Hiroshi Amano, awarded the Nobel in physics for inventing the energy-efficient blue light-emitting diode, better known as LED. 

In 2022, the largest enrollments were in chemistry (School of Science) and in the School of Law. 

About 2400 of the school’s 16400 students are international, arriving from 97 countries. NU is actively working to increase that number. 

Students are not required to be proficient in the Japanese language to be admitted to NU, but all students take Japanese language courses. 

They can also improve their language proficiency by joining any of the school’s clubs, including clubs for manga enthusiasts, judo, a tea ceremony club, and groups focusing on art, music, and literature. 

4. Tohoku University (Sendai, JP)

Tohoku University has four main campuses home to over 17,000 students. The school is known for its research and appears on many rankings of the top research universities. 

Admissions are highly selective, but accepted students will have unique and intensive opportunities for study.

For its 115th anniversary in 2022, the university created a new logo featuring an image of the bush clover, or hagi, representing the knowledge that grows and blossoms.

Undergraduates hoping to study in English should check out programs in molecular chemistry, marine biology, or mechanical and aerospace engineering. At the same time, graduate students will discover quite a few opportunities in a wide range of fields. 

The Global Learning Center, International Student Help Desk, and the Center for Learning Support are there to assist international students in their studies. 

And when students have free time, they can visit the famous festivals of Sendai. The summer festival is called Tanabata Festival, where visitors write their wishes on colored paper which they tie to bamboo trees. 

As guests wander the festival, they’ll marvel at the beautiful decorations and streamers which will be judged for best design.

And in winter, don’t miss the Pageant of Starlight, which reveals zelkova trees lining the streets adorned with 600,000 lights. Although Tokyo is only an hour and a half away, students will discover much to keep them busy in Sendai.

3. Osaka University (Suita, JP)

With three campuses all just a short bus ride apart, Osaka University is organized into 11 undergraduate schools and 16 graduate schools. 

It has exchange agreements with colleges worldwide, allowing students to study in a school in their home country and at OU without paying additional tuition. Harvard, Cornell, CalTech, and Stanford offer such exchange agreements in the United States.

Accolades abound for OU, which receives high rankings in the areas of research and innovation. The university also excels in economics, and Osaka University’s graduates are widely represented in Japan’s top companies.

Like other academically competitive universities, Osaka holds regular athletic competitions as well. 

They recently began competing in windsurfing, where they’ve won intercollegiate prizes, and students can participate in dozens of other sports and activities, including rock climbing, badminton, archery, aikido, fencing, and more.

The university is known for its friendly atmosphere, and its location is ideal for students who love all four seasons. 

Japan is surrounded by water, and Osaka is home to Kaiyukan. In this aquarium, students can walk through a transparent tunnel and view colorful fish as well as otters, dolphins, sea lions, and seals. 

At OU, students may study in fully English programs, programs taught partially in English and partially in Japanese, or programs entirely taught in Japanese. Osaka University’s motto is “live locally, grow globally,” and students will have every chance to put that motto into practice.

2. Kyoto University (Kyoto, JP)

The second oldest university in Japan, Kyoto University is considered one of the top two in the country. Five prime ministers from Japan, 19 Nobel laureates, and scores of distinguished scholars, politicians, doctors, lawyers and other professionals hail from Kyoto U. 

The university has three campuses, with a fourth currently in progress. A wide range of programs and fields of study are available to both undergrad and graduate students.

Engineering can be studied entirely in English at the undergraduate level. For other fields, the Kyoto University International Undergraduate Degree program is taught in both English and Japanese. 

No proficiency in Japanese is required for admittance; students initially take intensive language courses, and once gaining proficiency, they study in their majors. 

When not in the classroom, students can explore Kyoto’s rich culture. Over 2000 shrines and temples coexist with modern technology companies like Nintendo. The city is circled by mountains and draws visitors year-round. 

Despite its popularity, Kyoto is less crowded than other major cities. Students can find their way around and explore sites like the Kyoto International Manga Museum. They can select to live in an international dormitory as they learn to speak Japanese and appreciate the region’s history and beauty. 

1. University of Tokyo (Tokyo, JP)

About 30,000 students, including 4,200 international students, are enrolled in the University of Tokyo, considered the most prestigious school in Japan. Its alumni include five astronauts, 18 Nobel Prize laureates, and 17 prime ministers.

A variety of undergraduate options are available to pursue, including Arts and Sciences, Medicine, Education, and Economics. The university’s law school is ranked first in Japan, and the university as a whole is widely considered the top research institution in the country. 

Commonly called Todai or UTokyo, the university’s graduates earn the highest average salaries in Japan. 

Enrollment skews more toward males than females, so UTokyo has been actively attempting to attract more female applicants. Special housing allowances are available for female students, and the university is dedicated to hiring more female professors and researchers. 

That research is at the heart of the university’s stature. UTokyo supports entrepreneurship for companies that use research originating from within the university. 

As of 2022, almost 500 UTokyo-affiliated startups have been created.

Studying in Tokyo means students are at the center of culture and activity. Historical landmarks are within walking or easy traveling distance and include temples, gardens, and natural wonders. 

Hongo campus boasts a history of attracting prominent authors, and students can take a cultural history tour that passes the homes and favorite stops of authors in this “capital of culture.” 

Many museums are nearby, such as the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, the National Museum of Nature and Science, and the Tokyo National Museum. 

Students can enjoy the art of a different kind at Ueno Park, which explodes with beauty, from the lotus-filled Shinobazu Pond to some of the prime viewing areas for cherry blossom season. 

Back in school, students will work side-by-side with others from across the globe, becoming part of the university’s mission to “discover excellence.”

The following sources were used to create the aggregate ranking for this article

US News

Times Higher Education

CWUR

UniRank

QS Japan (2019)

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MPA programs prepare students for many different jobs, from municipal government positions to nonprofit organizations like the Salvation Army and more. 

The curriculum for these programs typically includes a range of topics, such as economics, business management, social theory, and political science. Students in MPA programs will learn the fundamentals of public administration and how to develop and implement effective policies. 

Public administration is a superb field of study for those who are natural leaders or have a passion for public service.

These careers are not only potentially very rewarding, but also growing. There are over 1.3 million jobs in the public administration sector as of 2021, which is expected to rise.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job market for public administrators who hold advanced degrees is projected to grow by at least 10% over the next decade.  

Of course, it is crucial to think carefully when choosing a school at which to earn an MPA. Finding the right program for you involves knowing what your professional aspirations are, what your academic needs and preferences are, and what different schools have to offer. 

Here are 10 of the best master’s in public administration programs in the US. These schools were selected because of their top ranking in major publications, such as US News and World Report and Niche. 

University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy (Chicago, IL)

Established in 1890, the University of Chicago is an excellent private university offering more than 100 graduate degree programs, including many joint and dual degree options. U Chicago’s Harris School of Public Policy offers multiple degrees relating to public administration. 

One of these is the master of public policy, a two-year professional degree program that emphasizes empirically motivated critical thinking and in-depth policy analysis.  

There is also a one-year MA in public policy, intended for students who already hold advanced degrees but wish to deepen their understanding of public policy and related areas of inquiry. 

Harris also offers the Pearson Institute International Policy and Development Certificate for students interested in studying international affairs. Students in this program can take a selected list of elective courses to earn the certificate.

Indiana University O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs (Bloomington, IN)

A public research university with more than 40,000 students, Indiana University is home to one of the best master’s programs for public affairs in the United States. 

Offered through the Paul H. O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, the masters in public affairs program at the college is tied for being the #1 program of its kind in the country, according to US News and World Report. 

In addition, the university has been ranked best in the nation in terms of their program offerings relating to environmental policy and management, nonprofit management, and public finance. 

As of the 2020-21 academic year, an impressive 98% of students who complete Indiana U’s MPA program have been able to either secure employment or enroll in further graduate studies upon graduation. 

Harvard University John F. Kennedy School of Government (Cambridge, MA)

Harvard University is globally recognized as one of the most prestigious institutions for higher education in existence, so it comes as little surprise that the school’s MPA is also world-class. 

According to US News and World Report, Harvard’s public affairs programs are tied for third best in the country.

In addition, the school is ranked #2 in the US in terms of their program offerings relating to two different subject areas falling under the public administration umbrella: health policy and management and international global policy and administration.

Offered through the John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard’s MPA is a two-year program with a highly flexible curriculum. MPA students can custom-tailor a program of study that suits their academic interests and professional goals.

Syracuse University Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs (Syracuse, NY)

A prominent private school located in urban Syracuse, NY, Syracuse University is home to one of the most highly-revered MPA programs in the country. 

In fact, Syracuse’s MPA program was the first-ever program of its kind to be established in the United States. 

The program is a part of the Public Administration and International Affairs Department of the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs.

Students in Syracuse University’s MPA program can personalize their degree experience by choosing from eight different study areas. 

On top of that, the school offers six certificates of advanced study that can be earned simultaneously with the MPA.

Home to 14 different research centers, Syracuse also gives MPA students ample opportunities to work with faculty members on meaningful works of academic inquiry.

University of Georgia School of Public and International Affairs (Athens, GA)

Although not quite as highly-revered of a school as Harvard, when it comes to their MPA program offerings, the University of Georgia is on par with the elite Ivy League school. On US News and World Report’s ranked list of best public affairs programs, the University of Georgia also occupies the #3 spot among all colleges in the country.

In addition, the MPA is the most highly-ranked graduate program at the school. The MPA in public administration is one of two degrees offered by U Georgia’s Department of Public Administration and Policy, with the other being the PhD in philosophy. 

The MPA program is offered through the School of Public and International Affairs; the MPA program is designed to prepare students for a wide range of careers in government and/or the nonprofit sector. 

University of Southern California Sol Price School of Public Policy (Los Angeles, CA)

The University of Southern California, an esteemed private university that was founded in 1880, is home to the Sol Price School of Public Policy. 

USC Price offered a world-class master’s in public administration program, which also ties with Harvard and University of Georgia for #3 in the country, according to US News and World Report. 

USC Price gives students the option to take the MPA program either online or in-person. There are also two different certificate programs for those who wish to specialize in a particular area of study: public policy is one, with the other being city and county management.

Select students in the MPA program are given the opportunity to be a part of the City County Management Fellowship. 

Founded in 2006, the fellowship program allows graduate students to gain real experience in public administration under the guidance of USC faculty, staff, and local public administrators.

University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy (Ann Arbor, MI)

One of the top universities in the United States, the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor is a large public university with an excellent MPA program. 

The Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy at UMich offers two different degree programs for students interested in careers in public administration. 

One of these is the master of public policy, a two-year program focused on analyzing policies. The other option is the master of public affairs.

While the MPP program requires the completion of 48 credit hours of relevant academic study, the MPA program is shorter, consisting of just 30 credits, typically taken over two semesters.

According to US News and World Report, U Mich ranks #1 in the nation in terms of its program offerings relating to social policy. 

University of California – Berkeley Goldman School of Public Policy (Berkeley, CA)

The University of California – Berkeley has been ranked the #1 public university in the entire world for nine consecutive years, coming in #4 in terms of both public and private universities. The school is home to the Goldman School of Public Policy, which offers a world-class master’s program in public affairs.

According to the school, the average student in the MPA program is 35 years old and has 11 years of work experience. 

In light of these statistics, one can conclude that Berkeley’s MPA is an excellent choice of program for established professionals looking to further their careers and deepen their pre-existing understanding of public administration.

Berkeley’s MPA consists of 30 credits, generally taken over one year. Students in the program benefit from small class sizes and numerous opportunities to network with industry leaders.

Arizona State University School of Public Affairs (Tempe, AZ)

According to Niche, Arizona State University is the #1 college in Arizona, also ranking first in the state in terms of student life, business programs, and diversity. It follows that the university’s MPA program offerings are also top-rated.

Offered through the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions, the ASU MPA program consists of 42 credits. The school has many different options for personalizing the program’s duration, focus, and curriculum.  

Students in the MPA program at ASU can choose among four specialty areas, if they so desire. These are urban management, emergency management, nonprofit administration, and public finance. 

The school also offers several accelerated degree program options, enabling students to simultaneously complete a bachelor’s degree and a master’s in as little as five years. 

Texas A&M University Bush School of Government and Public Service (College Station, TX)

The first institution of higher education to be established in the state of Texas, Texas A&M University is a well-revered public school located conveniently between Houston, Dallas, and Austin. The school is most well-known for its agricultural programs, but its offerings relating to public administration are also top-notch. 

The Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University offers a master of public service and administration that has been ranked as one of the country’s top programs of its kind, according to US News and World Report.

The school’s MPSA has also been named Intelligent.com’s “Intelligent Pick” for best public administration master’s program. It is offered both online and in-person, with three different concentration tracks: public management, nonprofit management, and public policy analysis.

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Some of the best graduate schools in the nation offer concentrations in areas like STEM, teaching students with exceptionalities, and digital literacy.

Institutional leaders recognize that to attract top-level applicants, they must create accessible programs for working professionals. Many schools on this list offer hybrid, 100% online, or weekend/evening master’s degree programs for those already working in the field.

The benefits of obtaining a master’s degree in education typically give practicing teachers a competitive edge when applying for positions within their district, as well as higher salaries. 

While many public school districts use “step scales,” awarding higher wages based on years of experience, an additional master’s degree (or even half of a master’s degree) can increase teachers’ salaries by more than $5,000 per year.

What should applicants expect from some of the U.S.A.’s best education master’s programs? Research, field experience, and collaboration, to be sure. 

Programs listed generally take one to two years to complete, depending on the learning format. It is worthwhile to check with your school district to see if there are any programs offering stipends for teachers pursuing higher degrees.

Without further ado, here are 10 of the best master’s in education programs in the U.S. These schools were selected because of their top ranking in major publications, such as U.S. News, College Factual, Niche, and College Rank.

Arizona State University Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College (Tempe, AZ)

Three master’s programs stand out at ASU’s Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College: the MS in education sciences, the MA in educational policy, and the MEd in higher and postsecondary education. 

The education sciences MS is an attractive option for people interested in resolving many of the problems inherent in the public education system via quantitative research methods. 

After completing the degree requirements – which include an internship and accompanying research project position – students with this degree will be prepared to work as data analysts in federal agencies, educational testing facilities, and school districts.

In the educational policy MA program, which emphasizes a collaborative approach to learning, students work in cohorts to complete various projects centered on interpreting data with the goal of improving existing policies or creating new ones within school systems and at the national level.

The MEd in higher and postsecondary education may be an ideal choice for those already working within administrative roles at the university level. The hybrid degree comprises ten courses offered on a 7.5-week calendar, and the curriculum exposes participants to topics and experiences in organizational leadership, college funding, and data-based decision-making.

University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education (Philadelphia, PA)

One of several Ivy League institutions on our list, the GSE at Penn enrolls over 1,000 students in its 21 master’s-level programs, including unique offerings like an MSEd in intercultural communication, an MPhilEd in quantitative methods, and an MSEd in education, culture, and society.

The Urban Teaching Residency Program (UTRP) seeks to expand a student-centered, inquiry-based, and social justice-oriented approach to curriculum and instructional development. 

Participants will take courses in child development, school and society, and complete a capstone writing seminar, with the option to gain teaching certification in Pennsylvania.

Suppose you’re looking for an innovative program not offered anywhere else. In that case, the MSEd in education entrepreneurship is the first of its kind in the nation, merging the study of education, business, and entrepreneurship. 

Offered through blended and weekend modes, the degree program will challenge participants to re-imagine modern learning settings and instructional tools via the launch of school startups and products.

University of Michigan School of Education (Ann Arbor, MI)

Learners seeking an intimate collegiate environment will find the UM School of Education’s 1:8 faculty-to-student ratio appealing. 

The SOE’s education and educational research programs have been top-ranked by various top-level research journals, so we’ll delve into some of those exceptional programs here.

The MA in higher education offers eight exciting concentrations in areas like institutional research and student access and success. 

The diversity and social justice in higher education concentration aims to equip degree candidates with the tools and lens to increase equity within higher education settings. 

Alternatively, the concentration in institutional research prompts students to engage in various qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods action research projects wherein they explore and develop solutions for systemic problems within U.S. collegiate institutions. 

Another unique option is the blended MA in educational studies, an interdisciplinary program that unites educational leaders, researchers, and policymakers from around the world in innovating new, evidence-based learning approaches.

North Carolina State University College of Education (Raleigh, NC)

A rising star in the realm of graduate studies in education, NC State produces more STEM educators in North Carolina than any other institution (including UNC, Duke, and Wake Forest University). 

NCSU’s master’s degrees are spread across four departments, some of which we’ll explore in this section.

The master’s in school administration prepares degree candidates to become successful leaders in K-12 settings. MSA participants complete 24 credits in addition to an 18-credit internship either in the afternoons or evenings/Saturdays, making the program accessible to those currently working in the school system. 

Course topics include school law, school improvement contexts and challenges, and community and interagency partnerships.

We can’t highlight NCSU’s programs without lauding one of its STEM concentrations: the MEd in STEM – engineering and technology education concentration. 

Able to be completed 100% online, this program stipulates 30 hours without a thesis and prepares degree candidates to pursue a doctorate upon graduation. 

Graduates move on to become technological administrators or STEM program leaders in public schools and at the district level.

University of Washington College of Education (Seattle, WA)

Out of the University of Washington’s 19 master’s degree offerings, we’re shining the spotlight on three one-of-a-kind programs: intercollegiate athletic leadership, culturally sustaining education, and low-incidence teacher education. 

Nowhere else is there a program like the IAL MEd, a hybrid program giving participants hands-on opportunities to prepare for leadership roles within school athletic departments. 

Possible to attain within a single year, the program starts with an on-campus six-week summer intensive, then propels students into fall and winter internships paired with asynchronous courses. 

Participants can focus on one of three areas: leadership development, the impact of sports on society, or athletic administration skills.

The culturally sustaining education MEd is one of the school’s flagship programs, established under the guidance of field pioneers Dr. Geneva Gay and Dr. James A. Banks. 

Northwestern University School of Education and Social Policy (Evanston, IL)

There are six master’s programs to choose from at Northwestern’s SESP. We’ll start with one of the best-ranked programs: the MSEd learning sciences concentration. 

The type of person who might gravitate toward this program is interested in the intersection of teacher training, software development, school administration, and other related topics.

An educational studies MS immerses students in the areas of child development and school policy, and graduates proceed to work in nonprofit organizations, international schools, and after-school programs. Courses are intimate and hands-on, with a heavy emphasis on field experience.

Those who apply for the MSEd in teacher leadership will have a demonstrated passion for supporting teachers from all backgrounds – both new and veteran. Summer courses are offered on a one- or two-week schedule via the Summer Institute for Teachers program, and during the school year, participants engage in a two-quarter practicum. 

Other professional development opportunities for eager graduate students are offered via the Educational Coaching Network – 2022-2023 offerings include cognitive coaching training and basic-intermediate coaching by renowned teacher leader Jim Knight.

Stanford Graduate School of Education (Stanford, CA)

In addition to six stellar master’s offerings with additional concentration, which we’ll soon describe, the Stanford GSE offers several top-ranked joint programs: an MA/JD in law and education, an MA/MBA via the School of Business, and an MA/MPP in public policy and education.

The education data science MS is a two-year, full-time degree program that includes a mentored internship or research assistantship and a culminating capstone project. 

Participants engage in fieldwork related to basic programming, statistical analysis, and three of five data science specialization tracks (such as natural language processing, measurement, and learning analytics). 

Many people seeking a thrilling master’s program will flock to the master’s international comparative education (ICE) program, a year-long degree program that challenges students to interrogate educational problems from a comparative and interdisciplinary lens – touching on subjects like sociology, political science, and history. After all, there is much to learn from the successes of other nations in public education.

Harvard Graduate School of Education (Cambridge, MA)

Founded in 1920, the Harvard GSE has graduated nearly 30,000 students who have gone on to serve as policy leaders, education entrepreneurs, and school district administrators, among other essential roles. 

Degree-seeking candidates may choose from two EdM programs: the residential master’s or the online master’s. The former is a one-year, on-campus experience, while the latter takes two years to complete online.

The residential master’s allows participants to specialize in one of five areas, like human development, where participants examine the cognitive, affective, and neurological domains of learning as they relate to children, teenagers, and adult learners.

Online master’s candidates choose either the higher education or PreK-12 pathway. Higher education specialists are generally already working within administrative or mid-level roles at the college/university level. 

Upon completing their course sequences, they will be prepared to lead nonprofit organizations and state/federal agencies. 

Course topics include strategic finance for nonprofit leaders and the art and practice of communication. Students can expect 14-20 hours of rigorous coursework, discussion, and related research weekly.

Columbia University Teachers College (New York City, NY)

Those familiar with excellence in education will not be surprised to see the Teachers College at Columbia University featured on this list. 

The institution advertises 50+ master’s level programs in education alone, often with an interdisciplinary focus. Currently, nearly 6,000 students are pursuing master’s doctoral or advanced-level certificates at Teachers College.

The MS or EdM in sociology and education are some of the longest-enduring programs of their kind in the nation, compelling students to disrupt policies and systems that perpetuate inequalities using evidence-based approaches. 

Degree candidates complete action research projects in various NYC public school sites on topics like gentrification, racial segregation, and school organization.

One of the newest programs at Teachers College is the master’s degree in neuroscience and education. 

As researchers have published more data on the neuroplasticity of the developing brain, Columbia has responded by offering a unique program merging the study of the mind, human behavior, and how humans learn. 

A thesis is required for graduation, including a self-created summative assessment, a systematic literature review of a topic in neuroscience research, an empirical paper connected to a study in which the student was directly involved, or a highly-detailed proposal for a neuroscientific research study.

University of Central Florida College of Community Innovation and Education (Orlando, FL)

UCF offers an astounding 18 MA, MS, or MEd programs within the realm of education – we’ll focus on some of the more unique offerings which might not be found at peer institutions, like the MA in teaching English to speakers of other languages. 

One of the neatest aspects of this program is a service learning study abroad component in countries like Spain or China. In total, degree candidates complete 30-36 credit hours (dependent on their decision to pursue a thesis or nonthesis pathway). 

Current educators may gravitate toward the MEd in reading education, aimed to develop and support literacy initiatives targeting children and adolescent learners. 

Graduates of this program may proceed to work as literacy interventionists in public school districts, for example. This program – which focuses on topics like reading assessment, digital literacies, and literacy coaching – can be completely 100% online!

Another totally online (or hybrid) offering is the MA in instructional design and technology: e-learning. Students in this program will become proficient in creating, implementing, and assessing exceptional e-learning materials for K-12 practitioners. 

The post The Best Master’s in Education Programs appeared first on collegegazette.com.

Those who took advantage of study abroad opportunities in college often remark that the summer, semester, or year away opened their eyes to new perspectives, experiences, and parts of their identities.

Most of the best colleges and universities in the United States offer study abroad programs across at least six of the seven continents. 

Some institutions even have campuses in different countries where undergraduates can fulfill many general education requirements. 

While most study abroad programs are attached to a price tag, there are often financial aid opportunities to fully or partially fund these invaluable experiences.

It can sometimes be overwhelming to peruse a college’s long list of available opportunities. Filtering programs according to an area of geographic interest, service learning opportunities, or preferred study area may be helpful. 

Many students elect to spend time in a different country because they wish to strengthen their foreign language proficiency.

We have compiled a list of ten U.S. schools with compelling study-abroad programs. 

Most of the schools on this list advertise semester-long, year-long, or summer abroad opportunities in addition to shorter trips that grant the chance to earn several credits quickly. 

If you’re searching for a college with abundant options and resources for funding your wanderlust, this list of the best study abroad programs in the U.S. may be the perfect place to start.

Northwestern University (Evanston, IL)

Northwestern University’s Global Learning Office (GLO) offers more than 150 study abroad, exchange, and internship programs across 50 countries. 

Over 700 Northwestern undergraduates earn credit annually in short- and long-term programs that take place over a semester, summer, or full academic year.

The GLO offers a Study Abroad Goals Assessment Tool to help students determine their reasons and desired outcomes for studying abroad. I

dentity considerations – like the desire to learn more about one’s heritage, develop proficiency in a second language, or participate in service learning – can help undergraduates narrow their list of potential programs to one that is more focused.

One of Northwestern’s featured programs – Public Health in Mexico – immerses participants in a six-week excursion of Mexico City, where they learn about unique challenges faced within Mexico’s diverse communities, visit famous landmarks like the pyramid cities of Teotihuacan, and visit rural health facilities.

Elon University (Elon, NC)

Elon undergraduates can pursue one of three study abroad options: short-term faculty-led programs, Elon Center programs, or dual degree programs.

Short-term programs generally focus on a specific subject and integrate various cultural activities into the program of studies. 

One such course example is GBL 2050 Through the Lens of ESPN: From Bristol to Beyond. In this program, students tour ESPN facilities and trace the organization’s history to understand relevant sports media issues better.

Three Elon Center programs are unique to the university. For example, the Elon Center in Florence, Italy, weaves four weekend study excursions, cultural events, and more into its academic program, which specializes in fine arts, dance, music, and Italian language and history studies.

Finally, dual degree programs position undergraduates in a foreign country for their last two years of study in a foreign country. 

Elon’s international business dual degree gives students a competitive edge over peer business school degree candidates by immersing them in major business hubs like Madrid, Spain; Reutlingen, Germany; and Reims, France.

Agnes Scott College (Decatur, GA)

More than 46% of undergraduates at Agnes Scott College study abroad annually. Students can choose from more than 150 study-abroad programs in over 50 countries. 

GST 2023: Humanitarianism in Middle East History is a four-credit course in Jordan. Participants will examine the intersection of modern humanitarianism with Western imperialism in North Africa and the Middle East. 

They will spend two weeks traveling throughout Jordan to tour various humanitarian organizations and engage in cultural immersion.

Global Journeys serves as Agnes Scott’s foundational global learning curriculum. Faculty-led journeys afford four credits in various locations, all of which focus on four topics: globalization, identity, colonialism, and the ethics of travel. 

In Journeys 2023: Mesoamerican Maritime Culture in a Global Context, students travel to Belize to learn about the importance of coastal culture in pre- and post-colonial Mesoamerica. During this time, they’ll also confront the challenges of maintaining sustainable ecosystems.

Colorado College (Colorado Springs, CO)

Colorado College’s signature Block Plan creates study-abroad opportunities for up to 80% of the school’s graduates via flexible scheduling. 

Students can take advantage of four types of offerings: academic year away, summer block away, full/half semester block away, or partner-sponsored semesters.

The school consistently advertises seven full/half semester programs, which have their own specific focus. The TREE Semester – Teaching & Research in Environmental Education – takes place in the Colorado mountains, while Colorado College Russian in Bishkek is a half-semester Russian language immersion program in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

Texas A&M University (College Station, TX)

Of Texas A&M’s 142 study abroad programs, many options focus on animal studies and environmental conservation.

One such program – Africa Wildlife Medicine Track 1 Summer – is geared for pre-veterinary majors interested in gaining hands-on experience with large animals. Participants practice placing catheters, administering drugs prior to surgery, and humane restraint.

Thousands of miles away, the Thailand Tropical Vet Med & Conservation program takes place over a month in the rainforest. 

Undergraduates care for elephants and take field trips to coral reefs, where they get the chance to earn a SCUBA certification and embark upon several dives. Other highlights include assisting in dog shelters, spending time at an elephant sanctuary, and ziplining through the jungle.

Over in Turks & Caicos, the Fundamentals of Marine Conservation summer program immerses students in the crystal clear waters of South Caicos, where they will investigate the habits of stingrays, sea turtles, and other local fish.

Emerson College (Boston, MA)

Emerson College hosts both domestic programs and study-abroad opportunities. At Kasteel well, 90 Emerson undergraduates spend three months living in a restored 14th-century medieval castle in the Netherlands. 

Here, the curriculum focuses on various liberal arts subjects, including travel writing, intercultural communication, and European literature.

Those admitted to the Berklee Valencia program in Spain can expect immersion in the musical culture of the Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and North African regions and various parts of Europe. 

The curriculum explicitly emphasizes opportunities to learn about the music business, music technology, and performance.

Not far away, in Salzburg, Austria, the Creativity, Media & Global Change program accepts 75 Emerson students for the opportunity to join an international cohort of students in creating digital media strategic communication, developing business plans, and enjoying some of Austria’s most beloved landmarks. Undergraduates additionally get to visit the Alps.

Kalamazoo College (Kalamazoo, MI)

Kalamazoo undergraduates have 56 study abroad programs at their disposal, which take place in nearly 30 countries. Most students who take advantage of these opportunities do so in their junior year. Nearly 70% of Kalamazoo students participate in a study abroad program, which often involves a language-learning component.

The Trinidad-St. Augustine Spring Short-Term at the University of West Indies immerses students in intersectional examinations of gender and economic development in the Caribbean, which may appeal to business or political science majors.

Mathematics majors may opt for the Hungary, Budapest Long-Term Semester, where they will participate in challenging math, physics, and computer science classes in conjunction with Babilon language and culture courses. 

Extended-term opportunities in places like Shanghai and Beijing, China, provide the chance to grow proficiency in the Chinese language while exploring all of the region’s cultural richness.

The University of Washington (Seattle, WA)

In addition to many study abroad opportunities, the University of Washington maintains a campus abroad called Rome in Residence. 

This brand new program allows undergraduates to complete their general education requirements and choose from five 5-credit courses centered on Roman history, culture, and archaeology.

Those seeking to study abroad might opt for a program like iSchool Ethiopia: Information Design Field Study. This three-week program takes place in Addis Ababa and positions participants with subject matter experts in mental health, education, and diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Alternatively, a program such as Landscape Architecture Nepal compels students to design small- and large-scale landscapes within developing urban areas of the Kathmandu Valley. Another sustainability-focused program takes place in Greece, where students conduct ethnographic interviews on current issues in design, equity, and social justice.

Goucher College (Baltimore, MD)

Goucher College has long been recognized as one of the best colleges in the United States to pursue study abroad opportunities. 100% of Goucher undergraduates experience study abroad immersions at no extra cost!

Intensive Courses Abroad (ICAs) are faculty-led excursions preceded by a weekly prerequisite. These ICAs typically launch from January through May and run in alternate years. 

A recent example – Alternative Media in the Balkans – transports students to locations like Belgrade, Serbia; Zagreb, Croatia; and Ljubljana, Slovenia,  with the intent of interrogating the Balkans’ history through interactive digital storytelling. 

Semester- and year-long programs like FU-BEST (Berlin European Studies) merge German language study with a curricular emphasis on German politics and history. Classes are small, and students enjoy many opportunities to visit German museums, opera houses, and theaters.

New York University (New York City, NY)

It’s no surprise that NYU offers unparalleled study abroad opportunities for undergraduates with diverse interests. The college maintains several degree-conferring institutions across the globe, including NYU Abu Dhabi. 

On this campus, students from more than 120 countries participate in classes no larger than 14 students. This campus may appeal to engineering majors, in particular.

Are you looking for something a little posher? NYU London offers coursework in a broad range of subjects, from business and international relations to psychology and Africana studies. At NYU Prague, the curricular focus is centered on the intersection of journalism and performance.

Study abroad opportunities also exist in dynamic cities like Tel Aviv, Israel, where students interested in archaeology and ancient studies can participate in an internship in Caesarea Maritima.

The post 10 Colleges With Amazing Study Abroad Programs appeared first on collegegazette.com.

Getting a formal education in early childhood education is a superb way to develop an understanding of how children learn and their needs — not just academically, but also socially and emotionally. 

Although it is possible to start a career in early childhood education with only an associate’s degree — or even no degree at all — the reality is that most jobs in this field will require at least a bachelor’s degree.

Although there are clear benefits to getting an education, such as the increased number of available jobs and the higher average salary of those with degrees, it is also true that earning a degree is a long, expensive, and often stressful process. 

As a result, it is important to think carefully about what school to attend. Different colleges have different course offerings, degree requirements, professors, resources, and facilities, all of which significantly impact your educational experience. 

Looking for the perfect university to earn your degree in early childhood education may be a daunting task. On the bright side, we are here to help make that process smoother for you by providing a list of some of your best options. 

Here are 10 of the best early childhood education colleges in the US.

Vanderbilt University (Nashville, TN)

A private research university located in Nashville, Vanderbilt University is among the most prominent institutions for higher education in the country. 

In fact, according to US News and World Report, Vanderbilt is the #14 best college in the United States. On top of that, the school was also named ninth in the nation in terms of best value, so attending Vanderbilt is an amazing way to ensure that you get your money’s worth.

The Vanderbilt Peabody College of Education and Human Development offers numerous degree programs, courses, and other academic experiences relating to early childhood education.  

For undergraduate students, early childhood and elementary education is one of the many major options to choose from. 

Providing students with full teaching licenses upon graduation, the ECED program strongly emphasizes experiential learning and practical application.

Purdue University (Purdue, IN

Purdue University is an internationally-acclaimed public university that was founded in 1869. The university is made up of 13 undergraduate and graduate colleges and schools. 

One of these is the College of Health and Human Sciences, home to a robust Department of Human Development and Family Studies.

For undergraduate students who are interested in working with children, the department offers a bachelor’s major program in early childhood education and exceptional needs.

Students in the ECEEN major can simultaneously earn their degree and dual teaching licensure, as the program covers teaching both children with typical capability levels and those who require additional learning support.  

Throughout the program, students have the opportunity to get first-hand experience at the Ben and Maxine Miller Child Development Laboratory School.

University of Washington (Seattle, WA)

Widely known for its research efforts in engineering and the sciences, the University of Washington is a public university with an undergraduate enrollment of nearly 50,000 students, as of the fall of 2022. 

UW’s College of Education has several program offerings relating to early childhood education, from undergraduate to doctoral programs, with both online to in-person options.  

One of these is the BA in early childhood and family studies, a program that aims to provide students with an interdisciplinary understanding of not just children’s education, but also child and family life more broadly.  

The university additionally offers an online BA in early care and education.

New York University (New York, NY)

According to the 2023 edition of US News and World Report’s annual school rankings, NYU is the #25 overall best college in the United States. 

It is home to the Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. Established in 1890, NYU Steinhardt is the oldest school of pedagogy in the county, as well as one of the best.

NYU’s early childhood education offerings include the bachelor of science, two master’s degrees, and a doctoral program. At the undergraduate level, early childhood education is also offered as a minor.

The BS in early childhood education and early childhood special education is designed to prepare students to teach all kinds of children from the age of birth up to second grade. The minor program in teacher education, on the other hand, does not provide certification to teach, but instead allows students in any program to learn valuable pedagogical skills.

Indiana University (Bloomington, IN)

Founded in 1820, Indiana University is one of the foremost public research universities in the United States. 

The Indiana University School of Education offers three different degrees in early childhood education, two of which are graduate programs. The third is the bachelor of science in education.

Students in the BSEd in early childhood education program choose between two areas of concentration: Teaching All Young Learners and Early Childhood Care and Education Leadership.

Designed specifically for those planning on becoming teachers, the TAYL concentration allows students to become fully licensed to teach children in the third grade and younger.

The ECCEL concentration, on the other hand, does not provide students with a teaching license. Rather, this program aims to prepare students for a broader set of careers relating to childhood education and childcare.

Arizona State University (Tempe, AZ)

Arizona State University, a reputed public university, is home to more than 135,000 enrolled students across all of its programs. 

The ASU student body is spread out across the university’s 16 constituent undergraduate and graduate schools. 

Counting the school’s large variety of online programs, ASU offers over 800 different degrees, minors, and certificate programs.

One of ASU’s schools is the Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College, which has been ranked #8 in the country in terms of best online master’s programs in education. 

At the undergraduate level, MLFTC offers an online bachelor of applied science in early childhood studies. 

In addition to the BAS, there is also an online bachelor of arts program in education, with early childhood studies offered as an area of concentration.

Boston University (Boston, MA)

A private research university that was established in 1867, Boston University is home to the Wheelock College of Education and Human Development. 

As of the 2022 academic year, Wheelock College is longer admitting students into its BS in early childhood education program. Rather, all new students interested in this field of study will be admitted to the college’s BS program in education and human development. 

In fact, Wheelock has standardized their curriculum such that the program of study for BS students is the same for the first two years. The BS in education and human development begins with a series of core courses in human development, social science, career preparation, and other relevant subjects.

In the third and fourth years of the program, however, students choose from among five areas of professional specialization. Teaching & learning is one of these options, as is educational design for transformative social futures.

University of Pittsburgh (Pittsburgh, PA)

Located just a few miles from the heart of downtown Pittsburgh, the University of Pittsburgh is among the best colleges in the country. 

In fact, according to Times Higher Education’s 2021 school rankings, Pitt is the #1 public university in the northeastern United States. 

The university is made up of 17 undergraduate and graduate schools. One of these is the School of Education, which has several programs focused on early childhood education.

Pitt’s early childhood programs primarily focus on educating children from birth to the age of 8 in various settings, including in the home and at public and private schools. 

The School of Education offers two master’s degree programs: the MEd in elementary education and the MEd in early childhood education. The college also offers certificate and combined degree programs.

University of Georgia (Athens, GA)

A land-grant research university that was established in 1785, the University of Georgia is one of the oldest public schools in the United States. 

UGA is home to the Mary Frances Early College of Education, which offers multiple degree programs in early childhood education. 

At the undergraduate level, students can earn a BSEd with a major in elementary education. Upon completing the program, students will be qualified to teach pre-kindergarten through fifth grade.

UGA’s elementary education BSEd program is consistently ranked within the top five in the country by US News and World Report. It is particularly highly revered for its intensive, hands-on approach to early childhood education.

For instance, before graduating, all students will have earned more than 400 hours of practical experience, with an entire semester of student teaching at an elementary school.

Auburn University (Auburn, AL)

A public research university with an undergraduate enrollment of over 25,000 students, Auburn University is one of the largest schools in the southern United States. 

The College of Human Sciences at Auburn has a robust Department of Human Development & Family Science. 

The department offers three different undergraduate degree programs: child life, early child development, and the general studies track. 

Regardless of which of the three concentrations they choose to pursue, all HDFS major students are required to complete a full-time internship as a capstone experience prior to graduating. 

Auburn University is also home to the Early Learning Center, a reputable laboratory preschool open to children from ages 2 through 5. 

The Center offers half-day learning sessions, during which the young students are guided through an age-appropriate curriculum emphasizing learning by doing. 

The Early Learning Center also serves as a research facility, allowing faculty to observe early child development first-hand.

The post The Best Early Childhood Education Colleges appeared first on collegegazette.com.

Becoming a carpenter requires talent in a variety of technical, writing, and social skills. Successful carpenters should be able to interpret blueprints, solve problems, use power tools, and make precise calculations. 

Writing is important because carpenters will regularly draft formal proposals, send detailed invoices, and write highly specific reports on the conditions of buildings they evaluate. 

Interpersonal skills are essential for marketing your business – especially if you are self-employed – organizing busy schedules and employees, and managing conflict when it inevitably arises.

Anyone can aspire to become a carpenter, and entry requirements to carpentry programs in the US are typically not as competitive as liberal arts programs. 

A career in carpentry can lead you to exciting places, as building and designing skills are eternally in demand. 

With a carpentry diploma or certification, you can specialize in areas like drywall, commercial development, deck-building, or even teaching. 

We have compiled a list of the best carpentry schools in the United States that have been listed among the best programs on popular higher education websites. 

Located in urban, suburban, and rural areas across the country, you will likely find the perfect fit for your career goals. 

Without further ado, here are 10 of the best carpentry schools in the US.

Williamson College of the Trades (Media, PA)

Offering one of the most comprehensive degrees on this list, Williamson enrolls students in an Associate in Specialized Technology Degree. 

Students who sign up for this program desire to hold leadership positions as journeyman carpenters, construction superintendents, and contracting firm owners. 

Dynamic coursework occurs in lecture halls, on-site demonstrations, workshops, and on-campus project settings.

What kind of advanced carpentry skills can Williamson undergraduates hope to learn? 

In CARP 252 – Advanced Carpentry Skills II – they will use their project management knowledge to serve as shop foremen on campus projects, assuming responsibility for supervision, estimations, material orders, and safety. 

Graduates of Williamson’s AST degree are hired by regional and national employers like Bancroft Construction Co., Lennar Homes, and Skanska AB. 

With so many transferable skills, Williamson graduates have more freedom than most of their colleagues to travel where their talents are highly sought-out. The more advanced the class level, the more challenging projects will become.

Ivy Tech Community College (Indianapolis, IN)

Ivy Tech is the largest singly-accredited community college in the nation and offers an outstanding education in construction and manufacturing. 

Its construction technology program prompts students to build house mock-ups to scale in the construction lab early in the course sequence, and many carpentry students will participate in service-learning building projects. 

By the end of the degree, each study will be ready to pass the national certification exam.

Construction majors at Ivy Tech can also expect to partner with local businesses on various creative projects involving HVAC work and electrical contracting, making for a comprehensive degree program in skills outside of woodworking.

Many budding carpenters are attracted to Ivy Tech for its diverse program options. In addition to offering an AAS diploma in construction technology, students can obtain certificates in as few as two semesters. 

A building construction management specialist technical certificate, for example, requires 32 hours of credit. 

All students in this program will take BCOM 100 – Technology for Construction – in which they develop expertise in computer-aided drafting, scheduling software, and proposal design using presentation software.

Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology (Lancaster, PA)

Stevens’ carpentry technology program places enthusiastic students in laboratories and workshops with the most cutting-edge tools and technology to prepare them to secure lucrative projects and positions in residential and commercial construction. 

The college only admits Pennsylvania residents, with veterans serving as the only exception to the rule.

In a fast-paced course like Carpentry Technology Essential Skills, future carpenters will learn how to erect structures and fixtures made of various elements. 

They gain practice installing cabinets, drywall, and even underground passageways! 

Some tools they can expect to use include bandsaw wheels, air compressors, and bevels. 

As one can imagine, it takes dexterity, caution, and responsibility to utilize high-powered tools effectively.

Thaddeus Stevens graduates do very well for themselves after college. T

he class of 2020 achieved a 96% job placement rate, and 87% were employed full-time within their major. 

Regarding salary, they earned between $32,500 and $42,500 annually at employers like Ashley Furniture, Dream Builders, and Snyder Heating & Remodeling.

Fox Valley Technical College (Grand Chute, WI)

Fox Valley Tech is an excellent option if you’re interested in residential construction. 

Offering a 39-credit technical diploma, students will learn how to build and/or remodel a home from start to finish. 

This requires sufficient practice in completing exterior and interior finishes, memorizing building codes, and working as part of a dynamic team.

Student projects are supported by the Fox Valley Construction Management Association (FVCMA), which offers experiential learning opportunities via field trips, seminars, national conventions, and guest speaker series.

96% of Fox Valley Technical College’s most recent residential construction graduations have progressed to obtain positions within their major, while others enjoy fulfilling work in construction management technology, electricity, and pipes trades preparation. 

Salaries exceed $60,000 in various positions, which is higher than usual for a carpenter just beginning work after college.

St. Cloud Technical & Community College (St. Cloud, WI)

A graduate from St. Cloud Technical can expect to enter their first job at the level of an advanced apprentice. 

The goal of St. Cloud’s building construction degree program is to prepare students to thrive in a variety of positions and industries. 

They will be ready to succeed in residential and commercial construction as well as cabinetry, millwork, and highway and bridgework.

With a 100% job placement rate for 2021, it is rare for two graduates to work in the same type of role. 

From building inspectors, lumber yard manager trainees, and ceiling tile installers, St. Cloud encourages students to tap into the areas of construction and building where they are most passionate and talented. 

Some will even opt to become customer service representatives for major construction firms.

Outside of the flagship building construction program, undergraduates can choose to enroll in the architectural or electrical construction technology program.

The former exposes students to civil drafting, engineering, and blueprint reading, while the latter focuses on training participants in AC generator theory, variable frequency drives, and lighting.

Bismarck State College (Bismarck, ND)

For the most part, Bismarck State focuses on preparing undergraduates for jobs in residential construction. 

The college offers a nine-month option where participants construct an entire single-family home in Bismarck. This extensive process involves reading blueprints, installing cabinetry, and various essential tasks. 

Those who complete this program will earn a program certificate, though they can complete additional coursework to obtain a 60-credit AAS diploma. 

Students can expect to be exposed to all the challenges they might experience in real-world residential construction contexts, including carrying heavy loads, climbing ladders, using power tools for extensive periods, and being exposed to elements like vibration, heat, dust, and noise.

AAS candidates will enroll in various humanities and social science courses to pursue a diploma, ensuring a well-rounded education. 

Classes like Introduction to Professional Writing and Fundamentals of Public Speaking will prepare them to secure short-term and long-term jobs on exciting projects and be confident enough to start their own business and market their services to a broad audience.

Atlantic Technical College (Coconut Creek, FL)

Atlantic Technical promises to immerse its students in all aspects of carpentry, including planning, finance, labor relations, and safety. 

In addition to working on homes, businesses, and other buildings, graduates also join teams dedicated to concrete formwork, bridge construction, and shipbuilding.

What kind of skills can an Atlantic Technical College student expect to learn? There are, of course, technical skills like painting, roofing, and hand tool use – but that’s not all! 

Undergraduates will practice surveying a site layout, estimating job costs, and using different scale drawing techniques. No two days are the same at Atlantic Tech!

Students are graded on both independent and group projects. 

In a course like Rough Framing Carpentry, students will erect the foundation of a building, cut and install framing parts for a wood floor system, make sure all work complies with hurricane building codes, construct a frame for a staircase, and apply appropriate thermal boundaries and water management systems.

Des Moines Area Community College (Ankeny, IA)

Few colleges guarantee enrollees a job within one year of enrolling – Des Moines is affordable and makes good on that promise. 

Its DMACC building trades diploma prepares students for satisfying careers in commercial or residential construction.

One of the program’s greatest assets is the level of one-on-one attention that students receive; they remain with the same teacher throughout the year-long course sequence. 

In this time frame, they will work on multiple home construction sites in the Des Moines area, gaining expertise in framing, trim work, and roofing, to name a few critical skills.

Are you looking for an even more in-depth option? DMACC also offers an AAS degree in construction management, which takes five semesters to complete. 

This program is geared toward preparation for more supervisory roles. Students will practice evaluating work tasks, preparing financial statements, delegating tasks, and improving leadership skills.

Washburn Institute of Technology (Topeka, KS)

Washburn Tech’s building technology and carpentry programs provide students with the knowledge and expertise to complete successful projects in both the commercial and residential realms. 

Undergraduates attend half-days-worth of courses to complete their degrees in two semesters, wherein they’ll earn a technical certificate.

Graduates of Washburn tend to earn $28.23/hour as journeyman commercial carpenters and $20.43/hour as journeyman residential carpenters, which exceeds the average Kansas entry-level salaries by $8-$12/hour.

In a course like Introductory Craft Skills, novice carpenters will learn how to use and store tools safely, while Technical Math I will expose them to the different types of calculations and measurements they’ll be expected to perform in their future jobs. Undergraduates gain significant hands-on experience in floor, wall, and ceiling framing, as well as window installation and masonry.

Green River College (Auburn, WA)

Green River may offer one of the most accessible carpentry technology programs on this list, with both day and evening classes. 

Regardless of whether a student prefers to enter residential or commercial projects, they will all develop expertise in every major category of carpentry, which takes place in a 5,500-square-foot workshop. 

Within those four walls, they will build full-size mock-ups from the ground up.

One distinct feature of Green River’s carpentry tech program is that it is also the only institution that has an agreement with the Union Carpenters apprenticeship training program. 

Students who maintain a 3.5 or higher GPA have preferential acceptance into the training program and can earn advancement pay based on exam scores after three months of being accepted to the training program.

Students can earn up to five different training certificates or pursue an AAS. Post-graduate employment is virtually guaranteed, as construction of the brand-new Puget Sound transit system is predicted to take 30 more years.

The post The 10 Best Carpentry Schools in the US appeared first on collegegazette.com.

Generally speaking, agriculture degrees are offered as a bachelor of science; however, the study of agriculture is very interdisciplinary, requiring students to have a firm grasp of concepts in a wide range of academic subject areas. 

These include natural sciences — such as chemistry, biology, and environmental science — as well as economics, management, and more. 

The interdisciplinary nature of agriculture studies programs allows students to personalize their degree experience to suit their individual preferences and career goals. 

Course offerings relating to agriculture vary significantly from one school to another, so students with a particular interest or profession they want to pursue should be sure to choose a college carefully. 

Some schools may emphasize a specific part of agriculture, like growing crops, while others may focus on a particular geographic region. 

In addition, most agriculture programs involve significant experiential learning, from internship placements to working on a school-owned farm. 

For students interested in finding an excellent college for studying agriculture, we have compiled a list of some of the best schools out there.

All selected schools have been ranked in major publications for agriculture studies, such as US News, Niche, and others. Here are 10 of the best agriculture colleges in the US.

University of Arkansas Dale Bumpers College of Agriculture, Food and Life Sciences (Fayetteville, AR)

Dale Bumpers College of Agriculture, Food and Life Sciences, a part of the University of Arkansas, is a premier agricultural college with 14 different undergraduate major programs and an additional 25 minors. As of the fall of 2019, the school has a total enrollment of 2,230 students.

Bumpers College boasts a six-year retention rate of 71.6% — the highest of any of the colleges making up the University. Considering graduation rates in general, Bumpers also has one of the highest Arkansas colleges. 

Aiming to graduate students who are highly prepared for successful careers in the agriculture industry, the Bumpser College approach to undergraduate education heavily emphasizes hands-on learning. 

Experiential learning opportunities include professional development seminars, leadership workshops, labs, internships, and more. 

University of Georgia College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (Athens, GA)

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at the University of Georgia is an excellent school choice for students interested in horticulture. The school has been ranked second in the United States regarding best agricultural and horticultural plant breeding colleges.

CAES is also widely known for its excellent entomology program offerings, ranking eighth among all colleges and universities worldwide. 

About a third of students at the school study abroad in one of 15 different countries at some point before graduating, making CAES an excellent pick for those who are considering a career in international agriculture.  

On top of that, CAES boasts a perfect 100% career placement rate for students in their poultry science program.

CAES has an alumni network of more than 19,000 graduates living across the country, providing mentorship, networking connections, and other forms of support to current students. 

Iowa State University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (Ames, IA)

A part of Iowa State University, the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences is widely acknowledged as one of the foremost agriculture schools in the entire world. In fact, according to QS World University Rankings, the school is among the top 4% among 401 global universities in terms of best program offerings in the areas of agriculture and forestry. 

Established in 1858, Iowa CALS has a history extending more than 160 years. In 1869, it became the first co-ed, land-grant college in the United States, marking the beginning of a legacy of excellence. 

As a result, today, CALS has an active, supportive network of more than 46,000 living alumni.

CALS is known for its research activity, ranking #1 among 60 agricultural schools in terms of number of faculty who have federal research grants.

Cornell University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (Ithaca, NY)

One of the eight elite private universities known as the Ivy League, Cornell University is home to a world-class College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. It is the second largest of the university’s constituent schools in terms of number of students, faculty, and staff members.

Cornell CALS is globally renowned as one of the foremost institutions for agriculture research in the world, offering students a vast array of opportunities to contribute to projects of significant scholarly impact.

The college offers 22 different undergraduate major programs in agriculture, plus more than 40 minors, allowing students to personalize their program of study to suit their needs.

For students considering studying agriculture at the graduate level, Cornell offers over 30 research graduate degree programs. In addition, the school has many professional, non-degree, and certificate programs.

University of Massachusetts, Amherst Stockbridge School of Agriculture (Amherst, MA)

A part of the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, the Stockbridge School of Agriculture, dates back to UMass’ early days, established more than 150 years ago in 1867. 

Today, the Stockbridge School of Agriculture has an alumni network of more than 10,000 individuals, a strong source of support for current students. 

Stockbridge offers four BS degree programs and five associate degrees at the undergraduate level. The school also has various MS and PhD program options for those interested in pursuing graduate studies.

Stockbridge emphasizes the importance of providing an academic environment that allows students to form close relationships with their professors and peers.

The school offers various athletic teams, community service opportunities, clubs, and other extracurricular organizations. 

Texas A&M University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (College Station, TX)

Texas A&M University — the first public institution for higher education in the state of Texas — is home to the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, a stellar school for students who want to pursue a degree in this field. 

Established in 1876, the school has long been a core part of the university, with numerous well-established, world-class programs.

At the undergraduate level, agriculture major program offerings include many BS options, such as animal science, bioenvironmental science, and biological and agricultural engineering. 

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences also has many degree programs that focus more on the social sciences side of the agriculture field, such as the agricultural communications and journalism major. 

In addition to its extensive academic offerings, Texas A&M also offers its agriculture students numerous high-impact learning opportunities.

Oklahoma State University Ferguson College of Agriculture (Stillwater, OK)

A part of Oklahoma State University, the Ferguson College of Agriculture is a public land-grant university with a total enrollment of just under 3,100 students. Forty-three states and 30 different countries are represented in the OSU Ferguson student body.

Ferguson College of Agriculture is home to 16 different undergraduate major programs, with a total of more than 50 study options for agriculture students. 

In addition to the various agriculture programs offered by Ferguson, there is also a biosystems engineering degree program, which is offered through a partnership with the OSU College of Engineering, Architecture, and Technology. 

Since the school was founded more than 130 years ago in 1890, many graduates have received prestigious awards for their significant contributions to the study of agriculture. 

Colorado State University College of Agricultural Sciences (Fort Collins, CO)

Located on 4,773 acres of Fort Collins, CO, the College of Agricultural Sciences at Colorado State University has been an outstanding school for studying agriculture since it was established in 1870.

CSU’s College of Agricultural Sciences is widely regarded for its significant contributions to the field of agriculture in terms of its research output. 

The school offers students a wealth of opportunities to participate in research projects of their own creation under the supervision of department faculty, many of whom are celebrated industry professionals. 

One of several research centers at the school, CSU Agriculture is home to the state-of-the-art Agricultural Research, Development, and Education Center, an interdisciplinary facility dedicated to supporting research into the relationship between crop growth, soils, and water usage. 

Washington State University College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences (Pullman, WA)

A part of Washington State University, the College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences is one of WSU’s largest, most highly-esteemed constituent colleges. 

In fact, the school — commonly referred to as CAHNRS — makes up over 30% of WSU’s extramural funding annually, receiving an impressive $84 million in research funding in the 2020 fiscal year alone. 

Research programs at CAHNRS include a 10-week summer plant biology research intensive offered in Germany. Internship opportunities, honor societies, and athletic teams are all other extracurricular options at the school. 

At the undergraduate level, CAHRNS at WSU offers more than 20 major programs and 19 minors for students to choose from. In addition, the school has almost 30 different programs for those who decide to study agriculture at the graduate level.

University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment (Lexington, KY)

Founded in 1865, the College of Agriculture, Food and Environment at the University of Kentucky is an excellent college choice for students interested in earning a degree in agriculture. Its campus stretches across more than 900 acres of urban Lexington, KY. 

The University of Kentucky is home to around 3,000 agriculture students — meaning that CAFE students make up only around 10% of the university’s total population.

Undergraduate program offerings include horticulture, plant pathology, veterinary science, agricultural economics, and biosystems and agricultural engineering, to name just a few. 

There are also numerous course offerings for students interested in studying agriculture more through the lens of the humanities. 

These course offerings range from landscape architecture to retailing and tourism management, community leadership and development, and several others.

The post The 10 Best Agriculture Colleges in the US appeared first on collegegazette.com.

Seeking higher education is a worthy undertaking, but sometimes it can feel as if every step of the process is designed to be more of a financially induced headache than the last. 

The burden can be overwhelming for someone from a less-fortunate background, from tuition to books. 

Nevertheless, a college education remains one of the most successful ways to build a sustainable income, climb the ladder of success, and escape the cycle of poverty that seems to ensnare so many families! 

The research speaks for itself. On average, a college graduate is expected to earn around $33,000 per year over an employee with only a high school diploma. 

While financial aid opportunities abound, helping eliminate this pain point and make that life-changing educational experience more accessible than ever, this may still feel like a minor point for those struggling to scrape up the funds for the application fee itself. 

Luckily, there is a solution.

By taking advantage of any of these ten amazing colleges with no application fees, prospective students can leap over this roadblock and sail onto their future prospects with ease!

Read on to learn more about what each of these ten outstanding colleges has to offer.

Wellesley College (Wellesley, MA)

As one of the top liberal arts colleges in the United States, Wellesley College offers more than just no application fees; it provides a chance at a truly remarkable educational experience. 

Since its founding in 1870, Wellesley College has fostered a nurturing, intimate educational environment. 

The faculty-to-student ratio stands at one teacher for every eight students, ensuring that class sizes remain small and each student can rest easy feeling that their individual needs are seen and met. 

Even with off-campus housing available, over ninety percent of students choose to remain on-campus for the duration of their college experience, taking advantage of the safety of this elite school. Though not exclusively a girls’ school, Wellesley is primarily female, with only one percent of its student body identifying as male.

In addition to taking a holistic approach towards application– not requiring students to submit any standardized test scores– this college also requires no application fees, no questions asked!

Colorado College (Colorado Springs, CO)

Nestled in the center of the hip, growing city of Colorado Springs, Colorado College offers students boundless opportunities to get involved in everything their thriving student life has to offer.

Before school even begins, students can look forward to enjoying CC Fest, a free, on-campus event featuring food trucks, games, and plenty of chances to meet incoming students.

Later, Llammapalooza offers an even more exciting chance to bond over a shared love of music. This annual music festival pulls talent from all over the country, providing a big musical experience within the safe, comforting environment of the intimate campus.

Though this college offers a chance of a free application process, hopeful students should be warned this doesn’t mean the admissions committee isn’t committed to finding the best and brightest. 

The process begins with a preliminary application, as well as a supplemental essay in which the student should describe what draws them to this college. 

Colby College (Waterville, ME)

Colby College may be somewhat small, but that tiny size does not reflect the level of education possible on this campus. In fact, it remains one of the most elite in the nation, accepting only nine percent of applicants. 

In particular, this liberal arts college has developed a reputation for its progressive teaching methods, earning it a spot among the top twenty most innovative colleges in America. 

Rather than simply teaching students the necessary lessons to gain academic credit, this college leads students into the future, connecting them with internships, research opportunities, and any of 200 study abroad experiences. 

What’s more, Colby College remains dedicated to leveling the financial playing field. This educational institution looks at every student’s financial needs individually, ensuring that no student needs to take unnecessary risks with pricey student loans while seeking their education.

St. Olaf College (Northfield, MN)

St. Olaf College got its start in 1874 when a group of Norwegian immigrants founded it. 

Since then, it has only gone on to spread this worldwide education to as many students as possible, opening doors to financially successful futures!

Located only forty-five minutes from the Twin Cities, this college offers students the best of both worlds: access to a bustling, thriving economic center only a short distance from the intimate safety of their college home.

Spreading across 300 acres, this campus offers a diverse range of settings, with protected wetlands just a brief walk from native tallgrass prairies and wooded groves. 

In the confines of this intimate campus, students may feel as if they have stepped into a fairy tale!

In their drive to turn out as many “Oles” as possible, St. Olaf College requires no application fees and offers excellent financial aid opportunities. 

Currently, 98% of its student body benefits from some form of financial assistance, and the average first-year needs-based financial aid award falls just under $50,000.

US Military Academy at West Point (West Point, NY)

For centuries, the United States military has offered people from all walks of life the opportunity to rise above their circumstances through acts of dedicated service to their nation. 

The US Military Academy at West Point continues that grand tradition, offering amazing educational opportunities to any student dedicated enough to seize them!

Aimed directly toward students hoping to find success in the United States Army, West Point strives to teach young cadets the values of duty, honor, and country as they prepare them to serve as officers and leaders. 

In addition to being ranked among the top five public universities in the nation, this academy also hosts one of the top five engineering colleges in the United States.  

With this level of rigorous education, it should come as no surprise the median starting salary of graduates stands at over $80,000 per year.

Baldwin Wallace University (Berea, OH)

Any student hoping to access one of the top-quality educations in the Midwest is guaranteed to feel at home on the Baldwin Wallace University campus. 

Through a system of esteemed traditions that perfectly balance the sophisticated history of this campus with a level of fun, Baldwin Wallace University brings life and joy to every student, helping spark their curiosity about the world around them. 

By offering the oldest collegiate Bach festival in the United States, this university brings history to life, allowing students to perform and enjoy listening to classical music. 

In so doing, these students keep the arts alive and remind younger generations about what this musical form still has to offer the world. 

Similarly, the Bold and Gold festival binds this university to the surrounding community, serving as both a homecoming and a “community day” all in one.  

Johnson & Wales University (Providence, RI)

As one of the most progressive universities on this list,  Johnson & Wales offers students the chance to tailor their education to their personal needs, all with no application fees.

This college takes pride in allowing students to choose from a diverse host of online classes, helping them have the flexibility they need to work around their college schedule as they need. 

Unlike other colleges, these courses are designed to maintain the highest level of rigor, bypassing the busy work in exchange for thorough, effective teaching practices.

The results speak for themselves! Johnson and Wales University boasts some of the best career outcomes in the country, with over ninety-six percent of students graduating with job offers in their chosen profession. 

Rhodes College (Memphis, TN)

Any student hoping for a thriving career in the music industry will be happy to find that Rhodes College– one of the best music schools in the nation– requires absolutely no application fees!

With a cozy placement in the historically musical town of Memphis, Tennessee, it comes as no surprise that Rhodes College continues to make news every year for its thriving, highly-effective program.

Just this year, Billboard Magazine named Rhodes College among the top music business schools in the nation. Though it does not have a dedicated music business major, the alumni from this holistic program graduate with all the tools they could possibly need to make their way into this competitive industry. 

Home to none other than Priscilla Presley herself, Rhodes College continues to provide the same level of high-quality education to musical icons throughout time!

Baylor University (Waco, TX)

Nestled comfortably in Waco, Texas, Baylor University has risen to fame as one of the most successful Christian colleges in the nation.  

Driven by dedication towards faith and knowledge, the staff at Baylor University take pride in showcasing how religion and higher education can not only coexist but work together to produce the best outcomes of both worlds.

The recent Baylor Symposium on faith and culture opened the floor to discussion on the ways in which art– both religiously based and otherwise– plays a role in how mankind happily grows and flourishes on a global scale. 

Over ten speakers gathered to share their thoughts on this valuable topic, helping the students think more critically about their own opinions on the matter.

All students, faith-based or otherwise, find themselves at home on this campus, which has recently been ranked among the top ten for positive first-year experiences. 

Milwaukee School of Engineering (Milwaukee, WI)

The Milwaukee School of Engineering may fall last on this list, but they are far from the bottom. With amazing financial aid opportunities and a focus on high-quality STEM education, this engineering school stands among the best value schools in America. 

Engineering schools occasionally have a reputation for being cold, unwelcoming places; nothing could be further from the truth of the Milwaukee School of Engineering. 

This university takes immense pride in building a close-knit community of learners, encouraging the inclusion necessary in this traditionally male-dominated career.

On Tuesdays, students are welcome to enjoy Tuesday Tea in the Multicultural center.  

While there, they can unwind, destress, and take the time to learn more about teas from all over the world, studying mindfulness methods derived from other cultures.

The post 10 Amazing Colleges With Free Applications appeared first on collegegazette.com.

To live that experience, to “try it on” in a low-stakes environment, with added constructive criticism and supervision, is a completely different experience.

Co-ops – otherwise known as cooperative education opportunities – are similar to internships in that they place students in a context related to their desired careers. 

Whereas internships are usually unpaid and two-to-three months in duration, co-ops are paid and longer (at least six months). In many cases, students can also obtain academic credit for completing co-op experiences.

There are many reasons to complete a co-op. Getting to try on a career can help a student refine their course sequence. 

For example, they may find that they’re more interested in teaching people how to perform a certain task than doing it themselves. Alternatively, observing a close mentor may inspire them to go down a different pathway.

An additional benefit to most co-op experiences is that they are tuition-free. In effect, co-op students get paid to explore their passions and increase their employability. 

Not much to lose here! 

We’ve compiled a list of the top 10 colleges with the best co-op programs. These programs stand out through their connections to top employers, competitive salaries, flexible academic scheduling, and extra career resources for undergraduates.

Drexel University (Philadelphia, PA)

Drexel offers two co-op options: five-year programs including three co-op experiences or four-year programs with a single co-op experience. 

Typically, students are engaged in a co-op for six months, alternating with six months of on-campus coursework. Most majors at Drexel require participation in at least one co-op experience.

A fun fact about Drexel is that they organize one of the oldest and most expansive co-op programs in the United States, with over 1,650 businesses participating from broad niches. 

An impressive 94% of Drexel co-op students were employed during the most recent academic year – the advantage of participating in co-ops over internships is that they are paid experiences that receive academic credit, and the work within the experience is related to the major. 

One of the most exciting experiences is the Entrepreneurship Co-Op, which challenges students to start their own businesses! 

Top participants are eligible to receive a scholarship of up to $19,000 for their innovative prototypes; along the way, co-op students receive one-on-one mentoring and access to workshops related to growing a business.

Northeastern University (Boston, MA)

Northeastern has maintained an exceptional co-op program for over a century. 

Students alternate semesters of coursework with semesters of full-time employment, and outcomes suggest that the co-op experiences strengthen Northeastern graduates’ odds of securing a job after graduation. 

Most recently, 93% of NU seniors gained employment or enrolled in graduate school within nine months of graduating.

First, all students take the prerequisite co-op course, usually in the spring semester of sophomore year. 

After that, students can choose three co-op experiences within five years or two co-ops within four years. 

Advisers and major-based co-op coordinators assist students in scheduling experiences, preparing for interviews, and securing references.

Globally inspired students can even complete a co-op experience abroad! 

Current programs in the Group Global Co-Op are set up in Nkhata Bah, Malawi; Barcelona, Spain; and Sydney, Australia, among several other exciting locations. 

Northeastern University has created global partnerships with dependable partners in these locations in order to provide NU students with meaningful, small-group engagements focused on their major of study.

Purdue University (West Lafayette, IN)

Co-op experiences at Purdue last anywhere from one to two years! Purdue’s co-ops are distinguished by their structure, in which participants fulfill three-to-five work sessions under the same employer. 

This format enables students to build solid relationships within a single organization, collaborate on a variety of projects for different purposes and audiences, and take on increased leadership roles.

To apply, Purdue undergraduates should attend the co-op callout meeting in January of the spring semester. 

After creating a student profile within the co-op database, candidates then attend job interviews on embedded professional practice days. Qualified employers exist within diverse realms, including Apple (manufacturing co-ops), the CIA (government co-ops), and Intel (technology co-ops).

Purdue students can even earn scholarships to help fund their co-op experiences! 

The application period runs from November 1-15, and recipients are notified by December 10 of awards like the Leonard E. Wood Scholarship or the William C. & Linda E. Nelson Scholarship.

The former, for example, awards four scholarships to co-op participants based on a personal/professional transformation achieved through the co-op. 

Rochester Institute of Technology (Rochester, NY)

In an RIT co-op experience, participants dedicate 35 or more hours per week to their employment, the responsibilities of which are directly related to their declared major. 

RIT students pay no tuition for that semester, and placements are, more often than not, paid.

RIT students can engage in on-campus or entrepreneurial co-ops. The first option includes full-time, paid work and is managed through the Student Employment Office. 

The benefits of this option include a reduced/nonexistent commute, freeing up time for other commitments. The second option is full-time; students are unpaid or receive a stipend. 

Most majors at RIT require completion of a co-op experience, and undergraduates must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 to engage in a co-op. 

Students are evaluated by their employers at the end of each co-op term; while students won’t receive academic credit for their experiences, the connections they make can lead them to secure a job more quickly and directly related to their major than if they had not completed a co-op engagement.

Temple University (Philadelphia, PA)

Co-ops are especially emphasized within Temple University’s engineering department. Participants spend six or more months engaged in full-time employment backed by competitive wages. 

Students can start pursuing co-ops as early as their junior years and must have 30 credits and a 2.5 GPA to apply. 

For example, students within the College of Engineering might complete co-op experiences with esteemed organizations like Amtrak, Comcast, and Verizon. 

Over 1,000 internship and co-op postings are available in Temple’s OwlNetwork database.

There are two prerequisite courses for participating in a co-op work experience: ENGR 2181 and ENGR 3181. Both are meant to prepare students for full-time work in business, government, and education-related industries. 

Undergraduates report that co-ops significantly positively impact their career trajectories, sharing that it gives them a sort of “trial period” to see how their job supports their lifestyle and fulfills their personal goals and values.

University of Florida (Gainesville, FL)

All approved co-op experiences at UF are major-related and organized under approved business, industrial, or government agency guidance. Eligible students emerge from their initial year with at least a 2.0 GPA and choose between alternating or parallel schedules.

Alternating schedules rotate full-time semesters of academic coursework with full-time semesters of co-op employment for at least two or three semesters, while parallel schedules allow students to pursue coursework and jobs simultaneously. 

UF additionally offers a host of travel-abroad experiences where students can merge academic and career pursuits with an immersive language-learning journey. 

Nearly 3,000 students travel to popular sites like Spain, Italy, and the United Kingdom annually, and over half report that the study abroad co-op experience aided them in securing post-graduate employment.

Elon University (Elon, NC)

Elon sophomores, juniors, and seniors with a GPA over 2.0 can receive academic credit and other benefits for participation in co-op programs. Generally, students complete at least 40 hours of work for every credit and can complete more than one co-op. 

Feedback is an essential component of the Elon co-op experience. Participants keep regular contact with the CAS Director of Internships, a site supervisor, a program director, and other points of contact at their employment site. Students are assessed on the completion of various responsibilities.

In addition to co-ops, the Student Professional Development Center provides valuable resources on career-related queries in networking, negotiating salaries, and developing leadership skills. 

Micro-internships – shorter versions of co-ops – are available to students in many majors but do not afford academic credit. 

The SPDC hosts regular recruiting events throughout the year – employers like Disney, Google, Wells Fargo, and the U.S. State Department have recruited Elon students to their companies.

Clemson University (Clemson, SC)

The co-op has been a critical piece of the Clemson undergraduate experience since 1906, when the engineering department stipulated an experiential education requirement in their curriculum. 

Engineering and computing majors make up the bulk of co-op participants, generally committing to at least three rotations.

The co-op program at Clemson continues to gain popularity. The 2018-2019 academic year witnessed a 66% increase in co-op enrollment since 2010-2011! 

Applicants are almost guaranteed co-op employment, with 92% of the recent cohort receiving offers from 450+ companies, including Ally, Bosch, Vanguard, and Hewlett Packard.

Clemson Tigers can connect with potential employers through on-campus interview days held once each semester. 

On these days, students can meet with company representatives in 30-minute blocks, with companies registering in advance. 

Clemson students appreciate co-op programs for connecting them with mentors, many of whom remain in contact with them for years after graduation. 

Georgia Institute of Technology (Atlanta, GA)

Georgia Tech boasts the fourth-oldest co-op program in the country. Beginning in 1912 with only a dozen students, close to 1,500 and 300+ community partners make up this exciting program, one that many students report is integral to their later career success. 

Students are compensated $16/hour for their work, while some employers pay them upwards of $30 per hour!

Georgia Tech undergraduates can participate in a five-year co-op program if they are in good academic standing with a GPA of 2.0 or higher. 

Participation costs zero dollars in tuition! Between work engagements, co-op participants complete 12 hours of classwork in the fall or spring, then six additional hours in a summer session.

Several benefits, including scholarship eligibility, access to career center support, and selection for the Briaerean Honors Society, accompany co-op participation. 

To achieve the co-op designation, students work for three alternating semesters in eight-week-minimum blocks of 40 hours per week. 

All participants are evaluated by a placement supervisor and can intern with up to two additional employers after completing all three co-op engagements.

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (Troy, NY)

From powerful Fortune-500 organizations to burgeoning start-ups, Rensselaer students can elect to participate in co-op experiences in diverse work environments. Each engagement is paid, major-related, and lasts six-to-eight months in duration.

To apply, each student must complete an undergraduate work plan outlining their sequence of coursework in conjunction with co-op experiences. 

Students have previously secured placements with companies like American Airlines, Disneyland Resort, 3M, and Johnson & Johnson. 

Assuredly, they won’t be making copies and running coffee errands for most of their days – Rensselaer co-op experiences are fulfilling and challenge students to refine skills in their academic concentrations.

Sophomores, juniors, and seniors are eligible to apply for co-ops, which are full-time experiences of at least 520 hours. Undergraduates must maintain a 2.0 GPA. 

Benefits include paid work and zero tuition charges, whereas internships are generally shorter, unpaid, and not necessarily related to the participant’s subject area.

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