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2023 America’s Top HBCUs

Looking for a truly diverse college experience filled supported by incredible faculty and empowering atmosphere?

Historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) are an opportunity to find all of this and more while also attending some of the best universities in the country.

Here are some of the top HBCUs for 2022.

1.   Spelman College

Located in Atlanta, Spelman College is a small private not-for-profit institution providing a liberal arts education to women.

It’s a great fit for students who are looking for a small campus and an equally small student to faculty ratio (11:1). Although it’s student body is just north of 2,000, there is still plenty to do on campus. With over 80 student organizations, there’s something for everyone and a way to get to know other students from all walks of life.

Spelman is not only one of the best HBCUs in the country, but it was also ranked as the #3 school in the Students’ Top Schools for Inspiration list by The Wall Street Journal.

2.   Howard University

Howard is one of the oldest and best-known HBCUs. Founded in 1867, the school is a historically black college but accepts students of all races and genders to create a full student body of over 10,000 in the heart of Washington, D.C.

Howard University is a good fit for post-graduates and anyone looking to continue their academic career beyond their four-year degree because the university produces more black doctorate recipients than any other non-profit institution. The business school has also been ranked in the top spot of the schools for opportunities for minority students by the Princeton Review.

3.   Morehouse College

Arguably the most famous HBC, Morehouse College was the academic home of Civil Rights hero and legendary activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr as well as many other civil rights leaders. It is also one of only two HBCUs to produce Rhodes Scholars.

Morehouse has an enrollment of over 2,000 students, making it the largest men’s college in the United States. The small student body allows for an impressive student-faculty ratio of 13:1. Though it’s a small college, Morehouse, along with Spelman College, are part of the Atlanta University Center, ensuring access to wider shared resources.

4.   Hampton University

Looking for a small town college experience at one of the HBCUs in the country? Look no further than Hampton University.

Based in Hampton, Virginia, this school offers a small-town experience with a good size student body of over 4,000. The student-faculty ratio reflects both the small size of the school at 19:1. Although it’s small, there’s plenty of opportunity for high-level sports: Hampton is home to both NCAA Division I and II sports teams.

Are you attending a HBCU next year? What universities made your list? Share your stories in the comments below.

Click here to learn more about the ranking methodology that we used to compile this list.

Congratulations! If you represent a college or university that is included in this list, please collect your seal below.

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2023 Top Research Universities in the World

Are you a postgraduate looking for a research home? Maybe you’re a keen undergraduate hoping to get on the right track for graduate school.

There are some incredible opportunities waiting for you at research universities. You just need to find the right one. Here are five of our favorite top research universities.

1. MIT

MIT is the holy grail of research universities. The funding and faculty alone set it apart from most other schools. But what’s great about MIT is that research isn’t limited to staff or graduates; the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program provides opportunities to get involved with projects before you’ve even graduated.

2. University of Oxford

Oxford is one of the world’s oldest universities and it provides both an undergraduate and postgraduate tradition steeped in history and incredible connections for research.

Oxford provides an opportunity to access not only world-class research resources but are likely to rub shoulders with the best and brightest in their fields as the home of the Rhodes Scholarship.

3. Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich

The Swiss Federal Institute of Technology is the best research university on the European continent. Founded in 1854, it was designed to be a center for excellence in science and technology.

While it’s still a national center of excellence, it personifies the global focus offered by Zurich and Switzerland as a whole and is home to an impressive number of international students and researchers.

The university regularly partners with international institutions, both universities and companies, to trade both information and resources for even stronger research programs.

4. University of Toronto

The University of Toronto is Canada’s premier research university with research funding that outpaces every other university in the country. It has also made a name for itself as one of the world’s best universities not only in research but overall.

Whether you’re interested in science or the arts, the University of Toronto is an excellent school for current and future researchers.

5. The University of Tokyo

The University of Tokyo is recognized as being the best university in Japan and one of the best research universities in Asia and the world.

It’s a unique university in the sense that it is home to as many undergraduate students as postgraduates and more so when you count doctoral students. Those students benefit from Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research as Tokyo receives 40% more in fund than the university with the second largest grants.

Are you attending one of these research institutions? Did we mention your favorite university? Let us know in the comments below.

Click here to learn more about the ranking methodology that we used to compile this list.

Congratulations! If you represent a college or university that is included in this list, please collect your seal below.

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2023 The 5 Most Expensive Colleges in America

Elite and expensive describe some of America’s top universities. In 2022, students matriculating at these colleges can expect to pay nearly $70,000 a year in tuition Room and board.

Considering that many students take four to six years to complete their college degrees, their education costs a hefty sum.

These five universities are the most expensive colleges in America.

  1. Claremont McKenna College

As the fifth most expensive college in America, Claremont McKenna costs a paltry $54,405 for tuition and another $16,705 for room and board. Average aid packages of $46,324 make this college more affordable for students seeking an education from a private liberal arts school.

  1. Sarah Lawrence College

Students at this private liberal arts college located just outside New York City pay $52,550 for tuition and another $14,440 for room and board. The school is small, with an undergraduate enrollment of fewer than 1500 students. The acceptance rate here is 53%.

The school is known for having top-notch faculty members.

  1. University of Chicago

A private school, the University of Chicago is the third most expensive school in the country, with a combined total cost of $73,356. Tuition is $57,006, and room and board costs $16,350. The university is well-known for its research, and it consistently ranks in the top for the best in education.

  1. Columbia University

The tuition at Columbia University is $59,430 per year. Room and board costs $14,016 , bringing the total annual cost to $73,446. Most students pay an average of $20,000 a year after receiving their financial aid packages. Before you begin packing your bags, however, keep in mind that Columbia turns down 94% of their applicants.

  1. Harvey Mudd College

Harvey Mudd College is a private liberal arts school that focuses on science, technology, engineering, and math.

Located in Claremont, California, the most expensive college in America costs $75,003 annually. Tuition here is $56,876, and room and board costs $18,127. Almost three-fourths of the students attending this university receive financial aid, but know they’ll be offered top jobs in STEM fields.

In Summary

Many of the students enrolled at these universities aren’t paying the full amount for their tuition. Estimates suggest that anywhere from 25% to 70% of the students attending these colleges receive financial aid to assuage the pain of the high cost of a university education.

Even if students had to pay full price, they consider the investment well worthwhile. Many of them enter the workforce making six-figure salaries.

The most expensive colleges in America in 2020 will continue to attract hopeful candidates for admission.

 Click here to learn more about the ranking methodology that we used to compile this list.

Congratulations! If you represent a college or university that is included in this list, please collect your seal below.

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2023 The World’s Most Affordable Universities

High school graduates often dream about accomplishing two essential goals once their diploma is in hand. They want to travel to foreign countries and obtain their college degrees.

“How much is THAT going to cost,” ask concerned parents. Travel and college studies may seem mutually exclusive, but some students may find that a willingness to travel abroad to get a college degree will cost them far less than studying at a U.S. School.

The least expensive university in the U.S. is Brigham Young University – Provo with an annual tuition rate of less than $6,000. That includes room and board, too. Small class sizes and plenty of available financial aid make this school a top choice for affordability in the U.S.

How surprised would you be to know that you have even more affordable choices around the world? Here are some of the world’s most affordable universities:

University of Bergen

Although the cost of living in Bergen is higher than in New York City, students may find that the price justifies the means. Annual living expenses average $17,000. Tuition at Norwegian universities is free, which means that the only expenses you’ll occur while studying abroad is your living costs.

Tecnológico de Monterrey

This university is anchored in beautiful Monterrey, Mexico, but it has satellite campuses throughout the country. Tuition costs average $5,000 annually, and room and board will set you back $6,000 a year. Prices for getting a college degree in Mexico are similar throughout the country, although you may find it more expensive to live in Mexico City.

Universiti Malaya (UM)

If you’ve wanted to attend school in Asia, consider Malaysia as your number one choice for value and affordability. Tuition is less than $4000 annually, and you can expect to pay less than $4300 a year for living costs. The University of Malaysia continuously improves its rankings among colleges in the world, but there are other universities here to consider as well, such as the University of Nottingham (UK) and University of Southern California – School of the Cinematic Arts (US).

Options for Graduate School

Affordability isn’t limited to just undergrads. Graduate students seeking options that are easy on the wallet can find plenty of affordable universities around the world. Many of them offer online courses, as well.

Students interested in an MBA program in the U.S., for example, can find plenty of colleges with annual tuition rates of less than $8,000 annually. Living expenses are additional, of course.

Candidates interested in studying abroad can find more affordable options, though. King Abdullah University of Science & Technology in Saudi Arabia (KAUST), provides a free education (including tuition, living expenses and medical care) through subsidized financial aid.

Thanks to some of the most affordable universities in the world, you can live abroad and get your degree at the same time, more economically than studying in the states.

Congratulations! If you represent a college or university that is included in this list, please collect your seal below.

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2023 The Best U.S. Colleges and Universities to Work For

Every year the Chronicle of Education ranks the best U.S. colleges and universities in the country. Where will you work? With 2021 nearly at the halfway mark and 2022 not far away, it’s time to look ahead to the best choices in higher education employment.

Here are my top picks for 2022, in no particular order:

Stanford University

Considered one of the most innovative universities in the country, Stanford University outperforms similarly innovative schools by offering employees cross-departmental communications, open-mindedness and free food. The university assists faculty with housing options, encourages research and scholarship, and promotes diversity and development.

Glassdoor rankings indicate that eight out ten employees would recommend the university to friends looking for work, and 90% of the employees approve of how the school is run.

Abilene Christian University

Abilene Christian University is a faith-based school that make it one of the best colleges and universities to work for in 2020 because of its passion for creating a balance between work and life.

Those who have worked at the Texas-based campus cite collaboration, trust and campus safety as their primary reasons for rating this school with high marks. The university culture promotes critical thinking and positivity. Reviewers report enjoying national exposure in a small-town atmosphere.

University of Michigan 

The University of Michigan offers some of the best compensation plans of any school in the country. The focus is on creating community, and this school has 200 years of experience in doing just that. Every department is service-oriented, and it shows in how the employees go out of their way to help others.

Reviews from former employees indicate that 90% of them would recommend this school to friends seeking employment in higher education.

University of Mississippi 

The University of Mississippi attracts top faculty members because of its ability to engage employees in the mission and vision of the school. Faculty members report experiencing high levels of job satisfaction, excellent working relationships with department chairs, a strong focus on diversity, and attention to fostering career trajectories.

What’s more, 97% of the employees at Ole Miss approve of the way the university is run.

Illinois State University

Illinois State University garners excellent reviews from the employees who have worked there. University leadership has a 100% approval rating, and 98% of the employees would recommend this institution to others.

Illinois State prides itself on its collaboration, and the willingness to work with each other manifests itself in every department. If you are looking for a tenure-track position, this university offers a focused and transparent approach to career planning.

My top five choices for best U.S. colleges and universities to work for in 2020 represent diverse parts of the country, and each offers distinctly appealing characteristics. There’s something for everyone in higher education.

 Click here to learn more about the ranking methodology that we used to compile this list.

Congratulations! If you represent a college or university that is included in this list, please collect your seal below.

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2023 The World’s Most International Universities

Students interested in attending international universities often have a different educational focus than their peers who will be studying in the states.

If you are seeking an international educational experience where you can approach your degree with a laser-like focus, find learning a new culture inspiring rather than overwhelming, and you want a global advantage upon graduation, you may want to consider attending one of the world’s most international universities.

My top three choices are as follows:

Imperial College London

This prestigious college offers degrees in business, engineering, medicine and science. Students attending Imperial College London come from more than 100 different countries, and their international enrollment drives their commitment to globalization and international partnerships.

While many of the students hail from other European countries, the largest international population comes from China. For all these students, its makes sense to study in London, where they can apply their learning in real situations. For example, if you want to learn how the stock exchange at Paternoster Square works, earning a business degree from Imperial College London could be a smart move.

National University of Singapore

The National University of Singapore began as a medical college, and today this school attracts denizens of international students who study in 17 programs culminating in degrees or in taking certificate courses for continuing education. The university offers nearly six dozen concurrent and double courses in collaboration with universities around the world.

Undergrads can participate in internships in most major countries in the world, including China, Israel, France, Germany, Sweden and the USA. NUS believes in collaborating around the globe, and their reach proves it.

ETH Zurich – Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich

Perhaps the most international university is also the most popular. The ETH Zurich — Swiss Federal Institute of Technology focuses on medicine, data, sustainability, manufacturing technologies, and a critical thinking initiative. Their goal is to contribute globally, to “politics, the economy and society.”

More than one-third of the student body is international, and the professors encourage international alliances and bilateral programs. Two of the university’s most notable students were Albert Einstein and his wife, Mileva Maric.

Surrounded by Germany, Austria, Italy and France, the university is located in northern Switzerland, making travel to nearby countries convenient for students wishing to explore Europe or who are seeking authentic learning experiences.

Not everyone is a candidate for international study. For those students considering taking the international stage, attending one of these three most international universities can be the start of a brilliant career.

Congratulations! If you represent a college or university that is included in this list, please collect your seal below.

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2023 The World’s Most Beautiful Universities

University campuses aren’t only sites of incredible learning, they are also sites of incredible beauty.

Here are five of the world’s most beautiful universities for the year 2022.

University of Cambridge

No list of the most beautiful universities in the world can fail to mention the University of Cambridge, one of the most recognizable universities in the world.

Not only is the university housed in old, gothic stone buildings, but the whole city of Cambridge is picture perfect.

What is more, kings, popes, and some of the world’s greatest thinkers have wandered these incredible halls.

Peking University

Peking University is situated near the Qing dynasty Summer Palace and former imperial gardens, providing it a rich template for creating a beautiful university grounds.

The design included traditional architecture and played on the original landscaping of the area, creating a look of a university fit for Chinese royalty.

Peking University isn’t just a pretty face. It’s also an excellent research university and is situated in the Beijing, one of the most cosmopolitan places on earth.

Leiden University

Only half an hour from the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam, Leiden University is situated in the small Dutch town of Leiden.

Leiden University is quintessentially Dutch in the best way. It is home to beautiful gardens, historic gatehouses, and the walk between classes includes traveling down the same cobblestone streets that once inspired the likes of Rembrandt van Rijn, who resided in the city.

Flagler College

Flagler College is located in the center of St. Augustine, Florida. Compared to other listed universities, it is both relatively small and new. However, its campus is incredibly unique.

The buildings were created in the Spanish colonial style of the town, which is the oldest city in America and founded in 1565. Palm trees sway in the wind and old streets, houses, and the Atlantic Ocean is only a short walk away.

Trinity College Dublin

Trinity College Dublin is a major attraction not only for the brightest pupils in Ireland and around the world but for tourists as well.

The campus, set in Dublin’s city center, features gorgeous greens perfect for lazing around in with fellow classmates on days when it isn’t raining. When the weather isn’t right, the Old Library is potentially the most beautiful place in the world to settle in for a long day of studying.

Is your college a contender for the world’s most beautiful university? Tell us about your schools beauty in the comments below.

Congratulations! If you represent a college or university that is included in this list, please collect your seal below.

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My Vision For the Future of Pedagogy

Teaching techniques are ever evolving and developing. The past ten years have seen a dramatic rise in the use of technology in the classroom and alternative teaching approaches. However, my vision for the future of pedagogy is that learning will go further than ever before through a transformation in teaching.

While pedagogy has evolved over the last ten years, I envision even more changes will meet us on the road ahead. Here are some ways I think pedagogy will change in the next ten years.

Embracing Artificial Intelligence

As the technology of artificial tutors and intelligent learning systems continue to develop, teachers will welcome these tech tools to help students succeed. I think special education teachers will encourage the expansion of AI to give one-on-one help to students needing assistance. Furthermore, I believe all teachers will welcome the advancement of AI in the classroom. While there are a handful of intelligent learning systems already available to teachers, I think the technology will continue to grow along with the acceptance of the education community in the coming years.

Reaching Students Through Technology

While online tutoring is not uncommon today, I believe the next ten years will see a rise in prevalence for online educators across grade levels. The change will be in response to a call for more widespread availability of quality education for all. Teachers broadcasting classes and interacting with students in real time allows them to reach students from all over the world and of all socioeconomic backgrounds.

Cooperative Teaching Environments

One of the most important advancements I envision for pedagogy in the next ten years is the expansion of cooperation between educators. The current climate of education has each teacher focused on their success. There is a small movement of co-teaching to encourage learning in a collaborative environment. However, I see a future where teachers work collectively to enhance the learning and improve the achievement of students. This goal will likely be realized through the use of online communities, sharing of resources and incorporation of a cooperative infrastructure to school communities.

As we continue to incorporate technology and new techniques to our teaching philosophies, students will inevitably benefit. And, it is my vision for the future of pedagogy that we will continue to embrace changes which lead to student improvement and engagement. Working with technology through artificial intelligence, online learning environments, and shared resources will allow teachers to have a more significant impact on their students over the next ten years.

How do you see pedagogy changing in the next ten years? What changes have you embraced to your teaching model in the last ten years? We want to hear your experiences.

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How EdTech Companies Can Sell to the Higher Education Market

With approximately 5000 higher education institutions in North America alone, there is a tremendous marketplace for educational technology. The issue for most of these institutions today is deciding which EdTech companies offer the best future ready educational technology. Institutions are looking for companies that will help them help their students achieve success in higher education classrooms and the workforce.

However, with several competing EdTech companies, it is increasingly difficult to sell to the higher education market. However, as Forbes explains, “Each [institution] buys expensive niche higher education software and data solutions to help operate their institution and to manage students, faculty and resources. This provisioning is part of each institution’s infrastructure, singular to each campus.” Therefore, how does an EdTech company break into the higher education market? Let’s look at some ideas.

Consider All Involved in Purchasing

Once upon a time, companies could simply call the head of the technology department, or the CIO (Chief Information Officer) to market an educational technology product. However, with technology infrastructures growing, it is now important to consider others who will use the product in addition to the CIO. As you consider marketing your product, you must consider all involved in purchasing.

Begin at the very beginning. Who will be using this product? Then, move on to consider who else will benefit from the product. Finally, think about who else is involved in making purchases for the university. If you can convince multiple people that your product is beneficial to their campus, you are more likely to make the sale.

Show Relevance

Rather than simply demonstrating how your product works, you must show how it is relevant to that campus community. Much like how you should tailor a resume to a specific job, you should tailor your sale to that particular higher education institution. You need to show that the technology is relevant to their needs.

Attend Higher Education Conferences

By attending higher education conferences, you will get to interact with the higher education community. You will become a recognized name as you attend more conferences, and you will gain valuable insights into the trends affecting their institutions.

Develop Trust

After you become more recognized, you need to work on developing trust. This involves developing relationships with customers. By developing a relationship, you will learn what matters to the customer and what he/she needs and wants in educational technology.

Offer Deals

Finally, if you want to sell to the higher education market, you need to land customers. The more customers you have, the easier it is to sell your product. Therefore, it is wise to offer a great deal on your product, in the beginning, to give as many potential customers the chance to use and become satisfied with your technology in order to increase your future sales.

Did we miss anything?

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How EdTech Companies Can Get Their Products Validated

How EdTech Companies Can Get Their Products Validated

The EdTech market is growing at a significant rate. According to multiple studies, “The global education technology (EdTech) market will grow 17% per annum to $252bn by 2020.” This is exciting news for the world of education and technology. It means we are rapidly moving students towards becoming global digital citizens.

For EdTech companies, it also means customers are making big investments in their products. However, for any EdTech product to be accepted in this competitive marketplace, it must be validated. Customers want to know the product is effective before they purchase it. Therefore, EdTech companies must creatively look for ways to achieve validation before it reaches the masses.

Work with Academics

One of the initial ways to get an EdTech product validated is to work with academics. By approaching an academic university and asking their researchers to pilot your product and give the resulting research, you are off to a brilliant start. Your company can use the research from trusted academics to help sell your product to other educational institutions.

Attend Conferences

For an EdTech product to sell, it must be designed with teachers and students in mind. A wonderful way to determine the validity of your product is to attend as many education and education technology conferences as possible. This will allow your company to learn about what is going on the classrooms and what technologies teachers and students need. Additionally, once your product is ready to be piloted, you can present it at these conferences to earn validation.

Find Early Adopters

In the beginning, you will need to find early adopters of your EdTech product. This means networking and networking some more. Approach those in your immediate network first to ask them to review your product. Then, branch out further in your networks to teachers and schools in your local area. Continue to network by reaching out to others. The more people who review your product in the beginning, the better!

Present Your Findings

Many EdTech companies present their findings. This often looks like working with third-party research groups to identify the strengths of their products. Buyers are much more receptive to a product that includes a study where its success has been measured and is presented. However, if you choose to use a third-party research group to help “sell” your product, you must ensure the research is reliable and relevant.

Engage in Social Media

Finally, consider using social media to find individuals in the education realm to validate your product. By engaging in online dialogue, you can develop a rapport with potential clients. Also, there are multiple education forums, such as Edmodo, where open discussion is encouraged. As long as you do not simply promote your product, you will be able to contribute to the conversation and find individuals willing to test and review your product.

Did we miss anything?