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Chemistry, General

Chemistry combines theory, mathematics, and experimentation to study atoms, as well as the way they combine and react with other atoms. There are five main branches of chemistry: organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, and biochemistry. There are plenty of sub-disciplines with each of these, such as metallurgy and geochemistry, as well. Chemistry degrees are offered at the associate, baccalaureate, master, and doctoral levels.

Associate Level

Taking a standard two years attending full time, an Associate’s in Chemistry qualifies graduates for entry-level positions in the field. Covering the introductory-level classes in chemistry, as well as mathematics such as calculus, it will give you an overview. Some institutions may even provide the chance to work in a basic laboratory setting.

Career paths for graduates with an Associate’s in Chemistry: Lab Technician, Lab Assistant, Research Associate.

Baccalaureate

This level of education will become much more hands-on and rigorous, requiring labs and an understanding of quantum mechanics. Analytical techniques, such as spectroscopy, are taught, and students may elect to take courses in specialized topics as they advance through their program, such as pharmacology, chemical kinetics, or industrial inorganic chemistry. Advanced algebra, differential equations, and multivariable calculus will also be likely candidates for the curriculum.

Baccalaureates in chemistry come in two different types of degrees: a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Chemistry or a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Chemistry. The BA will provide a more rounded education in the liberal arts, whereas the BS will be much more math and science intensive.

Career paths for graduates with a BA or BS in Chemistry include: Entry-Level Chemist, Scientist, Quality Control Chemist, Process Chemist, Analytical Laboratory Chemist, Production Chemist, Toxicologist. On average, Chemists make a salary of $73,480, though Chemists with a PhD make around $98,000 per year.

Master Level

Refining your research skills during a two-year master’s program can provide the opportunity to advance in the chemistry field. Courses will likely be tailored to a concentration, which include more options within the five branches, such as Neurochemistry. If the goal is to earn a PhD, a master’s program, likely with a comprehensive thesis involving a newly-posed research question, must be completed. Master’s graduates are eligible to teach at the junior or community college level.

Graduates with a master’s degree in chemistry are qualified to work in manufacturing facilities and pharmacology firms. Career paths include: Professional Chemist, Hazardous Materials Expert, and Research Chemist, as well as more advanced status in previously-named roles.

Doctorate Level

Leadership and authority are the primary benefits of earning a PhD in Chemistry. Graduates are eligible for research positions in every discipline and sub-discipline of the field, as well as have the gravity to contribute new information through conducted research. This level of education is also the standard for teaching at the university level. Programs traditionally take anywhere between four to seven years to complete.

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Colleges

University of Washington-Bothell Campus

The University of Washington Bothell is a 4-year public school in the Seattle metro area and part of the University of Washington System. UW Bothell is home to five schools hosting 55 undergrad and graduate degree-granting programs. As a student at...

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University of Washington (Seattle) has an excellent reputation of education, so I am very pleased to know that many of the same professors also teach at the Bothell Campus. I feel like it will be a more personal experience.

” – Maggie from Ridgefield, WA
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CUNY Queensborough Community College is a 2-year public school located in Bayside, NY. CUNY Queensborough offers certifications and associate’s degrees as well as college credit for life experiences. The school has an open admissions policy. Many...

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it's a great college.
they need more evening and weekend science classes.
evening students need a little bit more privileges

” – Jennifer from Jamaica, NY
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Alpena Community College is a public, 2-year institution established on a rural, 700-acre campus in northern Michigan. ACC offers over 75 academic programs, awarding certificates, AA degrees, AAS degrees, and AS degrees, along with one BS degree...

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You wouldn't think that a community college would have the same quality education as a university, but this one really does. We have the same textbooks, follow the same fast-paced schedules, cover the same topics, and receive the same homework. Plus...

Purdue University Northwest

Formed by the unification of two Purdue campuses, Purdue University Northwest is a 4-year university in northwest Indiana. Located a short drive from Chicago, Purdue Northwest grants bachelor’s and graduate degrees in over 70 academic programs. For a...

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Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College is a public institution located in suburban Erie, PA. PSB is a residential college and has one of the largest campuses in the Penn State System. Mechanical engineering, e-commerce, and...

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Although what you learn depends mostly on you the teachers also have a part in how a student learns. At Penn State the teachers take extra time out of their day to assist you along with most of the other staff. Everyone is willing to help and be...

” – Danielle from Erie, PA
CUNY Kingsborough Community College

CUNY Kingsborough Community College is a 2-year public institution based in Brooklyn, NY. The school overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and has its own private beach that is open for students in the summer. Many students choose to major in data processing...

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I just finished my first semester and I have learned a lot in just 12 weeks. From the beginning to the end you get everything done on time without any problem. The professors are very helpful and teach you everything you need to know within your...

” – Lashima from Bronx, NY
California Lutheran University

California Lutheran University is a private, liberal arts institution in the town of Thousand Oaks, California. With students hailing from more than 49 countries, Cal Lutheran features a diverse enrollment and is a federally designated Hispanic...

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How could you NOT learn here, there are so few students per class and the professors know you!!I was taking an easy class in my major and the professor found out I was bored, so he offered me a chance to audit an upper level class in something I was...

” – Austin from El Cajon, CA
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With a campus along the banks of the Mississippi River, Principia College is a 4-year liberal arts institution in southwest Illinois with an emphasis on Christian Science. Principia confers bachelor’s degrees in 28 majors as well as an Individualized...

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It is one of the most uplifting campus' I have ever been on, because everyone understands the importance of Christian Science. The small size of the campus means that you get one on one time with all your professors, and they are able to take a...

” – Hannah
Long Island University

Named for breakfast cereal magnate C.W. Post, LIU Post is a private school on Long Island’s north shore and the largest campus of Long Island University. LIU Post grants bachelor’s degrees in over 50 academic majors. In addition, LIU Post is home to...

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LIU Post is an exquisite school equipped with a full recreational center, gourmet food, and a club for everybody. Like all schools the work is diifficult but there are upperclass tutors and teachers available to assist in any problems you may have. I...

” – Khadija from Brooklyn, NY
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GateWay Community College Arizona is a public, 2-year institution established in Phoenix, and it is a member of the Maricopa County Community College District. GateWay offers over 150 academic programs, including associate’s degree and certificate...

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I love Gateway! Everyone is friendly and helpful. The campus is nice and easy to find your way around.

” – Renee from Scottsdale, AZ
Linfield University

Linfield College-McMinnville Campus is an undergraduate liberal arts school that accepts new enrollments for both the fall and spring semesters. The 189-acre campus features the Miller Fine Arts Center/Linfield Gallery, the Vivian A. Bull Music...

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The quality of education at Linfield is rich and diverse. The student body has very unique and open ways of thinking, making learning limitless and creative. The programs are somewhat limited, but not by much, and if Linfield does have a liberal arts...

” – Rachel from McMinnville, OR
University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras

Founded in 1900, University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras is Puerto Rico’s first public university and the most extensive in the UPR system. The Carnegie Foundation designates the school as having “high research activity.” The Institute of Caribbean...

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A top student institution, that will help you develop your skills in a variety of ways. Provides a wide range of activities like sports, musical groups and night life for the students. It will present the student with academic challenges that will be...

” – Paola from Puerto Rico
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Glendale Community College is a public, 2-year institution established on a 100-acre campus in southern California, with three satellite centers throughout the region. GCC offers over 80 associate degree and certificate programs, many of which are...

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Glendale Community College is one of the oldest, yet popular community college for locals living in Glendale, La Crescenta, La Canada, Burbank as well as for international students. They offer many courses depending on the major you plan to pursue or...

” – The Wise Student
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Marshalltown Community College is a public, 2-year institution with two campuses located in Grinnell and Marshalltown, Iowa. MCC offers over 50 academic programs throughout eight fields of study, awarding diplomas, certificates, and associate’s...

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I learned a lot while at MCC and it was a great place to start my college career! I gained much more self confidence and feel that I am better prepared for the next step in my life.

” – Nathan from Eldora, IA
Drew University

Drew University is more than a place to earn your degree—it is the beginning of a successful, purpose-driven life.

 

Choose from 40+ majors, 60+ minors, 18 Dual-Degree programs and 17 pre-professional programs. Every student graduates with a purpose...

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There is no doubt in my mind that I am learning a lot at Drew. This college is on the Princeton Review's list of top universities and top liberal arts colleges for a reason! The topics are very engaging and intense, and although I've had a couple of...

” – Eve from North Bergen, NJ
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Southern Arkansas University is a 4-year institution with a main campus in Magnolia. SAU offers a variety of majors, including the only computer game and animation design program in the state, and also features an Honors College for enhanced academic...

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This is the most helpful place I have ever been. Wether I am getting good news, or bad news SAU is always there to answer any question I may have. There are no waiting lists and no phone wait tone. I love being a student at Southern Arkansas...

” – No name woman
University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma

The University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma is a public, 4-year institution established in the city of Chickasha, and is the only public college in the state to maintain a focus on the liberal arts. USAO’s academic programs feature a unique core...

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I have a great time learning. The teachers are smart and helpful. The lecture open up a whole new world to a student and really get every one thinking. I am a history major and have been able to work within my major since my first semester here.

” – Victoria from Yukon, OK
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Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City is a public, 2-year institution established in Missouri. The college offers nearly 90 academic discipline options, awarding associate’s degrees and technical certificates for job placement and college...

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I am learning a lot at Longview Community College. Actually, I am currently a freshmen going into my second semester and my previous English course I took first semester was actually my most challenging class I have ever took. The teachers love to...

” – james from Kansas City, MO
Grace College and Theological Seminary

Grace College is a private, Christ-centered institution established in Winona Lake, Indiana. Students enrolled at Grace College are required to attend chapel three days each week. The college features a unique core curriculum, which is built upon...

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grace college is a great place for a student to grow with god and in academic excellence. whatever your major is there are classes that you will take to strengthen and grow you relationship with god. the faculty are very diligent in helping students...

” – Ty from Cedar Rapids, IA
College of Saint Benedict

Together, the College of Saint Benedict (CSB), for women, and Saint John’s University (SJU), for men, form a one-of-a-kind partnership of two top colleges – combining the abundant opportunities of a larger university with the small class sizes and...

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Classes here are challenging, certainly, but we're not paying private school tuition to take easy classes! Of course, the level of difficulty per class depends on the prof and the type of class (101 vs. Honors 311), but overall expect to have to work...

” – Trish from Mankato
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Formed by the merger of Fergus Falls Community College and Northwest Technical College, Minnesota State Community and Technical College is a 2-year institution with four campuses. M State is home to over 70 degree and certificate-granting academic...

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Absolutely fantastic online student support system.
Lots of options for online degrees.
Very affordable.

” – Jennifer from Champlin, MN
Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus

Eastern New Mexico University is a public, four-year liberal arts college located in Portales, NM, with satellite campuses in Roswell and Ruidoso, NM. ENMU offers more than 60 associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees in a hands-on learning...

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The teachers are approachable and are willing to spend as much time to assure each individual student success. The class size my freshman year was under 30 students, so each student gets a personalized learning experience!

” – Nicole from Pueblo, CO
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Friends University Kansas is a private, Christ-centered institution established in Wichita in 1898. The college offers over 50 undergraduate and graduate-level academic programs with classes that boast a 10:1 student-teach ratio and online learning...

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The class sizes are very small so you get a lot of one on one time with the professors. They have plenty open offices hours for you to visit if you need help.

” – Quaprice from Wichita, KS
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Western Nebraska Community College is a 2-year institution with three campuses in the Nebraska panhandle. WNCC offers degrees and certificates in over 50 fields of study and its Agriculture Science and Applied Agriculture Technologies programs...

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There is easy accessibility to technology and professors. You will learn plenty; the best thing is whenever you don't understand something there will be someone available.

” – Edgar from Yuma, CO
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El Camino College is a 2-year community college in the South Bay district of Los Angeles. El Camino offers transfer agreements with a number of 4-year colleges and universities and ranks second among all southern California community colleges in...

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Most teachers here do a great job at teaching their subjects with the exception of a few of them. They have a great class selection to choose from so there's always something new to learn each semester.

” – Chain from L.A. County
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Columbia College is a 2-year community college in Sonora, California. In addition to 21 degree and certificate programs in six academic departments, Columbia also offers technical and vocational classes in 16 different fields. A number of Columbia’s...

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I love the campus and the people that are involved in keeping it maintained. I love the staff, they have all been amazing help to me.I love that i have so many options for programs that will help through college

” – Brandi from Copperopolis, CA
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With a campus located between San Diego and the US/Mexican border, Southwestern College is the only 2-year community college in the southern part of San Diego County. In order to serve this well-populated region, Southwestern offers over 320 degree...

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On my first year at Southwestern College I was in the Transfer Institute Program, which is a one year program designed to increase the number of students transferring to a university. Being in the TI has been a awesome experience and also very...

” – Michelle from Chula Vista, CA
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The Community College of Beaver County is a 2-year institution in western Pennsylvania. CCBC grants degrees and certificates in programs from 11 academic departments including Aviation Sciences and Energy & Advanced Manufacturing. For students...

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The Community College of Beaver County is a great school for students who are looking to save some money with a low tuition. Community Colleges often get a reputation of being easy; however, they are just as challenging as four-year colleges. CCBC...

” – Jessica from Monaca, PA
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Harrisburg Area Community College is a public, 2-year institution established in the state of Pennsylvania. The college’s Harrisburg campus features the newly-renovated Cooper Student Center, which offers modern facilities to improve students’...

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It has been several years since i have attended a school, i was feeling overwhelmed with the thought of returning and was considering not coming. From the time I requested an application I have been able to receive help from the entire Hacc...

” – Shevonne from York, PA
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Warren County Community College is a 2-year college in northern New Jersey. Warren County confers associate degrees in 32 fields of study as well as nine academic certificates. The college also pairs with The Rutgers School of Health Professions to...

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When people hear community college they automatically think you will achieve a mediocre education, but they are wrong! Warren County Community college is full of well educated professors. In fact, most of their professors have taught at major...

” – Lacey from Lopatcong, NJ
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The University of Cincinnati Blue Ash College is a public, 4-year institution established in the state of Ohio. The college’s 135-acre woodland campus is home to over 40 degree and certificate programs, which are conveniently separated into career...

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started out here, got my associates. it was great, just didn't have a bachelor's option for my major. every college i have been to afterward does not measure up!

” – Danielle from Mason, OH
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Northampton Community College is a 2-year community college in eastern Pennsylvania. NCC features 107 programs of study and offers nearly 100 degrees and certificates as well as an Honors Program. Graduates have the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s...

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The teachers here are great. The work is challenging but I do not feel overworked. I feel that the work really relates to my major as well.

” – Ty from Chambersburg, PA
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Originally founded to serve the educational needs of a large group of returning World War II veterans, Ohio University Eastern is a regional campus in the OU system. OUE grants 13 bachelor’s and two associate degree programs entirely on campus as...

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With a campus on the shores of scenic Grand Lake St. Marys, Wright State University, Lake Campus, is a regional campus of WSU in western Ohio. Wright State Lake is home to 27 majors and the annual Lake Campus Research Symposium where faculty and...

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Founded on a mission to serve low-income minority adult learners, Martin University is the sole Predominately Black college or university in Indiana. All classes in Martin’s nine bachelor’s degree programs are centered around discussion between...

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Ohio University-Chillicothe is the original regional campus in the OU system and the first regional campus in the state. Ohio Chillicothe is home to more than 20 academic programs and foundational courses for degrees offered at other OU campuses. For...

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The University of Cincinnati Clermont College is an open-access regional campus in the UC system east of the Cincinnati metro area. In addition to over 50 associate degree fields of study, UC Clermont offers a bachelor’s degree in Applied...

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I love it! I have a personalized setting with my professor where they know me on a first name basis and can honestly help me and I can tell that they are enjoying they're job.

” – Sarah from Middletown, OH
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Originally founded by the Dominican Order, Universidad Central de Bayamón is a Catholic university in northern Puerto Rico. UCB is home to four colleges of Health Sciences, Liberal Arts, Business Development and Education offering 25 bachelor’s...

CUNY Graduate School and University Center

CUNY Graduate School and University Center is rated as a Doctoral University with Highest Research Activity and set in Midtown Manhattan. The graduate school is home to several research centers and promotes interdisciplinary research and...

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Concordia University Nebraska is a private, Christ-centered institution established in the city of Seward and is part of the Concordia University System. The college’s 85-acre campus is home to over 20 academic buildings and residence halls, and...

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I am a Theology major in the Director of Christian Education (DCE) program here at Concordia and very much like the majority of the class I have taken thus far. I especially like the classes geared towards my two main areas of emphasis and the...

” – Nicholas from Broomfield, CO
Cochise County Community College District

 

Cochise College is a 2-year community college in southern Arizona. The college grants degrees and certificates in over 70 fields of study, including over 50 workforce development and certificate programs. Cochise also offers the FlyCochise...

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Right now, I am taking two remedial courses because of a placement test that I was required to take. The college does not understand that I took pre-calculus which leads me into calculus. But no, I had to take trig again to get into calculus. For my...

” – Aaron from Sierra Vista, AZ
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Just a few blocks from the Ohio River, Ohio University-Southern Campus is a regional campus in the OU system. OU Southern offers 30 degree and certificate programs available entirely on campus as well as the opportunity to begin classes in other OU...

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I am learning a lot in all of my classes so far, but I would have to say that the classes that I've learned the most in were General Psychology 101 and Math 102. The instructors made sure that EVERY student understood a topic before they progressed...

” – Brittany from Ironton, OH
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Founded by the Bishops of Puerto Rico, the Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico is a Catholic school in Ponce providing education to students of all faiths. PCUPR is home to seven academic schools including a recently added School of...

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I've been here since I graduated from High School.

” – JOSE from ADJUNTAS, PR
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Ohio University Lancaster is a regional campus in the OU system located southeast of Columbus. OUL offers 12 bachelor’s degree programs on campus including Sport and Lifestyle Studies and Middle Childhood Education as well as the option to begin...

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I think the small class size is a great learning environment. I believe student will succeed in a room where they can speak one on one with their professor. The academic, as well as, athletic programs are very strong and are a great place for...

” – Mason from Pickerington, OH
Saint Johns University

Together, the College of Saint Benedict (CSB), for women, and Saint John’s University (SJU), for men, form a one-of-a-kind partnership of two top colleges – combining the abundant opportunities of a larger university with the small class sizes and...

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I expect to learn a lot in this environment where the faculty is very involved in the students progress.

” – Ryan from Texas
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Northwest College is a public, 2-year institution established in Powell, Wyoming, with four satellite facilities in Cody, Worland, and Shoshone National Forest. NWC offers over 30 CTE degree and certificate programs, as well as 48 transfer degree...

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it is very easy to learn a lot here because of the tiny class sizes and good professors.

” – Adeline from Shell, WY
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Located in the capital city of San Juan, the Inter-American University of Puerto Rico Metro campus is a 4-year institution with Christian roots and the most urban location in the Inter-American University system. IAUPR Metro is composed of seven...

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Inter American University is a great college it is full of diversity. This school helps you get to know about other cultures while receiving a degree. I would pick Inter American University over any university, hands down!

” – Elizabeth from San Juan, PR
Bethel College-North Newton

Bethel College is a private, liberal arts institution located in North Newton, Kansas, and is the only college in the state classified as a National Liberal Arts College. The first Mennonite institution founded in North America, Bethel has been...

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The teachers at Bethel are interested in teaching making it easier to learn. There are many majors with highly qualified teachers. There is a challenge to learn new things and people will sit down and help you reach your goal.

” – Orrie from Flagstaff, AZ
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The Eastern Iowa Community Colleges consist of three 2-year institutions along Iowa’s Mississippi River border: Clinton, Muscatine, and Scott Community Colleges. EICC are home to 20 academic career clusters conferring associate degrees as well as 32...

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I love Clinton community college because its right were i live, i don't have to travel to far get to the college. I love the staff at CCC they our friendly and very helpful..The financial aid office was so awesome in helping me get my loans for...

” – Michelle from Clinton, IA
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Established in 1967, the University of Puerto Rico-Cayey is a public, 4-year institution located on an urban, 145-acre campus in Cayey. UPR Cayey offers academic programs in 12 areas of study, as well as an Honors Studies Program that features...

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Wonderful university. The campus is beautiful with lots of landscaping, sculptures, fountains, benches and tables. The professors are great and the class sizes are generally small, although some classes do contain multiple sections.

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Established in 1946, Ohio University in Zanesville is a public, 4-year institution located in Muskingum County and is one of seven Ohio University campuses and centers. OU Zanesville offers five associate degree programs, 13 bachelor’s degree...

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Established in 1912, Inter American University of Puerto Rico-San German is a private, 4-year institution located in southwestern Puerto Rico. The college offers over 30 undergraduate programs and 15 postgraduate programs, awarding degrees from an...

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The Inter American University of Puerto Rico, San German campus is very beautiful and very fun place to be. There you make a lot of friends and you feel accepted. The best this about this university is that when you graduate from there, you will...

” – Madeline from Puerto Rico
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Established in 1956, the Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo is a private, 4-year institution located in Arecibo, Puerto Rico. The university offers over 40 undergraduate and technical degree and certificate programs, as well as five...

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The College of Graduate and Extended Studies is a branch institution of Central Methodist University, primarily located in Fayette, Missouri with satellite campuses throughout the region. CGES offers over 30 undergraduate and postgraduate degree...

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Most instructors really help you learn and are interested in your achievements. Most professors are also readily available outside of class for assistance, and study sessions/tutors are available for most classes.

” – Shelby from Independence, MO
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With campus a short distance from the Caribbean Sea, Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Guayama is a Christian university and regional campus of IAUPR in southeast Puerto Rico. IAUPR-Guayama is home to departments of Business Development...

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Northwest Suburban College is a health sciences institution in the Chicagoland area with a focus on accelerated curricula. NWSC is home to certification programs for Pharmacy Technician, Dental Assistant, and Medical Assistant as well as a Continuing...

Hope College

Hope College is a 4-year liberal arts institute located in downtown Holland. Hope partners with the Reformed Church in America but welcomes students of all faiths, as well as those of no faith. The liberal arts curriculum at Hope is threaded through...

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The academics at Hope are outstanding. Yes, that means the classes can be difficult and a lot of work, but the professors are all excellent; supportive, encouraging, and willing to help you out at virtually any time. They genuinely want you to...

” – Dale from Grandville, MI
Bryn Mawr College

Founded in 1885, Bryn Mawr College is a women’s liberal arts institution in the greater Philadelphia area and part of the Seven Sisters. Bryn Mawr offers undergraduate degrees in 37 majors and was the first women’s college to confer a PhD...

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The campus is absolutely beautiful. The academics are rigorous.

” – Mary from plano, TX
Concordia University-Montreal

Concordia University in Montreal is the best university in Canada under 50 years old, according to the Times Higher Education Young University Rankings, and among the largest, with 50,000 students. Montreal is the number one student city in North...

University of Liverpool

The University of Liverpool is an institution located in the city of the same name. Founded in 1881, the redbrick university is proud of their founding mission, ‘for the advancement of learning and enoblement of life,’ which they still maintain today...

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Imperial College London

Imperial is one of the world’s 10 top universities (QS World University Rankings 2024), in one of its most iconic cities – London, UK. With students from more than 140 countries (including a growing number of US students), and a specialist community...