Law

How to Choose a University and Academic Program: What You Need to Know About University Rankings?

Choosing a university and academic program is a crucial step toward a successful career. Many prospective students rely on university rankings, but it is important to understand that not all rankings are equally useful when selecting a specific major or specialty.

Global and National University Rankings

International rankings (such as QS and Times Higher Education) evaluate universities based on various indicators, including academic reputation and research output. However, these rankings do not always reflect the quality of specific academic programs. Therefore, when choosing a field of study, it is important to look not only at the university’s overall ranking but also at subject-specific rankings.

National university rankings often consider indicators such as average entrance exam scores, graduate employment rates, and average salaries. This information can help assess the potential return on investment of studying in a specific country.

 

 

Subject-Specific Rankings and Student Reviews

For those choosing a profession, rankings of academic programs by subject area are especially valuable. A university may not rank highly in global listings but could be a national leader in medicine, law, IT, or other specific fields.

Student reviews are also a helpful source of insight. They offer a real-world perspective on whether a program meets expectations and what opportunities are available.

 

Caution with Informal Rankings from Social Media and Blogs

Many rankings found on social media or blogs lack proper methodology and can be misleading. It is recommended to rely on verified university and academic program rankings based on objective data.

How to Choose the Right University and Program?

When selecting a university and a program, consider the following factors:

·         Subject-specific program rankings

·         University and program accreditation

·         University location

·         Availability of state-funded (scholarship) places

·         Student exchange opportunities

·         Graduate employability

It is equally important to consider your personal priorities and values to make a well-informed decision.

Why Academic Program Rankings Matter?

Subject-specific university rankings help applicants, students, and employers evaluate the quality of education in specific areas. They provide guidance for choosing both a university and a field of study.

For universities, participating in such rankings is an opportunity to display strengths, attract talented students and faculty, and improve the quality of academic programs.