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Education system in the USA

How does the American education system works?

US is host to the maximum number of international students from around the world, it provides a diverse range of courses for all study levels.

Study levels

  • Elementary school
  • Middle school/Junior high school
  • High school
  • Higher education

Qualifications available in the US:

Qualification Duration Description
Associate Degree 2 It is equivalent to first two years of a 4-year bachelor's degree
Bachelor Degree 4 Undergraduate degree that includes core courses along with majors, minors and elective. The four years consist of years known as Freshman, Sophomore, Junior and Senior.
Master Degree (Coursework) 2 Leads students from first degree to particular profession
Master Degree (Research) 3 Generally awarded in traditional disciplines
PhD 6 Completed under the supervision of faculty advisor

Different Institutions in US

There are different types of institutions in the US that provide quality education

Colleges

These are smaller than the universities, these generally provide undergraduate degrees. Community colleges, is a affordable study option in the US, which offers two-year associate degrees after which you can continue your studies at different university for another two years to obtain a proper 4 years undergraduate degree.

Universities

These institutions offer research-based bachelors, masters, doctoral and post-doctoral degrees. There are two types of universities:

Public universities: Mostly state universities which are established and run by the state government

Private universities: There are a mix of profit and not-for-profit entities which are supported by tuition fee

Fee structure

Tuition fee solely depends on the type of qualification and institution. Courses in medicine and engineering are more expensive. Not different than other countries but MBA programs are often the most expensive. The tuition fee annually can range anywhere between US$ 10,000 and US$55,000.

English language program: $700 to $2000 per month

Community Colleges: $6000 to $20,000 per year

Undergraduate: $20,000 to $40,000 per year

Graduate: $20,000 to $30,000 per year

Students need to pay tuition fees before starting studies in the US.

Scholarships

Students can fund studies by availing various kinds of financial aids available and scholarship to help student to an extend where they can least afford studies.

Teaching and Classrooms

American universities place great significance on diversity which means classes consists of students of different ages, religions and ethnicities. This provides a stimulating and interesting learning atmosphere for every student that motivates cross-cultural understanding and socializing.

Most classes will have limited 20 students and which allows the faculty member takes the time to get to know students and their strengths. Interactive and practical learning are the basis of teaching. Professors are usually spend time outside of class to offer further support. Campuses in the US also offer an active social life with clubs and organisations for every student to meet other students who have similar interests and further career opportunities.

Academic year

US universities and colleges commence their intakes in August/September known as Fall session. Some others also provide a January/February session, called Spring intake that goes on till April. There is also a Summer intake available for limited programs and colleges between May and August.

The duration of each program depends on the university and specialization. Most bachelor's degrees take up to four years, whereas a master's take two years and doctoral degrees may take upto seven years. The academic year at many colleges covers two terms called the semesters.


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