Universities Offering A Unique Experience

The college experience is typically an eye-opener for most students entering the University straight out of high school. The University setting opens new doors in both the academic and social sphere. However, there are Universities in America that strive to give educational opportunities that greatly expand upon the traditional notions of higher learning that are found in the traditional university settings. The academic structure and traditional electives and course loads are often cited as not offering real world experiences or not being applied by the students while they are in the process of acquiring their education. Universities and colleges across the country are realizing that being more flexible and more innovative in the types of courses and curriculums that they are offering is drawing more students and better preparing them for entering into and being successful within society.

Oberlin College (Ohio)

This school is a liberal arts and music conservatory that is highly selective. They emphasize the ability of their students to be self-directed. For four weeks in January during the Winter term normal classes cease and students can choose one self directed area of study or even organize classes with their peers in which they are the teachers. They also feature the ExCo (Experimental College Program) which allows students, faculty, and public leaders to teach programs not generally offered by the college.

Deep Springs College (California)

Employing only three full-time male professors, this college offers an all male setting that is situated on a cattle ranch and farm in eastern California. Its self-proclaimed values include academics, self-governance, and the value of labor. Twenty six students are selected each year and the courses include studies in astronomy, bread-making, and textile production. Students typically move onto to traditional four year colleges after graduation.

Hampshire College (Massachusetts)

Located in Amherst, this institution discourages “prepackaged learning.” Students are organized into three levels of academic achievement instead of the traditional system beginning with the “freshmen” label. The first division teaches broad foundational principles. The second division includes specialized areas of study through which a students chooses a concentration. The highest level of study engages the students with graduate level thinking and personalized projects.

Richmond University (London)

This is an American University in the heart of London. The university’s degrees are accredited in the USA and are validated in the UK by the Open University. Learn more about their International Relations courses and Art History Master’s Degree courses. Richmond typically offer a smaller class size of between 10 and 15 students, offering a more personal education experience.

Offering some of the most unique approaches to academic achievement, schools such as themes are taking a comprehensive approach to education, nourishing not only the minds of the students but also their spirit and their independence. A sort of holistic approach to education tends to instill more confidence in students and gives them a greater drive towards success in the real world.