Public & State Universities
Pros and Cons of the Big Campus
Do you prefer public or private, large or small colleges and universities? It’s a choice you’ll have to make when considering college. There are distinct differences between public and private universities beyond the obvious size of student body.
Public or state-funded universities operate in whole or in part on state or federal funds. This means all students regardless of race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or any other differentiating characteristic are eligible for admission. Conversely, private institutions may make exemptions, such as women-only campuses, or men-only, and religious schools and seminaries.
The Benefits of Public and State Universities
Public and state universities have many benefits over their private counter parts.
Lower Tuition Costs
Since the state or federal government provides operating funds for a public university most offer much more affordable tuitions across the board than do private colleges and universities. Student residents of any state often receive deeply discounted tuitions at in-state universities as opposed to out of state. Reason? Keeps students living and working within the state—it’s economics.
Costs for room and board at a private university can be quite heady for average, middle-income students.
Prosperous and World-renowned Facilities and Faculties
Some of the larger public universities in the U.S. are also home to state-of-the-art research facilities, science and medical labs, teaching hospitals, and libraries. In such institutions students discover enclaves of world-renowned professors and have the opportunity to learn at their side, even participate in cutting-edge technological projects.
How do large public universities have all this in comparison to smaller universities and colleges? Large publicly funded universities also maintain quite lucrative financial coffers in addition to the public funds. This kind of financial leverage gives them the muscle to build and expand with the best facilities possible.
Diverse Student Body
Smaller private institutions work very hard to attract a wide variety of students, but large universities manage more easily due to their visibility, affordability and resources. This innate diversity theoretically offers a deeper level of educational opportunity. Students may work collaboratively with others from different backgrounds, cultures, and by doing so rewrite the collective knowledge base.
Competitive Atmosphere
Large public universities tend to foster and encourage competition. When students consistently try to best their peers the institution only grows stronger. Research reaches new levels, students graduate with top grades and credentials, all of which help build a school’s selectivity level.
Disadvantages to a Public University
Large public universities can be vibrant educational hubs, but for the wrong student they can also spell disaster.
- Students timid about their academics may become lost in the shuffle and fail to thrive on a large campus.
- Many lower level classes are taught by doctoral students who spend time as professors’ assistants.
- Much harder to get personal attention from staff or faculty when needed.
Applying for Admission to a Public University
The admissions process associated with a large university is much less navigable than one on a small private campus. When you apply there is no room for error and oversight and admissions personnel have little time for handholding. Make mistakes on your application and it’s going in the trash. To avoid this make sure your application is complete, on time or early and has all the required documentation attached.