How do I go about choosing a college?
Saving money is the name of the game these days, and everyone is looking to get a good college education without spending a small fortune. An important part of this equation is deciding whether you want to attend a public or private school. In making your decision, you’ll need to look at what both experiences have to offer, and decide which is going to give you the best return on your investment.
Here we’ll explain the main differences between public and private schools, and the advantages and disadvantages both have to offer.
Private Schools
Private schools do not receive any tax dollars or government funds to cover their operating costs. These schools generally operate on large endowments, and because they don’t receive outside assistance, they are free to make up their own rules and regulations in regards to who is admitted and what classes or codes of conduct are required.
Women’s colleges, men’s colleges, military colleges and religious colleges are good examples of private schools.
Private School Advantages
- Smaller classes
Private schools aren’t as large as public institutions, which means no big undergraduate lectures filled with 300+ students.
- Direct interaction with professors
Because classes tend to be smaller, the professors at private schools are often more accessible for office hours, appointments, and special assistance.
- Ease of class enrollment
Less students means you’re not competing with 400 other people for the same 20 class spots.
Private School Disadvantages
- More expensive
Despite those large endowments, private schools still need to charge their students more per credit hour since they’re not publicly funded.
- Smaller faculty/research capability
Public institutions often house huge research facilities, which draw world-renowned professors and talent, something smaller private colleges can’t compete with.
Public Schools
Public schools, unlike private schools, operate either wholly or in part based on government or state funds. This means that all students, regardless of race, sex, religious beliefs, etc., can attend.
Public School Advantages
- Cheaper
Thanks to those state and federal funds, tuition at public schools is less, especially if you’re a resident student (meaning you’re a legal resident of the state in which you attend school).
- World renowned faculty and research facilities
All those public funds means public schools have the ability to build top-notch research facilities and draw the best professors and researchers from around the world.
- Diverse student body
Because public schools are larger and open to application from all backgrounds, their student population tends to be more diverse
Public School Disadvantages
- Larger Classes and Campus
If you’re someone who’s shy or introverted, the large classes and student population on a public campus may make it difficult to meet people and establish a sense of community.
- Classes often taught by TAs
Because the professors at public schools are so focused on research, many classes might be taught by a TA (or Teaching Assistant, which is usually a graduate student), rather than a professor.
- Can be difficult to get face time with professors
Your professor probably won’t have time for appointments with all 400 of his or her students. If you need help, you’ll probably end up working with a TA.
Tips for Making a Decision
While money is often an important factor in choosing a college, it shouldn’t be the only one. Think about what you’re looking to get out of your college experience, whether it’s small classes or a large, diverse student body, and decide what how important it is to you.
And don’t forget about financial aid. If you’re trying to decide between a public and a private institution, apply to both and see what kind of financial aid they offer you.
