Come Out on Top by Choosing a Top Ten School

The top ten schools those undisputed leaders of extended education programs are (in order of rank) Harvard, Princeton University, Yale University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Stanford University, California Institute of Technology, University of Pennsylvania, Columbia University, Duke University, and University of Chicago. These schools share many qualities but also distinguish themselves from one another. One thing is certain: competition is fierce to gain acceptance into their highly sought-after programs. No matter what top ten schools you're interested in, you can't go wrong choosing one of the best rated schools. The important determination will be in what area your interests and talents fall. Another factor is cost. These schools are among the most expensive. You can find other top schools online in areas such as business, acting, architecture, drama and more. The five top schools are touched on below.

Harvard University: Harvard College offers academic opportunities to its students that are virtually unsurpassed at American universities. It employs world-class scholars who are on the cutting edge of scientific discoveries. Harvard's courses provide in depth coverage in all disciplines. And it has strong areas of specialized concentrations, while not neglecting the broader areas of study. The areas of study are kept at an innovative and contemporary level, staying in tune with the times, while retaining the best of Harvard's past.

Princeton is a top-ranked research institution that focuses heavily on undergraduate students. Undergraduate students are encouraged and expected to work independently, a key factor in succeeding beyond college. Princeton offers either a Bachelor of Arts or the Bachelor of Science in Engineering. Also offered are advanced degrees in all the regular disciplines from humanities to social science. All areas are dedicated to making the most of each student's inherent talents and capabilities.

Yale strives to instill values in students that they can take with them throughout life and focuses on providing the highest knowledge and developing leadership skills. It boasts a heavy liberal arts bent, encouraging students to think for themselves and to communicate with clarity and vision. Broad learning is a cornerstone of Yale's curriculum and its requirements, as are writing and foreign language-all valued in the world today.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology is composed of five schools. Its facilities are state of art. It is, first and foremost, concerned about the betterment of the nation and the world through its programs and students, whether that be finding cures for diseases or conserving the word's energy sources. Its undergraduate engineering program is known for ranking number one in the nation.

Stanford University offers seven schools all on one campus making it unique among the best. This makes it possible for students to cross boundaries into other fields of interest, creating for them a more encompassing education. It prides itself on developing in students problem-solving, research, and creative thinking skills. Collaborating with staff and other students is a highly prized dimension of its curriculum. Add to this small class sizes, which provide for more individualized attention to the needs of its students, which really sets Stanford University apart.