Studying in the US: essential information
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Studying in the United States is an opportunity to explore America, share your culture and make friends with students from around the world. The quality of teaching, facilities and resources is renowned worldwide.Key terminologyIn the US the words “college” and “university” mean the same thing. The main thing to remember is that “college” does not mean “high school.”
When we refer to “undergraduate study” in the US we are usually talking about a bachelor’s degree programme.
When we refer to “graduate study” in the US we generally mean any study you do after finishing your bachelor’s degree programme (eg. a master’s degree). In other words “graduate study” is the same as what New Zealanders call “postgraduate study.”
Other differences in university terminology between the US and New Zealand:
A “paper” in New Zealand is called a “course” in the US. When Americans refer to a “paper” they are usually referring to what Kiwis call an “essay” or an “assignment”.
A university “calendar” in New Zealand is called a “catalogue” in the US.
Often American universities will refer to “Fall” or “Spring” semesters. Remember the timing of seasons is different in the Northern Hemisphere.
Public versus Private Institutions
Publicly supported schools are usually state colleges or universities. These institutions receive most of their funding from the states they are located in. Private schools, on the other hand, do not receive the same primary funding from the state and federal government but often receive financial support from benefactors in the private sector.
Liberal Arts versus Specialised Education
Liberal arts refers to academic work in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Most American universities require students to take a wide variety of subjects in the liberal arts before settling on a specific field of study. An academic field of specialisation is often referred to as a major, usually completed in the final two years of study.
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