I was wondering what the actual reputation of the University of Arizona is, particularly in fields related to biological sciences (I was admitted to the Honors College and chose to attend next year since I received a full-ride scholarship).
I have heard various things about the UA, both positive and negative. Some people regard the UA as a “public Ivy” and top research institution, while others dismiss the UA as a “fun in the sun” party school that disregards academics and offers an education comparable to a CC.
So what is the actual reputation of the UA? Is it a non-academic party school, a top research institution, or both?
It really depends on the department, some of their technical and engineering side of the house are nationally regarded. Others less so–that said, I would not call it a “public Ivy” . Which is usually reserved for places like UMichigan, CAL, UVA, etc…More direct question–what are your other options, and their respective costs benefits?
Arizona is #40 in the top research Us. http://mup.asu.edu/Top-American-Research-Universities-2013-Annual-Report-MUP.pdf That’s ahead of well known Us like Notre Dame and Carnegie Mellon.
My friend went there, he was paying out of stat tution. He had to transfer back where he could pay in-state because he said that it was so expensive. He now goes to university at buffalo
You have to remember that universities are large complex institutions playing many roles. Some lower division courses may be indeed comparable to a CC to help prepare student who don’t yet have all the prereqs they need. they have an honors college to address the strongest students needs. The ones who don’t play in the sun more than they study will then move into majors of varying difficulty and go off to careers, some will prepare for graduate and professional school. Researchers and grad students will be breaking ground same as any other.
Every state flagship university offers the possibility of a first-rate education, but most are enormous and it is very easy to coast by partying. They have some students who are dedicated and committed to pursuing every opportunity, and others who aren’t. You can get an excellent education at UAZ, but you must take initiatives for yourself. The best classes can fill up quickly, and so you need to register at the first opportunity. There aren’t many opportunities for close interaction with professors, and you will have to seek them out for yourself. Large universities have resources that smaller colleges don’t, but they can be impersonal if you aren’t extroverted. Tucson is an interesting city, and there will be lots to do if you take advantage of what’s offered.