Check out why students cross the globe to study at Millersville

21 Jun 2016

Studying overseas can be both a thrilling and stressful prospect. It’s thrilling because it’s such a novel experience – a new country, new friends, and a totally new outlook. But it can also be stressful because all the possible unknowns. With so much at stake, students want to feel assured that the university has a strong, reputable and diverse array of academic programs. They also want to know whether the community is safe and welcoming, and whether they can expect career support from their chosen university.

That’s why so many cross oceans to study at Millersville University of Pennsylvania, a small but thriving university on the East Coast of the United States. Founded over 150 years ago, Millersville has earned a sterling academic reputation thanks in part to its innovative teaching methods and its highly qualified staff. Ninety-eight percent of faculty have a PhD and no classes are taught by teaching assistants, ensuring consistent quality throughout the learning process. It’s no wonder that the respected U.S. News & World Report placed Millersville among the top 25 public universities in the North.

Community feel

Classes are impressively small – 29 students per class on average – and the student-faculty ratio is just 21:1. This encourages meaningful interaction between faculty and students, and ensures that the latter receive all the attention and help that they need. Learning takes place in a collaborative environment where approachable professors work to hone each student’s individual talents and skills, and active mentors strive to help each student adapt to the rigors of academia.

Great value education

Students worried about cost and tuition fees can find comfort in Millersville’s affordability. AffordableCollegesOnline.org (AC Online) ranks Millersville 25th in the state of Pennsylvania for greatest lifetime return on investment (ROI). Graduates from Millersville and the other top schools see higher salaries on average compared to graduates from other schools in the state. In other words, it’s an irresistible bargain – students pay less now to earn more in the future.

Wide selection of programmes

Millersville’s other advantage is its wide selection of programs, numbering over 100 in the undergraduate category alone.

Millersville’s Bachelor of Design (B.Des.), with a new major in Interactive and Graphic Design, showcases the university’s commitment to 21st century education. Students learn everything from experience design to kinetic design, web design, basic coding, interactive design, and traditional graphic design. Tailored specifically to industry trends and expectations, the program reflects the recommendation standards from both the American Institute of Graphic Artists (the professional organization for design) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD, the accrediting body for Art and Design).

Image courtesy of Millersville University

The Bachelor of Arts in Multidisciplinary Studies is a new and innovative program that draws insight from different fields of study, with a focus on a specific topic that iare of interest to the modern student. Making full use of the university’s strengths in the liberal arts and sciences, students have the opportunity to tailor their study experience, with careful guidance and advice from faculty. Approved programs include Applied Disability Studies, Digital Journalism, Educational Studies, Entertainment Technology, Environmental Hazards and Emergency Management, and Sports Journalism.

The Bachelor of Science in Automation & Intelligent Robotics Engineering Technology allows students to explore the cutting-edge fields of automation, robotics, artificial intelligence, and computer programming techniques. Through this interdisciplinary program, students will take courses in applied engineering, computer science, math, and physics. Study is supported by multiple state-of-the-art laboratory facilities. Graduates are high in demand and can expect excellent starting salaries as automation, control and robotics engineers.

Millersville’s Bachelor of Arts in Economics grounds students in the fundamentals behind markets and economic systems. Students learn to grapple with a variety of issues, including employment, trade, inflation, competition, and inequality. Graduates can look forward to careers in government and private sector as analysts, researchers, consultants and more. Also, thanks to their research and analytical skills, economics graduates can easily find work in diverse roles across many industries.

Excellent graduate outcomes

While the range and strength of Millersville’s academic programs certainly impress, it is graduate outcomes that ultimately matter. A recent survey of Millersville graduates found that 75 percent were hired within three months of graduation, and 97 percent were currently working. These impressive statistics are bolstered by the university’s extensive and outstanding career services.

Through individual counseling and workshops, the school helps students figure out what majors and careers they would like to explore, and how they can prepare for them. Through job fairs, job databases, and arranged internships, the school connects student with employer. From day one, Millersville demonstrates a firm commitment to getting every student to work.

Plenty of extracurricular activities

But Millersville is far from being all about academics and work. It is host to a thriving, open and diverse community that supports personal growth. Students have the opportunity to participate in a large variety of clubs and organizations, from art to meteorology to student government. Those looking to keep fit can join athletic teams and sports clubs.

Image courtesy of Millersville University

Safety first

Millersville is also among the safest universities in the country. BestColleges.com ranked Millersville number eight out of 23 schools listed for excellent campus safety. And StateUniversity.com gave Millersville a safety score of 92.56 out of 100, making it the 16th safest college in Pennsylvania. While this is partly due to Millersville’s tranquil rural location, the university has taken proactive steps to ensure student safety, including installing 29 emergency call boxes (known as “Blue Light” phones) on campus.

Perfect location

And don’t let Millersville’s rural setting fool you. Thanks to its central location, students have easy access to major East Coast cities like Baltimore and Philadelphia (one hour away), Washington D.C., and New York City. Essentially, students get to experience the best of both worlds – the serenity and authenticity of rural America, and the thrills of 21st century cosmopolitan life.

That’s exactly why Millersville appeals to so many international students. It’s not just about its stellar academics, affordability, impressive graduate outcomes, thriving community, or safety. It’s about the entire Millersville experience – something that makes the decision to study overseas so much easier.

Image courtesy of Millersville University

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The article was sponsored by Millersville University of Pennsylvania. Established in 1855 as a teacher college, Millersville has matured into a prestigious institution of higher learning, offering world-class education at an affordable price. The U.S. News & World Report placed Millersville among the top 25 public universities in the North. The school prizes student-faculty interaction – classes are small (29 students per class on average) and the student-faculty ratio impressive (21:1). Located in rural Pennsylvania, the university offers tranquillity and beautiful landscapes as well as easy access to major U.S. cities.