Three top US campuses for outstanding degree programmes

A good education often means completing a well-designed curriculum so that you’re ready to land a well-paid job. While these are important, they only tell part of the story. A truly transformative educational experience extends far beyond textbooks and exams. It’s about developing a sense of belonging, inspiring minds, and creating a supportive environment where students feel seen and heard.   

Campus life and location significantly influence a student’s overall experience, especially for international students. Research conducted by QS Top Universities shows that location is a critical factor. This includes the surrounding environment, personal and professional opportunities, local culture, and language. This highlights the importance of factors beyond academics in shaping a student’s journey.   

Ultimately, education is about personal growth and development. It’s about equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to thrive. A supportive and inspiring learning environment is as essential to this process as any subject in the curriculum.

If you’re seeking such an experience, consider these three institutions:

Emory University

Oxford College of Emory University offers a unique start to your academic journey, fusing the close-knit community of a small liberal arts college with the vast resources of a world renowned research university. Located in the charming town of Oxford, Georgia, this campus offers everything a first- or second-year student could need for an inspiring and engaging learning experience.

Here, classes are small, allowing professors to know your name and genuinely care about your success. This encourages deep discussions, critical thinking, and effective communication skills. The dynamic liberal arts curriculum lets you explore various fields, helping you discover new or more passions. 

Beyond the classroom, expect to engage in experiential learning through service projects, internships, and various global learning programmes. Meanwhile, the Discovery Seminar for first-year students is a great way to find and use evidence to answer questions, analyse, interpret, and create new knowledge. On the edge of  campus lies the Oxford College Organic Farm. Whether on this 11-acre living laboratory, elsewhere on campus, in Georgia, or abroad, you’ll have plenty of ways to apply theory to the real world.

But it’s likely that you’ll never have to go far to see your world expand. The residential campus ensures you are never far from your new friends, with a social life that includes no shortage of clubs, events, and leadership opportunities. Dedicated support for international students, though the International Student Programs office, ensures you’ll get to make the most of everything on offer on campus and that your questions — on visa assistance, orientation programmes, and cultural adjustment resources — are always answered. 

After two years of personalised education at Oxford College, you’ll seamlessly transition to Emory University’s Atlanta campus, where you can explore an even wider range of majors and programmes to reach your goals and aspirations. As an international student, you’ll have the opportunity to engage in research projects, collaborate with professors on academic initiatives, and further your educational experience.

Learn more about Oxford College of Emory University.

UCLA is often rated one of America’s most beautiful college campuses. Source: UCLA

UCLA

As a premier public research university, UCLA empowers students to advance knowledge and contribute to global society. The university merges the intimate feel of a close-knit public institution with the vast opportunities of a world-class city. Located in the scenic Westwood neighbourhood, just minutes from Hollywood and downtown Los Angeles, students are constantly in close proximity to everything they need to succeed.

Here, small class sizes allow students to work closely with expert faculty and engage with like-minded peers. Two-thirds of classes have 30 or fewer students, while the 200 freshman seminars, known as “Fiat Lux,” offer even more personalised attention with only 10–20 students per class.

More than half of UCLA students graduate with research experience across diverse fields, including humanities, social sciences, engineering, and laboratory sciences. Students can pursue their own research interests, collaborate with faculty, participate in fieldwork, or explore library resources, with some even achieving publication in academic journals.

Beyond the classroom, UCLA offers many experiences to help students develop personally and professionally. Internships, fellowships, and community service initiatives provide real-world exposure and build valuable connections. The Career Centre helps students find these opportunities both on and off campus. In Los Angeles, a city crawling with opportunities in entertainment, tech, aerospace, automotive, government, and finance, students effortlessly find internships that match their interests.

UCLA students thrive in a vibrant culture and active environment. With over 1,200 clubs and student organisations, they have ample chances to explore new interests and grow their network. The university’s strong tradition of student government allows learners to influence campus life through the Undergraduate Students Association and the Graduate Student Association. Participants can manage budgets, launch new clubs, and shape a campus that reflects their values.

Life at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi extends beyond the classroom, with many events hosted both on and off campus. Source: Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi

Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi

Nestled in South Texas between OSO and Corpus Christi Bays, Texas A&M University (TAMU)-Corpus Christi’s campus blends tranquillity with vibrancy. Its island location provides students with enriching learning experiences, access to beach activities, and a uniquely therapeutic environment. Support complements the full experience.

The College Readiness Team within the Office of Student Success is dedicated to providing guidance and encouraging growth for new students as they transition to higher education. Students also benefit from the collaborative efforts of the Tutoring and Learning Services staff. The university is committed to understanding each student’s learning style and helping them master essential strategies for academic success. A range of other academic coaching and mentoring services ensures students receive the necessary support for their academic, professional, and social development.

TAMU has a longstanding tradition of community engagement, fostering partnerships that enhance student experiences through art, theatre, live performances, internships, and research opportunities. On campus, students quickly become part of the Island community, finding a sense of belonging in over 150 student organisations and numerous annual events. With the SandDollar$ ID granting access to various free events, students have endless opportunities to explore their interests.

Beyond campus, the surrounding Corpus Christi area offers them many recreational activities, including windsurfing, cycling, fishing, and sailing. Situated a few hundred miles from major Texas cities like Houston, San Antonio, and Austin, Corpus Christi combines the conveniences of a larger city with the charm of a coastal town. It currently hosts a local population of over 325,000.

*Some of the institutions featured in this article are commercial partners of Study International