Higher Education in America, Part Nine: Planning for University Admission - 2003-07-12

Higher Education in America, Part Nine: Planning for University Admission - 2003-07-12. Experts in higher education in the United States believe that success in higher education and university studies in America is directly related to proper planning, and applicants are advised to start preparing at least two years before entering a university or any accredited higher education institution. The first necessary step is to contact the U.S. higher education counseling center. There are more than 400 counseling centers worldwide, and applicants can find the nearest center to their residence through a computer. For this purpose, one can visit the Voice of America website in English. At that site, go to the Education Report and examine the link to the State Department's Education, Foreign Students Series. The Public Affairs Office of the U.S. Embassy in foreign countries can also assist applicants in this regard. In addition to numerous publications, this office has extensive information accessible through computers and can guide applicants to the most suitable higher education institution based on their background and educational needs. The duration of higher education in America varies from one year to four years. Some higher education institutions offer short one-year programs, after which students receive a certificate upon successful completion. These programs are generally limited to introductory technical fields such as basic computer education, vehicle repair, and office work training. The most common programs are two-year and four-year degrees. Two-year programs are usually offered through local universities known as community colleges. Upon completion of this program, students receive an Associate degree. Many enter the job market after this program, while others enroll in four-year universities or colleges to continue their studies. The courses from two-year colleges are accepted by four-year universities and colleges, and often students do not need to retake courses. Generally, the first year and even part of the second year of university education in America are allocated to general subjects such as English, mathematics, sciences, history, psychology, etc. Specialized courses are often offered in the last two years of the bachelor's program. Therefore, students from local colleges who intend to continue their education complete their general courses at these colleges. The benefits of studying at two-year colleges, which have recently gained significant popularity in America, include their proximity to residence, lower educational costs, and ease of admission.