Why confusing course ranking with college/university ranking? What is the difference between both?

Searching for a dream degree in a dream university takes one to a point where search takes on a path that shows an image for a difference in the subject’s individual ranking and the university’s overall ranking. Do not let these confusions limit your options. Let’s understand how a lower-ranking institution can offer the highest ranking subject.

Overall ranking is like a reputation parameter or a filter for us to make a decision for selecting a specific university. But when we focus on the subject ranking, that takes us to some unrecognized institutions that offer world-class programs in particular fields of study. When you are looking for undergraduate admissions, university ranking is important. But for master, professional and PhD admission, one should consider subject ranking.

Now the question is, where can you get to know the ranking of subjects and universities from? There are different bodies that help you get first-hand information. To name a few are Times Higher Education, QS World University Ranking and US News.

A quick peek into how lesser-known universities can offer the world’s best programs:

• Wageningen University & Research (Netherland) ranked 123^rd globally, but the programs in Agriculture & Forestry ranked #1.
• As per QS World Ranking, the University of Sussex (UK) ranked 246^th and Development Studies ranked 9^th.
• University College London ranked 323^rd globally yet ranked 6^th in London and for International Relation and Diplomacy ranked 35^th
• Queensland University of Technology (Australia) ranked 213^th globally but ranked in the top 50 for Communication & Media Studies.

The above mentioned examples show that focusing only on university ranking will cause you to overlook exceptional programs that are perfectly aligned with your academic goal and career aspiration. When you take subject ranking into consideration, you will be able to find hidden gems in your field of interest. Also, you can potentially save on tuition costs. Learning under the industry experts will help you gain a competitive edge in a specific industry.

So do not limit yourself; explore more options with the subject ranking in the major you dream to study. Take advice from a genuine consultant who introduces you to this side of research for a mindful decision for education and career.