Sample Questions to ask Admissions Counselors or Program Directors
I have written about the importance of determining which schools have what you are looking for in a program. The following questions can be used while on campus touring or as a guide for online research. In any case, these questions are my way of reminding you that you are the customer and the colleges need to demonstrate that they are keeping up with industry trends while also providing a deep and rigorous education.
Who are the instructors? What is their background and industry experience?
What is the student-faculty ratio?
What programs are available in my area of interest? What types of courses are offered?
How difficult is it for students to register for required courses?
How flexible is the curriculum? Can I design my own program? Can I take classes outside of my major?
What percentage of your students return after their freshman year? Sophomore year?
Can the student sit in on a freshman class when they visit the school?
What are the admissions requirements: Standardized tests? Portfolios? Essays? Interview? Letters of recommendation? Does the school offer financial aid and merit scholarships?
Does the school provide all of the necessary equipment needed for the student to learn and work in their field? Are there enough studio and/or rehearsal spaces and adequate resources for the students?
Who are their students? How many undergraduate vs. graduate students are there?
Does the school offer opportunities to study abroad?
Does the school invite industry members to talk to classes about their fields?
Does the school provide a list of recent graduates, where they are working and/or provide access to current students or graduates for opinions of the school and program?
Does the school have an ongoing advisory board with industry members to help review course materials and changes to the industry?
Are career services offered to help students develop the knowledge, experience and skills to build and sustain a professional practice and become successfully employed?
Does the school promote their graduates to the industry through organized interviews, student showcases, etc.? Is there a system in place where industry members are given an opportunity to interview graduates?
What percentage of graduates goes immediately to work in their field? What percentage goes on to graduate school?