Undergrad in the UK or the USA

In summary, the undergraduate courses at universities in the UK and US differ in a few ways. For example, the course framework at the two universities may be different.
  • #1
bkvitha
77
0
Hello there

I've heard that undergraduate course in Physics/Maths/Eng in universities in UK and US differ in a few ways. I could search through the websites of renowned Universities of both these countries, unfortunately, I have a big exam coming up soon, and do not have much time to do this comparison.
I was wondering if anyone could inform me how different and in what ways are they so different?


thankx a bunch!

ps
hope this thread would not start some sort of debate between british n american grads/professors/lecturers of
 
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  • #2
bkvitha said:
I could search through the websites of renowned Universities of both these countries, unfortunately, I have a big exam coming up soon, and do not have much time to do this comparison.

Translation: "My time is too valuable to do the work myself. But yours isn't."

I don't think you are likely to get as large a response with this tactic than with perhaps other choices you might have made.
 
  • #3
Its better to hear from the people who are and have been in that side of life already , right? especially if they are a part of the teaching/academia and scholars... experience counts...

well, an advise when you are free will surely help me. thanks
 
  • #4
If you live in Europe or the United States, one choice is probably much cheaper. Unless your family has millions of dollars, why not just go with the cheapest option?
 
  • #5
uman said:
If you live in Europe or the United States, one choice is probably much cheaper. Unless your family has millions of dollars, why not just go with the cheapest option?

If you're going to a private university in America, you definitely don't need millions of dollars to have it cost as much or more than paying full tuition at a school in the UK
 
  • #6
So go to a public one.
 
  • #7
Are you going to pursue Graduate School? In the US?

If you are planning to pursue graduate school in the US you should most likely go to a US school. Your recommenders will be more saccharine and the admissions committee will be more likely to be familiar with your school.
 
  • #8
I might pursue grad school in the US. How much do UK and US undergrad schools differ in terms of the syllabus.

I've looked at the course framework of a number of leading universities in both countries:
picked two of my choices(they are the "biggies" i know,no harm trying):

http://physics.berkeley.edu/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=180&Itemid=422

http://www.cam.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate/courses/natsci/outline.html

(the major is in physics)

please let me know your view.

By the way, j93, uman and office shredder, thank you.
 

Related to Undergrad in the UK or the USA

1. What are the main differences between pursuing an undergraduate degree in the UK and the USA?

There are several key differences between studying for an undergraduate degree in the UK and the USA. The most notable difference is the length of the programs - undergraduate degrees in the UK typically take three years to complete, while in the USA they usually take four years. Additionally, the structure of the degree programs may vary, with the UK following a more specialized and focused curriculum while the USA offers a more broad and diverse range of courses. The cost of tuition is also a significant difference, with UK universities generally being more affordable for international students compared to US universities.

2. How do the admissions processes differ for undergraduate programs in the UK and the USA?

The admissions process for undergraduate programs in the UK and USA are quite different. In the UK, students typically apply directly to the university they wish to attend and are accepted based on their academic qualifications and personal statement. In the USA, students usually apply to multiple universities through a centralized application system, and admissions decisions are based on a combination of academic performance, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation.

3. Are there any language requirements for international students applying to undergraduate programs in the UK and the USA?

Yes, both the UK and the USA have language requirements for international students applying to undergraduate programs. In the UK, students from non-English speaking countries are typically required to provide proof of proficiency in English through standardized tests such as IELTS or TOEFL. In the USA, international students may also be required to take an English proficiency test, but some universities may waive this requirement if the student has completed their high school education in an English-speaking country.

4. Can I transfer credits between UK and US universities if I decide to switch countries during my undergraduate studies?

It is possible to transfer credits between UK and US universities, but it ultimately depends on the individual universities and their policies. Some universities may have established partnerships or agreements that make credit transfers easier, while others may not accept credits from a different country. It is important to research and consult with both universities before making a decision to transfer.

5. Are there any cultural differences I should be aware of when considering pursuing an undergraduate degree in the UK or the USA?

Yes, there are cultural differences between the UK and the USA that may impact your experience as an international student. These differences can range from daily customs and social norms to the education system itself. It is important to research and familiarize yourself with the culture of the country you are considering studying in to ensure a smooth transition and successful academic experience.

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