To Rank Overall or Subject-Specific: Which Matters More to Employers?
The age-old debate over whether to prioritize the overall ranking of a university or the subject-specific ranking can be particularly pressing when it comes to job prospects. The answer lies in the unique context of the higher education system in the country of interest, particularly regarding the flexibility of changing degree courses. This article explores the nuances of these rankings and their significance to employers, backed by insights from various educational systems, including the United States and the United Kingdom.
The Importance of Overall vs. Subject-Specific Rankings
When it comes to enrolling in a university, the ranking of the institution might be crucial. However, the decision between an overall ranking and a subject-specific ranking can vary significantly depending on the country and the adaptability of the student in choosing their field of study.
In the United States, where changing degree courses is more common, the general ranking of the university can carry more weight. Employers are likely to view graduates from prestigious institutions more favorably, regardless of the specific subject they majored in. On the other hand, in countries like the United Kingdom, where students typically apply for a specific subject and changing degrees is less common, the subject-specific ranking should weigh more heavily.
Context-Specific Considerations for Undergraduate and Graduate Education
For undergraduate studies, the general ranking of the university still holds significant value due to the flexibility of changing majors. However, it is essential not to neglect the subject-specific ranking, as demonstrated by the case of a student who needed specific A levels to gain admission to an engineering program but could only find a place at a university with a good overall ranking but lower in engineering.
Similarly, for graduate school, the subject ranking becomes paramount. Majors like engineering, where the specific institutional expertise directly influences professional opportunities, tend to prioritize subject-specific rankings. Conversely, fields that are not immediately relevant to immediate employment, such as teaching certificates or management roles, might benefit more from overall university rankings.
Performance of Ranking Systems: US News World Report (USNWR)
It is worth noting that not all ranking systems are created equal. For instance, the USNWR general national ranking has been criticized for lacking depth and credibility. However, the USNWR global ranking does offer a more reliable metric, reflecting performance across various dimensions.
Specialist Versus General Fields and University Choices
The choice between a university ranked highly overall versus one that excels in a specific subject can also vary depending on the student's intended career path. In specialist fields like engineering, a university's excellent ranking in that subject can significantly influence professional opportunities and networking. However, in less specialized areas, the overall university ranking might be more important.
For instance, an engineering graduate seeking a job in the same field is likely to benefit greatly from attending a university with a strong reputation in that subject. On the other hand, a graduate in a less specialized field might find that a well-regarded overall university could provide more comprehensive and broadly applicable skills, which can be advantageous in diverse job markets.
Conclusion
The decision between prioritizing an overall university ranking or a subject-specific ranking ultimately depends on the specific context and the student's anticipated career path. In the United States, the overall ranking is often more influential, while in countries like the United Kingdom, subject-specific rankings tend to carry more weight.
Regardless of the country, it is crucial for students to consider both rankings and weigh them according to their personal goals and career aspirations. A well-rounded approach, taking into account the strengths of both types of rankings, can lead to a better-informed decision and a smoother path to success in the job market.
Keywords: university ranking, subject ranking, graduate school, higher education, job prospects