The Problem with Rankings and the

Concept of “Fit” in U.S. Higher

Education

University Guidance Conference, Mumbai

27 August, 2016

Patricia W. Croom, Ph.D.

Associate Director for International Admissions

The Rankings Landscape

The U.S. Rankings Landscape

The U.S. Rankings Landscape

The U.S. Rankings Landscape

U.S. Rankings – Road to Scandal

Rankings – the Counter Arguments

Rankings – the Counter Arguments

CEO/Chairman Company Bachelor’s Degree Larry Page Google University of Michigan Mark Palmer Nike Penn State University Warren Buffett Berkshire

Hathaway University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Tim Cook Apple Auburn University A.G. Lafley Proctor and

Gamble Hamilton College

Jeremy Stoppelman

YELP University of Illinois

Howard Schultz Starbucks Northern Michigan University Bob Iger The Walt Disney

Company Ithaca College

Doug McMillon Wal-mart Stores University of Arkansas SOURCE: http://www.investopedia.com/articles/professionals/102015/americas-top-ceos-and-their-college-degrees.asp

Rankings – The Counter Arguments

SOURCE: timeshighereducation.com

The Concept of “Fit”

Factors in “Fit” – Majors (Courses)

Factors in “Fit” – Opportunities for Enhanced

Learning

Factors in “Fit” – Size and Location

Factors in “Fit” – Support Environment

Factors in “Fit” – Other Activities

Concept of “Fit” – How do I know it’s right?

Question and Answer

Dr. Patricia (Patty) Croom

croom@msu.edu