<p>It seems like every school we read about has "one of the best" communications or political science or whatever departments. Does anyone know what sources colleges use to make that claim? Does it matter? When a student is considering the rankings and academics is it better to select a school for its overall standing or for the ranking of a specific school or program?</p>
<p>IMHO, departmental rankings matter more for graduate or professional school than for undergrad--especially since so many students change their majors while in college.</p>
<p>I agree with ivyqueen except for communications, I know it does matter. You hear USC, NYU, Emerson, Syracuse...I don't know in this area. Prob same with poly sci. I'm just a parent that can't comprehend that a graduating HS student has a preferrence!
Why oh why can't she have even an inkling?</p>
<p>In general I agree with Ivyqueen as well, but direct comparisons can reveal some real differences among departments at different schools.</p>
<p>Aren't most of those types of rankings done via peer surveys? </p>
<p>Are you a really really small mom, or are you from Minnesota? :)</p>