I’m an incoming undergrad student looking to get into journalism or diplomacy and holding offers from both Oxford (modern languages) and Columbia (you go in undeclared, but probably political science with a minor in comparative lit or languages). Is either stronger for the field I am looking to get into?
Sounds like Columbia gives you more options for pursuing the the more specific degree of your choice.
The biggest difference in my mind is whether you want (or need) a general liberal education (provided by Columbia’s Core curriculum) or whether you believe specialization is right for you at this stage of your development. Obviously both schools are remarkable, but the UK model does not provide general education beyond your major (one reason it’s just three years for undergrad, in fact).
I’ve counseled students in both directions; it just depends on you and what will be best for your particular needs and goals. @bayfox
Oh, and congrats on such enviable options!
@marvin100, Modern Languages is a 4 year program- you spend a year abroad in your target language.
OP, what nationality/nationalities are you? If you are a US citizen, then you are more likely to get journalism internships- which are an essential element in that field- in the US than the UK. Similarly, diplomacy (state department?) without any political science background is harder, and again any internships will be in the US.
Although Columbia has the famous core, it is still a much broader program than Oxford. Look at your required classes at both unis and see what gets you excited.
@collegemom3717 - thanks for the clarification! The kids I’ve known who have gone to Ox have read PPE, Law, and History.