<p>I am very interested in U of Chicago for undergrad sciences (specifically chemistry). The atmosphere, academics, and rep it has would probably fit me well. However, I am a little concerned at the undergrad programs there being second banana to the graduate ones. The ratio of undergrad students to grad ones is about 1:3, I believe. I know Princeton Review put Chicago as #1 for undergrad education this year, but I never put too much stock in outright rankings. Is U of Chicago much more grad focused that the ranking says, especially in terms of the undergrad scientific research opportunities available, or are there so many grad students there for some other reason?</p>
<p>i'm no expert on this, but i'm pretty sure the undergrad and the graduate students aren't exactly brushing shoulders in class, battling for resources and the professors intention. so you don't really have to worry about getting "pushed to the side" or something.</p>
<p>Actually, one of my teachers, who is an alum, has told me that one of the things he valued most about his undergraduate experience at UChicago was being able to take classes with graduate students as an upper classman, having access to their courses, and they to his. He said he was exposed to so much more than he could have been, in consequence. He also said that the graduate students did not necessarily receive more attention in class, in fact, the classes were really integrated. I found this piece of information pretty enticing, and I think it's good to know, as I also was once concerned by the difference in grad. and undergrad. populations.</p>
<p>Uchicago is NOT a school where you will feel an overwhelming focus on grad students.</p>
<p>All the undergrad courses are taught by real professors and they actually care about educating undergrad. There are tons of research opportunities for undergrad and there is no discounting that 4:1 faculty to student ratio.</p>
<p>i know that the undergrad pop is ~4100 and the grad pop is ~9000.</p>
<p>thanks for all the info</p>
<p>Interestingly, my D, a first year, is taking a seminar course this spring with both first years and grad students. The prof in charge has made sure the grad students do not overwhelm or intimidate the undergrads. For instance, one grad student seems to like to stump the undergrads. When my D presented, she asked a tough question, beyond the knowledge of an undergrad. The prof answered.</p>
<p>I agree whole heartedly with Sarahbara. Part of the reason that UChi students are so prepared for grad school is that they are pushed to learn at a graduate level. By being exposed to grad classes and working alongside more experienced students will really allow to come to a true understanding by learning from not only your teachers but from those around you.</p>