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The 35 Most Amazing Libraries In The World

Site Administrator — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 17:52:40 +0000

With education as our focus here at The Best Colleges, we obviously love libraries. College libraries, public libraries, private libraries, it doesn’t matter, we think they are all awesome. With that in mind we’ve done hours of research trying to find the most interesting libraries in the world, and come up with these 35 that we thought were especially noteworthy. We’ve tried to balance our list between architecturally interesting libraries and libraries with interesting collections, but most of these libraries are actually fascinating in both respects. We’d love to spend a day in any of these libraries, and we hope you’ll agree.

35. National Library, Minsk, Belarus

One of the most distinctive libraries on our list, the National Library of Belarus is shaped like a Rhombicuboctahedron (here’s what a rhombicuboctahedron is, just in case you’re not a mathematician.) The building is 22 stories tall, and was opened in 2006, although the library has been in operation since 1922. The Library is the copyright library of Belarus, and is an attraction in Minsk, featuring a public observation deck and public concerts on its lawn. The Library holds over 8 million items, and has the third largest collection of Russian works in the world.

34. University of Coimbra General Library, Coimbra, Portugal

The University of Coimbra General Library has been in operation since the early 16th century. Inventories for the library exist from the years 1513 and 1532, and show that the library at the time held more than 120 manuscripts. The The Library was definitely established in 1537, and today holds over a million books, with a separate building for pre-19th century books. This is the Biblioteca Joanina, and its architecture is done in majestic Baroque style. The Library is open every day to the public.

33. The National Library of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore

The National Library of Singapore is located a 16 story tall building, recently built in 2005. The library has over 200,000 books and also has a performing arts center with a 615 seat theater. The building is adorned with multiple gardens that feature views of the city of Singapore.

32. Stockholm Public Library, Stockholm, Sweden

The Stockholm Public Library is one of Stockholm’s most notable buildings. The library was opened in 1928 and designed by Gunnar Asplund, one of Sweden’s most important modern architects. The interior of the main part of the building is a rotunda, giving visitors a visually pleasing view of many of the library’s shelves along the rotunda walls. The Stockholm Public Library holds more than 2 million volumes and over 2.4 million mixed media items.

31. Rijkmuseum Library, Amsterdam, Netherlands

The Rijkmuseum Library is part of the Dutch National Museum located in Amsterdam. The library is focused on art history and holds over 350,000 volumes. Interestingly, the online catalog of the Rijkmuseum Library has on display over 140,000 monographs, 20,000 art sale catalogs, and 3,200 magazines. The library is open to the publicm and although books and magazines can’t be checked out, they can be viewed in the reading room.

30. José Vasconcelos Library, Mexico City, Mexico

The José Vasconcelos Library, located in Mexico City, unfortunately had some stumbling blocks in its construction that led to the library being closed for 22 months from 2007 until 2008, but the building is phenomenal, and I have to agree with former Mexican president Vicente Fox who called it one of the most advanced constructions of the 21st century. The library cost nearly $100 million to build, and was was the largest infrastructure investment for the Fox administration that spanned 2000-2006. The shelving of the library is visually impressive and complemented by several incredible sculptures including one by artist Gabriel Orozco called Ballena that is a painted genuine whale skeleton.

29. Herzog August Library, Wolfenbüttel, Germany

The Herzog August Library was founded in 1572 by a German Duke, and by the 17th century it was one of the largest libraries in Europe. The Library’s collection is over 900,000 books, more than a third of which were printed from the 15th to the 18th century. The Library is internationally known for its Middle Ages and Early modern Europe collection.

28. The Library of Alexandria, Alexandria, Egypt

The Library of Alexandria was the greatest library in antiquity, and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The new Library of Alexandria is a memorial to that library, and an attempt at rebuilding. The Library cost $220 million to build and was completed in 2002. The Library doubles as a cultural center, and contains a planetarium, a manuscript restoration lab, art galleries and exhibition space, museums, a conference center, and niche libraries for children, young adults, and the blind. Currently the Library contains over 500,000 books, but there is shelf space for over 8 million, leaving plenty of room for addition.

27. Phillips Exeter Academy Library, Exeter, New Hampshire

The Phillips Exeter Academy Library is the largest secondary school library in the world. This is one of the most impressive libraries on our list, in a way, since it’s merely a part of a prep school (albeit one of the most wealthy prep schools in the world.) The architect of the Library was Louis Kahn, and the the structure has won numerous architectural awards, including a Twenty-five Year Award by the American Institute of Architects (given to no more than one building a year). The Library was commemorated on a US Postal Service stamp in 2005 as one of the Postal Services twelve Masterworks of Modern American Architecture.

26. George Peabody Library, Baltimore, Maryland

The George Peabody Library is the research library of Johns Hopkins University, and was originally the Peabody Institute Library, an institution that was meant to be a cultural center for Baltimore. The Library was a part of the Institute from 1878 until 1967 when it became owned by the city of Baltimore, eventually passing to Johns Hopkins in 1982 where it now holds the University’s special collections. Many of the collection’s titles date to the 19th century and the library has one of the world’s foremost collections of Don Quixote editions. The building was described by the first Peabody provost as a “cathedral of books.” The interior features a 61 foot high atrium, a beautiful black and white marble floor, and many balconies and golden columns. The library is open to browsers.

25. Wiblingen Monastery Library, Ulm, Germany

The Wiblingen Monastery was founded in 1093, and remodeled in the Baroque style in the 18th century. The Library is notable to art historians because of it’s rich ornamentation and beautiful fresco ceiling. Before entering the Library visitors see the inscription “In quo omnes thesauri sapientiae et scientiae” which means “In which are stored all treasures of knowledge and science”, a perfect quote for any library. The Library imagery is full of knowledge related imagery, both Pagan and Christian. The Library is open to the public and guided tours are available.

24. Chateau de Chantilly Library, Chantilly, France

Another library on our list with a Gutenberg bible, the Chateau de Chantilly library is part of a French estate that also includes one of France’s most important art galleries. The main part of the estate (Grand Chateau) was built in 1528-1531 with the other attached building (Petit Chateu) being built in 1560. The Grand Chateau was destroyed during the French Revolution and later entirely rebuilt from 1875-1881. The library of the estate contains over 1300 manuscripts and 12,500 printed works, including the aforementioned Gutenberg Bible (one of more than 700 incunabula), and roughly 200 medieval manuscripts. The library is often open to the public for guided tours.

23. State Library of Victoria, Melbourne, Australia

The State Library of Victoria was founded in 1854, and now holds over 1.5 million books, and has special collections dealing with chess, the arts, the diaries of Melbourne’s founders, and the folios of Captain James Cook. The centerpiece of the library is the LaTrobe Reading Room, a soaring octagonal space that has room for over 1 million books and 500 researchers or readers. At the time of completion, the LaTrobe Reading Room was the largest dome in the world.

22. Salt Lake City Public Library, Salt Lake City, Utah

The Salt Lake City Public Library’s main library is a unique building built in 2003 that features a beautiful five story curved glass wall that ends in a 20,000 sq ft skylight, following the architect’s commitment to focusing on natural lighting. The top of the building is also in use with a rooftop garden planted with trees and flowers. The Library holds more than 500,000 books, and has a large collection of zines.

21. Strahov Monastery Library, Prague, Czech Republic

The Strahov Monastery Library, located in Prague, is contained within the Strahov Monastery that was founded in 1149. The main portions of the library are the Theological Hall, built in 1679, and the Philosopical Hall completed in 1779. The monastery was occupied by the communist government starting in 1950, and was transformed into the Museum of National Literature. When the Communist regime fell out of power in 1989 the monastery and Library were returned to the Premonstratesian order, who set about restoring the Library, leading to the impressive structure that can be seen today. The Library holds more than 110,000 volumes, over 1200 of which are incunabula.

20. Melk Monastery Library, Melk, Austria

The Melk Abbey was founded in 1089, and shortly thereafter a school was founded which led to the library’s formation in the 12th century. The Melk Library quickly became one of the largest manuscript holders in the world, and was also majorly involved in the production of manuscripts. The Library features a high ceiling adorned with beautiful frescos painted by Paul Troger. Today the Library is still renowned for its collection of medieval manuscripts and also has a prominent collection of musical manuscripts.

19. Danish Royal Library, Copenhagen, Denmark

The Danish Royal Library is the national library of Denmark and was founded in 1648 by King Frederik III. The library holds all works that have been printed in Denmark since the 17th century, and nearly every Danish book ever written resides in the library, back to the first Danish book that was printed in 1482. The Danish Royal Library is the largest library in the Nordic countries. Many significant works are held here, including the correspondence of Hans Christian Anderson, historical maps of the Polar Region, and the Arnamagnæan Manuscript Collection, named for the Icelandic scholar Arnas Magnæus who spent much of his life building a collection of manuscripts from Iceland, Norway, Denmark, and Sweden until his death in 1730.

18. Trinity College Library (“The Long Room”), Dublin, Ireland

The Trinity College Library in Dublin is the largest library in Dublin, and fulfills many of the same functions for Ireland that the Library of Congress fulfills for the United States. The Library actually consists of four separate buildings, but we are concerned here with the old Trinity College Library, built in 1732. The “Long Room” in the Old Library is one of Ireland’s biggest tourist draws and houses the Book of Kells (a beautiful Gospel book created by Celtic monks roughly around 800) and many other very early works.

17. Jay Walker’s Private Library

Jay Walker is an American inventor and entrepreneur who has used his wealth to develop a notable private library. Walker has dubbed his Library “The Walker Library of the History of Human Imagination.” The Library is located in his Connecticut home and contains more than 50,000 books including many early works and museum worthy items. The architecture is a multi-level design inspired by the surreal works of M.C. Escher. Wired called the library “the most amazing library in the world” and Walker has discussed the library in a TED talk. Unfortunately, the library is not open to the public, but Walker has been known to host notable public figures.

16. The Morgan Library & Museum, NY, NY, USA

The Morgan Library & Museum was formed in 1906 to hold the private collection of banking magnate J.P. Morgan. The library housed his collection of manuscripts, printed books, prints, and drawings. The library has many illumninated manuscripts, incunabula, and many original manuscripts, including works by Sir Walter Scott and de Balzac. There are also notable drawings of many notable artists, including Leonardo, Raphael, Picasso, Michelangelo, and Rembrandt. Other interestings holdings of the Morgan Library include scraps of paper that Bob Dylan used to write down “Blowin’ in the Wind”, concept drawings for Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s The Little Prince, and a Charles Dickens manuscript of A Christmas Carol.

15. Library of the Benedictine Monastery, Admont, Austria

The Library of the Benedictine Monastery is the largest monastery library in the world. The Library holds 70,000 volumes, including 1,400 manuscripts and 900 incunables. Some of the manuscripts were gifted by the Monastery’s founder Archbishop Gebhard, who founded the Monastery in 1074. The ceiling of the Library is made of seven cupolas, all decorated with elaborate frescoes by Bartolomeo Altomonte that display the progression of human knowledge. The design of the Library is heavily influenced by the Enlightenment.

14. National Library of Sweden, Stockholm, Sweden

The National Library of Sweden is responsible for preserving all Swedish printed and A/V material and holds more than 20 million objects. There has been some form of National Library in Sweden since the 1500s and was expanded early on by purchases of collections from Swedish monasteries that were dissolved in the Reformation and later via war spoils from the Thirty Years War. The Library obtained the library of Würzburg and the royal library of Prague during this war, and notably also obtained a 13th century copy of the “Devil’s Bible” (which can be viewed online here.)

13. Austrian National Library, Vienna, Austria

Much like the Library of Congress, the Austrian National Library is responsible for the collection of all publications that appear in Austria. The Library has many important works including the world’s foremost Globe collection, rare books dating from the 4th century, including a UNESCO Memory of the World Programme item (the Vienna Dioscurides, a 6th century illuminated manuscript that deals with medicine and healing), and a map collection that includes maps dating as far back as the 16th century. The library is currently housed in the Hofburg Palace and the baroque Palais Mollard-Clary, and was originally housed in the Prunksaal, a magnificent building with beautiful frescoes.

12. Abbey Library of Saint Gall, St. Gallen, Switzerland

The Abbey Library of Saint Gall is the oldest library in Switzerland and holds about 160,000 volumes. The library was founded by Saint Othmar, who founded the Abbey of St. Gall in 719. This is one of the oldest monastery libraries in the world, and holds manuscripts from as far back as the 8th century. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization named the library a World Heritage site in 1983, calling it a “a perfect example of a great Carolingian monastery”. Many of the rare manuscripts that the library holds can be accessed through this website, and the public is welcome to use the library, although pre-1900 books must be read on site.

11. Seattle Central Library, Seattle, WA

The Seattle Central Library opened in 2004 and features a beautiful glass and steel modern design created by architects Rem Koolhaas and Joshua Prince-Ramus of OMA/LMN. The goal of the design was to make an inviting open and airy space, avoiding the popular perception of libraries as dark and stuffy. The library can hold up to 1.45 million books and materials, and serves over 2 million patrons a year.

10. Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library, Toronto, Canada

The Thomas Fisher Rare Book library is the largest rare book collection in Canada. The library is affiliated with the University of Toronto. The collection includes numerous notable works, including Newton’s Principia (1687), Shakespeare’s First Folio, the Nuremberg Chronicle (1493), and a Babylonian cueniform tablet that dates to 1789 BC. The library also contains a large and notable collection donated by a man named Robert S. Kenny, who was a Communist Party of Canada member. The collection is made up of over 25,000 items dealing with labor movements worldwide, with a particular emphasis on Canada.

9. New York Public Library, New York, New York

The New York Public Library is awe inspiring in its scope and breadth. It is the the third largest library in North America, has over 50 million items in its collection, and consists of 87 libraries serving 3.5 million people. The Rose Main Reading Room features grand windows and chandaliers, as well as a beautiful gilded and painted ceiling. The Library special collections include the first Gutenberg Bible to come to America, and a special emphasis on Americana. The Library is one of the most recognizable on our list, with multiple appearances in feature films, with its inclusion as a key setting in the film “The Day After Tomorrow” and as the setting of a significant portion of the movie “Ghostbusters”.

8. Library of Parliament, Ottawa, Canada

The Library of Parliament in Ottawa, Canada is a Canadian landmark, so much so that it adorns the back of the Canadian ten dollar bill. The building was inspired by the British Museum Reading Room. The walls of the Library are supported by 16 flying buttresses, and the main reading room has a vaulted ceiling complementing the walls and stacks which featured white pine paneling with beautifully detailed carvings of flowers, masks, textures, and mythical creatures. The collection of the Library consists of over 600,000 items, curated by a staff of 300. Access to the facility is generally restricted to Canadian parliamentary business, but tours are often made available.

7. Boston Public Library

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The Boston Public Library is the first publicly supported library in the US. It was established in 1848 and has since grown to its present collection size of 22 million items, which makes it the second largest library in the United States. The Central Library consists of two buildings, the Johnson Building and the beautiful McKim Building. The McKim building houses the library’s research collection and exhibitions. It was built in 1895 and contains many beautiful murals, including Edward Abbey’s most famous that depicts the legend of the Holy Grail. The main room of the McKim building is Bates Hall which has an amazing coffered ceiling. The research collection at McKim is made up of over 1.7 million rareties, including many medieval manuscripts, incunabula, early Shakespeare that includes a First Folio, colonial Boston records, a major Daniel Defoe collection, and the libraries of many famous men of history including John Adams, William Lloyd Garrison, and Nathaniel Bowditch.

6. National Library of St. Mark’s, Venice, Italy

The National Library of St. Mark’s is a Renaissance building and is home to one of the most important classical texts collection on earth. The Library was built over a lengthy period of time and began in 1537, but the collection began as early as 1468 when Cardinal Bessarion gifted his collection of 250 manuscripts and 750 codices. Beginning in 1603 a law was created that required one copy of all books printed in Venice to be housed at the National Library. The Library today holds more than a million books, over 13,000 manuscripts, 2883 incunabula, and more than 24,000 16th century works.

5. Vatican Library, Vatican City, Rome

The Vatican Library is the library of the Holy See and one of the oldest libraries in the world. It was established in 1475, but existed in early forms roughly since the beginning of the Catholic Church. The library has added to its collection over the years primarily through bequests and gifts. The Vatican Library currently holds over 1.1 million books, 75,000 manuscripts, and over 8,500 incunabula. The library owns the oldest complete manuscript of the Bible and many other important medieval works.

4. Yale University Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, New Haven, CT

The Yale University Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library is the largest building in the world that has the express purpose of preserving rare books and manuscripts. The library’s holdings are incredible and include special collections of numerous important writers including Rudyard Kipling, D.H. Lawrence, Sinclair Lewis, and Joseph Conrad. The central shelving area of Beinecke is a beautiful structure with glass walls and soft lighting that protect the works from direct light. The library is accessible to the public and it’s exhibition hall displays many of the library’s rare works, including an original Gutenberg Bible, one of only 48 copies.

3. Reading Room at the British Museum, London, England

The Reading Room at the British Museum is found in the center of the Great Court of the British Museum. The structure has a domed roof, and the ceiling is made of a kind of papier-mâché. For much of the Room’s history, access was only granted to registered researches, and during this period many notable figures studied at the Library, including Karl Marx, Oscar Wilde, Mahatma Ghandi, Rudyard Kipling, George Orwell, Mark Twain, Lenin, and H.G. Wells. The Library’s collection was moved to the new British Library in 2000 and the Reading Room now houses an information center and a curated collection of books relating to history, art, travel and other subjects relevant to the collection’s of the British Museum. Right now, and since 2006, the Reading Room has been housing a temporary exhibition centered around China’s famous Terracotta Army

2. Bodleian Library, Oxford, UK

The Bodleian Library is the library of the University of Oxford. It was established in 1602, making it one of the oldest libraries in Europe. The Library has over 11 million items, and many, many items of historical import, including four copies of the Magna Carta, a Gutenberg Bible, and Shakespeare’s First Folio (from 1623.) The Library consists of multiple buildings, perhaps the most visually interesting of which is Radcliffe Camera, built in 1737-1749 to house the Radcliffe Science Library. It’s the earliest circular library in England, and has appeared in multiple films, including “Young Sherlock Holmes”, “The Saint”, “The Red Violin”, and “The Golden Compass”.

1. Library of Congress, Washington D.C.

The Library of Congress is essentially the national library of the United States and the oldest federal cultural institution in the US. The library consists of three different buildings and is the largest library in the world as measured by shelf space and number of volumes. The library is open to the public, but as the research institution of Congress only members of Congress (and Supreme Court justices and certain other government officials) may check out books. Interestingly, the library serves a function as the “library of last resort” in the US, making certain items available to other United States libraries if they are not available via other means. The holdings of the library are impressive and varied, and include over 32 million books, more than 61 million manuscripts, a rough draft of the Declaration of Independence, a perfect vellum copy of the Gutenberg Bible (one of only four in the world), over 1 million newspapers from the last three centuries, over 5 million maps, 6 million pieces of sheet music, and more than 14 millions photos and prints.

Top 10 Online Master’s in Counseling Degree Programs of 2011-2012

Site Administrator — Sun, 02 Oct 2011 23:00:31 +0000

Counselors are in high demand. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for licensed professional counselors in every area of specialty are expected to grow at a faster than average rate over the next several years as job openings exceed the number of students graduating from counseling degree programs. Opportunities in certain counseling specialties such as substance abuse and behavioral disorders are expected to grow at a much higher than average rate.

The Value of a Masters in Counseling Degree

A masters degree in counseling is a prerequisite for becoming a licensed counselor in almost every case. An accredited masters in counseling degree will prepare students to sit for the necessary licensing exams and provide them with the knowledge and skills they need to be successful in the field.

Advantages of Online Masters in Counseling Degree Programs

Online counseling degree programs are currently among the most popular online degree programs according to the latest online education statistics. Prospective students seeking an accredited online masters in counseling degree program now have several high quality options to choose from. A number of the top counseling programs in the country are now offered online. Among the advantages of earning a degree from a top online masters in counseling program is that students can maintain their employment and/or family responsibilities while earning their degree. Many of the best online masters in counseling degree programs can be completed entirely online, with practicums and internships arranged in the student’s home community.

How We Rank Online Masters in Counseling Degree Programs

Online colleges and online masters in counseling degree programs vary widely in terms of quality, name recognition, and value. To assist those looking for quality, accredited online masters in counseling programs we’ve put together this ranking of what we consider to be the very best online schools offering masters in counseling degrees online in 2011-2012. Our rankings of the top online schools offering masters in counseling degrees are based on publicly available data evaluated according to several different criteria, including market reputation, accreditation, student satisfaction, ratio of students to instructors, and tuition. All schools in our rankings are regionally accredited, the highest form of accreditation a school can achieve. You can read more about our rankings philosophy and find a list of our other top college and degree rankings on our rankings page.

#1. Walden University Online

Assessment – A private university with an award-winning online division and a reputation for social justice oriented degree programs offers prospective students multiple online masters in counseling programs to choose from.

Program: Walden University offers a 70 quarter credit hour online Master of Science in Career Counseling, as well as 90 quarter credit hour online Master of Science degrees in Mental Health Counseling, and Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling. Further specializations are also available for some of the degree programs. All of the degrees require two 6-day residencies, practicums and an internship in which students learn how to put their theoretical knowledge into practice.

Regional Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Click here to learn more about online degree programs at Walden University

#2. University of the Southwest Online

Assessment – This small, private New Mexico school offers an affordable online masters in counseling with intimate class sizes and a faith-oriented perspective.

Program: University of the Southwest’s online Master of Science in Education Mental Health Counseling is a 48 credit hour degree program designed for students interested in pursuing a career as a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC). Students will develop a thorough knowledge of basic counseling theories and techniques and how to apply them with a diverse range of clients and settings. Practicums and an internship are required and can be completed in a variety of mental health systems as arranged by the student with the approval of the school.

Regional Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Click here to learn more about online degree programs at University of the Southwest

#3. UMass Online

Assessment – This award-winning online degree program at one of America’s top public university systems offers multiple online master’s in counseling degrees to choose from at a very affordable rate.

Program: UMassOnline offers four 60 credit hour online master’s in counseling to choose from: the online Master of Education in School Counseling, the online Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling, the online Master of Science in Family Therapy, and the online Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling. All of the programs work on a cohort model and require a two-week on-campus summer clinical residency. The rest of the work can be completed entirely online.

Regional Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

#4. Seton Hall University Online

Assessment – One of the nation’s premier Catholic universities, Seton Hall is especially well known for its health related degrees and offers those seeking preparation for a career in mental health counseling one of the best online masters in counseling degree programs anywhere.

Program: Seton Hall’s online Master’s in Counseling is a combined Master’s and Education Specialist program. The 60 credit hour online degree program will prepare students with the background, knowledge and clinical experience they need for careers as professional mental health counselors. Two on-campus residencies are required for the completion of the program, allowing students the opportunity to meet and network with their professors and peers.

Regional Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

#5. Sacred Heart University Online

Assessment – Recognized as one of the top master’s level universities in the U.S., this private Catholic school offers a rigorous online masters in psychology with a concentration for those interested in counseling and rehabilitation.

Program: Sacred Heart University’s online Master of Science in Applied Psychology with a Concentration in Community Psychology is a 38 credit hour program designed to prepare students for careers in therapy and counseling or future doctoral work. The program is built on a research-driven core curriculum and takes a scientist-practitioner learning model. All courses are completed entirely online in a part-time format. Students are required to complete a Capstone Experience prior to graduation, composed either of a comprehensive exam or a final research project. No campus visits are required.

Regional Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

#6. University of North Dakota Online

Assessment – For those interested in becoming professional school counselors, this established public university with an international reputation offers one of the best and most affordable online masters degree in counseling with a school counseling emphasis.

Program: The University of North Dakota’s online Master of Arts in Counseling with a K-12 School Emphasis is a 48-50 credit hour degree program designed for working people interested in becoming licensed school counselors. Students will learn through both theoretical inquiry and practical hands-on experience. The degree can be completed entirely online through live web classes offered on evenings and weekends. Two 4-day campus visits are required each summer (a total of four visits).

Regional Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

#7. Grace College Online

Assessment – This small evangelical Christian school offers believing students a hybrid online master’s in counseling degree that integrates a biblical worldview with contemporary psychology.

Program: Grace College’s hybrid online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health is a 62 credit hour program designed to be completed in three years. The program is very strongly religious in outlook with the goal of producing graduates who are scripturally grounded, clinically skilled, inter-personally competent and prepared to work in any number of secular and religious mental health environments. Though most coursework takes place online, some campus visits and an internship are required.

Regional Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

#8. University at Buffalo Online

Assessment – One of the top public universities in the northeast offers an academically rigorous online master’s in rehabilitation counseling program with small class sizes and competitive pricing.

Program: The University at Buffalo’s online Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling is a 48 credit hour program designed for working professionals and those seeking a career change. Graduates are prepared to work with people disabled by physical, mental, emotional, or social conditions to alleviate their psychological, social, vocational, and educational problems. Taking only two courses are semester, students can complete the program in less than three years. Practica, fieldwork and and an internship are required but can be completed in a student’s home community.

Regional Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

#9. LeTourneau University Online

Assessment – An up and coming interdenominational Christian university in Texas offers a quality online master’s in counseling with small class sizes and a dual-track option.

Program: LeTourneau University’s online Master of Arts in Counseling is a 45-48 credit hour program designed to prepare working students to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and/or a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). Students will learn how to think about and practice counseling and therapy from an explicitly Christian perspective. A practicum is required and can be completed in a student’s home community.

Regional Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

#10. Bellevue University Online

Assessment – A leading Midwestern university for adult education provides multiple opportunities for hands-on learning and experience through its affordable online master in counseling program.

Program: Bellevue University’s online Master of Science in Clinical Counseling is a 60 credit hour degree program designed for student’s interested in obtaining their Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (LMHP) or Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner (LIMHP) licensure. At least 6 credits in behavioral sciences and 3 credits in statistics are required as prerequisites. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, requiring students to complete two practicums and two internships prior to graduation.

Regional Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Comparing U.S. News & World Report 2012 Rankings and The Best Colleges Rankings

Site Administrator — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 00:59:23 +0000

With the 2011-2012 edition of The Best Colleges Top 50 Colleges and Universities in America, released last month, our editors sought to produce a college ranking that outperformed the other major ranking systems in terms of measuring what ordinary American students and their parents care the most about. The recent publication of U.S. News & World Report’s 2012 college ranking provides an opportunity to compare and contrast our ranking system with one that many have come to consider the industry standard.

The first major difference between The Best Colleges Top 50 Colleges and Universities in America ranking and the U.S. News & World Report ranking is that The Best Colleges ranking includes schools from all the basic Carnegie Classifications together. U.S. News & World Report publishes separate rankings for each of four categories: National Universities, National Liberal Arts Colleges, Regional Universities, and Regional Colleges. We chose to mix schools from different categories into a single ranking because there is little evidence that college students find the classifications important to their decision about where to go to college. Our research indicates that the most important thing to college students and their parents is finding the best degree at the best college they can afford–whether that is at a National University, Regional University, a Liberal Arts College is hardly relevant to most of them. When schools are ranked in separate categories as U.S. News & World Report does, it is extremely difficult for students make cross-classification comparisons. By ranking schools of all classifications together, The Best Colleges ranking give students and their parents a more comprehensive and relevant look at the higher education landscape in America.

With our country in the midst of one of the worst recessions in years and college tuition continuing to rise at a staggering rate, it isn’t surprising that students and their families want to find schools that won’t take an arm and a leg for tuition and burden graduates with large amounts of student loan debt. They also want to know that when they graduate they will have a good chance of making a decent income. That’s why for The Best Colleges Top 50 Colleges and Universities in America ranking we chose to put a heavy emphasis on economic value, awarding colleges with low tuition, generous financial aid, low cost of living and a track record of graduating students who go on to make a good living. The U.S. News & World Report main rankings don’t take any of these things into account. They do publish a separate Best Value College ranking, but even there they ignore cost of living and graduate salary performance. By emphasizing economic value, The Best Colleges ranking provides a college ranking that not only better reflects the best value colleges, but the values of most ordinary American families.

Finally, The Best Colleges Top 50 Colleges and Universities in America did something that no other college ranking does, including U.S. News & World Report, by taking into account statistical data on the quality of life in each school’s location. We did this out of recognition that a college education doesn’t take place in a vacuum and that students want to know that the place they will be living for the next four (or more) years will be a place where they can hang out and make connections with other young, successful and highly educated people, while not having to go broke to do it. And so in generating our ranking we awarded schools in locations with more youthful, wealthy and highly educated populations and a low cost of living.

You can read a more detailed explanation of the methodology we used in generating The Best Colleges Top 50 Colleges and Universities in America ranking. Also, be sure to check out a full list of our other rankings on our rankings page, including rankings of traditional and online degrees by subject, the top 25 online colleges and universities and the top 25 online MBA programs.

Top 10 Online Master of Health Administration (MHA) and Healthcare Management Degree Programs of 2011-2012

Site Administrator — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 19:25:50 +0000

Healthcare has become one of the largest industries in America, generating some $1.7 trillion annually. With an increasing number of people in the industry expected to retire and a rapidly aging population overall, healthcare workers and administrators are expected to be in high demand. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the employment of medical and health services managers will increase at a faster than average rate over the next several years.

The Value of a Master of Health Administration (MHA) or Healthcare Management Degree

Those with health care experience and solid business management skills will be in the best position to move into administrative and leadership positions. A Master of Health Administration (MHA) or Healthcare Management degree can provides students with these business and management skills, as well as the knowledge they will need to understand and navigate the complex and rapidly-changing medical industry. Graduates will be immediately qualified for leadership positions in hospitals, clinics, retirement communities, ambulatory care centers, rehabilitation and long-term–care facilities, and home healthcare settings.

Advantages of Online Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) and Health Management Degree Programs

Online health administration and healthcare management degree programs are among the most popular online degree programs. Prospective students seeking an accredited online Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) or Health Management degree now have several high quality choices for their education. In fact, many of the very best health administration programs in the country are now offered online. Among the advantages of earning a degree from a top online Master of Health Administration (MHA) program is that students can maintain their employment and/or family responsibilities while earning their degree. Many of the best online Master of Health Administration (MHA) and Healthcare Management degree programs can be completed entirely online.

How We Rank Online Master of Health Administration (MHA) and Healthcare Management Degree Programs

Online colleges and Master of Health Administration (MHA) and Healthcare Management degree programs vary widely in terms of quality, name recognition, and value. To assist those looking for quality, accredited online health administration and health management degree programs, we’ve put together this ranking of what we consider to be the very best online schools offering Master of Healthcare Administration and Health Management degree programs for 2011-2012. Our rankings of the top online schools offering healthcare management and health care administration degrees are based on publicly available data evaluated according to several different criteria, including market reputation, accreditation, student satisfaction, ratio of students to instructors, and tuition. All schools in our rankings are regionally accredited, the highest form of accreditation a school can achieve. You can read more about our rankings philosophy and find a list of our other top college and degree rankings on our rankings page.

Top 10 Online Master of Health Administration (MHA) and Healthcare Management Degree Programs

#1. George Washington University Online

Assessment: GWU is the largest university in Washington, D.C. and one of the top ranked colleges in the country. GWU’s highly regarded School of Business offers an AACSB accredited Healthcare MBA in partnership with the university’s School of Public Health & Health Services that promises high academic standards and the resources to provide personalized attention to students.

Program: George Washington University’s online Healthcare MBA is a 52 credit hour program that can be completed in two years. The program is designed to expand the business and management knowledge of healthcare professionals to prepare them for leadership in a broad range of healthcare and other business environments. All coursework is completed entirely online.

Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB); Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Click here to learn more about online degrees at George Washington University

#2. Vanderbilt University Online

Assessment – Vanderbilt is one of America’s best universities and boasts one of the most highly regarded nursing schools in the world. Their online healthcare management nursing degree isn’t cheap, but offers outstanding quality and a reputation few other programs can match.

Program: Vanderbilt School of Nursing’s online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in Health Systems Management is a 39 credit hour program that can be completed in two years of part-time study. The program is designed to provide nurses with the business and management skills they need to move into management and leadership positions in health care delivery organizations. Students are not required to visit campus. Observations are arranged within student’s geographic region.

Accreditation: National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission (NLNAC); Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Click here to learn more about online degrees at Vanderbilt University School of Nursing

#3. University of Cincinnati Online

Assessment: The University of Cincinnati is one of the top public universities in the country and has been recognized for its strengths in both business and medicine. Top-notch faculty and affordable tuition help make this one of the best online Master of Health (MHA) degree programs.

Program: The University of Cincinnati’s online Master of Health Administration (MHA) program can be completed in 2 1/2 years. Utilizing a competency-based curriculum, students are given a solid grounding in basic business theory, the intricacies of healthcare administration, and essential management skills. All coursework is completed online, but a Health Management Academic Residency is required.

Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Click here to learn more about online degrees at the University of Cincinnati

#4. Northeastern University Online

Assessment: Recognized as a university on the rise, Northeastern has a great reputation and receives more applications than any other private university in the United States. The school’s nationally ranked AACSB accredited College of Business Administration offers students one of the top online Healthcare Management MBAs available.

Program: Northeastern University’s online Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a Healthcare Management specialization is a 50 credit hour program designed for working professionals. Students are trained in the evolution and development of the healthcare industry in order to develop of deep knowledge of the current dynamics at play. A management strategy that takes into account a comprehensive understanding of how all of the various aspects of the healthcare system operate and affect one another is developed. All coursework is completed entirely online.

Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB); New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

Click here to learn more about online degrees at Northeastern University

#5. Saint Joseph’s University Online

Assessment: Saint Joseph’s is a nationally ranked Jesuit university with over 150 years of tradition. Known for its academic rigor and small class sizes, SJU offers one of the very best online Master of Health Administration programs in the country at a reasonable cost.

Program: Saint Joseph’s online Master of Health Administration (MHA) is a 36-42 credit hour program, depending on which specialization a student chooses. The specialization in Informatics (42 hours) allows students to take courses focused on emerging technologies and policies of medical record keeping. A Health Care Ethics specialization (36 hours) provides students with a grounding in moral theory and a framework for ethical decision making in healthcare related issues. Both specializations can be completed entirely online.

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Click here to learn more about online degrees at Saint Joseph’s University

#6. University of North Carolina Chapel Hill Online

Assessment: UNC-Chapel Hill is one of the highest ranked public universities in the country and its Department of Health Policy & Management is ranked among the top two or three. Their academically rigorous online program deserves to be at or near the top of any list of the best online Master of Health Administration degree programs.

Program: UNC-Chapel Hill’s online Executive Master of Health Administration is a 48 credit hour program that can be completed in two years. Students are trained in the communication, analytical, technical, and innovative thinking skills necessary for success in healthcare management and administration. Though most of the coursework is completed online, there are three intensive on-campus “BaseCamp” sessions required per year, each running from 4-6 days.

Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation Healthcare Management Education (CAHME); Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

#7. Boston University Online

Assessment: Boston University is one of the largest private universities in the country and frequently ranked among the top universities in the world for academic quality. The first university to offer a Public Relations degree, BU now offers the first fully online Master of Health Communication degree–an excellent award-winning program for those interested in the communications side of healthcare administration.

Program: Boston University’s online Master of Science in Health Communication is an accelerated 40 credit hour program which can be completed in as little as 18 months. The program is designed to help working students become progressive leaders in health communication, actively shaping private and public perceptions of healthcare and improving healthcare literacy. All courses are completed entirely online.

Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

#8. Quinnipiac University Online

Assessment: Quinnipiac is a small, up and coming university with a nationally ranked Business School. With over 20 years of experience training healthcare administrators, Quinnipiac’s online MBA-Health Care Management Track is a quality, highly respected and competitively priced program.

Program: Quinnipiac University’s online Master of Business Administration (MBA) Health Care Management Track is a 46 credit hour program designed for working adults. The program is designed to ground students in the basics of both business and health care administration to prepare them for management and administrative leadership in all areas of the health care industry. Curriculum is administered through a combination of online lectures, case studies and optional residencies or consulting practicums in an existing healthcare organization.

Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB); New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

#9. University of Scranton Online

Assessment: The University of Scranton is a small, nationally ranked Jesuit university with a over 120 years of history and a commitment to values-based education. Small class sizes, reasonable tuition and a solid reputation puts this AACSB accredited Healthcare Management MBA a great deal.

Program: The University of Scranton’s online Master of Business Administration with a specialization in Healthcare Management is 36 semester credit hour program. The program is designed to provide working professionals with essential business skills and an understanding of the rapidly changing healthcare industry. It takes a Jesuit approach to education, emphasizing social responsibility and ethical decision-making. All courses are completed entirely online with no residencies required.

Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB); Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

#10. Seton Hall University Online

Assessment: Seton Hall is one of the oldest and most prestigious Catholic universities in the country, with an outstanding reputation for its nursing and health programs. Small class sizes and outstanding faculty helps make this one of the best online Master of Health Administration degree programs in the country.

Program: Seton Hall’s online Master of Health Administration is a 42 credit hour degree program that can be completed in two years. The program focuses on six key areas: Understanding the Healthcare Environment, Managing Change, Financial Competencies, Decision Making, and Strategic Leadership and Analysis. It is described as a student-centered program and utilizes a cohort model in which students take courses with the same group of peers throughout the duration of the program. Three on-campus weekend residencies are required.

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Top 10 Online Bachelor of Health Management and Health Administration Degree Programs of 2011-2012

Site Administrator — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 13:12:41 +0000

Health care is a $1.7 trillion industry in America, making up nearly 16 percent of the U.S. gross national product. The health care industry is on the cusp of its largest expansion ever as “Baby Boomers” approach retirement age, which means a new generation of industry leadership is needed. According to a report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics the employment of medical and health services managers is expected to increase at a faster than average rate over the next several years.

The Value of an Online Health Management or Health Administration Degree

Those with health care experience and solid business management skills will be in the best position to move into administrative and leadership positions. An online bachelor’s degree in health management or health administration can provides students with these business and management skills, as well as the knowledge they will need to understand and navigate the complex and rapidly-changing medical industry. Graduates will be immediately qualified for entry-level leadership positions in hospitals, clinics, retirement communities, ambulatory care centers, rehabilitation and long-term–care facilities, and home healthcare settings.

Advantages of Online Health Management and Health Administration Degree Programs

Online health administration and health management degree programs are among the most popular online degree programs. Prospective students seeking an accredited online health management or health administration degree now have several high quality choices for their education. In fact, many of the very best health administration programs in the country are now offered online. Among the many advantages of earning a degree from a top online health management program is that students can maintain their employment and/or family responsibilities while earning their degree. Many of the best online health administration degree programs can be completed entirely online without any campus visits required.

How We Rank Online Health Management and Health Administration Degree Programs

Online colleges and health administration degree programs vary widely in terms of quality, name recognition, and value. To assist those looking for a quality, accredited online health administration degree program, we’ve put together this ranking of what we consider to be the very best online schools offering healthcare administration and health care management degree programs for 2011-2012. Our rankings of the top online schools offering healthcare management and health care administration degrees are based on publicly available data evaluated according to several different criteria, including reputation, accreditation, student satisfaction, ratio of students to instructors, and tuition. All schools in our rankings are regionally accredited, the highest form of accreditation a school can achieve. You can read more about our rankings philosophy and find a list of our other top college and degree rankings on our rankings page.

Top 10 Online Bachelor of Health Management and Health Administration Degree Programs

Note that tuition rates are those listed as of August 2011 and may not include all applicable fees. Also, some of the programs are degree completion programs requiring some prior college credits prior to enrollment.

#1. New England College Online

Assessment – A top-ranked baccalaureate college known for its practical, hands-on approach to learning offers one of the best online bachelor in healthcare administration degree programs at a relatively low cost.

Program: New England College’s online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration is a 69 credit hour degree completion program for students who have completed an associates degree or at least 60 credit hours of college coursework from a regionally accredited school. The program is designed for working students and can be completed entirely online in as little as 18 months. Students wanting to accelerate their degree completion can attend optional on-campus intensive summer and winter study sessions. Graduates will be trained in modern organizational theory and how to apply it in a healthcare context. Students will also learn the financial, legal and policy issues affecting the current healthcare industry.

Regional Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

Click here to learn more about online degrees at New England College

#2. Northeastern University Online

Assessment – The quality and reputation of a leading private university combined with the real-world experience provided by a world-renowned “cooperative” approach to education and relatively low tuition helps make this our top choice for an online bachelor’s in health management.

Program: Northeastern University’s Online Bachelor of Science in Health Management is a 160 quarter hour degree program that can be completed in four years of full-time study or seven years part-time. Students will be trained in the essentials of healthcare management, including finance, policies and procedures, and legal and regulatory procedures, in a cooperative setting that emphasizes hands-on learning and collaboration. More than just learning what to think, students will be taught how to think in order to adapt to a constantly changing healthcare environment. Program is entirely online, with no campus visits required. An accelerated option is available for students with an associates degree or at least 60 hours of college credit.

Regional Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

Click here to learn more about online degrees at Northeastern University

#3. Robert Morris University Online

Assessment – This small but rapidly growing private university known for its professionally-oriented degree programs and a hands-on approach offers one of the top online health services administration programs around but tuition is on the high side.

Program: Robert Morris University’s online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Health Services Administration is a 120 credit hour degree program only offered online. Students get a solid grounding in the liberal arts while developing the knowledge and skills necessary for leadership in the modern health care industry. The program is completed entirely online, with no campus visits required. Some professional health care experience is required for admission to the program.

Regional Accreditation: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.

Click here to learn more about online degrees at Robert Morris University

#4. University of Cincinnati Online

Assessment – A highly regarded public university with an excellent reputation for its healthcare programs offers one of the best and most affordable online bachelor’s in healthcare information management programs in the country.

Program: The University of Cincinnati’s online Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management is a 90 credit hour program designed to prepare working Registered Health Information Technicians (RHITs) to pass the Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) certification exam. The program itself is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM). The program is entirely online and can be completed in 2 1/4 years. Students will be assigned to a small cohort of other learners with whom they will complete the program.

Regional Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

#5. Drexel University Online

Assessment – This highly regarded private university with an award winning online division and a strong interdisciplinary approach offers one of the top online bachelor of health administration programs in the country but is on the pricey side.

Program: Drexel University Online’s online Bachelor of Science in Health Services Administration is a 180 quarter credit (120 semester credit) degree completion program requiring at least 90 quarter credits (60 semester credits) of college work prior to enrollment. Students will learn about both the quantitative and qualitative aspects of health management through an interdisciplinary curriculum covering all aspects of healthcare from both a practical and philosophical perspective. All coursework is completed entirely online, with no campus visits required. Students with fewer than 90 quarter credit (60 semester credits) are still encouraged to apply and complete their prerequisites online through the Drexel Goodwin College of Professional Studies.

Regional Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

#6. Immaculata University Online

Assessment – This comprehensive Catholic university known for being the birthplace of women’s college basketball offers an outstanding online bachelor’s of health care management program with competitive tuition.

Program: Immaculata University’s online Bachelor of Arts in Health Care Management is a 126 credit hour accelerated degree-completion program. The program is designed specifically for working-adults who want to continue working full-time while pursuing their degree. It is expected that students will be self-directed, goal-oriented and have professional experience. Students will gain the management, communication and negotiation skills necessary for leadership along with the essential knowledge of policy, regulatory procedures, and legal issues affecting the health care industry. Students will also learn how to analyze health care research in order to adequately respond to a rapidly-changing health care environment. The program can be completed entirely online.

Regional Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

#7. Saint Joseph’s College Online

Assessment – This small Catholic liberal arts college has over a quarter-century of experience in distance learning and offers a top online bachelor program in health administration with a values-centered curriculum and very affordable tuition.

Program: Saint Joseph’s College’s online Bachelor of Science in Health Administration is a 128 credit hour program that can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis. Students with some healthcare experience will be prepared with the knowledge and skills to move into management and administrative positions in the healthcare industry. Students will be encouraged to incorporate prior or current healthcare experience into their coursework. Program can be completed entirely online but optional two-week summer sessions at the school’s lakeside campus in Maine are available for students wanting to accelerate their degree. The school also offers a fast-track option to its Master of Health Administration degree program.

Regional Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

#8. Sullivan University Online

Assessment – The largest private university in the state Kentucky has a solid reputation for graduate job placement and offers a very good online bachelor of healthcare management program that won’t break the bank.

Program: Sullivan University’s online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Healthcare Management concentration is a 180 credit hour degree completion program for working students with an associates degree or at least 60 semester credit hours of prior college work. In addition to learning broad business skills applicable to many different working environments, students will gain the knowledge they need to provide management and administration oversight within the healthcare industry. The program can be completed entirely online.

Regional Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

#9. Saint Leo University Online

Assessment – The oldest Catholic university in the state of Florida and a a respected pioneer in online and distance education offers an excellent online bachelor in health care management program with competitive tuition.

Program: Saint Leo University’s online Bachelor of Science in Health Care Management is a 120 credit hour program. The program offers students a combination of traditional liberal arts courses and more specialized business courses looking at the leadership, financial, policy, and legal dimensions of health care management. Leadership is taught from a Catholic, values-centered perspective respectful of people from all faiths and none. The programs is completed entirely online, but students are invited to the Saint Leo campus for graduation ceremonies.

Regional Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

#10. Ohio Christian University Online

Assessment – A private, career-oriented Christian university with a growing online presence offers a very good online bachelor of health care management program with a faith-based curriculum and competitive tuition.

Program: Ohio Christian University’s online Bachelor of Arts in Business with a Healthcare Management concentration is a 45 credit hour degree completion program for students with at least 50 credit hours of prior college work. The program is designed for working adults with students taking a single class at a time. Students will develop the knowledge and skills necessary to meet the challenges of increasing quality while decreasing cost in healthcare delivery. All courses are taught from a Christian worldview perspective.

Regional Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

A Special Back-To-School Report for 2011-2012 from The Best Colleges

Site Administrator — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 10:12:43 +0000

As students prepare to return to school and college application application deadlines appear on the horizon, The Best Colleges has put together a special 2011-2012 back-to-school report to help prospective students find the best colleges and college degrees for their money. In tough economic times like these it is more important than ever for students (and their parents) to figure out where they can get the most bang for their college buck. In this special report we highlight colleges and universities that offer the best education at the best value.

Top 50 Colleges and Universities in America of 2011-2012

Leading off the report is the inaugural edition of our Top 50 Colleges and Universities in America. We set out to create a college ranking that does a better job of measuring the things that prospective students and their parents actually care about than other major ranking systems like U.S. News & World Report. In addition to measuring the standard indicators of academic quality and student satisfaction used by other major ranking systems, we also considered indicators of a school’s overall economic value and the quality of life offered by its location. By emphasizing economic value and quality of life, the ranking offers students a fresh angle from which to evaluate their college options that is particularly relevant to the current economic and educational situation in America. Students and their parents are watching their dollars more closely than ever and can’t afford to throw money away on a high-priced college degree with little promise of a future economic return. And given the importance of social networking for future career success and the fact that students are taking longer than ever to graduate, a college town’s quality of life in terms of affordability and the opportunity for relationships with other young, successful and highly educated people is more important than ever.

Best College and University Bargains of 2011-2012

Students mainly interested in where they can get a college education for the least amount of money should start by checking out The 10 Best Colleges With Free Tuition, which highlights several remarkable American college and universities that don’t cost students a dime. If none of the schools on that list seem like a good fit, bargain hunting students should check out our articles on The Best Public School Bargains for 2011-2012 and The Best Private School Bargains for 2011-2012, which discusses colleges and universities with some of the lowest average total costs according to the U.S. Department of Education.

Highest Paying Majors for 2011-2012

Almost as important as selecting the right school is selecting the right major, at least according to the numbers. Certain majors lead to higher paying careers than others. Once you’ve decided which college or university is best for you, find out which majors tend to pay of the most with our report on The Highest Paying College Majors for 2011-2012.

As always, students can find our ever-expanding list of traditional and online college and degree rankings on our rankings page.

Highest Paying College Majors For 2011-2012

Site Administrator — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 09:54:19 +0000

If you’re getting ready to attend college, or have already started and need to declare a major, you’re probably wondering the best major to choose to get a good-paying job after you graduate. After all, unless you’re lucky enough to go to one of the 10 Best Colleges with Free Tuition, those tuition loans won’t pay for themselves. You can plan ahead now by choosing a major that will increase your chances of earning a solid income after graduation.

Engineering

When it comes to the highest-paying jobs, it should be no surprise that highly technical fields make up the majority at the top of the heap. Engineering jobs in a variety of industries pave the way for new and better products and processes in almost every area – think of the things you use every day like your cell phone, refrigerator or car and how technology advances each year to make them better and more efficient. Engineers are the technical gurus behind these and other items to improve them year after year.

At the very top of the list is Petroleum Engineering, yielding a base salary of nearly $100,000 for recent graduates. The oil and gas industry is a hot one as companies around the world seek new petroleum resources and how to mine and use them as efficiently as possible and Petroleum Engineers provide the know-how when it comes to geology, drilling and other fields to accomplish this.

Chemical and electrical engineering jobs are next, earning recent graduates base salaries around $61,000, which grow to over $100,000 at mid-career. Graduates in these disciplines can find employment in a wide variety of fields, from developing and improving consumer products like laundry detergent and cosmetics to designing automated production systems for factories.

Aerospace Engineering is another field that has generally commanded good salaries for graduates, though a severe cut in funding of the federal space program in the U.S. will likely have a large negative impact on job prospects in this field. However, there are other organizations that require the expertise and knowledge of Aerospace Engineers to build and refine all types of aircraft for consumer, commercial, and military use. Majors in this difficult discipline can expect to earn just over $60,000 to start and surpass $100,000 per year at mid-career.

Given the prominence of computers, cell phones and other electronic devices in so many jobs and everyday use at home, the software and peripherals needed for them are extremely important as well. This is where Computer Engineering and Computer Science majors come in, developing the software and firmware that drive electronic devices and computers as well as the hardware, peripherals and accessories that interface with them. Majors in these fields can expect to earn around $60,000 after completing an undergraduate degree, which will grow close to $100,000 at mid-career.

Note that Computer Engineering and Computer Science are different from Information Technology and Information Systems majors. The fields of Information Technology and Information Systems deal primarily with the application of computer systems in businesses, from systems that manage automated production lines to the email and other communication and management systems used within a company. These fields, while still challenging, don’t require the same type of knowledge and expertise as Computer Engineering and Computer Science majors and their starting salaries are around $48,000.

Math, Finance, and Economics

If you hoped you’d never use what you’d learned in your high school math classes again, you’ll probably be disappointed to learn that advanced mathematical concepts actually have several applications in the real world and can help you earn a good amount of money after graduation. At the top of the earnings list when it comes to math-related fields is Applied Mathematics, with graduates earning over $50,000 when starting out and pulling in close to $100,000 at mid-career. Applied mathematicians can work in several fields building mathematical models to solve business problems or predict behavior or the results of systems and processes.

Statistics is another field where college graduates have the earning potential to stay in the black with starting salaries around $50,000 for recent graduates and in the low-$90,000s at mid-career. Statisticians focus on the collection, organization, and analysis of data and can work in a variety of industries from pharmaceutical to insurance companies and many others. This major also requires strong computer knowledge and skills since the data analysis is primarily completed using complex computer programs.

If you’d rather use your math skills to manage money, a major in Finance may be right up your alley and will put you on track to earn around $46,000 per year after graduation and up to nearly $90,000 at mid-career. Finance majors go on to work in financial institutions, government agencies and companies in every industry to analyze and report on assets and liabilities.

Non-technical Majors

Now if neither math nor science is your forté, you’ll be happy to know that it’s still possible to earn a good salary in other non-technical fields as well. While you won’t need to memorize equations or the periodic table of elements to do them, you’ll need other skills and even some innate creativity to do well in them.

First up is Fashion Design, a field that requires a bit more than the ability to put together a well-coordinated outfit. Fashion and its trends can be an indirect gauge of what’s going on in cultures and societies around the world. It takes a unique eye to identify these trends and the business sense to capitalize on them to make a successful Fashion Designer. Upon graduation, starting salaries aren’t stunning off the bat (around $35,000) but this salary can double by mid-career.

Many people lament the generic-sounding English degree and it’s often stereotyped as a major that doesn’t do a good job of preparing graduates for a real job. While most stereotypes have a grain of truth to them, they’re never entirely accurate. English majors can study literature and other types of writing from cultures around the world in multiple eras and build strong writing skills along the way as well. These abilities can easily translate to jobs in journalism, publishing, and other areas where writing or the evaluation of written material is key and can earn graduates under $40,000 shortly after graduation and over $65,000 per year at mid-career.

Beyond the undergraduate degree

There are several lucrative fields that require a graduate degree, including professions in the medical and legal fields. Your undergraduate major can help you prepare for graduate studies in these fields, so if your eye is on one of these areas in the long run and you’re willing to put in the extra time and effort to complete a master’s degree (or higher) to get into one of these professions, choose wisely now.

If you want to become a doctor, majoring in Biology is a solid choice as an undergraduate since you’ll learn about the functions of living organisms, including human beings, in great depth. And should you choose to not go on to medical school after all, you can still earn a very good salary as a biologist in bio-technical, medical and other industries with a starting salary around $40,000 and over $71,000 at mid-career (or even more as a microbiologist).

While getting into law school doesn’t usually require a specific major, having critical reading and writing skills are essential and these can be developed and honed in majors like English, Political Science, and Marketing and Communications, among others. As we’ve already discussed, English majors aren’t completely left behind when it comes to earning potential after completing an undergraduate degree. Political Science and Marketing and Communications majors also enjoy good salaries, earning around $40,000 at the start of their careers and up to double this amount at mid-career.

[Note: Salary data comes from the PayScale College Salary Report.]

Top 10 Online Master of Criminal Justice (MCJ) Degree Programs of 2011-2012

Site Administrator — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:48:06 +0000

A career in criminal justice allows people to engage in meaningful work that helps keep their communities safe and secure. There are numerous career opportunities within the field to choose from, including corrections officers, criminologist, FBI agent, DEA agent, police officer, crime scene investigator, private investigator and US marshal. According the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job prospects in criminal justice related fields range from favorable to excellent.

Value of a Masters in Criminal Justice (MCJ) Degree

Graduates from top accredited online master of criminal justice (MCJ) programs will be in an excellent position to take advantage of the growing demand for qualified leaders and administrators in the criminal justice system. A master’s degree in criminal justice will broaden and deepen your knowledge of all aspects of criminal justice and make you a more attractive candidate for promotions and raises through the expansion of your professional competencies. A master’s degree is also a prerequisite for anyone interested in teaching criminal justice at the college level or pursuing a doctoral degree.

Advantages of an Online Master of Criminal Justice (MCJ) Degree

Online master of criminal justice degree programs are among the most popular online degree programs. Prospective students seeking an accredited online master’s in criminal justice now have several high quality choices for their education. In fact, many of the very best criminal justice programs in the country are now offered online. Among the many advantages of earning a master’s degree from a top online criminal justice program is that student’s can maintain their employment and/or family responsibilities while earning their degree. Many of the best online master of criminal justice degree programs don’t require any campus visits.

How We Rank the Best Online Master of Criminal Justice (MCJ) Degree Programs

Online colleges and criminal justice degree programs vary widely in terms of quality, name recognition, and value. To assist those looking for a quality, accredited online criminal justice degree program, we’ve put together this ranking of what we consider to be the very best online schools offering master of criminal justice degree programs for 2011-2012. Our rankings of the top online schools offering master’s in criminal justice degrees are based on publicly available data evaluated according to several different criteria, including reputation, accreditation, student satisfaction, ratio of students to instructors, and tuition. You can read more about our rankings philosophy and find a list of our other top college and degree rankings on our rankings page.

Top 10 Online Master of Criminal Justice (MCJ) Degree Programs

#1. Boston University Online

Evaluation – Small class sizes and strong completion rates at one of the best universities in the country makes this our pick for the top online master of criminal justice program.

Program: A 40 credit hour (10 course) online Master of Criminal Justice (MCJ) degree program. Can be completed in less than two years. Designed for working law enforcement professionals looking to deepen their practical and theoretical understanding of criminal justice. All faculty have extensive academic and practical experience in the criminal justice field. 100% online. No campus visits required.

Regional Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Commission on Institutions of Higher Education.

Click here to learn more about online degrees at Boston University

#2. Regis University Online

Evaluation – A respected Catholic university in the Jesuit traditions offers one of the best online master of criminology degree programs available through its award winning adult education division.

Program: A 36 credit hour online Master of Science in Criminology degree program. Designed for working criminal justice professionals looking to move into leadership positions in law enforcement, corporate and government security, protective services, NGO management, homeland security administration, U.S. Customs, and immigration. All faculty either current or one-time practitioners in the criminal justice field. Curriculum provides in-depth understanding of the criminal mind and is rooted in the Jesuit tradition. 100% online. No campus visits required.

Regional Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

Click here to learn more about online degrees at Regis University

#3. Bowling Green State University Online

Evaluation – Small class sizes and affordable tuition from a top public university make this a top pick for online master of criminal justice degree programs.

Program: A 33 credit hour online Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ) degree program. Emphasizes the development of individuals for leadership roles in criminal justice agencies, future doctoral studies and/or teaching. Curriculum focuses on the theoretical underpinnings and practical issues in law enforcement, corrections, courts and juvenile justice. Comprehensive capstone project integrating entire learning experience required for graduation. 100% online. No campus visits required.

Regional Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

Click here to learn more about online degrees at Bowling Green State University

#4. Loyola University New Orleans Online

Evaluation – A top-ranked private Catholic university brings 50 years of criminal justice education experience to the internet with one of the best online master of criminal justice administration programs around.

Program: A 36 credit hour online Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration (MSCJA) degree program. Justice Administration or Forensic Science Administration specializations. Both programs designed to enable students to take a broad view of criminal justice in preparation for leadership and administrative positions. Includes training in organizational administration, budget planning and media management. Rooted in Jesuit tradition of values-based education, social justice and service. 100% online. No campus visits required.

Regional Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Click here to learn more about online degrees at Loyola University New Orleans

#5. Saint Joseph’s University Online

Evaluation – A top-ranked Catholic university offers an innovative, multi-disciplinary online master of criminal justice program with small class sizes and strong student satisfaction indicators.

Program: A 30 credit hour online Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice program. Optional specializations available in Homeland Security and Behavior Analysis. Focused on understanding all aspects of the criminal justice system from multiple perspectives in order to effect changes from within. Prepares graduates for traditional law enforcement positions, as well as management and administration, intelligence analysis, and law and paralegal positions. 100% online. No campus visits required.

Regional Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

#6. Michigan State University Online

Evaluation – A respected public university with the oldest degree-granting School of Criminal Justice in the country offers one of the best online master of criminal justice programs around.

Program: A 30 credit hour online Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ) program from the MSU School of Criminal Justice. Specializations available in Security Management and International Focus. Integrates policy and theory to provide working criminal justice professionals with enhanced skills and understanding. Taught by the same MSU faculty as the on-campus program. 100% online. No campus visits required.

Regional Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

#7. Florida State University Online

Evaluation – A top-ranked College of Criminology & Criminal Justice at a highly regarded public university offers an excellent online master of criminal justice program.

Program: A 36 credit hour online Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ) from the FSU College of Criminology & Criminal Justice. 21 credits of electives allow students to design program to fit their particular career interests. Designed for working criminal justice professionals interested in moving into leadership positions in law enforcement, corrections, juvenile justice and other criminal justice-related positions. 100% online. No campus visits required.

Regional Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

#8. UMassOnline

Evaluation – An internationally rated public university with an excellent online and distance education program offers one of the country’s top master’s in criminal justice programs completely online.

Program: A 33 credit hour online Master of Arts (MA) in Criminal Justice degree program. Administered by the UMass Lowell campus. Designed for working criminal justice professionals desiring the knowledge and skills to move into leadership or teaching positions within the profession. Multi-disciplinary, academically rigorous, with a practical and empirical focus. Multiple electives allow students to shape program towards their particular professional interests. 100% online. No campus visits required.

Regional Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Commission on Institutions of Higher Education.

#9. University of Colorado Denver Online

Evaluation – An established public university offers one of the best online master of criminal justice programs through its highly regarded School of Public Affairs.

Program: A 36 credit hour online Master of Criminal Justice degree program. Administered by the UC-Denver School of Public Affairs and taught by same faculty as on-campus program. Focuses on law enforcement, judiciary, correctional systems, juvenile justice, and the formulation of laws and codes. Can be completed 100% online or in mixed online/on-campus format. Internship required for students without prior criminal justice experience. Thesis or capstone project required for graduation.

Regional Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Higher Learning Commission.

#10. University of Cincinnati Online

Evaluation – This program from a respected public university with a highly ranked School of Criminal Justice is among the best and most affordable online master of criminal justice degrees available.

Program: A 48 quarter-credit hour online Master of Science in Criminal Justice degree program. An academically rigorous and comprehensive program focused on helping students develop a thorough understanding of all the major aspects of the criminal justice industry. Curriculum organized into four main areas of study: theory, administration and policy, research, and special topics. 100% online. No campus visits required. Campus graduation ceremony optional.

Regional Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Higher Learning Commission.

Top 10 Online Bachelor of Criminology & Criminal Justice Degree Programs of 2011-2012

Site Administrator — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 12:57:27 +0000

Most people choose to pursue a career in criminal justice out of a desire to help keep their communities safe. And with the continued growth of nearly every aspect of the criminal justice system, employment opportunities continue to grow as well. According the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job prospects in criminal justice related fields range from favorable to excellent.

Value of a Bachelors of Criminal Justice Degree

Graduates from top accredited online bachelor of criminal justice programs will be in an excellent position to take advantage of the growing demand for trained officers. A bachelor’s degree is increasingly a prerequisite for entrance into policing, investigations, corrections, law, social work and other criminal justice related fields. Anyone interested in doing graduate level work in any of these areas will need a bachelor’s degree as well.

Advantages of an Accredited Online Criminal Justice Degree

Online criminal justice degree programs are among the most popular online degree programs. Prospective students seeking an accredited online criminology or criminal justice degree now have several high quality choices for their education. In fact, many of the very best criminal justice programs in the country are now offered online. Among the many advantages of earning a degree from a top online criminal justice program is that student’s can maintain their employment and/or family responsibilities while earning their degree. Many of the best online criminal justice degree programs don’t require any campus visits.

How We Rank the Best Online Criminology & Criminal Justice Degree Programs

Online colleges and criminal justice degree programs vary widely in terms of quality, name recognition, and value. To assist those looking for a quality, accredited online criminology or criminal justice degree program, we’ve put together this ranking of what we consider to be the very best online schools offering criminology or criminal justice degree programs for 2011-2012. Our rankings of the top online schools offering criminology or criminal justice degrees are based on publicly available data evaluated according to several different criteria, including reputation, accreditation, student satisfaction, ratio of students to instructors, and tuition. You can read more about our rankings philosophy and find a list of our other top college and degree rankings on our rankings page.

Top 10 Online Bachelor of Criminology & Criminal Justice Degree Programs

Note that tuition rates are those listed as of July 2011 and may not include all applicable fees. Also, some of the programs are degree completion programs requiring some prior college credits prior to enrollment.

#1. Saint Leo University Online

Evaluation – A respected private university with over 100 years of experience in higher education offers a top-notch online bachelor-level criminal justice degree program rooted in the Catholic tradition.

Program: A 123 credit hour online Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Criminal Justice. Specializations available in Criminalistics (using forensic science to analyze and interpret evidence) and Homeland Security. Program offers field education placements and possible employment with agencies like the U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Customs, and Drug Enforcement Administration, among others. 100% online. No campus visit required, though graduates are invited to on-campus graduation ceremony.

Regional Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

Click here to learn more about online degrees at Saint Leo University

#2. Tiffin University Online

Evaluation – An established private university with over 100 years of practically focused education offers students two top-notch online criminal justice degree completion programs.

Program: Online Bachelor of Criminal Justice (BCJ) in Justice Administration or Emergency Management degree completion programs. Total credit hours dependent on number of prior credits, with two or more years of prior college credit required for enrollment. These are career-oriented programs that prepares students for professional positions in corrections, law enforcement, forensic psychology or emergency management.

Regional Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Click here to learn more about online degrees at Tiffin University

#3. Regis University Online

Evaluation – Small class sizes, solid graduation rates and reasonable tuition helps make this degree from a highly regarded private university our pick for the top online bachelor in criminal justice.

Program: A 128 credit hour online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Criminology degree. This online bachelor of criminology is an interdisciplinary degree that goes beyond policing and law enforcement to help students understand the underlying psychological and social causes of crime and its impact. Graduates are prepared for a wide range of careers in criminal justice and social work. 100% online. No campus visits required.

Regional Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

Click here to learn more about online degrees at Regis University

#4. Penn State University World Campus Online

Evaluation – A strong reputation and prestigious certification makes this program from a highly ranked public university among the best online bachelor of criminal justice degrees available.

Program: A 120 credit hour online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Criminal Justice program. The first online criminal justice degree certified by the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences. Balances theoretical and practical aspects of crime control to prepares students for positions in juvenile and adult criminal justice, prevention and victim support. %100 online. No campus visits required.

Regional Accreditation: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Higher Education.

#5. Washington State University Online

Evaluation – A top-ranked public university goes online with one of the oldest and best criminal justice bachelor degree programs in the country.

Program: An online Bachelor of Criminal Justice degree program. The second oldest continuous criminal justice program in the country and home to the first chapter of the national criminal justice honor society, Alpha Phi Sigma. %100 online. No campus visits required, though will be invited to campus graduation ceremony and other optional social events.

Regional Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

#6. Drexel University Online

Evaluation – This prestigious private university’s historical strengths in computers, technology and biochemical/biotechnology make this a top online criminal justice programs for entry into an increasingly hi-tech field.

Program: A 182 credit hour online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Criminal Justice program. Part-time only and career oriented. Goes beyond strict law-enforcement focus to provide a broad cross-disciplinary academic foundation that prepares students for multiple career possibilities or graduate study. 100% online. No campus visits required.

Regional Accreditation: Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools.

#7. Arizona State University Online

Evaluation – This top-rated public university with a technologically sophisticated online division offers one of the best online bachelor of criminology and criminal justice degree programs around at a very reasonable cost.

Program: A 120 credit hour online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Criminology and Criminal Justice from ASU’s College of Public Programs. Same instructors, courses and degree as on-campus program. Focuses on policies and practices of the criminal justice system. 100% online. No campus visits required.

Regional Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

#8. Portland State University Online

Evaluation – Some of the lowest tuition around and the resources of a respected public university make this one of the best online bachelor of criminology & criminal justice programs in the country.

Program: An 86 credit hour online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Criminology & Criminal Justice degree completion program administered by PSU’s Hatfield School of Government. Entering students must have an associates degree or at least 45 quarter-credit (30 semester credit) hours of transferable college work prior to enrollment. Provides comprehensive overview of all aspects of the criminal justice system. Senior capstone project required. 100% online. No campus visits required.

Regional Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

#9. Grand Canyon University Online

Evaluation – This established private university offers one of the best online criminal justice degree program operating out of an explicitly Christian worldview.

Program: A 120 credit hour online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Justice Studies degree program. Utilizes a systems perspective to provide students with a comprehensive overview of the criminal justice system from a systems perspective. Designed to prepare students for careers in law enforcement, social work, and political science, among other fields. A Christian worldview is integrated into all aspects of the degree program.

Regional Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

#10. Bellevue University Online

Evaluation – This private university with an award-winning online and distance learning division offers a top accelerated online bachelor of criminal justice administration degree program at a very affordable rate.

Program: A 36 credit hour online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration Accelerated Degree Completion Program. Designed for professionals already working in or in close association with the criminal justice system who seek to move into administrative positions. Students are assigned to a cohort with whom they take courses together in the prescribed order. 100% online. No campus visits required.

Regional Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

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#1. International Academy of Design and Technology

#2. DeVry University

#3. Post University

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#5. Full Sail University

#6. University of Advancing Technology

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#8. Academy of Art University

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#10. The Art Institute of Pittsburgh

The 35 Most Amazing Libraries In The World

35. National Library, Minsk, Belarus

34. University of Coimbra General Library, Coimbra, Portugal

33. The National Library of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore

32. Stockholm Public Library, Stockholm, Sweden

31. Rijkmuseum Library, Amsterdam, Netherlands

30. José Vasconcelos Library, Mexico City, Mexico

29. Herzog August Library, Wolfenbüttel, Germany

28. The Library of Alexandria, Alexandria, Egypt

27. Phillips Exeter Academy Library, Exeter, New Hampshire

26. George Peabody Library, Baltimore, Maryland

25. Wiblingen Monastery Library, Ulm, Germany

24. Chateau de Chantilly Library, Chantilly, France

23. State Library of Victoria, Melbourne, Australia

22. Salt Lake City Public Library, Salt Lake City, Utah

21. Strahov Monastery Library, Prague, Czech Republic

20. Melk Monastery Library, Melk, Austria

19. Danish Royal Library, Copenhagen, Denmark

18. Trinity College Library (“The Long Room”), Dublin, Ireland

17. Jay Walker’s Private Library

16. The Morgan Library & Museum, NY, NY, USA

15. Library of the Benedictine Monastery, Admont, Austria

14. National Library of Sweden, Stockholm, Sweden

13. Austrian National Library, Vienna, Austria

12. Abbey Library of Saint Gall, St. Gallen, Switzerland

11. Seattle Central Library, Seattle, WA

10. Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library, Toronto, Canada

9. New York Public Library, New York, New York

8. Library of Parliament, Ottawa, Canada

7. Boston Public Library

6. National Library of St. Mark’s, Venice, Italy

5. Vatican Library, Vatican City, Rome

4. Yale University Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, New Haven, CT

3. Reading Room at the British Museum, London, England

2. Bodleian Library, Oxford, UK

1. Library of Congress, Washington D.C.

Top 10 Online Master’s in Counseling Degree Programs of 2011-2012

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How We Rank Online Masters in Counseling Degree Programs

#1. Walden University Online

#2. University of the Southwest Online

#3. UMass Online

#4. Seton Hall University Online

#5. Sacred Heart University Online

#6. University of North Dakota Online

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#8. University at Buffalo Online

#9. LeTourneau University Online

#10. Bellevue University Online

Comparing U.S. News & World Report 2012 Rankings and The Best Colleges Rankings

Top 10 Online Master of Health Administration (MHA) and Healthcare Management Degree Programs of 2011-2012

The Value of a Master of Health Administration (MHA) or Healthcare Management Degree

Advantages of Online Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) and Health Management Degree Programs

How We Rank Online Master of Health Administration (MHA) and Healthcare Management Degree Programs

Top 10 Online Master of Health Administration (MHA) and Healthcare Management Degree Programs

#1. George Washington University Online

#2. Vanderbilt University Online

#3. University of Cincinnati Online

#4. Northeastern University Online

#5. Saint Joseph’s University Online

#6. University of North Carolina Chapel Hill Online

#7. Boston University Online

#8. Quinnipiac University Online

#9. University of Scranton Online