Students award high marks to McMaster in Globe survey
McMaster students have given the University high marks in academic reputation, quality of education, libraries, student satisfaction, and extra-curricular activities, according to The Globe and Mail's University Report Card.
The Report Card–this is the fifth year it has been published–was released this morning. McMaster was grouped among medium-sized universities across the country.
Additional categories published in the online version show McMaster with top marks in its reputation for conducting leading-edge research, faculty members' knowledge of subjects, reputation for both graduate and undergraduate studies, and its reputation among employers. Full results of the survey can be viewed here.
“It's gratifying to have our students rate us strongly in so many areas,” says President Peter George. “They are the litmus test of what works and doesn't work, and we value both their kudos and their complaints. As an institution we articulated quality education, academic excellence, and diversity as goals and targets in our strategic plan, Refining Directions. The student feedback indicates we're on the right track. The Report Card offers prospective students another means by which they and their parents can determine whether McMaster is the right fit for them.”
George expressed disappointment that the Report failed to acknowledge McMaster's international standing: Shanghai Jiao Tong University's 2006 ranking of universities worldwide names McMaster as one of only four Canadian universities in the Top 100. McMaster is listed 90th; the Globe's Report, however, cut the list off at 62.
Phil Wood, associate vice-president, Student Affairs, was pleased that students gave McMaster top marks in school spirit, sense of community and overall university atmosphere.
“It's a testament to the McMaster Students Union, its many clubs and teams, that earns high commendation from students,” says Wood. “It shows prospective students that McMaster is known for academic excellence as well a place to have fun.”
Here's what students told the Globe about McMaster:
