If you are considering a Catholic university or college, your post-secondary planning process should begin as early as high school. Catholic universities and colleges are competitive and rigorous; therefore, it's important to plan your high school courses accordingly. These schools offer a very wide variety of programs. For instance, Catholic universities generally offer programs similar to secular institutions, including Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BS), Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), and Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degrees, among others. Additional programs particular to Catholic universities and colleges include theology, pastoral studies and pontifical degrees such as the Bachelor of Sacred Theology. What you decide to study will determine what you should have on your high school transcript. In general, however, you will want to take English, math, social sciences, foreign language, creative arts and laboratory science courses. College prep electives and computer and keyboarding skills are also beneficial. Catholic colleges and universities are committed to excellence, so try to keep your grades up in all your subjects. Competitive colleges are looking for students who are willing to challenge themselves, so taking honors courses and Advanced Placement classes can show that you are able to rise to the challenge.
If you are still in high school, and are thinking about going to a Catholic university or college, there are several additional things that you can do to prepare and increase your chances of being accepted:
Undertake to read and study independently in the area you intend to study. This is a good way to develop interests, expand your knowledge and improve your vocabulary and reading comprehension skills needed for these intellectually wide-ranging programs. This will also help you if admission requirements include an interview, since you will be able to impress the committee with the knowledge you have built up of terms and information specific to your area of study.
Catholic university and college admissions committees are also interested in a student's personal qualities, including maturity, values and integrity. One way you can develop these qualities is by participating in extracurricular activities. Consider joining or even starting school clubs, whether related to your area of interest or not. This is also a good way to demonstrate leadership skills, which are an important aspect of any competitive application.
Work experience - paid or volunteer - can also increase your chances of being admitted, particularly to programs involving social outreach components, and is an achievement often regarded highly by Catholic college admissions committees.
Show your commitment and respect. Catholic universities and colleges offer programs in a faith-based environment. Participation in church activities, spiritual camps and retreats, or any kind of social service/ outreach activities will show the admissions committee that you are serious and committed to the values of the school.
Program Spotlight
Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology offers degrees in engineering and engineering technology, as well as degree program in aviation and management.
What separates Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology from ...
