US News - Ranking of Graduate Programs

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the latest rankings of graduate programs as published by "US News," specifically focusing on physics and mathematics. Participants express skepticism about the validity and methodology of the rankings while also sharing personal reactions to the rankings of specific institutions.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question the methodology behind the rankings, suggesting that it may not be reliable or transparent.
  • One participant humorously implies that the rankings could be arbitrary, comparing the process to pulling names from a hat.
  • Another participant notes that Caltech has moved up in the rankings, echoing the earlier sentiment about the rankings' legitimacy.
  • A participant expresses satisfaction with their institution's ranking, indicating a tie with other notable universities.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally express skepticism about the rankings, with multiple competing views on their validity and implications. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the reliability of the rankings.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include potential missing information about the ranking methodology and the subjective nature of what the rankings might mean for individual applicants.

robphy
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If you like rankings, here's the latest from "US News"
http://grad-schools.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/grad

PHY: http://grad-schools.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/grad/phy/search
MAT: http://grad-schools.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/grad/mat/search

Of course, one should question how the rankings are determined and what the rankings might really mean. (see the first URL)
If you're applying to graduate school, these lists might be a useful guide...
but your success really depends on YOU, YOUR research interests, and YOUR experience at whatever grad school you choose.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
Oh god it's that time again. Interestingly enough, the methodology section was a broken link when I clicked on it. I guess that means they pulled names out of a hat and just made sure the rankings "looked" right.
 
Looks like Caltech moved up a few spots.

i.e., lucky pull from the hat :P
 
Hooray, we made top 8. We tied princeton conrnell and TexasA&M. I can sleep at night once again -whew. Close one.
 
Last edited:

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