University of Akron
Address: The University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325, USA
Phone: +1 330-972-6000
Email: admissions@uakron.edu
Website: www.uakron.edu
About University of Akron
Founded in 1870, the University of Akron is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the urban setting of the small city of Akron (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), Ohio. This institution also has a branch campus in Orrville. Officially accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, University of Akron (UA) is a large-sized (uniRank enrollment range: 10,000-14,999 students) coeducational US higher education institution. University of Akron (UA) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study. See the uniRank degree levels and areas of study table below for further details. This 154-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 80-89% making this US higher education organization a least selective institution. International students are welcome to apply for enrollment. UA also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Why University of Akron
The University of Akron is well-known for a few key reasons:
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Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering: Akron is often called the "Rubber Capital of the World" due to its historical connection to the rubber and tire industry. Building on this legacy, the university has one of the world’s leading programs in polymer science and polymer engineering. This has attracted significant research funding, partnerships with industries, and global recognition for innovation in materials science.
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Engineering Excellence: Its engineering programs emphasize practical, hands-on training, industry collaboration, and research. This has made the university popular among students seeking careers in engineering fields and among employers looking for well-trained graduates with real-world skills.
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Business Programs with Strong Industry Ties: The University of Akron’s College of Business has established close relationships with regional and national businesses, allowing students to benefit from internships, job placement opportunities, and industry insight. The college’s emphasis on entrepreneurship has also been a draw for students aiming to start their own businesses.
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Legal Education in Intellectual Property: The Akron School of Law is particularly known for its intellectual property (IP) program, ranking among the top IP law programs in the U.S. Its legal clinics, trial advocacy opportunities, and externship programs provide valuable real-world experience for law students.
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Location and History: The University of Akron’s roots in the industrial history of the city give it a unique character. As Akron transformed from a manufacturing hub to a city known for advanced materials and healthcare, the university adapted its programs to stay relevant and innovative.
These factors have made the University of Akron a well-regarded institution, particularly for students interested in polymer science, engineering, business, and law, as well as for its role in the regional economy and job market.
The University of Akron requires proof of English language proficiency for international students whose first language is not English. Commonly accepted tests and minimum scores include:
- TOEFL (iBT): A minimum score of 71.
- IELTS: A minimum overall band score of 6.0.
- Duolingo English Test: A minimum score of 95.
- PTE Academic: A minimum score of 48.
For graduate programs, some departments may have higher English proficiency requirements. Additionally, if students do not meet these requirements, they may qualify for conditional admission through Akron's English Language Institute (ELI), where they can improve their English skills before starting their degree program.
It’s best to check with the specific program or department for any additional requirements.
The University of Akron is known for its strong programs in several areas, including:
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Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering: The university is a leader in polymer research, with its College of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering offering specialized programs in materials science and engineering.
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Engineering: The College of Engineering and Polymer Science provides robust programs in civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering, emphasizing hands-on experience and industry partnerships.
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Business: The College of Business offers AACSB-accredited programs, particularly strong in finance, accounting, and marketing, with a focus on entrepreneurship.
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Law: The School of Law is well-regarded, especially for its intellectual property and trial advocacy programs, offering numerous clinics and experiential learning opportunities.
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Nursing and Health Sciences: Nursing and related health sciences are growing fields at Akron, providing pathways in areas like healthcare administration, nutrition, and exercise science.
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Education: Programs in education and counseling are designed to prepare students for diverse teaching and counseling roles, supported by practical experiences.
These programs reflect the University of Akron’s strengths in applied sciences, business, and practical training, tailored for students entering professional fields.
The term "top professor" can mean different things depending on the context, such as academic impact, influence in a particular field, teaching excellence, or contributions to society. Here are a few categories where professors are often recognized as "top" in their profession:
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Research Impact: Professors with high citation counts, influential publications, and groundbreaking research are often considered top in academia. They may receive prestigious awards (like the Nobel Prize) or belong to notable institutions like Harvard, MIT, Oxford, and Stanford. Examples include Stephen Hawking (theoretical physics), Noam Chomsky (linguistics), and Elizabeth Blackburn (medicine).
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Teaching Excellence: Some professors are highly regarded for their ability to communicate complex ideas in accessible and engaging ways. They receive teaching awards, maintain high student satisfaction scores, and often have large followings on educational platforms. Notable teachers can be found at institutions like UC Berkeley, the University of Michigan, and Yale.
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Public Engagement: Professors who bring academic ideas into the public sphere through popular books, lectures, or media appearances also gain a reputation as top professors. Examples include Carl Sagan (astronomy), Neil deGrasse Tyson (astrophysics), and Michael Sandel (political philosophy).
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Influence on Policy and Society: Some professors are influential due to their work on public policy, ethics, law, or social issues. They often advise governments, contribute to landmark studies, and influence societal debates. Professors like Jeffrey Sachs (economics), Angela Davis (sociology), and Ruth Bader Ginsburg (law, before her judicial career) have made lasting impacts.
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Academic Leadership: Professors in positions of leadership, such as deans or university presidents, often shape educational institutions, set academic standards, and innovate in higher education. Influential academic leaders include Drew Faust (former president of Harvard), and Freeman Hrabowski (president emeritus of the University of Maryland, Baltimore County).
These professors and many like them are celebrated not only for their expertise but for their significant contributions to education, research, and society.
The Nobel Prize is one of the world’s most prestigious awards, recognizing exceptional achievements in various fields. It was established by the will of Alfred Nobel, a Swedish chemist, engineer, and inventor of dynamite, who sought to leave a lasting legacy by celebrating those who benefit humanity. Here’s a breakdown of the main Nobel Prize categories:
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Physics: Awarded by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, this prize honors breakthroughs that expand our understanding of the universe, including discoveries in quantum mechanics, relativity, and fundamental particle physics.
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Chemistry: Also awarded by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, this prize recognizes discoveries and inventions that have a major impact on chemical research, technology, and our understanding of the chemical processes that support life.
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Physiology or Medicine: The Nobel Assembly at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm awards this prize to individuals or groups for significant contributions to medical science, such as discovering treatments or understanding disease mechanisms.
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Literature: Awarded by the Swedish Academy, the Nobel Prize in Literature honors authors, poets, and playwrights whose work has had a profound impact on literature and often sheds light on social, political, or philosophical issues.
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Peace: Awarded by the Norwegian Nobel Committee, this prize goes to individuals, organizations, or movements that promote peace, resolve conflicts, advance human rights, or contribute to social justice.
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Economic Sciences: Though not originally part of Alfred Nobel’s will, this prize was established in 1968 by the Swedish central bank, Sveriges Riksbank, in memory of Alfred Nobel. It recognizes significant contributions to economics, including theories, research, and policies that impact the global economy.
Each Nobel laureate receives a medal, diploma, and cash award. The prizes are awarded annually on December 10, the anniversary of Alfred Nobel’s death, in ceremonies held in Stockholm (for all prizes except Peace) and Oslo (for Peace).