Safety is a big concern for me when choosing where to apply for college. Can anyone recommend some safe colleges I should look into, or things to consider when evaluating campus safety?
When choosing a college with safety as a key consideration, it's important to delve into available resources that provide statistics on crime rates and safety initiatives at various schools. One trusted source is the Clery Act data, which every college is required to report. You can find yearly crime statistics, information on campus safety and security policies, and fire data.
However, to provide some initial suggestions on safe college campuses, according to data by Niche.com and other publications, the following colleges have received high rankings for safety, thanks to their lower crime rates and robust safety programs:
1. Brigham Young University: BYU in Provo, Utah has a very strong focus on safety. The school offers numerous safety resources and a 24-hour police department. Additionally, the campus is located in one of the safest cities in the U.S.
2. University of New Hampshire: Located in the small town of Durham, UNH has low crime rates. The university has comprehensive safety services including 24/7 campus police, transport services, and extensive prevention programs.
3. Northeastern University: At the heart of Boston, Northeastern University has made campus safety a top priority. The university has its own police department, a Night Shuttle service and a Husky Escort program.
4. University of California, Irvine: UCI's Police Department offers a range of resources for student security, including a late-night escort program and mobile safety app.
We should note that while these campuses are considered safer, individual comfort and feeling of safety can vary greatly. Always, visit a campus if you can, and talk to current students or community members to get a real sense of the safety climate. Also, consider the broader community and city safety, not just the on-campus environment. It's good to remember that safety can be very subjective and personal. What feels safe for one person may not feel the same for another. A campus visit can help you gauge your comfort level.
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