Public Ivies and what makes them special?

Hey fellow applicants! I've recently come across the term 'public ivies' and found out there are 8 of them. Can anyone provide more info about these schools and why they're considered prestigious? Any insights would be greatly appreciated!

Hey there! Public Ivies are a group of public universities in the United States that offer an Ivy League-level of education at a more affordable price. The term was coined in the 1980s by Richard Moll, who identified these schools as having similar academic rigor, selective admissions processes, and reputations to the traditional Ivy League universities but are funded by their respective states.

The eight original Public Ivies Moll identified are:

1. College of William & Mary (Virginia)

2. Miami University (Ohio)

3. University of California (specifically Berkeley and Los Angeles)

4. University of Michigan (Ann Arbor)

5. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

6. University of Texas at Austin

7. University of Vermont

8. University of Virginia

These universities are considered prestigious for several reasons:

1. Academic Excellence: Public Ivies offer a wide range of academically competitive programs, rigorous coursework, and research opportunities that rival those of their private counterparts.

2. Faculty: They tend to have accomplished professors who are leaders in their field, which facilitates a high-quality learning experience.

3. Resources: Public Ivies generally have extensive resources, including vast libraries, state-of-the-art research labs, and a wide array of extracurricular opportunities. They often receive significant funding from their states, which translates into more support for students.

4. Campus Life: Many Public Ivies are known for having vibrant and diverse campus communities, excellent athletic programs, and plenty of student organizations reflecting a wide variety of interests.

5. Alumni Network: Graduates of Public Ivies tend to be well-connected and have extensive networks, which can be helpful resources when searching for internships, job opportunities, or even when applying to graduate and professional programs.

6. Affordability: One of the most attractive features of Public Ivies is their relative affordability, particularly for in-state residents. The cost of attendance is typically lower than that of private Ivy League schools, making them more accessible to students from a diverse range of economic backgrounds.

Overall, Public Ivies provide a fantastic opportunity for students who seek a high-quality education comparable to that of Ivy League institutions but at a relatively lower cost and with a more diverse campus experience. Good luck with your applications!