How can I tell whether a department cares about teaching as much as research?
To judge this, look beyond the department’s website or brochure. Compare syllabi and the curriculum, and check for seminars or small-group classes, opportunities to ask questions or seek advice, and evidence of course improvement. Ask current students at information sessions or open days about the actual experience. Strong research records do not by themselves mean that teaching is valued less, so assess teaching policies and classroom practice separately, using the latest official information.
Key points
- Use several syllabi to examine course content, seminars, assessment methods, and opportunities to receive help from instructors.
- Look for published evidence of teaching improvement, use of course evaluations, teaching awards, or faculty involvement in education.
- At information sessions or open days, ask current students how accessible classes are and how instructors respond to questions.
Things to check
- Actual experience can differ by course, instructor, academic year, and student circumstances.
- Teaching priorities and how teaching is evaluated within a department may not be fully visible in public information.