Academics
Manchester University offers students prestigious programs and dedicated faculty in a private liberal arts college that works hard to “make every learning experience meaningful and interesting.” Here, the nursing, business, pharmacy, and education programs get rave reviews, as do the study abroad opportunities. But “the hallmark of Manchester” are the professors, who are “absolutely fantastic” and “very supportive [in order to] make learning as easy as possible.” At MU, the professors “are basically your parent away from home,” helping you to “overcome any problem” and truly striving to get to know each and every student: “Most of the time you can just waltz into [their] office and meet them,” one attendee shares. While some note that the teaching style is lecture-heavy, others comment that “the small classroom sizes make it feel easier to focus and participate in class.” They also share that there is plenty of hands-on learning that takes place outside of the traditional learning styles, citing field trips, simulations, and even “taking turns teaching a subject to the class.” Overall, “You are not a number at Manchester, you’re a person with a name and a goal.”
Student Body
Generally, undergrads at Manchester are “reserved and focused on their studies,” but fortunately they represent “a good, interesting mix” of students who “want everyone to succeed.” With its smaller campus, “all students really get a chance to make long-lasting friendships” with other “fun, energetic, and caring” people who are “eager to help” each other. First years in particular find it “extremely easy to make new friends” as older students “are always looking out for them.” But regardless of year, the community is “an exceptional and diverse group of … individuals intent on making college a great experience.” As one shares, “We are all working towards the same goal … and I think that helps us work together.” Another grateful undergrad says, “Coming here from a small close-minded community changed my view of the world.”
Campus Life
There may be a lot of homework at MU, but “There’s always opportunity … to come out and enjoy college life outside academics.” For starters, students enjoy the “beautiful natural surroundings,” which mix “lots of greenery [with] a calm, peaceful atmosphere.” So, in good weather, “people play outdoors or enjoy the sunlight by sitting in hammocks.” Even when stuck inside, each resident hall is well-equipped with ways to pass the time, including pool tables, basketball hoops, or table tennis. There are also “campus events with free food” for anyone interested. While some students express concerns that there isn’t enough to do in the neighboring town, others comment that there are a few options—a movie theater and a mall are two most commonly noted—to enjoy “on a weekly or monthly basis.” But regardless of where they find their entertainment, students are quick to point out that the school provides a “home-like feeling” in “such a small town.”