Howard University - A Bastion of Education Amidst a Serene Locale

Set upon a sprawling 256 acre campus is the reputable Howard University. With long established reputation of academic excellence dating back to 1867, this institution steadily carries on its tradition and will continue to do so in to the future. It is also noteworthy for being the only formidable research based university that is predominately African American.

With its current status it should come as no surprise that this educational institute also played an instrumental role in the American Civil Rights Movement. A notable event that contributed to the movement was the publishing of 'The New Negro' newspaper that helped bring about the Harlem Renaissance. In addition to the Civil Rights Movement the University has been a part of American history as a whole due to its long period of operation.

The university today offers a robust range of academic disciplines that include Music, Art, Law, Social Work, Medicine and more. But beyond its educational value its physical setting is also of interest. Lavish green expanses interspersed with magnificent pieces of architecture that are on offer for the eyes at Howard University.

Taking a stroll through here will most certainly not disappoint. A variety of noteworthy structures can also be found at this destination including the famous Founders Library. So distinct in its appearance this iconic building has been deemed National Historic Landmark.

Howard University also actively encourages prospective students to come and experience the campus firsthand. The option of tour that can include up to 10 people can also be arranged by the University. Or alternatively should you so desire visitors can opt for the self guided tour that allows you to freely explore the massive grounds as you please.

For prospective students and their families wanting to visit this University, staying in one of the nearby Washington DC hotels can provide an ideal accommodation choice. Travelers will find that there are a host of hotels Washington that are not only provide convenient access to this destination but a host of others in the Washington area.

James Cook is an executive working for Hotelseye, which is a popular online reservation portal with a wide collection of Washington DC hotels and also this portal also it provides services links to Washington DC travel such as car rentals and flight reservations. For more info please visit http://www.washingtondchotelseye.com.

America's Best Universities and Colleges

What should you look for in a university? What is important to know about a college when you are ready to apply? Only one thing really matters: on and off campus bars. No I'm joking of course. The truth is that it's not because a college is ranked first in the country that it will suits you the best. Here are a few things you should consider:

-Location
For example, can you find the place? How far from home is it? I know (trust me I really do) that the idea to be as far away from your family sounds really appealing when you first leave for college, but sooner than later, you will change your mind!

-Campus, Multi-Campus or Not?
Having a campus university is extremely convenient, because everything is basically right there: libraries and accommodations... Some urban universities have different sites for every course they teach, which is called multi campus.

-Size
The range of students can vary enormously, from 2000 students (very small) to very large (well over 50 000).

-Living accommodation
Would you prefer to live on campus? Not all colleges offer this service, which can make a big difference in your quality of life, considering you wont have a lot of money for those studying years.

After considering the important points, you can take a look at the 2010 ranking of colleges in America.

1-Harvard University (Cambridge MA)
09-10 Tuition and fees: 37,012
Fall 08 Acceptance Rate: 7.9%

2-Princeton University (Princeton NJ)
09-10 Tuition and fees:35,340
Fall 08 acceptance rate: 9.9%

3-Yale University (New Haven CT)
09-10 tuition and fees: 36,500
Fall 08 acceptance Rate: 8.6%

4-California Institute of Technology (Pasadena CA)
09-10 Tuition and fees: 34,584
Fall 08 acceptance rate: 17.4%

5-Stanford University (Stanford CA)
09-10 Tuition and Fees: 37,881
Fall 08 acceptance Rate: 9.5%

6-University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia PA)
09-10 Tuition and fees:38,970
Fall 08 acceptance rate: 16.9%

7-Columbia University (New York NY)
09-10 tuition and fees: 41,316
Fall 08 acceptance rate: 10.0%

8-University of Chicago (Chicago IL)
09-10 Tuition and fees: 39,381
Fall 08 acceptance rate: 27.9%

9-Duke University (Durham NC)
09-10 Tuition and fees: 38,975
Fall 08 acceptance rate: 22.4%

10-Dartmouth College (Hanover NH)
09-10 Tuition and fees: 38,679
Fall 08 acceptance rate: 13.5%

For more information on university rankings, you can visit http://colleges.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/best-colleges/national-universities