graduates exit survey - the american university in cairo€¦ · graduates exit survey fall 2016...

GRADUATES EXIT SURVEY Fall 2016

THE AMERICAN UNIVERSITY IN CAIRO DATA ANALYTICS AND INSTITUITIONAL RESEARCH

http://www.aucegypt.edu/about/data-analytics-and-institutional-research

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

INTRODUCTION The purpose of the Graduate Student Exit Survey is to assess opinions of graduate students about their experience at AUC. The Graduate Student Exit Survey was developed by the Office of Data Analytics and Institutional Research (DAIR) and the Office of Graduate Studies. DAIR emailed the survey invitations to 203 graduate students on February 2, 2017. The survey remained accessible until March 3rd, 2017, and four email reminders were sent throughout this period. Upon closing the survey, 110 students had completed it, for a response rate of about 54%.

METHODOLOGY AND ORGANIZATION OF THE REPORT This report consists of six parts:

Part I: General demographic information presented as frequencies and charts Part II: Questions regarding graduate students’ academic experience, in addition to the overall

students’ rating to some academic aspects presented as frequencies and charts Part III: Questions regarding graduate students’ rating of their experiences and provided support

services presented as frequencies and charts Part IV: Overall student satisfaction Part V: Strengths, weaknesses and satisfaction arranged into functional themes and listed by

respondents’ major Part VI: Trends for selected questions

PART I: GENERAL DEMOGRAPHIC INFORMATION

ACADEMIC-RELATED INFORMATION

Q1: PLEASE IDENTIFY YOURSELF (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY)

ANSWER OPTIONS FREQUENCY

PERCENTAGE % (FROM ALL RESPONDENTS 110)

PERCENTAGE % (FROM TOTAL RESPONSES TO THIS QUESTION) MISSING

AUC Staff Yes 12 10.91% 11.11% 68

No 56 50.91% 51.85%

AUC Faculty Yes 6 5.45% 5.56% 61

No 55 50.00% 50.93%

Bachelor’s degree from AUC Yes 20 18.18% 18.52% 67

No 47 42.73% 43.52%

Bachelor's degree from a university in Egypt other than AUC

Yes 60 54.55% 55.56% 80 No 20 18.18% 18.52%

Bachelor's degree from a university outside Egypt

Yes 9 8.18% 8.33% 62

No 53 48.18% 49.07%

Master's degree (MA/MSC) from AUC

Yes 102 92.73% 94.44% 105

No 3 2.73% 2.78%

Master's degree from a university in Egypt other than AUC

Yes 7 6.36% 6.48% 60 No 53 48.18% 49.07%

Master's degree from a university outside Egypt

Yes 4 3.64% 3.70% 60

No 56 50.91% 51.85%

Ph.D. from a university in Egypt Yes 3 2.73% 2.78% 57

No 54 49.09% 50.00%

Ph.D. from a university outside Egypt

Yes 0 0.00% 0.00% 57

No 57 51.82% 52.78%

IF YOU ARE NOT AN AUC ALUMNI, PLEASE SPECIFY THE NAME AND THE LOCATION OF YOUR UNDERGRADUATE INSTITUTION

UNIVERSITY COUNT

AASTMT 1

Ahram Canadian University, 6 of October, Egypt 1

Ain shams university , faculty of Al Alsun 1

Ain Shams University, Cairo 4

Al-Azhar University 1

Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt 2

Cairo University 6

Cairo University - Egypt 1

Cairo University in Giza, Egypt 1

Cairo University, Faculty of Economic and Political Science 1

Duke University 1

Faculty of Engineering, Ain Shams University 1

Faculty of Commerce and Business Admin., Helwan University 1

Faculty of Commerce English Section, Ain Shams University 1

Faculty of Commerce, Ain Shams University 1

Faculty of Commerce, English section, Ain Shams University 1

Faculty of Economics and Political Science, Cairo University, Giza 1

Faculty of engineering- Cairo University 1

Faculty of Engineering, Ain Shams University 1

Faculty of medicine, zagazig University 1

Faculty of Pharmacy Ain Shams University 1

Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University 1

Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University 1

faculty of pharmacy-Ain Shams university 1

Faculty of science Cairo university 1

Future University in Egypt 1

Georgetown University 1

King AbdulAziz University, Saudi Arabia 1

Minufiya University 1

Misr International University (MIU), Cairo 1

October 6 University / Egypt 1

Sadat Academy for Management Sciences 1

Tanta University 1

The British University in Egypt 2

The German University in Cairo 3

The Hashemite University, Jordan 1

University of California-Berkeley, USA 1

Veterinary medicine cairo University 1

0.0%

2.8%

3.7%

5.6%

6.5%

8.3%

11.1%

18.5%

55.6%

94.4%

Ph.D. from a university outside Egypt

Ph.D. from a university in Egypt

Master's degree from a university outside Egypt

AUC Faculty

Master's degree from a university in Egypt other than AUC

Bachelor's degree from a university outside Egypt

AUC Staff

Bachelor’s degree from AUC

Bachelor's degree from a university in Egypt other than AUC

Master's degree (MA/MSC) from AUC

Students' Identification

Q2: FULLTIME/ PART TIME STUDENT STATUS: PLEASE CHECK WHAT IS APPLICABLE FOR YOU

ANSWER OPTIONS FREQUENCY PERCENTAGE %

(FROM TOTAL RESPONSES TO THIS QUESTION – 108)

Full-time Student 62 57.4%

Part-time Student 46 42.6%

Total 108

Missing 2

57.4

42.6

Percentage of Full-time/ Part-time Students

Full-time student - 3 courses per semester Part-time student - less than 3 courses

Q3: STUDENTS’ ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

PRIMARY ACADEMIC PROGRAM COUNT

PERCENTAGE % (FROM TOTAL RESPONSES TO THIS QUESTION - 105)

Arabic Language Institute 2 1.9%

Arabic Studies 1 1.0%

Biotechnology 8 7.6%

Center for Arabic Study Abroad 0 0.0%

Chemistry 1 1.0%

Community Psychology 0 0.0%

Computer Science 4 3.8%

Computing 0 0.0%

Construction Engineering 6 5.7%

Counseling Psychology 0 0.0%

Economics 2 1.9%

Economics in International Development

0 0.0%

Egyptology & Coptology 0 0.0%

Electronics Engineering 1 1.0%

English & Comparative Literature 2 1.9%

Environmental Engineering 2 1.9%

Environmental System Design 0 0.0%

Family and Child Counseling 0 0.0%

Finance 1 1.0%

Gender and Women's Studies in ME 1 1.0%

History 0 0.0%

International & Comparative Education

6 5.7%

International & Comparative Law 2 1.9%

International Human Rights Law 0 0.0%

Journalism & Mass Communication 7 6.7%

MA in Public Administration 5 4.8%

MA of Laws 4 3.8%

Master in Public Policy 6 5.7%

Master of Business Administration 11 10.5%

Master of Global Affairs 3 2.9%

Master of Public Policy & Administration

7 6.7%

Mechanical Engineering 4 3.8%

Middle East Studies 1 1.0%

Migration and Refugee Studies 0 0.0%

Nanotechnology 1 1.0%

PhD in Applied Science 0 0.0%

PhD in Engineering 0 0.0%

Physics 1 1.0%

Political Science 6 5.7%

Product Development and Systems Management

0 0.0%

Robotics, Control & Smart Systems 2 1.9%

Sociology Anthropology 4 3.8%

Teaching Arabic As a Foreign Language

2 1.9%

Teaching English As a Foreign Language

2 1.9%

TV. & Digital Journalism 0 0.0%

Total 105

Missing 5

1%1%1%1%1%1%1%1%

2%2%2%2%2%2%2%2%

3%4%4%4%4%

5%6%6%6%6%

7%7%

8%11%

Arabic Studies

Chemistry

Electronics Engineering

Finance

Gender and Women's Studies in ME

Middle East Studies

Nanotechnology

Physics

Arabic Language Institute

Economics

English & Comparative Literature

Environmental Engineering

International & Comparative Law

Robotics, Control & Smart Systems

Teaching Arabic As a Foreign Language

Teaching English As a Foreign Language

Master of Global Affairs

Computer Science

MA of Laws

Mechanical Engineering

Sociology Anthropology

MA in Public Administration

Construction Engineering


Master in Public Policy

Political Science

Journalism & Mass Communication

Master of Public Policy & Administration

Biotechnology

Master of Business Administration

Students' Primary Academic Programs

Q4: DUAL DEGREES

• 6 students reported that they are enrolled in a secondary program, 2 of which reported their secondary program the same as the

primary program.

• Reported dual degrees for the 6 students were as follows:

Legend

Q5: YEAR OR SEMESTER STUDENT ENROLLED AS A GRADUATE


Fall 2008 5 4.90%

Spring 2009 2 1.96%

Fall 2009 2 1.96%

Spring 2010 7 6.86%

Fall 2010 2 1.96%

Spring 2011 2 1.96%

Fall 2011 5 4.90%

Spring 2012 9 8.82%

Summer 2012 0 0.00%

Fall 2012 7 6.86%

Spring 2013 4 3.92%

Fall 2013 16 15.69%

Spring 2014 10 9.80%


Construction Engineering Economics

Economics in International Development

BiotechnologyJournalism & Mass Comm


Master in Public Policy Sociology

AnthropologyMaster in

Public Policy

Journalism & Mass Comm

Middle East Studies


Fall 2014 31 30.39%

Total 102

Missing 8

4.90%1.96% 1.96%

6.86%

1.96% 1.96%4.90%

8.82%

0.00%

6.86%3.92%

15.69%

9.80%

30.39%

Fall 2008 Spring 2009 Fall 2009 Spring 2010 Fall 2010 Spring 2011 Fall 2011 Spring 2012 Summer2012

Fall 2012 Spring 2013 Fall 2013 Spring 2014 Fall 2014

First Year Enrollment

Q6: STUDENTS’ NATIONALITY

ANSWER OPTIONS COUNT

PERCENTAGE % (FROM TOTAL REPSPONSES

107)

Iraq 1 0.93%

Jordan 1 0.93%

Kenya 1 0.93%

Kuwait 1 0.93%

Nigeria 1 0.93%

Saudi Arabia 1 0.93%

Spain 1 0.93%

United States of America 3 2.80%

Egypt 97 90.65%

Total 107

Missing 3

Q6: STUDENTS’ COUNTRY OF ORIGIN


PERCENTAGE % (FROM TOTAL RESPONSES

102)

Colombia 1 0.98%

Iraq 1 0.98%

Jordan 1 0.98%

Kuwait 1 0.98%

Nigeria 1 0.98%

Pakistan 1 0.98%

United States of America 2 1.96%

Saudi Arabia 3 2.94%

Egypt 91 89.22%

Total 102

Missing 8

0.93%

0.93%

0.93%

0.93%

0.93%

0.93%

0.93%

2.80%

90.65%

Iraq

Jordan

Kenya

Kuwait

Nigeria

Saudi Arabia

Spain

United States of America

Egypt

Students' Nationality

0.98%

0.98%

0.98%

0.98%

0.98%

0.98%

1.96%

2.94%

89.22%

Colombia

Iraq

Jordan

Kuwait

Nigeria

Pakistan

United States of America

Saudi Arabia

Egypt

Students' Country of Origin

Q7: STUDENTS’ GENDER


PERCENTAGE % (FROM TOTAL RESPONDENTS

TO THIS QUESTION – 114)

Male 42 38.9%

Female 66 61.1%

Total 108

Missing 2

Q8: STUDENTS’ AGE RANGE

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN COUNT

PERCENTAGE % (FROM TOTAL RESPONSES TO THIS

QUESTION 109)

Under 25 7 6.42%

25-29 41 37.61%

30-34 36 33.03%

35-45 20 18.35%

Over 45 5 4.59%

Total 109

Missing 1

38.9%

61.1%

Male Female

4.59%

6.42%

18.35%

33.03%

37.61%

Over 45

Under 25

35-45

30-34

25-29

Students' Age Range

FUTURE ACADEMIC CAREER PLANS

Q9: FOR MA/MS STUDENTS: DO YOU INTEND TO PURSUE A PH.D. PROGRAM?

ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES

PERCENTAGE (FROM TOTAL RESPONSES TO THIS

QUESTION 104)

Yes 56 53.8%

Don't know 41 39.4%

No 7 6.7%

Total 104

Missing 6

IF YOUR ANSWER IS "YES", WHICH INSTITUTION(S) AND PHD PROGRAM(S) YOU WISH TO JOIN?

The American University in Cairo (1)

• I want to join school of science and engineering at AUC to pursue PhD degree in applied sciences

Travel Abroad (23)

• Westminister university in the UK

• I joined the PhD program at University of Houston, TX, USA

• international and comapritive development

• Harvard University

• Coloumbia University, Berkely, John Hopkins

• Targeting institutions in Canada, USA, Germany and Australia, Programs of Computer Science in computer vision and machine learning

• University of montreal

• QUT Ph.D in creative industry

• Smart Grids

• London School of Economics, PhD in Economics

• ETH Zurich, PhD in Mechanical Engineering

• Lse, ucl or kings in london for a phd i international law

• Applied Linguistics, Birmingham

• Economics in Lund University

• European universities will be my main focus

• School of Economics and Law in UK or The European Institute in Italy

• I am planning to go abroad, most probably a program related to urban development and,or geography.

• Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health - PhD Concentration in Health & Public Policy, University of Illinois Department of Communication - PhDPhd. Program in Electronics and communication or Biomedical engineering

• Law in uk

• Lancaster University

• MD_PhD program at Harvard or MIT

6.7%

39.4%

53.8%

Not Intending

Don't know

Intending

MA/MS Students' Intention to Pursue a PH.D.

• Duke University, University of Michigan, Brown University, UC Berkeley, Anthropology

• In Germany, any phD program that is related to political mass media

Undecided (15)

• no phd programs suitable in Egypt. Looking for part time phd program abroad. Leicester University in UK is on top of my list for a phd in media policy.

• Still searching

• Haven't decided yet.

• Still looking for opportunities. Most probably Miami University.

• Still searching

• Not sure yet

• NA

• not yet decided

• Harvard Law School

• Not decided yet.

• UK

• I have not decided yet.

• Still dont know

• Construction Engineering program. Institution still under consideration.

• Undecided

Other (11)

• DBA

• PHD in linguistics from faculty of Al-alsun, Ain Shams University

• Education

• a program on urban studies

• Cairo University or Sadat Academy

• Ain Shams University

• Cairo University

• chemistry

• PhD in Environmental Engineering

• Mechanical engineering

• Anthropology

1

11

15

23

AUC

Other

Undecided

Study Abroad

Students' PhD plans

Q10: FOR PH.D STUDENTS: ARE YOU ENROLLED IN AUC'S PH.D PROGRAM?


PERCENTAGE (FROM TOTAL RESPONSES TO THIS

QUESTION 14)

Yes 3 21.43%

No 11 78.57%

Total 14

Missing 96

Only three students reported the time taken to complete their Ph.D programs; one reported 5-years, one reported 6-years & one reported 7-years completion tim.

AUC TUITION COVERAGE

Q11: HOW DID YOU COVER THE COST OF YOUR TUITION AT AUC?


PERCENTAGE (FROM TOTAL RESPONSES TO

THIS QUESTION 103)

Personal fund 60.2% 62

AUC Financial aid (work study/assistantships or tuition discount)

22.3% 23

AUC Fellowship 51.5% 53

AUC Staff/Faculty Scholarship

14.6% 15

Outside donor (Ford Foundation, Fulbright, your employer, etc.)

12.6% 13

Commercial bank loans 0.0% 0

Federal Student AID (FAFSA) 1.9% 2

Total 103

Missing 7

21.43%

78.57%

Yes

No

Ph.D Students Enrolled at AUC

1.90%

12.60%

14.60%

22.30%

51.50%

60.20%

Federal Student AID (FAFSA)

Outside donor (Ford Foundation,…

AUC Staff/Faculty Scholarship

AUC Financial aid (work…

AUC Fellowship

Personal fund

AUC Tuition Coverage

Other (Please specify)

Only reported other sources of funding (5) • Yousef Jameel fellowship

• Mo Ibrahim foundation

• Youssef Jameel public leadership fellowship

• Youssef Jameel Followship for 4 years, then personal fund for 2 years.

• parents fund

EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION

Q13: STUDENTS’ EMPLOYMENT STATUS

ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES PERCENTAGE

Employed full time 74 68.5%

Employed part time 13 12.0%

Seeking employment 17 15.7%

Unemployed 4 3.7%

Total 108

Missing 2

Q14: HAS YOUR AUC GRADUATE DEGREE HAD A POSITIVE IMPACT ON YOUR SALARY?

ANSWER CHOICES

RESPONSES PERCENTAGE

(FROM TOTAL RESPONSES TO THIS QUESTION 109)

Yes 30 27.5%

No 43 39.4%

Not Applicable 36 33.0%

Total 109

Missing 1

68.5%

12.0%

15.7%

3.7%

Students' Employment Status

Employed full time

Employed part time

Seeking employment

Unemployed

27.5%

39.4%

33.0%

Has your AUC graduate degree had a positive impact on your salary?

Yes No Not Applicable

Q15: HOW MUCH WORK EXPERIENCE DID YOU HAVE WHEN YOU STARTED YOUR GRADUATE PROGRAM?



Less than 3 years 36 33.03%

3-5 years 31 28.44%

6-10 years 29 26.61%

11-15 years 7 6.42%

More than 15 years 6 5.50%

Total 109

Missing 1

33.03%

28.44%26.61%

6.42% 5.50%

Less than 3 years 3-5 years 6-10 years 11-15 years More than 15 years

Work Experience at the Time of Starting the Program

PART II: ACADEMIC EXPERIENCE

STUDENTS’ EXPERIENCE WITH WRITING A THESIS

Q16: IS WRITING A THESIS PART OF YOUR DEGREE?


Yes 83 86.5%

No 13 13.5%

Total 96

Missing 14

Q17: IF YOUR ANSWER IN THE PREVIOUS QUESTION IS "YES', PLEASE INDICATE YOUR LEVEL OF SATISFACTION WITH THE FOLLOWING:

VERY

SATISFIED SATISFIED NEUTRAL DISSATISFIED VERY DISSATISFIED N/A TOTAL

WEIGHTED

AVERAGE

a. Availability to identify a suitable thesis supervisor

Count 34 34 7 7 3 1 86 1.05

% Percentage of Total 39.53% 39.53% 8.14% 8.14% 3.49% 1.16%

b. Availability of a thesis supervisor

Count 42 30 8 4 1 1 86 1.27


c. Availability of readers Count 30 28 14 7 1 4 84 0.99


d. Quality of thesis supervision Count 34 36 9 3 3 1 86 1.12


e. Supervisor feedback provided in a timely manner

Count 36 32 12 4 1 1 86 1.15


f. Resources availability Count 38 33 9 3 1 2 86 1.24


g. Support in data collection Count 26 26 19 3 1 11 86 0.97


h. Information about copyright Count 30 31 17 2 1 5 86 1.07


i. Information about Institutional Review Board (IRB)

Count 34 29 13 0 1 8 85 1.23


39.53%

34.88%

30.23%

44.19%

41.86%

39.53%

35.71%

48.84%

39.53%

33.72%

36.05%

30.23%

38.37%

37.21%

41.86%

33.33%

34.88%

39.53%

0.00%

2.33%

3.49%

3.49%

4.65%

3.49%

8.33%

4.65%

8.14%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

i. Information about Institutional Review Board (IRB) for the Protection of Human subjects…

h. Information about copyright

g. Support in data collection

f. Resources availability

e. Supervisor feedback provided in a timely manner

d. Quality of thesis supervision

c. Availability of readers

b. Availability of your thesis supervisor for consultation

a. Availability of suitable thesis supervisors

Students' Satisfaction with the Thesis Experience

Very satisfied Satisfied Dissatisfied Very dissatisfied

0.97

0.99

1.05

1.07

1.12

1.15

1.23

1.24

1.27

Support in data collection

Availability of readers

Availability of suitable thesis supervisors

Information about copyright

Quality of thesis supervision

Supervisor feedback provided in a timely manner

Information about Institutional Review Board (IRB) for the Protection of Human subjects…

Resources availability

Availability of your thesis supervisor for consultation

Students' Weighted Average Satisfaction with Thesis Experience

Q18: HOW HELPFUL WAS/WERE YOUR SUPERVISOR(S) FOR EACH OF THE FOLLOWING ACTIVITIES?

VERY HELPFUL HELPFUL

NOT VERY

HELPFUL NOT HELPFUL AT

ALL TOTAL

WEIGHTED

AVERAGE

a. Identification of a thesis/dissertation research topic

Count 48 29 9 1 87 3.43

% Percentage of Total

55.17% 33.33% 10.34% 1.15%

b. Support in writing a thesis/dissertation proposal

Count 41 36 7 3 87 3.32


47.13% 41.38% 8.05% 3.45%

c. Support in research methodology

Count 40 31 13 3 87 3.24


45.98% 35.63% 14.94% 3.45%

d. Evaluation of thesis progress

Count 43 30 10 4 87 3.29


49.43% 34.48% 11.49% 4.60%

e. Mentoring and academic advising

Count 50 29 7 1 87 3.47


57.47% 33.33% 8.05% 1.15%

f. Information about IRB Count 39 33 10 2 84 3.30


46.43% 39.29% 11.90% 2.38%

46.43%

57.47%

49.43%

45.98%

47.13%

55.17%

39.29%

33.33%

34.48%

35.63%

41.38%

33.33%

11.90%

8.05%

11.49%

14.94%

8.05%

10.34%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

f. Information about IRB

e. Mentoring and academic advising

d. Evaluation of thesis progress

c.support in research methodology

b. Support in writing a thesis/dissertation proposal

a. Identification of a thesis/dissertation research topic

Helpfulness of Thesis Supervisor

Very helpful Helpful Not very helpful Not helpful at all

3.24

3.29

3.30

3.32

3.43

3.47

support in research methodology

Evaluation of thesis progress

Information about IRB

Support in writing a thesis/dissertation proposal

Identification of a thesis/dissertation research topic

Mentoring and academic advising

Weighted Average of Helpfulness of Thesis Supervisor

Q19: PLEASE ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS RELATED TO THE THESIS SUBMISSION SUPPORT

YES NO TOTAL

Have you submitted your thesis to turnitin to check for plagiarism?

Count 58 28 86

% Percentage of Total 67.44% 32.56%

Have you submitted copies of the pre-final draft to thesis supervisor and readers as directed?

Count 85 1 86


Have you uploaded a soft copy of your thesis to the AUC DAR Repository?

Count 77 9 86


89.53%

98.84%

67.44%

10.47%

1.16%

32.56%

c. Have you uploaded a soft copy of your thesis to the AUC DAR Repository?

b. Have you submitted copies of the pre-final draft to thesis supervisor and readersas directed?

a. Have you submitted your thesis to turnitin to check for plagiarism?

Thesis Submission Support

Yes No

OVERALL ACADEMIC EXPERIENCE

Q20: IF YOU ATTENDED ANY OF THE FOLLOWING WORKSHOPS, PLEASE INDICATE THE LEVEL OF USEFULLNESS

VERY USEFUL

USEFUL NOT

USEFUL

NOT USEFUL AT

ALL N/A TOTAL

WEIGHTED AVERAGE

(-2 TO 2)

a. Academic integrity and research ethics

Count 24 37 3 4 18 86 1.09

% from total responses 27.91% 43.02% 3.49% 4.65% 20.93%

b. Presentation skills Count 11 24 2 2 37 76 1.03


c. Thesis proposal writing Count 13 30 5 1 28 77 1.00


d. Research methodology Count 14 14 4 2 42 76 1.00


e. Literature review and abstract

Count 22 16 3 1 35 77 1.31


f. Library research guidance

Count 15 30 3 0 29 77 1.19


g. Statistical package (SPSS, survey monkey, etc ...)

Count 4 7 2 2 57 72 0.60


h. How to apply for Ph.D Count 0 6 2 1 62 71 0.22


i. Grant proposal writing Count 3 6 1 1 58 69 0.82


4.35%

5.56%

19.48%

28.57%

18.42%

16.88%

14.47%

27.91%

8.70%

8.45%

9.72%

38.96%

20.78%

18.42%

38.96%

31.58%

43.02%

1.45%

2.82%

2.78%

3.90%

3.90%

5.26%

6.49%

2.63%

3.49%

i. Grant proposal writing

h. How to apply for Ph.D

g. Statistical package (SPSS, survey monkey, etc ...)

f. Library research guidance

e. Literature review and abstract

d. Research methodology

c. Thesis proposal writing

b. Presentation skills

a. Academic integrity and research ethics

Usefulness of Academic Workshops

Very useful Useful Not useful Not useful at all

0.22

0.6

0.82

1

1

1.03

1.09

1.19

1.31

How to apply for Ph.D

Statistical package (SPSS, survey monkey, etc ...)

Grant proposal writing

Thesis proposal writing

Research methodology

Presentation skills

Academic integrity and research ethics

Library research guidance

Literature review and abstract

Weighted Average Usefulness of Academic Workshops Rating

WHICH OF THESE WORKSHOPS WOULD YOU RECOMMEND TO YOUR FELLOW COLLEAGUES AS THE MOST USEFUL?

Academic integrity and research ethics (6) Presentation skills (5) Thesis proposal writing (4) Research methodology (3) Literature review and abstract (8)

Library research guidance (4) Statistical package (SPSS, survey monkey, etc ...) (1) How to apply for Ph.D (0) Grant proposal writing (1)

1

1

1

3

3

4

4

5

6

8

None

Grant proposal writing

Statistical package

All

Research methodology

Library research guidance

Thesis proposal writing

Presentation skills

Academic integrity and research ethics

Literature review and abstract

Workshop Recommendations

Q21: PLEASE RATE THE QUALITY OF EACH OF THE FOLLOWING:

EXCELLENT VERY

GOOD GOOD FAIR POOR N/A TOTAL

WEIGHTED AVERAGE

(1 TO 5)

a. Your academic advising Count 35 35 15 9 3 0 97 3.93


b. The graduate program curriculum

Count 21 48 16 9 3 0 97 3.77


c. Opportunities for interaction with faculty

Count 34 43 10 7 2 0 96 4.04


d. Opportunities to work with diverse groups in team projects

Count 31 29 15 12 5 5 97 3.75


e. Opportunities to do research in your area of interest

Count 41 27 16 3 9 1 97 3.92


f. Availability of courses you needed

Count 16 37 27 9 7 1 97 3.48


g. Scheduling of your graduate courses

Count 23 38 26 7 3 0 97 3.73


h. Academic standard of your peers in the program

Count 28 37 20 8 2 1 96 3.85


i. Resources for research Count 42 37 11 4 0 2 96 4.24


j. Library hours Count 47 31 13 4 0 2 97 4.27


48.45%

43.75%

29.17%

23.71%

16.49%

42.27%

31.96%

35.42%

21.65%

36.08%

31.96%

38.54%

38.54%

39.18%

38.14%

27.84%

29.90%

44.79%

49.48%

36.08%

13.40%

11.46%

20.83%

26.80%

27.84%

16.49%

15.46%

10.42%

16.49%

15.46%

j. Library hours

i. Resources for research

h. Academic standard of your peers in the program

g. Scheduling of your graduate courses

f. Availability of courses you needed

e. Opportunities to do research in your area of interest

d. Opportunities to work with diverse groups in team projects

c. Opportunities for interaction with faculty

b. The graduate program curriculum

a. Your academic advising

Student Ratings regarding Quality of Academic Experience

Excellent Very Good Good Fair Poor

3.48

3.73

3.75

3.77

3.85

3.92

3.93

4.04

4.24

4.27

Availability of courses you needed

Scheduling of your graduate courses

Opportunities to work with diverse groups in team projects

The graduate program curriculum

Academic standard of your peers in the program

Opportunities to do research in your area of interest

Your academic advising

Opportunities for interaction with faculty

Resources for research

Library hours

Average Rating Weight of Academic Experiences

Q22: PLEASE INDICATE THE EXTENT TO WHICH YOUR GRADUATE EDUCATION AT AUC IS ENHANCING THESE SKILLS.

TO A GREAT

EXTENT TO SOME EXTENT

NOT AT ALL TOTAL

WEIGHTED AVERAGE

(1 TO 3)

a. Become an expert in your field

Count 36 57 4 97 2.33

% Percentage of Total 37.11% 58.76% 4.12%

b. Be up to date with the latest research techniques

Count 52 39 6 97 2.47


c. Write quality papers ready for publication

Count 50 38 9 97 2.42


d. Present research results to an audience of peers or at a conference

Count 45 41 9 95 2.38


e. Write grant proposals Count 19 44 29 92 1.89


f. Supervise others

Count 35 40 21 96 2.15


g. Become a qualified teacher

Count 37 44 15 96 2.23


h. Collaborate with a team

Count 56 30 11 97 2.46


i. Become a team leader

Count 45 37 14 96 2.32


j. Understand the principles of ethical conduct in research

Count 76 18 3 97 2.75


k. Keep up with current advances in your field

Count 58 32 7 97 2.53


59.79%

78.35%

46.88%

57.73%

38.14%

36.46%

20.65%

47.37%

51.55%

53.61%

37.11%

32.99%

18.56%

38.54%

30.93%

45.36%

41.67%

47.83%

43.16%

39.18%

40.21%

58.76%

7.22%

3.09%

14.58%

11.34%

15.46%

21.88%

31.52%

9.47%

9.28%

6.19%

4.12%

k. Keep up with current advances in your field

j. Understand the principles of ethical conduct in research

i. Become a team leader

h. Collaborate with a team

g. Become a qualified teacher

f. Supervise others

e. Write grant proposals

d. Present research results to an audience of peers or at a conference

c. Write quality papers ready for publication

b. Be up to date with the latest research methods

a. Become an expert in your field

The Extent to which Graduate Education at AUC Enhances Students' Skills

To a great extent To some extent Not at all

1.89

2.15

2.23

2.32

2.33

2.38

2.42

2.46

2.47

2.53

2.75

Write grant proposals

Supervise others

Become a qualified teacher

Become a team leader

Become an expert in your field

Present research results to an audience of peers or at a conference

Write quality papers ready for publication

Collaborate with a team

Be up to date with the latest research methods

Keep up with current advances in your field

Understand the principles of ethical conduct in research

Weighted Average Skill Enhancement

PART III: STUDENTS RATING OF THEIR EXPERIENCE AND THE PROVIDED SUPPORT SERVICES

Q23: OVERALL, AS A GRADUATE STUDENT AT AUC, HOW WOULD YOU RATE THE FOLLOWING?

EXCELLENT VERY GOOD GOOD FAIR POOR TOTAL WEIGHTED AVERAGE

a. Your academic experience

Count 37 47 9 3 1 97 4.20

% Percentage of Total 38.14% 48.45% 9.28% 3.09% 1.03%

b. Your student life experience

Count 33 33 21 8 2 97 3.90


c. Your personal development opportunities

Count 37 40 15 4 1 97 4.11


d. Your professional development opportunities

Count 32 36 18 10 1 97 3.91


e. Quality of instruction in your courses

Count 37 41 15 2 2 97 4.12


f. Quality of your courses

Count 28 39 23 6 1 97 3.90


g. Academic mentoring support

Count 36 35 18 6 2 97 4.00


37.11%

28.87%

38.14%

32.99%

38.14%

34.02%

38.14%

36.08%

40.21%

42.27%

37.11%

41.24%

34.02%

48.45%

18.56%

23.71%

15.46%

18.56%

15.46%

21.65%

9.28%

g. Academic mentoring support

f. Quality of your courses

e. Quality of instruction in your courses

d. Your professional development opportunities

c. Your personal development opportunities

b. Your student life experience

a. Your academic experience

Student Ratings

Excellent Very Good Good Fair Poor

3.90

3.90

3.91

4.00

4.11

4.12

4.20

Your student life experience

Quality of your courses

Your professional development opportunities

Academic mentoring support

Your personal development opportunities

Quality of instruction in your courses

Your academic experience

Weighted Average Student Ratings

Q24: PLEASE RATE THE QUALITY OF EACH OF THE FOLLOWING SUPPORT SERVICES

EXCELLENT

VERY

GOOD GOOD AVERAGE POOR N/A TOTAL

WEIGHTED

AVERAGE (1 TO 6)

a. Graduate Students Academic Workshops

Count 16 27 21 6 1 0 90 4.72


b. Conference, Research and Study Abroad Support Grants

Count 16 20 12 6 3 1 90 4.64


c. Bus Transportation schedule Count 17 16 18 8 0 3 90 4.53


d. Food service availability Count 9 23 25 14 4 3 87 4.13


e. Medical department services

Count 13 17 17 5 2 0 89 4.63


f. Social activities for Graduate students

Count 9 12 18 13 2 4 90 4.02


g. Services of the student counseling center

Count 10 9 10 3 1 1 88 4.62


h. Services of the student mentoring unit

Count 10 5 11 4 1 1 89 4.50


i. Career Center

Count 14 13 19 4 3 3 89 4.39


j. Internship opportunities Count 9 9 10 11 3 3 89 4.02


k. Teaching assistantship opportunities

Count 16 17 14 15 1 3 90 4.35


l. Work study opportunities Count 10 17 12 5 3 1 90 4.48


m. E-mail and internet services Count 53 19 10 2 2 1 89 5.33


n. WiFi services on campus Count 44 24 11 5 2 1 90 5.15


o. Photocopy & printing Count 28 24 23 6 5 1 90 4.70

EXCELLENT

VERY

GOOD GOOD AVERAGE POOR N/A TOTAL

WEIGHTED

AVERAGE (1 TO 6)

services on campus % Percentage of Total 31.11% 26.67% 25.56% 6.67% 5.56% 1.11%

p. Athletics department

Count 16 17 8 3 0 1 89 4.96


q. Payment of stipend for fellows

Count 19 13 12 9 2 2 89 4.56


r. Public lectures and Seminars Count 14 26 31 3 1 2 90 4.56


s. Graduate Student Association

Count 8 13 19 5 2 0 88 4.43


9.09%

15.56%

21.35%

17.98%

31.11%

48.89%

59.55%

11.11%

17.78%

10.11%

15.73%

11.24%

11.36%

10.00%

14.61%

10.34%

18.89%

17.78%

17.78%

14.77%

28.89%

14.61%

19.10%

26.67%

26.67%

21.35%

18.89%

18.89%

10.11%

14.61%

5.62%

10.23%

13.33%

19.10%

26.44%

17.78%

22.22%

30.00%

21.59%

34.44%

13.48%

8.99%

25.56%

12.22%

11.24%

13.33%

15.56%

11.24%

21.35%

12.36%

11.36%

20.00%

19.10%

28.74%

20.00%

13.33%

23.33%

5.68%

3.33%

10.11%

3.37%

6.67%

5.56%

2.25%

5.56%

16.67%

12.36%

4.49%

4.49%

3.41%

14.44%

5.62%

16.09%

8.89%

6.67%

6.67%

s. Graduate Student Association

r. Public lectures and Seminars

q. Payment of stipend for fellows

p. Athletics department

o. Photocopy & printing services on campus

n. WiFi services on campus

m. E-mail and internet services

l. Work study opportunities

k. Teaching assistantship opportunities

j. Internship opportunities

i. Career Center

h. Services of the student mentoring unit

g. Services of the student counseling center

f. Social activities for Graduate students

e. Medical department services

d. Food service availability

c. Bus Transportation schedule

b. Conference, Research and Study Abroad Support Grants

a. Graduate Students Academic Workshops

Rating of the Quality of Support Services

Excellent Very Good Good Average Fair Poor

4.02

4.02

4.13

4.35

4.39

4.43

4.48

4.50

4.53

4.56

4.56

4.62

4.63

4.64

4.70

4.72

4.96

5.15

5.33

Social activities for Graduate students

Internship opportunities

Food service availability

Teaching assistantship opportunities

Career Center

Graduate Student Association

Work study opportunities

Services of the student mentoring unit

Bus Transportation schedule

Payment of stipend for fellows

Public lectures and Seminars

Services of the student counseling center

Medical department services

Conference, Research and Study Abroad Support Grants

Photocopy & printing services on campus

Graduate Students Academic Workshops

Athletics department

WiFi services on campus

E-mail and internet services

Weighted Average Rating of Support Services

PART IV: OVERALL STUDENT SATISFACTION

Q25: OVERALL, INDICATE YOUR LEVEL OF SATISFACTION AS A GRADUATE STUDENT AT AUC



Very satisfied 34 37.0%

Satisfied 51 55.4%

Neutral 4 4.3%

Dissatisfied 3 3.3%

Very dissatisfied 0 0.0%

Total 92

Missing 18

Q12: WOULD YOU RECOMMEND AUC TO A FRIEND OR COLLEAGUE CONSIDERING YOUR FIELD OF STUDY?


PERCENTAGE (FROM TOTAL RESPONSES TO

THIS QUESTION 107)

Definitely 55 51.4%

Probably 34 31.8%

Maybe 16 15.0%

Definitely not 2 1.9%

Total 107

Missing 13

0.0%

3.3%

4.3%

37.0%

55.4%

Very dissatisfied

Dissatisfied

Neutral

Very satisfied

Satisfied

Overall Satisfaction Level

1.9%

15.0%

31.8%

51.4%

Definitely not

Maybe

Probably

Definitely

Would You Recommend AUC to a friend considering your field of study?

PART V: STRENGTHS, WEAKNESSES AND SUGGESTIONS FOR IMPROVEMENT

STRENGTHS, WEAKNESSES AND SUGGESTIONS FOR IMPROVEMENT REPORTED BY THEME (QUESTIONS 26, 27 & 28) Strengths

THEME COMMENT MAJOR

Academic Experience

Strong colleagues Some great professors Up to date with latest scientific research topics Good system Supportive department at solving students problems Good envirnoment for innovation

Computer Science

The academic experience and the exposure to researches. Construction Engineering

The diversity of courses The strength of the majority of the professors Developing the ability to work with different types of people through the team work Enhancing Presentation Skills Reading and analyzing published research papers

Master of Business Admin.

The constant help available The Courses The lectures Master of Global Affairs

Courses, quality of professors, being up to date with global and local news and policy issues Availability for funds and scholarships for graduate students

Master in Public Administration

Academic writing, research excellence, and high quality publications Mechanical Engineering

Political Science Decent quality of education capitalizing on well-established and strong faculty members from around the world, while maintaining the culture of the region.

Academic Program the program is unique and the first of its kind " Sustainable development". the best 2 courses I took were basic concepts and applications for social and environmental policies: by Aisha Saad Cities structures and dynamics: Mona Abaza

Sustainable Development

Academic Program: Elective Courses

The elective courses outside my department Journalism & Mass Communication

Diversity AUC's diversity warmth and standards of peers and instructors Master in Public Policy

Facilities: Library The Library Experience Journalism & Mass Communication

Faculty

Being taught be professional professors in the field, and being surrounded by active and hard working students

Computer Science

Most of the professors are unique in their field; moreover, academic or professional materials are always up-to-date

Executive MBA

my thesis supervisor, and freedom to chose what ever topic i want Journalism & Mass Communication

Professional instructors Latest knowledge Master of Business Admin.

communication with professors Masters in Public Administration

exposed to well educated and high calibers faculty Masters in Public Administration

My interaction with some professors who truly motovated me to fulfill my potential

Middle East Studies

The richness of knowledge my professors contributed in every class Migration and Refugee Studies

Faculty

Faculty & Students

I enjoyed working and studying with a group of talented and caring colleagues, most of whom were different from me in many ways, but we all got along really well and respected each other's opinions and tastes. It was also an honor to take classes led by experts in their respective fields - Dr. Plumlee has been especially inspirational to me.

Teaching English to Speakers of Other Language

Financial Assistance & Research

Being granted conference grants to be exposed to the research community worldwide.

PhD in Applied Science

Learning Experience 1- It was a great chance to meet AUC professors and staff and share their experiences. 2- AUC was a great opportunity to conduct research. 3- AUC provided me with all resources and facilities needed for my research.

Biotechnology

1- some of the graduate courses were useful and helpful 2- Professors are cooperative with strong academic and scientific level 3- Reseach tools are largely provided 4- New campus is awsome 5- Email service is great 6- Events and ceremonies are well organized 7- Generally, the surrendered atmosphere is supporting and motivating


Diversity, professional and personal development opportunities, reputable organization to have a graduate degree from.

Masters in Public Administration

The exposure to a such diversified community from peers to AUC qualified staff, as well to well articulated curricula. The experience has with no doubt strengthen several skill such as public speaking skills, presentation, and research methodology.


1- Academic experience; 2- Practical experience; 3- Research methods experience; 4- Writing well-performed papers ; 5- Learning a lot of software programs; 6- Working well in team work.

PhD in Engineering

AUC has provided a unique academic sphere in which one were able to know, to question, to learn, and to be a knowledge seeker.


being updated with the latest trends in the field. Opportunities to teach abroad Teaching Arabic as a Foreign

through related emailing lists. Encouragement by professors for further development

Language

Other Had strong academic background that was suitable for the program Economics

Being exposed to new areas in my field of experience Journalism & Mass Communication

Everything Master of Public Policy & Adm.

Research The ability of using research tools and enhancing the academic writing skill in addition to gaining the experience in the lab work.

Biotechnology

enhanced my writing and research skills Educational Leadership

To some extent enhancement in the research skills Masters International and Comparative Law

I have learned to collect data and work on a research Mechanical Engineering

Research skills Robotics, Contrl & Smart Syst

Skills: Presentation writing and presentation skills Chemistry

Skills: Presentation & Facilities: Library

_Enhancing presentation and communication skills through course presentations _E-library was time saving and user-friendly, especially for people who work full time and cannot be physically present at the university for long hours. _Availability of readers and supervisors for thesis writers.


Skills: Reading & Writing Reading and writing skills Master of Public Policy & Adm.

Skills: Research & Presentation enhanced my ability to conduct research enhanced my presentation skills better team working the ability to present ideas and research results

Robotics, Contrl & Smart Syst

Staff & Resources Advising and resourses International & Comparative Education

Weaknesses

THEME COMMENT MAJOR

Academic Experience 1- Fees are increasing in an incredible rates 2- Some graduate courses are not provided 3- Social and sportive activities for graduates are missing 4- Registration services are not well organized (Fair)


I had better expectations for the learning/academic experience. Masters in Public Administration

Academic Program

content of courses Chemistry

Core course scheduling was problematic causing delays in finalization of program Economics

courses need to be more diverse to match diverse needs Educational Leadership

-The research methods courses and understanding data analysis methodologies. -practically integrating courses to authentic projects.


Little gained knowledge, not a lot of critical thinking, classic theories only, very little interaction with other disciplines despite the importance of such interactions, disappointing thesis supervision, discussions are very Egypt-centric and Cairo-centric, a lot of the courses were super easy anyone can pass even if they didn't really learn much, no clear guidance in thesis process


the unavailability of some courses in mass communication Journalism & Mass Communication

Courses not egyptionized enough and more field work is needed Master in Public Policy

Some courses need to be updated and others need to be given early in the program such as the research methods, qualitative and quantitative analysis courses. Also the program stated that students can choose either quantitaive or qualitative, however students of MPP or MPA should have the knowledge of both and should take both compulosry. Also some courses in my decipline are extremely important but lacked the needed tools for teaching and enhancing the capabilities of students, such as the policy analysis and program evaluation. First, I suggest that this course should be two; policy analysis course and another for program evaluation. Second, there should be standard case studies used as tools to train students on policy analysis and in different policy areas.


Out of the 15 courses I studied, I recall at least 5 courses that were a complete waste of time because of the extremely poor quality and ability of the instructors.


unavailability of the adviser and prejudging the quality of student performance. Master of Public Policy & Adm.

lack of courses Masters in Public

Administration

Not focused enough on a certain topic Mechanical Engineering

Unavailability of some graduate courses Mechanical Engineering

_ Unavailability of some courses (were not offered for 6 successive semesters) although they were in the catalog (i.e.; curriculum design). _Very limited summer course offerings (only one course was offered and there were not any summer offerings in summer, 2016). _ Unavailability of exchange programs with other universities outside Egypt especially in the US, which could have added to the value and richness of the program. Other departments for example have exchange programs with UCLA and University of Texas.


I do wish that more general Applied Linguistics courses were offered, but perhaps because the department size is so small, it is not possible to offer more at the moment. As I mentioned earlier in the survey, I have much more of an interest in research-related work (either more general non-pedagogy language-research or ESL research) rather than an interest in teaching in the classroom. I wish that more courses in the MA TESOL program could be offered for those who prefer behind-the-scenes research and development. It would also be helpful to learn more about how to bridge theory and practice, when certain individuals are more comfortable with the former and others with the latter (i.e. looking beyond the single teacher-researcher in the classroom, to how researchers/agencies work with practitioners/academic institutions).


Administrative Issues Bad management of university resources inside departments Low budget for research and graduate studies research grants.

Computer Science

Some routine work of papers. Master of Public Policy & Adm.

Discrimination Some level of discrimination against particular student groups. Low stipend rates to fellows.

Computer Science

Exams the comprehensive exams Journalism & Mass Communication

Faculty

There was a lack of professors in the field of Islamic studies, which makes the options in the choice of the supervisor low. There is a need for more professors with more specific specializations in this field.

Arabic Studies

I did face a lot of obstacles in dealing with my supervisor. In my point of view we apply to graduate problems so we can continue our learning process in each field. The feed back that i always got from my supervisor is always negative feedback. It was not pleasant experience at all dealing with my supervisor as i always got the feeling whenever i ask a question is that i m stupid and this is not the purpose of

Biotechnology

me continuing my education i have applied for graduate studies to learn not to feel i m asking stupid question always. The thesis experience was really not good. Although from all the other courses the professors were extremely helpful and always are there to provide us with the needed information and knowledge.

Very complicated law professors Masters International and Comparative Law

Some professors who did not succeed in inspiring students Middle East Studies

not all the professors are good enough Sustainable Development

Grading System, Research & Faculty

The high dependency of the course grading on group work versus actual studying and research Research weakness Some of the professors were not qualified enough to teach


None

None that is very obvious Master of Global Affairs

I didn't realize any substantial weaknesses Executive MBA

NA Sociology Anthropology

Other

They are personal weaknesses Biotechnology

Time management Robotics, Contrl & Smart Syst

Research very little exposure to industry support for research and thesis writing not available from very early


Schedule SCHEDULES SOMETIMES DOESN'T MATCH THE NEEDS Masters in Public Administration

Student Engagement No team work in our research since we are very few and each one is working in a separate field with a professor. Professors do not cooperate in joint research work that enable their students to work jointly.


Student Life As a graduate I had no time to participate in the universities activities Construction Engineering

Support Services: Academic Advising

Diversity of courses and available information Masters in Public Administration

Academic advising should be more emphasized. Political Science

Support Services: Food Outlet Food Options :) Journalism & Mass Communication

Suggestions for Improvement

THEME COMMENT MAJOR

Academic Program

Develop programs that would suit full time working graduate students Extend hours of rare books library Supply more work experience programs and student involvement in projects if possible (for Art history students in the islamic arts and architecture department)

Arabic Studies

Core courses should be run both in the Fall and in Spring terms Economics

JRMC department must advance the student's way of thinking. Level of many students after graduation is not significantly different than the level of the layman. Teaching mush involve critical thinking, must avoid being Egypt-centric must focus on a variety of time eras not just the past few years. Students after graduation will have a very small amount of knowledge about Arab or international media and are only introduced to a small amount of books and journal articles. JRMC must avoid cliché arguments and must include a lot more in theory. We studied none of the media theories from the left, we were not introduced to the work of Gramsci or Chomsky for example and we rarely studies media in relevance to other disciplines. This is very crucial in media studies. I even took a graduate course in media and psychology which introduced us to none of the psychological theories and concepts. This to me was troubling, i would sometimes be learning more from my own personal readings than from class. I took elective courses in Political Science, Refugee Studies and History, all three were significantly different than my experience with JRMC and i learned amazing things from these three courses, things that actually make a paradigm shift in my thinking and analytical skills and the amount of reading in these courses surpasses the amount of reading in my JRMC classes. The debates in these classes touched on so many countries other than Egypt and tackled different disciplines. Students looking for a learning experience can truly benefit from such classes but not much from JRMC classes. On another note: Why does the AUC have a huge photo of Elbaradei? Why would a respectable university have a photo of a specific political figure? I mean the revolution photos are great but Elbaradei, really? Why him? Either the AUC puts huge photos of many political figures or put none of them. This partisan spirit is rude and a cause of concern.


provide more phd programs to include humanities, public policy, and JRMC. Journalism & Mass Communication

Stated above. Master in Public Policy

adding modern and new courses Masters in Public

Administration

The public administration program needs to be restructured in a way that is consistent with a particular vision for its graduates. For example, If you want to graduate professionals and practitioners in the fields of public administration and development, then you must structure the courses and the professors you select around that objective. Some of the professors have very good academic experience with little professional and practical experience, and they keep teaching courses that are practical in nature.


The masters program needs to be more focused in my department not just a collection of courses like an undergraduate


_Providing a PHD and an MA degree in linguistics, since the university has a department of applied linguistics.


Some possible courses for consideration in the future: Linguistics: - Phonetics and Phonemics - Morphology - Syntax - Semantics - Psycholinguistics Language and Culture: - Ethnography - Culture and Literacy Pedagogical Theory and Development: - Historical Foundations of Language Pedagogies - Curriculum Development - ESL Materials Development


Administration Issues Quality checking on resources utilization Computer Science

Very expensive Construction Engineering

Costs of Graduates studies are becoming extremely expensive. Nanotechnology

Diversity Please don't limit the availability of master degree to staff members in one program. Master of Public Policy & Adm.

Administrative Issues

Reduce the AUC beaurocracy, and either provide training to the admin team on how to manage a program, communication and writings skills and customer satisfaction.

MBA

Exams i think the program will be much better if we canceled the comprehensive exams as we already are required to register for a thesis. so its either to have a thesis or comprehensive


Facilities: Labs Computer Science major needs more test bed labs to facilitate practical experiments for graduate research. AsPhD students, we need more variations of courses to select from. Each semester we had to submit a petition to open a new course since we have already taken all the Masters courses.


Faculty

Change law department professors Masters International and Comparative Law

need more incentives to attract a diverse range of professors from abroad to enrich the range of knowledge


Change law department professors Masters International and Comparative Law

Financials & Diversity Improve income/stipend for fellows. Accept diversity and allow every eligible student to become a fellow/teaching assistant.

Computer Science

Library Learning environment in library needs to be improved seriously. As far as I know, most foreign students do not go to library to study. We always complain about it. Too noisy.

POLS

None Thanks! Master of Public Policy & Adm.

Thanks for the enriching experience i had in your university. Masters in Public Administration

Nothing Robotics, Contrl & Smart Syst

Thank you Sociology Anthropology

Research -Including an advanced research course as a requirement for graduation International & Comparative Education

It would be useful to stress on enhancing research methodology tools and skills. As for the public policy and administration department, there is a necessity to take more into consideration the egyptian setting and it is vital to propose more practicum courses.


thesis and research guidance to be available from the very beginning the ability to choose from more than 1 supervisor for your thesis better regulation for the TA duties


Schedule more classes at 5:00 p.m. Masters in Public Administration

Support Services: Food Outlet This semester Food options improved, but it is not enough. AUC community is big and food options are not an extra thing. It is essential because many students, professors, and staff spend long days on the campus. So, a variety of affordable good food is highly needed.


STRENGTHS, WEAKNESSES AND SUGGESTIONS FOR IMPROVEMENT REPORTED BY MAJOR

Arabic World Studies

WEAKNESSES (1)

Faculty There was a lack of professors in the field of Islamic studies, which makes the options in the choice of the supervisor low. There is a need for more professors with more specific specializations in this field.

SUGGESTIONS FOR IMPROVEMENT (1)

Academic Program Develop programs that would suit full time working graduate students Extend hours of rare books library Supply more work experience programs and student involvement in projects if possible (for Art history students in the islamic arts and architecture department)

Biotechnology

STRENGTHS (2)

Learning Experience 1- It was a great chance to meet AUC professors and staff and share their experiences. 2- AUC was a great opportunity to conduct research. 3- AUC provided me with all resources and facilities needed for my research.

Research The ability of using research tools and enhancing the academic writing skill in addition to gaining the experience in the lab work.

WEAKNESSES (2)

Faculty I did face a lot of obstacles in dealing with my supervisor. In my point of view we apply to graduate problems so we can continue our learning process in each field. The feed back that i always got from my supervisor is always negative feedback. It was not pleasant experience at all dealing with my supervisor as i always got the feeling whenever i ask a question is that i m stupid and this is not the purpose of me continuing my education i have applied for graduate studies to learn not to feel i m asking stupid question always. The thesis experience was really not good. Although from all the other courses the professors were extremely helpful and always are there to provide us with the needed information and knowledge.

Other They are personal weaknesses

Chemistry

STRENGTHS (1)

Skills: Presentation writing and presentation skills

WEAKNESSES (1)

Academic Program content of courses

Computer Science

STRENGTHS (2)

Academic Experience Strong colleagues Some great professors Up to date with latest scientific research topics Good system Supportive department at solving students problems Good envirnoment for innovation

Faculty Being taught be professional professors in the field, and being surrounded by active and hard working students

WEAKNESSES (2)

Administration Issues Bad management of university resources inside departments Low budget for research and graduate studies research grants.

Discrimination Some level of discrimination against particular student groups. Low stipend rates to fellows.


Administration Issues Quality checking on resources utilization

Financials & Diversity Improve income/stipend for fellows. Accept diversity and allow every eligible student to become a fellow/teaching assistant.


STRENGTHS (2)

Academic Experience The academic experience and the exposure to researches.

Learning Experience 1- some of the graduate courses were useful and helpful 2- Professors are cooperative with strong academic and scientific level 3- Reseach tools are largely provided 4- New campus is awsome 5- Email service is great 6- Events and ceremonies are well organized 7- Generally, the surrendered atmosphere is supporting and motivating

WEAKNESSES (2)

Academic Experience 1- Fees are increasing in an incredible rates 2- Some graduate courses are not provided 3- Social and sportive activities for graduates are missing 4- Registration services are not well organized (Fair)

Student Life As a graduate I had no time to participate in the universities activities


Administration Issues Very expensive

Economics

STRENGTHS (1)

Other Had strong academic background that was suitable for the program

WEAKNESSES (1)

Academic Program Core course scheduling was problematic causing delays in finalization of program


Academic Program Core courses should be run both in the Fall and in Spring terms

Educational Leadership

STRENGTHS (1)

Research enhanced my writing and research skills

WEAKNESSES (1)

Academic Program courses need to be more diverse to match diverse needs

Executive MBA

STRENGTHS (1)

Faculty Most of the professors are unique in their field; moreover, academic or professional materials are always up-to-date

WEAKNESSES (1)

None I didn't realize any substantial weaknesses


STRENGTHS (1)

Staff & Resources Advising and resourses

WEAKNESSES (1)

Academic Program -The research methods courses and understanding data analysis methodologies. -practically integrating courses to authentic projects.


Research -Including an advanced research course as a requirement for graduation


STRENGTHS (4)

Academic Program: Elective Courses The elective courses outside my department

Facilities: Library The Library Experience

Faculty my thesis supervisor, and freedom to chose what ever topic i want

Other Being exposed to new areas in my field of experience

WEAKNESSES (4)

Academic Program Little gained knowledge, not a lot of critical thinking, classic theories only, very little interaction with other disciplines despite the importance of such interactions, disappointing thesis supervision, discussions are very

Egypt-centric and Cairo-centric, a lot of the courses were super easy anyone can pass even if they didn't really learn much, no clear guidance in thesis process

Academic Program the unavailability of some courses in mass communication

Exams the comprehensive exams

Support Services: Food Outlet Food Options :)


Academic Program JRMC department must advance the student's way of thinking. Level of many students after graduation is not significantly different than the level of the layman. Teaching mush involve critical thinking, must avoid being Egypt-centric must focus on a variety of time eras not just the past few years. Students after graduation will have a very small amount of knowledge about Arab or international media and are only introduced to a small amount of books and journal articles. JRMC must avoid cliché arguments and must include a lot more in theory. We studied none of the media theories from the left, we were not introduced to the work of Gramsci or Chomsky for example and we rarely studies media in relevance to other disciplines. This is very crucial in media studies. I even took a graduate course in media and psychology which introduced us to none of the psychological theories and concepts. This to me was troubling, i would sometimes be learning more from my own personal readings than from class. I took elective courses in Political Science, Refugee Studies and History, all three were significantly different than my experience with JRMC and i learned amazing things from these three courses, things that actually make a paradigm shift in my thinking and analytical skills and the amount of reading in these courses surpasses the amount of reading in my JRMC classes. The debates in these classes touched on so many countries other than Egypt and tackled different disciplines. Students looking for a learning experience can truly benefit from such classes but not much from JRMC classes. On another note: Why does the AUC have a huge photo of Elbaradei? Why would a respectable university have a photo of a specific political figure? I mean the revolution photos are great but Elbaradei, really? Why him? Either the AUC puts huge photos of many political figures or put none of them. This partisan spirit is rude and a cause of concern.

Academic Program provide more phd programs to include humanities, public policy, and JRMC.

Exams i think the program will be much better if we canceled the comprehensive exams as we already are required to register for a thesis. so its either to have a thesis or comprehensive

Support Services: Food Outlet This semester Food options improved, but it is not enough. AUC community is big and food options are not an extra thing. It is essential because many students, professors, and staff spend long days on the campus. So, a variety of affordable good food is highly needed.


STRENGTHS (1)

Diversity AUC's diversity warmth and standards of peers and instructors

WEAKNESSES (2)

Academic Program Courses not egyptionized enough and more field work is needed

Academic Program Some courses need to be updated and others need to be given early in the program such as the research methods, qualitative and quantitative analysis courses. Also the program stated that students can choose either quantitaive or qualitative, however students of MPP or MPA should have the knowledge of both and should take both compulosry. Also some courses in my decipline are extremely important but lacked the needed tools for teaching and enhancing the capabilities of students, such as the policy analysis and program evaluation. First, I suggest that this course should be two; policy analysis course and another for program evaluation. Second, there should be standard case studies used as tools to train students on policy analysis and in different policy areas.


Academic Program Stated above.


STRENGTHS (2)

Academic Experience The diversity of courses The strength of the majority of the professors Developing the ability to work with different types of people through the team work Enhancing Presentation Skills Reading and analyzing published research papers

Faculty Professional instructors Latest knowledge

WEAKNESSES (2)

Academic Program Out of the 15 courses I studied, I recall at least 5 courses that were a complete waste of time because of the extremely poor quality and ability of the instructors.

Grading System, Research & Faculty The high dependency of the course grading on group work versus actual studying and research Research

weakness Some of the professors were not qualified enough to teach

Master of Global Affairs

STRENGTHS (1)

Academic Experience The constant help available The Courses The lectures

WEAKNESSES (1)

None None that is very obvious

Master of Public Policy & Adm.

STRENGTHS (2)

Other Everything

Skills: Reading & Writing Reading and writing skills

WEAKNESSES (2)

Academic Program unavailability of the adviser and prejudging the quality of student performance.

Administration Issues Some routine work of papers.


Diversity Please don't limit the availability of master degree to staff members in one program.

None Thanks!


STRENGTHS (5)

Academic Experience Courses, quality of professors, being up to date with global and local news and policy issues Availability for funds and scholarships for graduate students

Faculty communication with professors

Faculty exposed to well educated and high calibers faculty

Learning Experience Diversity, professional and personal development opportunities, reputable organization to have a graduate degree from.

Learning Experience The exposure to a such diversified community from peers to AUC qualified staff, as well to well articulated curricula. The experience has with no doubt strengthen several skill such as public speaking skills, presentation, and research methodology.

WEAKNESSES (4)

Academic Experience I had better expectations for the learning/academic experience.

Academic Program lack of courses

Academic Program Diversity of courses and available information

Schedule SCHEDULES SOMETIMES DOESN'T MATCH THE NEEDS


Academic Program adding modern and new courses

Academic Program The public administration program needs to be restructured in a way that is consistent with a particular vision for its graduates. For example, If you want to graduate professionals and practitioners in the fields of public administration and development, then you must structure the courses and the professors you select around that objective. Some of the professors have very good academic experience with little professional and practical experience, and they keep teaching courses that are practical in nature.

None Thanks for the enriching experience i had in your university.

Research It would be useful to stress on enhancing research methodology tools and skills. As for the public policy and administration department, there is a necessity to take more into consideration the egyptian setting and it is vital to propose more practicum courses.

Schedule more classes at 5:00 p.m.

Masters International and Comparative Law

STRENGTHS (1)

Research To some extent enhancement in the research skills

WEAKNESSES (1)

Faculty Very complicated law professors


Faculty Change law department professors


STRENGTHS (2)

Academic Experience Academic writing, research excellence, and high quality publications

Research I have learned to collect data and work on a research

WEAKNESSES (2)

Academic Program Not focused enough on a certain topic

Academic Program Unavailability of some graduate courses


Academic Program The masters program needs to be more focused in my department not just a collection of courses like an undergraduate

Middle East Studies

STRENGTHS (1)

Faculty My interaction with some professors who truly motovated me to fulfill my potential

WEAKNESSES (1)

Faculty Some professors who did not succeed in inspiring students

Migration and Refugee Studies

STRENGTHS (1)

Faculty The richness of knowledge my professors contributed in every class

Nanotechnology


Administration Issues Costs of Graduates studies are becoming extremely expensive.


STRENGTHS (1)

Financial Assistance & Research Being granted conference grants to be exposed to the research community worldwide.

WEAKNESSES (1)

Student Engagement No team work in our research since we are very few and each one is working in a separate field with a professor. Professors do not cooperate in joint research work that enable their students to work jointly.


Facilities: Labs Computer Science major needs more test bed labs to facilitate practical experiments for graduate research. AsPhD students, we need more variations of courses to select from. Each semester we had to submit a petition to open a new course since we have already taken all the Masters courses.

PhD in Engineering

STRENGTHS (1)

Learning Experience 1- Academic experience; 2- Practical experience; 3- Research methods experience; 4- Writing well-performed papers ; 5- Learning a lot of software programs; 6- Working well in team work.

Political Science

STRENGTHS (1)

Academic Experience Decent quality of education capitalizing on well-established and strong faculty members from around the world, while maintaining the culture of the region.

WEAKNESSES (1)

Support Services: Academic advising Academic advising should be more emphasized.


STRENGTHS (2)

Research Research skills

Skills: Research & Presentation enhanced my ability to conduct research enhanced my presentation skills better team working the ability to present ideas and research results

WEAKNESSES (2)

Other Time management

Research very little exposure to industry support for research and thesis writing not available from very early


STRENGTHS (1)

Learning Experience AUC has provided a unique academic sphere in which one were able to know, to question, to learn, and to be a knowledge seeker.

WEAKNESSES (1)

None NA


None Thank you


STRENGTHS (1)

Academic Program the program is unique and the first of its kind " Sustainable development". the best 2 courses I took were basic concepts and applications for social and environmental policies: by Aisha Saad Cities structures and dynamics: Mona Abaza

WEAKNESSES (1)

Faculty not all the professors are good enough


Faculty need more incentives to attract a diverse range of professors from abroad to enrich the range of knowledge

Teaching Arabic as a Foreign Language

STRENGTHS (1)

Learning Experience being updated with the latest trends in the field. Opportunities to teach abroad through related emailing lists. Encouragement by professors for further development


STRENGTHS (2)

Faculty & Students I enjoyed working and studying with a group of talented and caring colleagues, most of whom were different from me in many ways, but we all got along really well and respected each other's opinions and tastes. It was also an honor to take classes led by experts in their respective fields - Dr. Plumlee has been especially inspirational to me.

Skills: Presentation & Facilities: Library _Enhancing presentation and communication skills through course presentations _E-library was time saving and user-friendly, especially for people who work full time and cannot be physically present at the university for long hours. _Availability of readers and supervisors for thesis writers.

WEAKNESSES (2)

Academic Program _ Unavailability of some courses (were not offered for 6 successive semesters) although they were in the catalog (i.e.; curriculum design). _Very limited summer course offerings (only one course was offered and there were not any summer offerings in summer, 2016). _ Unavailability of exchange programs with other universities outside Egypt especially in the US, which could have added to the value and richness of the program. Other departments for example have exchange programs with UCLA and University of Texas.

Academic Program I do wish that more general Applied Linguistics courses were offered, but perhaps because the department size is so small, it is not possible to offer more at the moment. As I mentioned earlier in the survey, I have much more of an interest in research-related work (either more general non-pedagogy language-research or ESL research) rather than an interest in teaching in the classroom. I wish that more courses in the MA TESOL program could be offered for those who prefer behind-the-scenes research and development. It would also be helpful to learn more about how to bridge theory and practice, when certain individuals are more comfortable with the former and others with the latter (i.e. looking beyond the single teacher-researcher in the classroom, to how researchers/agencies work with practitioners/academic institutions).


Academic Program _Providing a PHD and an MA degree in linguistics, since the university has a department of applied linguistics.

Academic Program Some possible courses for consideration in the future: Linguistics: - Phonetics and Phonemics - Morphology - Syntax - Semantics - Psycholinguistics Language and Culture: - Ethnography - Culture and Literacy Pedagogical Theory and Development: - Historical Foundations of Language Pedagogies - Curriculum Development - ESL Materials Development

PART VI: TRENDS

OVERALL STUDENT SATISFACTION

79.50%

90.50%

83.50%

92.40%

Fall 2013 Fall 2014 Fall 2015 Fall 2016

Overall Satisfaction with the Graduate Experience

56.70%

71.30%

51.30% 51.40%


I would definitely recommend AUC to my friends considering my field of study

EMPLOYMENT STATUS

INTENTION TO PURSUE A PHD

68.50%

58.70%

53.04%

54.50%

70.20%

12.00%

12.70%

13.04%

9.90%

14.90%

15.70%

21.40%

21.74%

26.40%

11.70%

3.70%

7.10%

12.17%

9.10%

3.20%

Fall 2016

Spring 2016

Fall 2015

Spring 2015

Fall 2014

Students' Employment Status Trend

Employed full time Employed part time Seeking employment Unemployed

38.60%

49.40%55.80% 53.80%


Percentage of Respondents Intending to Pursue Graduate Studies

graduates exit survey - the american university in cairo€¦ · graduates exit survey fall 2016...

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