The Homeschooler's Guide to College Choices

This time of year, many homeschooling parents are dealing with high school seniors who are wondering what they will do with their lives. Join Ginny and Mary Ellen in a lively conversation about post-high school educational options—their pros and cons—for young Catholic adults.

Your hosts' insight and practical advice are always flavored with their inimitable humor. 

Show Notes:

Many homeschooling parents have high school seniors wondering what they will do with their lives. Join Ginny and Mary Ellen in a lively conversation about a wide variety of post-high school educational options—their pros and cons—for young Catholic adults.

Neumann Guide schools –Colleges recognized for their commitment to a faithful Catholic education.

Pros - Easy access to the sacraments and other spiritual benefits. Many have expanded their academic offerings. They can be counted on NOT to teach your kids anything opposed to the faith - Wholesome living conditions - no coed dorms.

Cons - Private schools – not taxpayer-funded $$$, Distance from home and family, they might not offer certain fields of study.

Catholic Trade Schools –An early but growing trend in the Catholic sphere.

Pros - Many of the same benefits as Neumann Guide Schools – wholesome environment – opportunities for spiritual growth. Less costly and takes less time (associate degree), Kids with a trade will have few problems finding a job.

Cons - It's a new concept with no proven track record. There is uncertainty about which credits will transfer if kids pursue higher education.

Community Colleges

Pros - Kids can live at home – a BIG plus. While not spiritually uplifting, the lack of residential campus life can be an improvement over four-year schools.  Many students go to class and work, which is WAY more cost-effective. Credits will typically transfer to a four-year state school.

Cons - Any spiritual growth must come from local churches and families.

State Colleges and Universities

Pros - It is much cheaper than private institutions, especially for in-state students, and offers a wide range of majors.  Credits transfer; many have well-regarded schools for particular subjects, such as fine arts, bioengineering, and premed. Often, they are connected to local institutions for internships, etc.

Cons - Campus life is often at odds with Catholic teaching, which requires students to be firmly grounded in the faith BEFORE enrolling. Look for Opus Dei study centers and Neumann Centers. Most professors are left-wing and prejudiced against traditional values, although that can vary among departments.

Private Colleges and Universities

Pros - Many have strong name recognition and greatly benefit graduates seeking jobs. Strong alumni networks for job opportunities. Prestigious programs that make it easier to enter into prestigious graduate programs.

Cons - $$$$ Do not allow students to become so obsessed with going to a big-name school that they forget they will graduate with possibly hundreds of thousands of dollars of debt. Even smaller, less-known colleges are expensive, and they may not accept some transfer credits.

Campus life is not always wholesome. Look for Opus Dei study centers or Neumann Centers.

Homeschooling Resources

Newman Guide Recognized Colleges

Seton Home Study School

Seton Testing Services