3 of my kids are Pitt engineering - ds (pitt grad ‘15) was chemE with a bioE minor. He did not do coop but had solid pharma internships each summer and landed a job at Merck after graduation. He had lots of opportunity to get research experience (paid as well) while an undergrad. Dd (pitt grad ‘17) was bioE with a chemE minor, is in the UCBerkeley/UCSF joint bioE phd program. Dd2 (to be pitt grad ‘19) is bioE - has done research on a study abroad as well as on campus. In terms of the program - I am not familiar with USF or Virginia Commonweath so I can only speak to Pitt. First year program is like a common core with a seminar class that introduces the various disciplines - which is helpful for students who have maybe little exposure to what each major is about. Also each freshman will work in a small team to present a research topic conference style in a year end conference, which gives everyone a good introduction to scientific writing, presentation skills and how research is presented in poster form. Many students attend professional conferences during their time at Pitt so it’s a good intro into what is expected. My dds attended BMES most years while at Pitt, paid for by the engineering school. I think as long as programs are ABET the programs are solid. Pitt is a large school but the engineering school is not huge. Pitt also doesn’t limit enrollment in a certain major like some schools - or set up a limit by GPA or need additional application for. Pitt has a clear advantage in opportunities for research while an UG. Also I have found Pitt generous with covering costs for summer research (you have to apply) or going to conferences. There is opportunity to study abroad for engineers. And Pittsburgh as a city is fun - and pretty inexpensive. You get also the sports events of Pitt and the city, concerts coming…there’s alot.