<p>^Doesn’t it depend on the student’s needs. Some students would be better served with a comprehensive SLAC education (w/ good ugrad research) to develop their higher order thinking, writing skills and a broader understanding of the world --to prepare for a doctoral programs or medical school. I can imagine others coming from strong preps/privates who are ready for more significant research experiences at places like UW.</p>
<p>Also, faculty play a large role in applications for grad school --I think the “cute schools” may do a better job in this regard for a larger % of their majors than the larger Us.</p>
<p>“And no, a little LAC is not going to provide the research opportunities of the top national universities.”</p>
<p>For grad students and profs yes, for undergrads no. The level of research is higher at the big U, the opportunities for undergrads are better at the little schools.</p>
<p>filipinasoccer9, Syracuse University is similar to BU. It has a contiguous campus, unlike BU. And the area is less populated - medium city - although not rural. Syracuse has recently opened an impressive Life Sciences complex. UMass-Amherst, also similar to BU but in a small, college town, has also just opened a new Life Sciences complex.</p>