<p>Hello, My son is interested in economics, as well as international studies, and is trying to decide between American University, George Washington, and Tufts. Does anyone out there know anything about the undergraduate economics departments at these places and how they would compare?
Also, are courses offered within the honors programs significantly more challenging than the regular classes? I have heard mixed statements about the quality of AU classes as compared to GW (GW more rigorous?), and don't know whether these apply to just the regular classes or to the honors as well. Thanks in advance!</p>
<p>To me this would be an easy choice. Tufts is undoubtedly a stronger school than either GW or AU. I would only consider the latter if you got a significantly stronger financial aid package than Tufts was offering. Of the DC schools, GW is generally stronger academically–including in economics–but it is an urban environment, while AU has much more of a green, college-like campus. The difference in environment is probably more of a factor in most students’ decisions than the difference in academics–which is not significant.</p>
<p>I second everything Bonanza said.</p>
<p>Thanks for responses… if you were comparing AU honors program versus Tufts, would you still think Tufts has much more to offer? I am having such a hard time pinning down to what extent being in an honors program does or doesn’t make a difference.</p>
<p>I’d choose American.</p>
<p>For International Studies (or whatever, I think all of the schools have slightly differing programs), it would be hard to beat GW or AU for location. They also have top international affairs programs and decent business schools. The students at AU and GW get DC experience through internships, adjunct professors, and career placement opportunities. Tufts is no doubt an excellent school, but it comes down to this: do you want experience or academics? It can be a tough call. American University also has extensive abroad programs and sort of gives students Wednesdays off to devote that time to internships.</p>