My son got into the bioengineering program at both UCBerkeley and UCSD. I did some web search and felt that SD has aa stronger and higher-ranked program, but Berkeley’s name has certain cachet to it. I also worry about the super competitive environment of Berkeley and SD has a much nicer campus and a more balanced lifestyle. Any suggestions on where he should go?
The Berkeley brand isn’t going to advance your son’s career any farther than the UCSD brand will when it comes to bioengineering. UCSD is considered the birthplace of the field and has one of the strongest programs in the country. Additionally, he will have more research and internship opportunities in San Diego (the second largest biotech cluster in the nation). Both programs are academically competitive, though. I’d advise you to visit both campuses on Cal Day and Triton Day before making a final decision. The bioengineering session at Triton Day was what sold me on UCSD.