Boston University Vs. Northeastern Honors Program

College Search & Selection
1

Hi, so I recently received my admission to Northeastern’s honors program and Boston University. I’m planning to major in environmental science. What caught my attention in Northeastern was their co-op program and the fact that I was admitted into the honors program with a $15,000 yearly scholarship. I was wondering if the honors program at NEU is the equivalent of a normal BU program. My friends have gotten acceptances in Northeastern but not BU, but I know the universities are very close so I will be seeing them either way.

P.S. I’m the type of person who’s looking for a typical college experience. I’d say campus activities and having fun plays a major factor in my decision, but I still want to go to the best university in terms of reputation and experience. I’m also interested in the Study Abroad offered at both unis. Are they similar?

2

Did you apply to the honors program at BU? I believe you need to check “yes” on the application and write a separate essay (?).

Both schools are great choices ( if affordable) but different. My advice is to visit and get a feel for both schools.

3

@twogirls No I didn’t but given my lower than average SAT (1290) I don’t think I would have gotten accepted. Unfortunately, visiting is not an option for me since im an international student

4

If it was me I’d go to NEU. Co-op + scholarship > neither of those things.

5

The co-op is great, but it’s not for everybody and it helps if you can talk to somebody who has done it. Some love it, others don’t.

6

That’s true but as a foreign student isn’t getting work in the US really important if you want to stay here?

(OP Do you want to stay here?)

And a co op helps get a foot in the door for that.

7

By FAR the biggest reason to pick Northeastern would be enthusiasm for the co-op program. That’s what distinguishes NEU from other schools. That also makes the vibe at Northeastern very different from more traditional universities, including BU. As an NEU student, you will see your friends disappear off campus for months at a time while they’re on co-op. Your academic experience will include long periods away from school, so you have to plan your schedule carefully. At NEU, it’s not sports or campus life that define the school’s culture. It’s co-ops. If that doesn’t excite you, if you think you’d prefer a more traditional college experience, then don’t pick Northeastern.

8

I would second what everyone has said here so far.

There’s also people that got into BU but not Northeastern. They look for and value aspects of your application differently, but overall have very similar admission standards and academic levels. The difference between the schools is philosophy and fit, as highlighted by others.