<p>Carnegie ranked 22 by USnews, UVA ranked 24th.
Say that price isn't an issue, which is better?</p>
<p>IMHO, depends on your intended major</p>
<p>If you like preppy country-club type place filled with future lawyers and bankers Uva is perfect. For a weirder intellectual vibe CMU.</p>
<p>Actually, UVA tied with CMU in the US News rank.
If you're science or engineering-oriented, I guess CMU would better suit you.
If you're into liberal arts or business, UVA would be better.</p>
<p>I'm going to agree with Barrons exactly. D had applied last year to both schools and we spent time on both campuses. Some kids (including my d) fall in love with UVA--the grounds-the atmosphere etc. She applied Ed and was eventually rejected. She did Sleeping Bag week-end at CMU. She liked the school. She was thinking of majoring in psychology or cognitive science. For that area of study, I would have preferred CMU. So it also depends on your major and interest. Both schools are great, but do have a totally different atmosphere.</p>
<p>I would say CMU, I think CMU has strong programs outside science and engineered oriented programs, such as their theatre, business, and art/design.</p>
<p>If price isn't an issue just go wherever you wish.
They are both great, and you wouldn't go wrong either way.</p>