Computer Science - Columbia VS MIT

Colleges and Universities A-Z Columbia University
1

Hello CC!

I want to major in either computer science or computer engineering (still deciding) and I’ve been wondering how different are these majors for MIT and for Columbia.

I want to consider my choice based on these factors:

  • Quality of academics and difficulty of obtaining a good grade (I don’t want it to affect my GPA too much.)
  • Social environment (How are the students and the staff? The spirit of entrepreneurship?)
  • The environment of the city
  • Internships and job opportunities upon graduation (undergrad): I am an international student. I’m not sure if this makes any differences.
  • Alumni network

Please share your experience and/or thoughts! Thanks!

2

SIR date was May 1st — so I’m confused what you mean by Columbia vs. MIT.

3

Hello @VenomBuds !
I know. I just want to know in general what are the differences between these schools. I’ll probably transfer to one of them.
Thanks for the reply.

4

@mellony Of course for computer science (and any other engineering and science discipline) MIT is stronger. MIT s more rigorous, but getting a high GPA at Columbia is no easy feat either. In terms of entrepreneurship MIT is stronger.
MIT has a surprisingly good/active social life, Columbia of course has New York, so there is access to amazing social offerings. For jobs in comp sci & engineering/tech MIT is better , but Columbia also does well. Also in terms of overall prestige, name recognition MIT wins. In terms of alumni network in STEM fields, of course MIT has the edge.

Transferring to either MIT or Columbia is insanely difficult so you shouldn’t really be counting on it.

5

In general I think it is a terrible idea ot start one college with the intent of transferring out. This will stand in the way of your making meaningful friendships, developing relationships with professors, and getting involved on campus. Then if your transfer doesn’t work out as planned you will be really stuck. I’d go to the college you enrolled in with the intent of staying all four years. It is fine to throw in a couple of transfer applications but don’t count on it working out.

And keep in mind that transferring into either MIT or Columbia is a real longshot. Don’t spend any time and energy choosing which option is preferable until you actually have the choice to make.