<p>If money is a consideration, go to UMass (assuming you live in MA and are paying in-state tuition.) You will be able to take courses at Amherst, Hampshire, Smith, and Mount Holyoke and get a lot for your money. If money is not a factor (good aid or you are well off), go to BU.</p>
<p>If you are from out of state, don’t even think about UMass. The only reason to go to any state’s flagship university–no matter how good it is–is if you are a resident of the state in which it is located.</p>