Narrowed the options down to two computer science programs: Univerisity of Maryland or Rochester Institute of Technology.
Been accepted at both and, after aid, cost for us is similar. Now, we’d like to hear Pros and Cons of each.
I don’t know anything about RIT, but I do know that the CS program at UMD is highly regarded in the DC area. Every major defense contractor and aerospace company has facilities in the area, as well as every Government agency that needs Computer Scientists, which is basically all of them. The Goddard Space Flight Center is just a few miles north of UMD. I know that both NSA and NIST recruit from UMD. You pretty much can’t throw a stick in DC without hitting someone who wants to hire Computer Scientists, especially ones specializing in Cyber Security
Very different schools, asking for pro’s and cons of each without much context makes it hard to weigh in.
Large State Flagship versus Tech Focused Private. 30K undergrad student enrollment versus 13K. RIT obviously will require co ops so will be a different 5 year experience (for the CS program) than a 4 year program at UMD. You will also have very different weather, sports, etc at each. There will also be a different gender balance. RIT does have more of a “geek” culture reputation which can be good or bad depending on your point of view.
I would highly encourage if possible that your student dig into the curriculum for each, sit in on classes and meet with faculty if at all possible if he hasn’t done that yet, get a feel for the other admitted students. At the end of the day, both are very good programs and you can’t go wrong. If costs are equal, where does your student see himself spending 4-5 years? Fit, and happiness, is important. When classes get tough and they will, the environment can truly be a huge factor.