So i have been accepted to both of the engineering programs at these schools and have received a generous and very similar financial aid packages. From what I’ve searched and read, both of these schools seem to be the same in terms of their reputation for engineering. The one thing that stood out from Lehigh was that its engineering program was very flexible, allowing for engineering students to switch majors within engineering unlike Villanova. Socially, I feel like Lehigh may be better due to its smaller student body, but I’m not sure if that really matters in terms of social experience. One thing I did not like about the curriculum at Villanova was the required theology classes first year. Although I am not against any religious groups, I just don’t prefer taking classes that teach religion. I would appreciate as much feedback as possible. I think based off of what I’ve said, most people would prefer Lehigh, but I’m open for discussion.
Is your net cost similar?
I would tend to think Lehigh from both what I know and what you have said.
Maybe look at their location, size, Coop programs offered, interships, etc.
Huh. That’s a tough one. Where do you see yourself ending up geographically, and are you certain you want to study engineering? I think of Lehigh as an engineering school, but I only know about it because a friend of mine was looking at it with her son last year. On the other hand, where I live outside Philly, the Villanova name carries a certain amount of prestige with it. Maybe it’s because I work in the law, and Villanova law has an excellent reputation, but as a general rule, I think the benefit of the Villanova alumni network is not to be overlooked.
Hopefully someone else will weigh in on the respective engineering programs. But don’t let the theology class turn you off - they aren’t going to try to convert you, but you may just learn a lot about how to think critically. Honestly, I was thrilled by the prospect of my son taking theology and philosophy classes when we toured Georgetown.
Two excellent schools. Sounds to me like you prefer the curriculum and flexibility of Lehigh so I’d go there if I were you.
Trixy34 I know that I do have an interest in mechanical engineering mainly because of my interests in the automotive industry, but I am not sure if I will certainly stick with mechanical engineering and want to switch to another engineering major, or just not do engineering at all. I’ve also had thoughts about finance, but I currently don’t have any true interest or eagerness to do business.