My son got accepted by both Michigan (Ann Arbor) College of Engg and Purdue Polytechnic (rejected at College of Engg). He wants to major in Computer Sc, but Purdue Polytechnic only offers Computer Engg Technology - which I read is more practical and hands-on. Both are out-of-state for us, though Michigan costs $18k/yr more, and we are confused which one is better. Is Purdue Polytechnic perceived the same way the College of Engg is?
If you can afford Michigan, it’s a no brainer. An engineering degree from Michigan is going to open way more doors career wise than a polytech degree. They are not perceived the same way.
Is Purdue Polytech perceived any differently than the rest of Purdue?
Yes it is @sushiritto.
So, PPI versus its CoE sounds similar to getting CS degree at UMich LSA versus UMich CoE? As an example, the CoE has a higher level of a math requirement.
I was unaware of the difference before now. If so, and the $18,000/year is affordable, then I’d pick UMich CoE for sure.
Not at all @sushiritto. CS at Purdue is in the College of Science. Computer Engineering is the CoE.
The Polytech computer related majors are more hands on, less theoretical, more technically focused degrees.
I would suggest that the OP look at the 4 year plan of study differences.
That is absolutely right. Computer Engineering @ CoE was our first choice, but we didn’t get that.
And thanks - we are looking at the course work to better understand differences.
Purdue Poly is sort or a consolation prize for those who didn’t “qualiy” for their engineering school.
Michigan COE does not admit to any specific major. You are basically admitted to the COE. My understanding is that as long as you meet their basic requirements after freshman year you can declare any major. That is one big difference between Michigan COE and other state engineering programs like UCLA, where changing a major is major accomplishment.
Yes, @barca2018 . That is indeed a big deal
Purdue Polytechnic appears to be focused on engineering technology. The difference between engineering technology and engineering is described at https://www.rit.edu/admissions/freshman/eng-vs-eng-tech . Since engineering is generally considered more suitable for stronger students, it is not surprising that Purdue Polytechnic is a “consolation prize” for students not admitted to Purdue engineering or CS.
Changing into Purdue CS after enrolling is competitive: https://www.cs.purdue.edu/undergraduate/codo-requirements.html . If the student wants to study CS, then Michigan is the better choice. If Michigan is not affordable, choose some other college where he can study CS.
Or for those looking for a technical degree. It’s still a good and good paying career. It can be something to strongly consider just know what you are getting. It’s not an engineering degree.