I know that Rowan University has fantastic engineering facilities. But I’m still not sure what college to decide. I was browsing through and I found that NJIT’s site was outdated in advertising its mechanical engineering program and that they almost lost their ABET accreditation a couple years back. Still, NJIT is closer to me so I could just commute there in 30 minutes whereas I would have to dorm at Rowan so NJIT would turn out cheaper. However, in terms of quality I’m not sure if things have changed at NJIT for mechanical engineering. Any insight into which college is better now?
I cannot speak to which college is better now as I have no familiarity with NJIT. Have you looked at the cost? You say that you can commute to NJIT, which would be a substantial savings (unless they have a requirement to live on campus). I can tell you that Rowan’s facilities are amazing and continuing to expand. The faculty at Rowan has also consistently impressed me. The merit scholarship money they offer along with the lower cost (NJIT COA is $35K, Rowan COA is $28K) makes Rowan a better choice, IMHO.
HOWEVER, if you are able to commute and NJIT gives you merit aid you would save 13K. You have to look at your numbers and decide. Be sure to read the fine print - are they offering you merit aid/grants or loans? Are you required to live on campus? Do you have to own a car to commute (costs $$ for insurance/gas/maintenance/parking) or can you take a bus. Stuff like that.
I’d be interested to hear your thought process on this.
I’d personally say NJIT, but it seems like you’d like Rowan more.
I toured them & here’s my thoughts:
Academics- Draw. Both are strong in engineering, accredited & have grad study
Location- Draw. Overall you are going to stay on campus or travel to NYC(NJIT) or Philly(Rowan). Rowan’s in a boring suburb/rural while NJIT is in a very dangerous city. NJIT interacts with Rutgers Newark a lot and Rowan has lots of Activities on Campus.
Value- Draw.
Overall- Draw. Depends on personal preference.