<p>I love PSU and it is my first choice when applying. However i need some backups and other schools to look at. I plan on going into computer engineering. So what are some schools like PSU that are good for my major. Thanks.</p>
<p>You should probably apply to other schools in the Big 10 athletic conference. They’re all good for engineering and have a similar “feel” to Penn State when it comes to the campus environment and undergraduate experience. Specifically, look at UIUC, Michigan, Purdue, and Wisconsin.</p>
<p>Also, if you really love Penn State, don’t hesitate to start at a branch campus like Penn State Altoona and then transfer to main campus after two years to finish your degree (if you don’t get admitted to main campus straight away). It’s a very common route, and I think transfer to main campus is pretty much guaranteed if you maintain certain GPA.</p>
<p>Those are probably the four Big Ten schools that are least likely to serve as actual “back ups” or safeties for someone who is not admitted to PSU’s College of Engineering (though by all means apply). The suggestion to consider a branch campus is a good one… You might try posting on the engineering forum. The folks over there know a lot about the different engineering schools and, if you are willing to post your stats, could suggest some true safety schools.</p>
<p>Are you in-state PA? If so, you should definitely look at Pitt, too. They are (arguably) stronger than PSU in computers, and roughly equivalent in costs and admission requirements. Penn State branch campuses are also a good option to start. That option is “automatic” when you apply to Penn State. If you don’t get in to University Park, you may get offered a branch campus instead, and from there it will depend on how well you do.</p>
<p>If you are in a different Big 10 state, that state’s public engineering school should be your first choice, not PSU. They are all roughly equivalent in size, sports, academics, etc. It makes no sense to pay out-of-state tuition when there is an equally good in-state option. Same thing if you live in a state outside the Big 10. For example, in NY, definitely apply to SUNY-Stony Brook. In VA, definitely apply to VA Tech. Those are your starting points.</p>
<p>Can you clarify why you like PSU so much? There are many, many good private schools for engineering related to computers, including some in PA. However, they are generally much smaller than PSU and may not fit what you think you are looking for.</p>
<p>Im an OOS. I just love penn state. I like the big school,football everything. Plus my dad attended PSU. PITT actually sounds like na great option will look into. Thanks</p>
<p><<if you=“” are=“” in=“” a=“” different=“” big=“” 10=“” state,=“” that=“” state’s=“” public=“” engineering=“” school=“” should=“” be=“” your=“” first=“” choice,=“” not=“” psu.=“”>></if></p>
<p>For many families the difference between IS and OOS tuition is not a compelling reason to favor one school over another. If that’s the case, there are many other variables that can be taken into account. Also, IS and OOS applications are considered equally at PSU.</p>
<p>VA tech, university of Delaware and university of Maryland</p>
<p>If you like Penn State for the big school and football, you will probably not like Pitt. The campus is urban, rather than suburban/rural like Penn State, and even the touted Pitt-West Virginia football game (which I’ve been to, at Heinz Field), barely rivals Penn State playing a second tier conference USA team at Beaver Stadium.</p>
<p>@BigAarst - have you been to a basketball game at Pitt? Regardless, OP seems to be from overseas, has not answered specific questions on any thread, and probably needs to actually visit some places to see for himself.</p>
<p>Nope im not international student. Just from maryland. I’m only a junior now so im just trying to make a list of schools to vist this year and next summer.</p>
<p>U of Maryland is a pretty good school…</p>
<p>yea sure is and some what like PSU but pretty hard to get into.</p>
<p>I would rather go to Maryland then PSU. Since you live in Maryland its an easy decision(cheaper). Isn’t it easier to get in as an in stater?? My son was accepted to both schools, but he liked Wisconsin better. BTW Wisconsin has a better football team!!!</p>
<p>Many 18 year olds are anxious to get away from the state they grew up in and experience something new. We live in PA. My older son went to school in Boston; my PSU son looked at schools as far away as UC-Boulder. He chose the in-state school because it has the strongest program in his area, not because it was closer to home or less expensive.</p>
<p>Maryland is so close like 30mins so 1moremom is right. I hope you were joking about the football thing.</p>
<p>PSU ALL THE WAY!</p>
<p>Sadly, justwaiting1 is right about the football. (Wisconsin is a great school for many reasons.)</p>
<p>im just messing, im just a die hard penn state fan :)</p>
<p>
Well, what excites you about Penn State? What are you really looking for? How competitive are you as an applicant?</p>
<p>The campus/town,football,my dad went there.</p>
<p>Have you looked at this–
<a href=“http://admissions.psu.edu/info/counselors/bubble_chart.pdf[/url]”>http://admissions.psu.edu/info/counselors/bubble_chart.pdf</a></p>