Overall and CS academic reputation comparison: University of Kentucky v.s. Univ. of Central Florida

I am a father. I am doing college companions and selection for my kid. I want to know:
1, what are your opinions of the overall academic reputation of Kentucky and UCF? Are they in the same tier?
2, what are your opinions of the CS academic reputation of Kentucky and UCF? Are they in the same tier?
3, do you think your opinions represent most of the public in the U.S.?

Thanks.

University of Central Florida is one of those schools that has seemed to burst on the scene out of nowhere. I know that is not accurate. But it’s true in my little world in New England.

They have become one the largest schools in the country. They have also benefited greatly from the population growth/economic strength of the state of Florida.

It has really smart Floridian students attending who attend nearly cost free because of the bright futures program. The academics are on the rise. And CS is riding that growth as well. And their recent spurt in collegiate football prowess and basketball, as well, has moved the brand up.

And believe it or not, Orlando was rated in a recent ranking I read as the best city to go to college. I forget which publication. But it was reputable, as I recall.

University of Kentucky as a state flagship school has better name recognition nationally imho. It’s a solid option in all fields as the state’s leading school. They have tradition and alumni networks that are much more established.

I would say the more sophisticated employers know about UCF. The average person have all heard of UK. It would have the superior reputation factor.

But CS unlike many fields is really a meritocracy. If you have the chops. You have unlimited potential and opportunities.