Stanford vs Harvey Mudd: Math-CompSci

College Search & Selection
1

<p>I have recently been admitted both to Harvey Mudd and Stanford University for the Class of 2017. I would like to pursue a dual major in math and compsci, which both colleges have; Mudd has a joint major in CompSci and Mathi; Stanford has a major in Mathematics and Computational Sciences. Both appear to be great programs, but I can't decide which to choose. Here are some facts about me that somewhat factor:</p>

<p>Both cost around the same to me (60k, little finaid).
Mudd is close to home (~15 miles); I'm not sure if that's good or bad</p>

<p>Pro-Mudd:
-I've taken two compsci classes at Mudd.
-It's small and only undergrad, so it has an undergraduate emphasis
-The 5C's provide a variety of social life and academic classes
-CLINIC Program and some research opportunities
-highest average starting salaries for graduates</p>

<p>Pro-Stanford:
-AP Credits available: Calc BC, Chem, Physics C
-better known name, more "prestigious"
-very close to simi-valley and its research opportunities
-more networking
-top notch compsci programs</p>

<p>So, can anyone give me some advice? It would be greatly appreciated.</p>

2

<p>Is your post-graduation plan:

  • PhD study
  • professional school (e.g. law, medicine, etc.)
  • work in computer industry / job
  • work in some other industry / job
    ?</p>
3

<p>My post grad plan is to work in the computer industry/get a job (that pays reasonably for a starting position and opportunity for advancement) and/OR move on the graduate school to obtain a masters, probably with compsci as well. That may easily change though.</p>

4

<p>Harvey Mudd’s computer science courses are listed here:
[HMC</a> CS: Course Descriptions](<a href=“http://www.cs.hmc.edu/program/course-descriptions/]HMC”>CS Course Descriptions | Computer Science | Harvey Mudd College)
That many of the courses are offered only once every two years might be inconvenient.</p>

<p>Stanford’s computer science courses are listed here:
[Courses</a> | Stanford Computer Science](<a href=“http://www-cs.stanford.edu/courses]Courses”>Courses | Stanford Computer Science)</p>

<p>Stanford’s location makes it much more convenient to seek internships and employment in Silicon Valley (no need to get on an airplane for interviews, etc.).</p>