Comp Eng/Sci. Please rank with and without costs: U-M $230K, USC $80K, UW-Seattle $110K.
Without cost, Computer Engineering: Michigan >UDub=USC
Without cost, Computer Science: Michigan=UDub>USC
With cost, UDub=USC>>>>Michigan
There is no way to justify paying $120+k difference in the cost of attendance between Michigan and your other choices. Take the money and do not look back…unless your parents are very wealthy and can easily afford the delta, in which case, Michigan is back on the menu!
Would it be easier to get jobs/internships with a Michigan vs UW/USC degree? Does a Michigan degree carry more value to a company?
Computer science is one of the most in-demand jobs in the nation right now. While Michigan may open some doors for you, finding a job after college will not be a probably no matter where you go. UW and USC have solid CS programs and at a lower price.
I’d go with USC here.
csce, it would not be easier to land an internship or full time job when you graduate if you attend Michigan. USC and UDub will be just as effective when it comes to CS jobs. As Miw aptly points out, there is a shortage of qualified Computer Science specialists, so you will be in-demand no matter what. Trust us, save your money and go for UDub or USC.
Of course, if your parents are very wealthy, and they can cover that extra $120+k on college without breaking a sweat, then by all means come to Michigan. But to most people, $120 k represents a very significant investment, and if that is the case for your folks, Michigan in this instance makes no sense.
Chose USC. Entrepreneurial CS dept; small class size; easy access to labs/profs; west coast connections. There is a unique fit for everyone.
Unless you are a direct admit to the CS/CSE program at U-W, the risk of getting into U-W (~30% admit rate) in your Sophomore year for CS/CSE is too high, although the cost may be cheaper. Something to think about. If you have a direct admit to CS/CSE, then USC is not a bad place to be, if cost is the only question.
I was a direct admit into CE but thought that USC was a stronger option due to its small class sizes and reduced number of students looking for research positions. The USC scholarship made the costs equivalent. But, every situation is different so the choices are unique.