UCI vs CalPoly SLO (Computer Engineering and CS)

College Search & Selection
1

So, I recently was accepted to University of California Irvine as a CS and Engineering Major. I was also accepted to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo as a Computer Science Major ( although I plan on switching that to Computer Engineering once I arrive). I’m very lucky and super excited that both of these major institutions would accept me, but after having spoken to some of my teachers I am confused as to who should I choose . My Physics professor (and mentor) is telling me to go to UCI because the UC name will allow me to go further in my academic and professional future, Then my Math professor is telling me to go to SLO because it is a very valuable education (especially for engineering). I was set on SLO for quite some time, as their 4+1 program is very appealing to me. I have read of SLO’s approach to teaching and it is very tailored to what I do best with, but I would also like to be able to pay off my Student loans after I graduate, and I would like to know if anyone from those school can share their experiences after graduating. Do companies prefer one over the other ? Does it make a difference ?

In case this matters, my dream job is to work in Defense after or during my time in school.

2

Any one that tells you Irvine engineering or CS will carry you further than Cal Poly simply because it’s a UC really doesn’t know what they’re talking about. Cal Poly is very well respected for engineering and CS. Every year students reject UCB and UCLA so they can go to Poly. Now certainly there may be other reasons to compel you to choose Irvine, like location, if you feel SLO to be too isolated, but the reason your teacher gave you is incorrect.

As for changing majors at Poly, you can’t simply switch the moment you get there. If you keep your grades up you should be able to start the process after your first term.

Lastly, it’s not super common for CS or CE majors to get advanced degrees because they are in such demand with just a BS. With that said, it’s hard to argue against the efficiency and thus value of the 4+1. My son is a ME from out of state. He’ll be starting his masters shortly.

Good luck.

3

Here are the change major criteria at CPSLO, if you are already in a major in the engineering division:
https://eadvise.calpoly.edu/majors/changing-majors-within-ceng/