Hi, I have a difficulty in choosing UCSD or UCLA. My counselor tells me to go to UCSD as it has a better civil engineering program. Its only a bit better according to the ranks in websites. Tuitions are the same However, UCLA is a far more prestige school. What do you think?
I’m sure many will disagree but here goes…I don’t think there is enough difference between the two programs that it will make much difference in terms of the quality of education you receive. However there is a big difference in the atmosphere of the two schools. Have you visited both? UCLA has a little more name recognition but I don’t think it matters for engineering. I really think it boils down to which campus is a better fit for you. Which school do you feel more comfortable with? Sports and Greek life are bigger at UCLA so that is something to consider. If it helps make a pro/con list for the 2 schools…
UCLA does not carry “far more prestige” than UCSD in your discipline, nor to those in academia, for example. And your individual life may be served better by the program at UCSD, while UCLA could have more constrictions. What you perceive as prestige may have to do with programs or aspects of the school culture that may have little to no impact upon you personally, though UCLA would also be a fine choice in the end.
It’s easier to find on/off campus housing and parking at UCSD.