Hello all,
I’m currently attending PSU World Campus (Online) and majoring in software engineering. However, I am considering transferring to UF or FSU for the Online Computer Science programs they offer.
I’m 34 and live in OKC, I once lived in Delray Beach, FL and I see myself moving my family back to Florida at some point. With that said my end goal is to be a software developer, I believe all the degrees I previously mentioned will prepare me for that field. However, it has come to my attention that a PSU degree may face some prejudice due to the scandal. That has led me to look at other places. I prefer online because I work and have a 2 year old to take care of as well. I should probably mention I’m a veteran and I am using my Post 9/11 GI Bill to pay for school. I currently have a 3.8 GPA with 43 earned credits. I’ll be looking to transfer after completing 60 credits which should be after next spring.
My main question is which school out of the 3 is the most respected and best prepares me for software development? From what I’ve seen UF seems to be really highly regarded but just curious if you all could provide any more insight?
TIA
UF is highly regarded, but for whatever reason the scandal has not affected Penn State graduates. Both would be excellent. Could you move to Florida earlier - would that help you find a job in your new career?
Thanks for the reply! No, I’m pretty entrenched with my current obligations here in OKC. Would you say that UF best prepares students for software development in the work force out of the 3 schools?
If you where a Florida resident, UF would be an easy choice, based on cost alone ($129 a credit hour). The state of Florida has been funding “UF Online”, and one requirement is that they keep tuition at 75% of the normal (low) in-state resident rate. However, since you’re OOS, it looks like the cost is about the same at all three schools.
Between UF and FSU, I would “lean” toward UF, since it’s a better funded (by the state) program. I wouldn’t even hazard a guess about PSU Online. 
Thanks Gator! Right now my plan is to apply to both UF and FSU after this semester and see if one gets eliminated just by not being accepted. I am leaning towards UF because it seems it be well known that UF is a better academic school. I may still end up sticking with PSU, I am just concerned of being pre-judged as being supportive of a heinous atrocity that I would never support. I just want a quality education that will have a respectable degree and prepares me well for the software development work force.
No one will judge you as such. Both will be considered equivalent if you move to any state beside PA and FL (where the respective flagship would garner more weight.)
Basically the real alternative is stick to a PSU degree, which would likely be most efficient (no missing requirements) or taking classes from UF online because down the line when you live to Florida it’ll be more recognized there.
I agree MYOS, thank you! I’ll just take it one step at a time and probably transfer to UF once I take all of the prerequisite courses.
Whoever told you that is making up lame excuses for not getting hired. Employers turn down applicants because they find candidates that are a better fit. Penn State is a very respected university with a strong academic reputation. It would be a waste to lose credits over a transfer because Sandusky. It’s your choice, but I strongly recommend against it.
Thank you coolguy! I appreciate your comments and so far I have really enjoyed my experience with PSU. I’m doing well and i feel like I’m learning quite a bit. PSU was my first choice, that’s why I’m enrolled there. I believe your right and shouldn’t listen to anyone that says that kind of nonsense. I didn’t think I would ever need to concern myself with that while looking for a job. So when I was told that it happened to others it got me worried and I wanted to explore alternative sources to see how credible a situation like that really is. From what I can tell, it’s pretty much non-existent and if it did occur I wouldn’t want to work for a place like that anyways.
So with that being said, do you think UF (BS-Computer Science) or PSU (BS-Software Engineering) better prepares an individual for software development?
I’ll be surprised if anyone is familiar enough with both online programs to be able to answer your question. We’re assuming that both are top programs and are comparable.
Fair enough, thanks for the help!
There’s a lot of overlap with computers. In fact half the graduates in these programs end up getting good IT jobs and never look at a math problem their entire career. In the long run, it really won’t make that much difference. A lot of CS grads work CE jobs and vice versa. You’re probably better off sticking with Penn State and finishing. You’ll have a job either way.