Trying to decide…son got into computer engineering at UIUC vs compsci at USC (in the engineering school). Cost aside, we’re hung on this. Looking for any advice.
I know UIUC is one of the best for engineering. I am not sure about USC but I’m sure that is also competitive. Illinois is more of a college town yet it is also 3 hours from Chicago. Illinois is a big ten school as well which means that if your son is into sports, definitely something to consider. But, USC is in California (nice weather,calmer atmosphere I believe, beaches, etc). I think your son will be happy wherever he chooses but should really think about what he wants in a school. If it’s more of the location that sports, that could be something. There are more to think about but hopefully this helps steer him in the right direction! 
You son will be in good shape with a degree from either school. I don’t see a big advantage for one over the other, unless your son is in the CE program at Illinois because he couldn’t get into the CS program there. If that’s the case, go for the CS program at USC.
Thanks @simba9 . That’s precisely the case. He couldn’t get into CS at UIUC (it’s the hardest thing to get into in the school), but did get into CS at USC. Curious why you think CS over CE? This is my main question. Thanks a ton.
@snowdencole I just figured if your son wanted a CS degree, he should get a CS degree and not settle for something he has less interest in. It will likely be marginally easier to get a job with a CS degree, but if he prefers UIUC to USC, then there’s nothing wrong with going to Illinois and getting a CE degree. He’ll still find a good job.
USC does have one of the best CS programs around. I’m not big into CS rankings, but the respected ARWU rankings has USC CS rated as #9 in the world. That at least gives some idea that it’s a very well-regarded program.
Does he like rural or urban setting? I heard UIUC is in cow country, while USC is in downtown LA.
@bogeyorpar . Champaign/Urbana is consistently ranks near the top of most fun college towns, so that’s not an issue. We’re from Illinois, so UIUC is in state for us and attractive from a cost perspective. Leaning heavily towards UIUC, but really just wanted to carefully think through what we are passing up if we don’t go USC…especially the part about getting into compsci.
Thanks all for the input. Very helpful.