<p>Im an in-state in Mass and I wanted to know which school is better in terms of engineering. I got accepted into PSU's engineering program, but I was put as "undeclared" at Umass Amherst. Which school is better? When I went to UMA, I really didn't like it. The campus is spread out too much and the buildings are just blocks of concrete (sorry). I felt there was also a lack of school spirit...Idk what do you guys think? My parents only like it because of the money..</p>
<p>PSU is probably rated higher as an engineering school. But there is nothing wrong with UMass. My older son has friends who are engineering majors at UMass and like the program. My younger son goes there but he is not the best barometer of enthusiasm. And while there are some blocks of concrete, there are plenty of brick building on campus. As for spread out, PSU is not exactly a small campus. Also, the football team has a lot to do PSU’s school spirit.</p>
<p>Your parent, of course, have to consider money. PSU (without considering any financial awards) would cost an extra $90-100K. That is a lot of money. I highly doubt you will get that much added value to your education if you go to PSU.</p>
<p>Hi I was in the same boat as you until recently when I decided on Penn State, I was accepted to both as well. I decided on Penn State based on ranking (Penn State is 37th as a national university and 8th as a public university) and umass amherst is 91 nationally and 40th as a public university. I also personally loved the campus and surrounding area. I live in Mass and did not really like UMASS as a campus. Umass is cheaper but Penn State is considered to have one of the best ROIs which I believe it is ranked 4th in. I also love the almuni network and the opportunites that it provides for. Money wise umass was definetly the better option but when I considered penn states roi and future job opportunites Penn State provides for more financial security in the future. I also read something about employeers considering Penn State students being some of the best prepared.
Here is the link to rankings <a href=“http://colleges.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/best-colleges/rankings/national-universities/top-public/page+2”>http://colleges.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/best-colleges/rankings/national-universities/top-public/page+2</a></p>
<p>Do not base your choice on ranks. Ranks mean nothing, unless you only care about prestige and a reputation. Both are wonderful schools, but why go to an out-of-state university that costs more than your in-state school. I know a bunch of engineers at umass amherst and heard that the engineering department is wonderful. I go to umass and the school might be ugly, but the new buildings ISB, Life Science Building, and the brand new Integrative Learning Center are all beautiful. If there are wonderful/ successful engineers coming out of umass, why spend more money on a degree that you can get at umass? </p>
<p>Ditto on everything beng233 said!! Your parents pay taxes to subsidize your education at UMass, why pay OOS costs to subsidize other people’s education? ISB, Life Sciences, and CHC complex are gorgeous. Northeast and Central are what New England college dorm buildings are supposed to look like (classic brick). Yeah, the brutalism style of the 70’s is ugly, but believe it or not, those buildings may receive historic status, as they are among the best examples of this architectural style in existence!!</p>
<p>Go up to the 23rd floor of the library and look out the windows–the Pioneer Valley is stunning.</p>
<p>If a GOOD private college comes in at or below the cost of UMass, then go for it. But I do not understand going to another state’s flagship and paying lots more. Don’t get pulled in by hype or ratings. Ratings are far from objective.</p>
<p>But I just simply don’t like Umass Amherst. I dont want to be difficult to my parents and have them shell out more money for PSU but I just can’t stand UMA. I don’t feel comfortable. Why pay even money to go there when I could be happier at another school for more money? I dont know…I’m sorry if I’m being difficult but I just can’t see myself at UMA but I dont know how to tell my parents that.</p>
<p>I read some of your other post, 4444545151. Your discomfort with MA started before you ever looked at UMass. You said you just moved to MA. I can understand how someone coming to a new school in their teens can have a difficult time adjusting. But when you go to college, it is a fresh start. You make new friends. You meet people with common interest. Perhaps your difficulty adjusting to MA colors your vision. </p>
So you got into PSU for engineering but didn’t get into UMass for engineering-sounds like you should go where you got in for engineering. Also, you already said you don’t like UMass. It will cost more at PSU as you will be out of state, but with an engineering degree YOU will be able to pay off your debt in a reasonable amount of time. UMass is a great price for in state students, but if you didn’t get accepted into your intended major there, that is not a good sign. Make sure your parents know the financial burden will not be solely on them.