Hey CC members, so I have been accepted to UMass Amherst and WPI for their computer science undergraduate program. Right now I am currently torn between deciding to attend UMass Amherst or WPI. I am hearing mixed things about both their undergraduate computer science programs. While I know UMass’s graduate computer science is number 25, I am not that sure about it’s undergraduate program. I’ve heard from some people it’s just as good as it’s grad program. I’ve also heard that WPI’s computer science program is also good, but it’s ranking in computer science shows to the contrary. I’ve also heard that UMass is more well known across the country for CS, while WPI is more well known around the Boston area. Money does matter, but while my parents can pay I’d rather not let them pay a lot of money. I got a 10k scholarship from UMass and a 8.5k scholarship from WPI, which I plan on arguing more for after participating in many hakathons throughout April. Atmosphere matters as well. While I don’t fit in well with the UMass atmosphere, I do fit in with the WPI atmosphere (based on the group messages for both colleges) but I still haven’t visited any of the two colleges. Can anyone help me by giving some pros or cons to both schools? Thank you!
Are you in state? If so, cost difference between the 2 will be considerable, given similar aid offers. In that case, I don’t see any compelling reason to choose WPI over UMass – unless after visiting both places you find that WPI is really where you’ll be happiest and fit in best. You really should visit both places if you’re in a position to do so.
Visit and you will know. The campuses are very different. Both are good choices! Good luck!
@asleepypotato My S has been accepted to both. WPI is a smaller campus. We visited it twice. Absolutely love everything about it. UMass Amherst on the other hand, is a very big campus, but also with a great reputation. I don’t think you could go wrong with either choice. You should visit both campuses. You will get a different “feel” from each one. You’re lucky if money isn’t the deciding factor.
Two different schools – a large state school and a smaller tech based school. There will be no one right answer for everyone. Visit both. Try to get as much money from WPI and see if it ends up being affordable.
If you are instate for UMass go with that as the difference in cost is substantial. Otherwise, visit both and see which one you like.
WPI times a million.
UMass’s Return on investment for CS is #24 in the US. (http://www.■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■/computer-science-degrees-best-roi/)
WPI I have heard good things, but it costs ALOT. So I guess it depends on what scholarships you got, and what you and you’re family is willing to spend.
Don’t be foolish. Ignore rankings, particularly as it pertains to these two school’s STEM rankings. I like WPI but you would be well served by either university.
Yea, so far I’ve received 10k from UMass and 8.5k from WPI. I’m visiting both the schools over this February vacation!
So @asleepypotato what did you think?
@Michthebeech I went with UMass. To be honest though, I wish I had gone with WPI. Feel free to message me with any questions you have
Be sure to visit–there’s a huge difference between Worcester and Amherst.