I’m debating between these two schools.
I love UMD with all my heart. I’ve wanted to go there since the 10th grade. The only problem is that I didn’t get into the business school so I would run the risk of not being admitted my junior year. In that case could always switch to economics which I do not have a problem with (I know it’s not the same thing, but a subject I am also interested in).
I did get into RBS though, and although I do not really like other aspects of the school, in terms of education Rutgers provides the same opportunities, job recruitment and overall quality of education and reputation.
I am in-state for Rutgers but I calculated the prices (taking into account living costs etc) and it’s only a $8k difference that is still within my parent’s budget. (NJ isn’t cheap )
Given my stats I don’t think I’ll get merit aid either.
I would like input on these colleges whether it be if you think either is more worth it and overall what you think of their business programs. Is it worth to take the gamble at UMD or should I suck it up and go to Rutgers.
IMO economics and an undergraduate b-school are different paths. One is not better or worse than the other, but you should take the time to understand the differences. Economics is a liberal arts course of study and gets very theoretical at the higher levels. An undergrad b-school will have you start off taking a business core curriculum which will include intro. classes in subjects such as accounting, finance, IT, marketing etc. and then you will major in one of those disciplines. I would look up the curriculum for economics at UMD and for business at Rutgers and see if one is more appealing to you. If you go to UMD you should assume you will not get into the b-school.
Also consider how you will find the difference in price if you go to UMD. If your parents can comfortable handle the expense that is one thing, but if you will have to take out debt of $8k/year that is quite another story. I would also re-check your calculations as on a quick glance it looks to me like the difference is cost is more than you calculated. http://admissions.rutgers.edu/Costs/TuitionAndFees.aspx#3 https://www.admissions.umd.edu/finance/costs.php
@happy1 is correct that economics and business have different curriculums.
In terms of professional career and job opportunities, at the highest level such as HYP vs. Wharton, there is virtually no difference about whether you study economics or business/finance. But the difference is noticeable once go down to non-target schools and if your eyes are on wall street. BTW, due to its location, Rutgers is quite well represented in lower Manhattan.
Rutgers has a “Road to Wall Street” program as well that seems very impressive if you’re able to qualify for it.
That being said, UMD College park is very close to D.C. I imagine you could get very impressive internships with political agencies that are still finance related, and depending on what aspect of business/economics interests you, that could be equally beneficial.
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