<p>I am going to be an undergraduate studying Aerospace Engineering next year. I've been admitted to both, and through financial aid, they're about equal in price for me. Which one would be the better school if i plan on at least going to graduate school for my masters? I am looking for the most competitive program of the two.</p>
<p>I don’t know too much about the Aerospace program at UW or about Cal Poly SLO. However, besides just looking at how competitive the programs are, you should also look at which schools offer research that you’re interested in, internship opportunities (like through career fairs), and all the other “extra curricular perks” that a university could offer.</p>
<p>UW’s Aerospace Engineering program contributed to the Space Shuttle. Boeing is in the backyard. I don’t know much about San Luis Obispo other than they have a wonderful mission and I went there once.</p>
<p>If money isn’t a concern, UW. Otherwise Cal Poly.</p>
<p>This is assuming you’re in California.</p>
<p>@speedsolver Good point, and I have gotten into a program at UW that will set me up with paid research internships throughout my undergrad schooling at science laboratories on campus. Cal poly is also very well known for their hands on work, and ability to set you up with internships throughout your schooling. So once again, it’s nearly a tie, except UW is a little more advantageous for me if I’m looking strictly at research and internship opportunities.</p>
<p>@dustinthewind I’m actually a resident of Washington.</p>
<p>A friend of mine is a senior studying aero at UW right now; headed to Boeing after graduation 
I believe he also does some research … if I can grab him for a bit of info I’ll let you know what I find out!</p>