Hi guys, I’m posting for my friend about her final school choice between USC and BC.
Her intended major is Cognitive Science / Neuroscience and a possible double major or minor in Math or CS. It’s obvious that both schools are quite highly renowned(Maybe USC is a little bit more, at least as the rankings shows). And as for her majors, it seems that USC is definitely stronger than BC. She also thinks that maybe USC also seems to have a larger funding and research opportunities that fit her possible majors. Yet as she is also considering about a possible transfer, BC’s higher focus on undergraduate education: small classes and higher reputations may be a pro. She also prefers a small school, at least where she could easily find a close community.
So now she really has a headache about her school choice, and I hope that you guys could give me some help and advice. Thanks.
Are location and weather an issue for your friend? Both schools are great and my kid applied to both school for his business course. In the end, he’s going to USC because of location and weather.
Not sure what she means about considering a transfer? It might be best to give the school she selects a chance! If she was disappointed in not getting into a dream school, and hopes to leave BC or USC if she can, I don’t think either one is better or worse than the other for her. I’m not sure I’d agree with her assessment that BC has a higher focus on undergraduate education: or smaller classes and higher reputations, but it certainly is a smaller East Coast school, if that is a priority. But if she is determined to transfer out anyway, neither school wants to see students leave before graduating.
Here are some figures from each university website:
One of the main differences is Boston College is a Catholic university. SC is not affiliated with any religious organization.
Endowment: (Last figures I found)
USC 4.7 Billion
BC 2.3 Billion
Admit rate 2015
USC l7.7%
BC 30%
SAT Mid 50 %
USC 1980-2200
BC 1950-2150
USC Faculty Student Ratio
USC 1 to 9
BC 1 to 12
USC’s neuroscience department is the home of Drs. Damasio. Both husband and wife are internationally known and have long lists of honors and awards. Do check out faculty distinctions in each university’s department.