<p>My D is trying to decide between the regular program at USC and the Honors College at UNCW for Bio Chemistry / Molecular Biology. Visited UNCW last weekend for accepted students day & will be at USC this weekend. Any thoughts about either program? Cost for my D at each is about equal.</p>
<p>I don’t know about the programs specifically but I’m interested in the responses to this question considering the latest posts in another thread (“…choose USC over a top 30 school” - <a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/university-south-carolina-columbia/1331031-did-anyone-here-choose-u-of-south-carolina-over-a-top-30-school.html#latest”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/university-south-carolina-columbia/1331031-did-anyone-here-choose-u-of-south-carolina-over-a-top-30-school.html#latest</a>) </p>
<p>Applying the same mindset here, USC is nationally ranked whereas UNC-W is only regionally ranked so if your D might consider graduate school or jobs outside the immediate area (or NC in general), I would think USC would be the better choice between those 2 in terms of name recognition. </p>
<p>Also, as a parent who as toured both schools (we’re NC residents), USC is obviously a larger school so there is much more opportunity if she wants to change her major or choose a minor and probably even research and internship opportunities. </p>
<p>In terms of campus appeal, USC has it hands down. It’s beautiful and very easy to find your way around. Also a lot of campus activities- I could go on and on. My son toured both and there was no question on his decision after he saw the campus - currently a freshman at USC. </p>
<p>Regarding UNC-W - Honors vs USC regular - Did your D get into the Capstone program at USC? Either way, I believe you can apply to Honors after as little as 1 semester your freshman year. You need a minimum GPA from USC of 3.5 and 2 teacher recommendations (from those freshman classes). We were there last weekend and heard that in the Honors College session. </p>
<p>@coleman4 - I appreciate all of the great information. She did not get into Capstone even though we though she would based on scores. We were supposed to visit USC in the fall but due to weather, the airline cancelled our flight 4 hours before it was to leave. This will be our 1st trip to see the campus, but we have heard only great things from a friend who is a current freshman. My thought is that she will like USC better. But, I’m only the mom :"> </p>