<p>I'm trying to transfer from VCU to either VT or UVA as a mechanical engineering major. Which would be a better college to go to? If anyone could answer any of these questions, it would be tremendously helpful. Although I welcome any and all answers it would awesome if you could also back them up with numbers/links if possible.</p>
<p>Obviously VT has a better engineering program, but exactly how much better is it and in what ways? Which is academically harder? On the other hand, UVA is ranked as the 2nd best public university. Does having a better academic program and/or better overall reputation/prestige have any effect on graduate admissions (especially for top colleges like MIT/Stanford/CalTech), internships, and jobs (including salary)? Since VT is more rural and UVA in the city, will that have any bearing on internship/job opportunities? Finally, which is a better college for research opportunities in science and engineering?</p>
<p>@charlieschm, I have applied to both for Fall 2013. VT offered me admission and UVa put me on the waiting list. However, I still think I have a very good shot of getting accepted given my grades and GPA this past year. If I decide for sure on going to UVA before hearing back, I want to tell that I’ll definitely attend if accepted, which I heard really boosts your chances.</p>
<p>I’d suggest you go to the one that best fits your style - the polytechnic style is a little different from the style here, which I describe as rounded when put on the spot. I could put the best professor at the University in front of you, but if you aren’t happy and engaged in your environment, you won’t get the most of out of the experience.</p>
<p>One of the engineering school deans tells every student who asks this to visit both schools. They should feel drawn to one style over the other. If they don’t, he recommends William & Mary. :)</p>
I certainly do not believe this is an accurate statement. The programs are very different, and it all depends on where your interests lie as to which program is better. UVA has a very well respected engineering program, but it has a different focus than VT’s. </p>
<p>If you are looking for a strong technical specialty in MechE, for example something like robotics, then there is no doubt VT offers one of the finest prgrams in the world for that. If you are looking for a MechE program with an aerospace flare and a business background then UVA’s program is extremely unique and excellent. </p>
<p>Visit both, but don’t jump to conclusions about which is “better” before figuring out what you want out of the program.</p>
<p>@grp2013, Based on what you said, I think UVA might be a better fit. In addition to MechE, I was also thinking about doing aerospace and/or business, but at the moment I’m not sure if I want to double major (maybe a minor). </p>
<p>I’m also beginning to consider getting an MBA down the road, so would it be easier to get into UVA’s graduate business program if go to UVA undergrad or will that make little to no difference?</p>
<p>One of the most popular minors in SEAS is Engineering Business. You actually take courses between SEAS and McIntire. Going to UVa alone isn’t going to help/hurt you towards getting into Darden (it will be your academic record and resume), however having a minor focusing in business and coursework in McIntire is certainly going to be a plus anywhere you want to go, be it grad school or eventually management.</p>
<p>My son is a current rising third year in mech’e (originally came in thinking aerospace) choosing UVa over VT. He’s never second guessed his decision.</p>
<p>Thanks to everyone who responded. After reading your replies, UVA seems like the right choice for me. Since I’m still on the waiting list, I emailed UVA today saying that I will definitely attend if accepted and now I’m hoping for the best.</p>
<p>@tushinator - Did you visit both UVA and VT? As others have noted many prospective students find that they naturally gravitate towards one program or the other despite college rankings, websites, or brochures.</p>
<p>Since you don’t actually have the ability(yet) to choose between the two universities you should take a closer look at VT. Tech has aerospace engineering and mechanical engineering degree programs and it’s definitely possible to ensure that your mechanical degree includes courses that are important in the aerospace field, e.g., controls and propulsion systems. I believe that VT and UVA collaborate with Rolls Royce for jet engine research so opportunities in this area should be available at either university. Tech’s Signature building will have a Rolls Royce engine on display in the lobby.</p>
<p>Tech’s business minor is possible but it appears to require more credits than UVA’s engineering business option. It may be something to pursue only if you have AP credits to open up space in your schedule. Of course, nothing prevents you from taking courses in an area of interest even if you don’t take enough to earn the minor on your diploma.</p>
<p>Both UVA and VT will offer opportunities that are not available in VCU’s Engineering program. If you are not accepted at UVA, I’d advise entering Tech’s program. If you do well but still prefer UVA you may try again to transfer.</p>
<p>It’s May 31st so I hope you have deposited to VT since you have not heard from UVa as of yet. : )</p>
<p>I hope you do come off the UVa waiting list if that is the right fit for you. But I do agree with others you may want to visit each school and the engineering department to get a feel for each. However as of right now VT is your only option for certain.</p>
<p>I just paid my deposit at VT and although I am very excited to go there, I would still prefer UVA. And yes, I have visited both UVA about VT multiple times</p>
<p>Search for some of my old posts, I’ve documented the differences a few times. I personally preferred UVa, and transferred out of VT, but many, many people prefer VT</p>