<p>But it wasn’t my premise and it wasn’t mentioned here. For the record, I totally agree with you and reject what you just cited as the opinion of others in post #25. There of course are great teachers and less great teachers at LACs, and the same with the top level researchers. I think what is true in general, but of course has many exceptions, is that the top researchers don’t like to teach lower level courses, and are often absent due to professional obligations. It brings a lot of prestige to the university to have these people, but it often does little for the undergraduates’ education.</p>
<p>Anyway, as it applies to the OP I think he would find little difference between UVA and UMCP as far as the rigor and quality of his undergrad courses in those fields. The much bigger difference (assuming $$ not a factor) is in the general day-to-day life at each school.</p>