<p>Hi everybody. I'm interested in these two schools for engineering and was wondering if anyone had any input or advice to offer. I'm mainly looking at Mechanical, Aerospace, and maybe Electrical or Civil. I'm also considering CS or CE. A few observations I've had, comments welcome:
-VT has a slightly better reputation than UM for engineering
-UM appears to have much stronger CS/CE programs
-The strength of programs and the qualifications of the students seems much lower at VT outside of architecture and engineering
-The honors program at UM appears far more significant and beneficial to the student
If anybody has any input, I'd really appreciate it. Specifically, I'd like to hear how much of a difference there is between VT and UM for engineering and how much of gap there is between these two and Georgia Tech (GT look's like it's out for financial reasons, but using it as a baseline would still be helpful). Additionally, I was wondering how the social scene of the two compared. Last thing, how does grad school placement differ between them? Thanks for the help!</p>
<p>Yuletide bump. :D</p>
<p>How does the cost compare? In terms of getting a job both schools will be about equally strong. I think UMD has better student life, but you should visit and talk to students to get more information.</p>
<p>Well, they’re both oos for me. I won’t know for sure how much each will cost with scholarships until late spring but I don’t think there will be a big difference. I haven’t really heard that the student life of the two were much different so if you know more I’d love to hear your thoughts. Also, scratch my comments about honors programs. I looked into it a little more and it seems like I missed a lot before.</p>
<p>If you want to do Aerospace, UMD is the place to go. Plus, Washington, D.C. is only a 15 minute Metro ride away. As you said, the Honors program at Maryland is stronger than VT’s. Although it is relatively new, it had already garnered much applause from publications and students.</p>
<p>If you want to do CS, then Maryland is also good for that. </p>
<p>One little bonus: if you get a job while you’re a student at Maryland, it is not difficult to claim in state tuition, at least from what I’ve heard from various students and alumni.</p>
<p>Both are fine schools for what you want. Visit both and see what appeals to you more and go without regrets.</p>