Perhaps I can shed some light on the situation since I am the S being discussed.
I had originally applied to most of my schools as a chemistry major (thought I was gonna be a doctor) but then realized that I honestly would hate to be a doctor and that I was really good at CS/Math (straight A+s in BC Calc and Java). However, since I had applied as a chem major, I was admitted to most of my colleges as a chem major.
Now, when I tried to switch my major from chem to CS at umass amherst, they told me that they had already filled their spots for the fall 2015 semester but that I could apply for an internal transfer once I enrolled. I have recently checked their website and seen that this transfer should not be an issue. Also, I was leaning a bit towards umass since I would be coming in with 32 credits due to AP classes and could maybe possibly complete my degree in 3 years.
I saw that the general agreement on the thread was that I should attend Tufts (if admitted). When I visited Tufts, I really liked the campus and general atmosphere. However, the only two problems I have with Tufts are their cost and that their CS program is relatively unknown (this might be an assumption), even though their school overall is excellent. Also, I was just accepted yesterday to University of Southern California (as a chem major), but without a scholarship.
So, right now I am between UMA and Tufts.
For UMA, is it possible to find internships as a CS major given its remote location?
For Tufts, are the connections and school name worth the 40k/year cost difference?
Also, I am generally aware that the USC comp sci program is decent, but if it trumps the other two schools, I would definitely go there.
@swagtothemax I do not have first hand experience with what it’s like to get a job straight out of any of these schools. You may want to post in each school’s forum and ask that question.
I can just tell you in Boston, I run into many more Tufts CS graduates in higher positions at interesting companies than I do UMass Amherst grads. This is probably mostly a function of proximity, but also due to the high quality of students that get in to Tufts. UMass Amherst grads are very good in general, but are not consistently excellent.
USC is great for CS but I would really only think about it if you are considering working in SoCal or Silicon Valley after school. If you think you want to come back to the east coast for work, a Tufts degree may hold more weight.
Is it worth the $40k difference? Probably not, and certainly not if you or your family cannot afford it. But I know that I will not blink an eye if we get the chance to pay a tufts tuition bill, and UMass would cost us something like $20k/yr.
Good luck with Tufts next week, it is not an easy admit. 16% acceptance rate this year:
hi @suzyQ8 I ended up at northeastern, I am very happy here, the CS program is great and I can’t wait for coops. Let me know if you have any specific questions
RPI, Northeastern, or UMass Amherst depending on your preference.
UMass Amherst is the better value
RPI & Northeastern are a bit better in your field and/or overall. If you can afford it than these are good options.
UMass Lowell isn’t that good & you’ll be better off paying 4K more for Amherst.