If asked what are four large New England university on nearly equal footing overall, BU and UMass Amherst would for sure be among them.
Both these schools have placed so many into medical school.
I’d agree BU has an edge in Biomed Engineering, they are world class in that space. The Med school right on the campus as well. The university is basically a mile long stretch of Commonwealth Avenue. This is certainly not for everyone but some love the urban vibe.
UMass has the quintessential college campus and college town in a beautiful part of the state. They also have a campus in Newton, just outside Boston, for internships in and around the city. Many say Umass also has a great vibe, just more that it is it’s own city.
I’d say the Engineering students at UMass will be among the brightest and they should compete with those at BU, who are also very much top students.
If price is the same and location is not significant I’d give BU the edge. But both are “can’t go wrong” options. Best of luck, a very exciting time!