There are several threads here already comparing the two programs. What I want to know, specifically, is how they compare in sending their MS students onto top Ph.D. programs. Stats would be great. General thoughts, analyses, and anecdotes are also much appreciated!
I know that Cornell’s program has no MS thesis option – not a huge deal. Doing a master’s project with professors can lead to join publications.
Probably whichever one lets you do a thesis to give you research experience. Is Cornell’s M.Eng. the program that’s meant for people from other fields with little to no CS background, or is it a legit degree?
Most departments at this level should provide info. about placement for graduates. If it’s not published online, you may be able to request placement information directly from the department. Both Brown and Cornell are generally known for producing excellent C.S. graduates. The lack of a thesis at Cornell may be indicative of some deficiency per the above post; I truly don’t know.
I have an M.Eng from Cornell in EE, from antiquity.
At that time at least, in that field, the M.Eng required advanced coursework and a design project. Not a thesis. It was an advanced degree leading towards practice in industry, not towards a doctorate.
None of the people I knew who were in the M.Eng. program when I was there were trying to gain entrance to a Phd prorgram. They would be disadvantaged for that, because they did no research.
I agree with @monydad, the M.Eng. is a professional degree and not designed to take you to a Ph.D. Of course, it is possible to make that transition, however, the Brown program is the more traditional path to the Ph.D.
Brown does have a thesis track, a project track and a course only track depending on student goals.