<p>CMU is incredibly strong in electrical and computer engineering as well as in computer science, and these are the engineering disciplines where NU is weakest. Both schools may be at similar levels in other fields of engineering. </p>
<p>NU in my opinion has academic strengths in a wide range of areas, while CMU is very strong in a smaller number of niche fields. Better overall social life at NU and many would prefer Chicago to Pittsburgh.</p>