<p>Well…first of all, I would say George Washington does NOT have a better academic reputation than the University of Maryland.</p>
<p>Looking at the USNWR rankings (no, rankings aren’t end-all-be-all, but if we’re talking prestige…), GW and Maryland are tied for spot 53 for overall quality. Within MD, I would say UMCP has a slightly BETTER reputation overall as the flagship institution for the state and therefore the top choice for many of the state’s best students due to it being the best education at the best cost.</p>
<p>I don’t know how poli sci ranks specifically, but MD’s poli sci program is also well-regarded. Gov and poli sci at MD is a “limited enrollment” major, meaning they screen applicants and only allow the higher-stat kids most serious about government to major in it. I enoyed the government classes I took here very much…I think the profs and TAs are EXTREMELY knowledgeable and very invested in their students, whether the class is big or small. The government students themselves tend to be on the brighter, more involved side.</p>
<p>The one negative is that the quality of the advising in behavioral and social sciences is poor. There is definitely a lot of administrative folk to sift through, hard to get anything done, etc…</p>
<p>I think the most important thing about college is that you feel comfortable with your choice and enjoy your time there. There is not a huge academic difference between GW and MD, but there is a huge social difference…the two schools are worlds apart…GW being a typical “city” campus with a lotta rich kids (decently smart rich kids, but it IS a private school in the city!)…MD more of a mixed bag and with more of the traditional college atmosphere (campus, sports, etc.). </p>
<p>Honestly, it seems like you’re leaning towards MD, and I say, go for it!! Is one more/less expensive than the other? In that case, going to the cheaper one could help you save for grad school.</p>
<p>If you’re having reservations about the academics, call up the schools and ask for course catalogs from previous years (or ask where you can find this online). Check out the courses and see for yourself if it offers what you’re looking for. And trust me, the profs are great :).</p>