I’m really torn between Virginia Tech and the University of Maryland for a CS Degree. I know “on paper”, UMD has a very highly ranked computer science program with great recruiting opportunities, but I understand that VT’s program is also very good and well respected.
I’m torn because I love the campus, food, and culture at Virginia Tech, alongside the unbeatable alumni network.
I know rankings aren’t everything, but I also know that the CS job market isn’t great right now so a part of me wonders if the higher ranking/”prestige”
In short, does the difference in the programs between the two have a significant effect on employment outcomes?
Net price per year at each college, after applying scholarships and financial aid grants.
Negligible difference in cost - out of state for both.
Major/division admitted to at each college, if applicable to the college. Also, any special programs like honors programs or combined degree programs (e.g. BA/BS->MD).
Admitted to Computer Science for both
Desired major and post graduation goals (including if pre-med, pre-law, etc.).
Want a career in SWE or something to do with technology and public policy (in which case, UMD’s proximity to DC might be a positive)
Food is important. Both mine got low blood sugar first semester because it was so bad (they said) and the same and yada yada. So I’d take that seriously. I can’t speak to UMD but obviously Va Tech is routinely top 3.
The campus at Va Tech and it’s subjective to say - but is as nice as any large school in the US - far more so than UMD - but again, that’s subjective - but what a beautiful place to wake up every day.
So you clearly, want to go to Va Tech - so go.
It is true, most rank put UMD higher.
Frankly, i would never use US News ranking - which are just a popularity contest amongst academics - using no data such as selectivity or outcomes.
The Brown rankings seem better and yes, UMD is 14 vs. 41. I put some placement data below for you to peruse and it does seem like UMD does better - but you have to look at the types of roles, location (maybe they’re in higher cost areas, and more. LIke most schools, one might perform better on the averages but there will be some more successful from school B than school A even if school A performs better on its own.
UMD is saying $105,000 starting and Va Tech $90K (or $92.7K median). The nugget that stood out to me about Tech though - and I don’t know the knowledge rate or when this snapshot was taken, but they show a third of students were still looking (class of 2024). It’s the last link - you may have to re-enter the major (sometimes the links default to nothing being entered).
Good luck - whatever you decide. You have to be somewhere four years, day after day - so yes, regardless of average stats/outcomes, that does matter.
IMO if you prefer VT you have earned the right to chose that school. Both colleges will allow you to get a fine education so go where you feel you will be happy.
