Final "prestige" question, I promise.....

Which school has the better academic reputation?

Northwestern University in Evanston, IL or Boston University?

Which school seems like it offers more in terms of education, networking, a better atmosphere?

Also, which one is better recognized abroad?

 

Jude84, you are talking about two great schools and, IMHO, you are probably focusing on the characteristics way too much. Northwestern is ranked #12 and Boston is ranked #53, these are the general rankings not specific to any particular program. Either one is great. Relax, pick the one that looks most interesting to you and go for it. You will most likely not be sorry with either choice. Unless you are one of those people who continually second-guesses themselves, in that case, you will not be happy either way. (been there, done that)

Also, you will probably get conflicting opinions here. I have never seen this board unanimously agree on any school. Go with your gut, man!

You will be hired on the strength of your experience and talent, not because you picked one particular great school over another.

 

Thanks for the advice, surf. I appreciate it.

I think you offered the best piece of advice for a real world experience.

I guess I am just looking for the best school in which to kick start a great career.

I am looking for the best avenue to showcase my skills.

 

I have always liked BU but if I had to choose between these two particular schools then I might just choose Northwestern. BU might have better name recognition globally but I've always heard good things about Northwestern. Others opinions may vary.

 

If you are talking about overall comparisons of the two institutions, then Northwestern would be considered slightly more prestigious; however, both are so high up on the academic food chain, that one could not really go wrong either way.

Often, the more important consideration is the academic discipline at the university. It could be that in the area that one wishes to study, Boston's program would be ranked above the same program at Northwestern.

 

I'll echo what others have said. Overall, Northwestern is more "prestigious", but both are great school. I'd compare the programs, investigate the faculty and consider the costs and make a decision based on those factors.

 

jude84, where are you located? Northwestern has a VERY strong reputation in its region. If you are in the Midwest, Northwestern carries MUCH more prestige. If you are in Chicago, then there is no question. University of Chicago and Northwestern are often spoken of in the same breath here.

 

I'm glad you mentioned the University of Chicago. It's a fantastic school and I'd choose it over virtually any other.
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