Columbia vs. USC, MS EE (Computer Vision)

[ameydhar]

I completed my undergraduate degree in ECE from a reputed institution in India. I have been working as an Automotive Vision Software Engineer since the last two years.

 

I am interested in Computer Vision and Machine Learning (particularly object recognition and large-scale computer vision). I have been admitted to the M.S. programs in Electrical Engineering at Columbia University and USC.

 

I need some help in deciding my final destination:

 

(1) Which is a better university considering the research opportunities for M.S. students in these areas at Columbia and USC? My ultimate goal is to get a PhD.

 

(2) How is the academic flexibility at both the universities as I would like to take some courses in my area of interest that are listed in the CS department.