University Selection : Rutgers vs NCSU for MS in CS

[abhi.verma87]

Hi guys,

I have admits for MS in CS from NCSU and Rutgers University. Both the admits are non-funded.

My specialization track is Algorithms and Theoretical Computing. I have received reviews that Rutgers is awesome when it comes to Theoretical Computing and Algorithms with an overlap between computers and mathematics dept (very highly reputed) and some really awesome faculty around.

 

All the factors are ruling in favour of Rutgers in terms of location(proximity to NYC), lower batch strength, higher on-campus job opportunites, better faculty and research opportunities when it comes to algorithms etc... however, cost is one factor which is letting me off. Higher tuition and higher cost of living sums up for a considerable cost difference among the two.

 

What do you guys opine my choice should be? Is it worth trying to fight your way out in large CS batches (120+ MS students) at NCSU or if the environment at Rutgers with lower and quality crowd(mostly research profiles) is worth those additional bucks.

 

[P.S. from what I have heard, I am already at a loss trying to figure out admits whereas many a courses like algorithms, advanced data structures etc are already filled out at NCSU ]

[Yihuan]

Replied under my topic. Copy it here for your convenience. : )

 

Hi, nice to know you. If you ask my opinion, i'll probably urge you to go to Rutgers. 

 

The advantage of Rutgers is obvious and you have listed before. About the cost of attendance to the two Universities, i highly suggest that you check both school's websites or send an email to get the annual estimate cost for master program. Cause from what i know, the cost of the two schools has no much difference. May be Rutgers is a thousand or two expensive, but i guess it's worth it for all the advantages above. Still, you should contact school to confirm the expense. 

 

Oh, by the way, do you intend to get a job after graduation or continue for a PhD degree?

 

Good luck to you!

[abhi.verma87]

Heyy ... thanks for your suggestion.

Well job would be the first priority ... as I would be taking heavy loan for the studies and would like to repay it asap .....

However, i can't say that I am not totally enticed with the idea of going for a PhD....so yeah, will have to wait and watch on that.

 

And yes you are correct, the tuition doesn't differ for both schools by much.... but the cost of living is pretty much on da heavier side for Rutgers...and that accumulates over time :/ ... That was bothering me...........

 

Well hopefully i will end up in Rutgers itself ...... just trying to get a plan in place