NEU and CSU, Fit and Reputation

[hubnester]

I'm having a hard time deciding and I'm hoping someone can maybe point out something I've missed. I'm comparing Northeastern University's M.S. of Computer Science and Colorado State University's Master of Computer Science. At this point, I'm looking at a coursework degree from both schools with no plans for a PhD.

 

First of all, is a Master of Computer Science (http://www.cs.colostate.edu/cstop/csacademics/csdegrees/csmcs.php) degree lesser than a Master of Science in Computer Science degree? I wasn't sure if there was any difference between the two.

 

In comparing these schools, NEU seems like the objectively superior choice. According to US News, NEU is ranked #49 overall and #60 in Comp Sci while CSU is ranked #121 overall and #70 in Comp Sci. NEU also has the prestige and great connections in a great area (professionally). Meanwhile, I like the courses CSU offers better because they seem more specific and better targeted for what I'm interested in, not to say that NEU is a poor fit, I just like the look of CSU classes better and being that I would be pursuing a coursework degree this seems like a major factor.

 

Right now I'm torn but I'm leaning towards CSU simply because I would like the area better than Boston and that the courses seem like a slightly better fit. But I'm worried I'm shooting myself in the foot because NEU has such a better reputation and connections and Boston would be better from a professional stand point. From a living perspective, I feel like I'd be happier in Colorado, but the professional opportunities in Boston would likely be much stronger.

 

Am I kidding myself in thinking these schools are comparable, or is NEU clearly the superior choice? Is there a stark difference in quality that I'm overlooking?

 

I'm worried I'm putting too much emphasis on the surrounding area and class descriptions, and not enough on the prestige and connections of the school.

Edited April 13, 2014 by hubnester

[rising_star]

Go with the one that gives you better professional options: NEU.