How does Carnegie Mellon University differ from its various schools?

I'm curious about the different schools within Carnegie Mellon University and how they compare to each other. How do the programs and admissions criteria differ across them? I'm especially interested if one is better for tech-related majors.

Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) is renowned for its seven schools and colleges, each distinguished by its unique strengths, particularly in tech-related disciplines.

The School of Computer Science (SCS) at CMU is highly reputed for its cutting-edge research and degree programs in computer science and artificial intelligence. It's often rated as one of the top computer science schools in the country. The admissions criteria are demanding with a high emphasis on STEM-related academic achievements like AP Calculus and Computer Science, plus extracurriculars that demonstrate interest and experience in tech.

The Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences, while not directly tech-related, offers majors like Information Systems that encompass a blend of business, computing, and design for students trying to bridge the gap between technology and people.

The College of Engineering is another tech-heavy school, with strengths in areas including Electrical & Computer Engineering and Mechanical Engineering. They look for excellence in math and science classes, involvement in relevant extracurriculars like robotics clubs or engineering projects, and strong recommendation letters from STEM teachers.

Tepper School of Business, on the other hand, is known for its prowess in business technology and analytics. It presents a blend of technical education and practical business application which prepares students for the tech world from a business perspective.

The School of Art, School of Drama, and College of Fine Arts have different expectations. They're likely to place higher value on portfolios, auditions, and artistic extracurricular activities. While not typically tech-focused, they can offer unique intersections of technology and art, such as design for interactive systems.

In terms of admissions, each school within CMU has its own set of criteria, but all of them will consider your high school coursework, grades, letters of recommendation, essays, extracurricular activities, and other achievements. Certain majors may require additional materials, like a portfolio for the College of Fine Arts or a supplemental essay for the School of Computer Science.

The selectivity and average profiles of accepted students also vary by school. For instance, the School of Computer Science is generally considered to be more competitive than other schools within CMU, reflecting the high demand for these tech-related majors.

While each of these schools offers its own distinct programs and opportunities, keep in mind that they're all integrated within the larger CMU community. This means students often have the chance to take classes or undertake interdisciplinary projects across different schools. For anyone focused on tech, there are certainly many paths to consider within the CMU ecosystem.