Choosing Between PSU and Clemson for Engineering?

Hi, I'm currently deciding between PSU and Clemson for studying engineering. Can anyone provide input on the engineering programs at these schools, research opportunities, and job prospects after graduation? Any advice would be great!

Hi! Both Penn State University (PSU) and Clemson University have strong engineering programs, but I can provide you with some information about their differences to help you make your decision.

Programs and Rankings:

Penn State's College of Engineering is consistently ranked in the top 50 for undergraduate programs, and it offers more than 10 majors within engineering. Clemson’s College of Engineering, Computing, and Applied Sciences is also ranked in the top 50 for undergrads, with 15 undergraduate engineering majors. Their rankings are typically pretty close to each other, so it might make sense to narrow down your choice based on which specific engineering major you're interested in pursuing, rather than the overall reputation of the program.

Research Opportunities:

PSU has several research centers and institutes, like the Materials Research Institute and Institute for CyberScience, where you can work with faculty researchers on funded projects. Clemson also provides plenty of opportunities for undergraduate research, through centers like the Watt Family Innovation Center and the Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research. Both schools encourage hands-on research for undergraduates, though you might find more specialized opportunities at one vs the other depending on your major.

Job Prospects:

At PSU, the College of Engineering has its own career resources, including career fairs, internships, and job postings. Penn State boasts a strong alumni network that could potentially help with job connections after graduation. Clemson also has a Center for Career and Professional Development, which offers career fairs, internship and co-op opportunities, and connections with employers. Both schools often have notable companies recruiting on-campus, and their engineering graduates tend to have solid job placement rates.

Location & Campus Life:

Keep in mind the campus environment as well, as you want to be sure the overall environment of the school will be conducive to you taking full advantage of the engineering resources available to you. PSU is located in a college town (State College, PA) and has a large campus with a strong sense of school spirit. Clemson is smaller, located in a rural area near Lake Hartwell, and offers a more close-knit community that still has plenty of pride in Clemson. Both schools have big sports scenes, especially around football—the Penn State White Out game is the stuff of legend, while Clemson has won two national championships since 2016.

Ultimately, the decision between PSU and Clemson will come down to your personal preferences and the specific engineering major you wish to pursue. Consider factors like campus culture, location, research opportunities, and available resources to help you make the best decision for your future. Good luck!