Comparing Penn State and UMass: Which is Better for Business?

Hi folks, I've narrowed my choices down to Penn State and UMass Amherst for my undergrad in business. Can anyone provide some insights on the reputation, curriculum, and overall experience at both schools? I'd really appreciate your thoughts on this!

Congrats on narrowing down your choices! Both Penn State and UMass Amherst have well-regarded business programs, but there are a few differences to consider when making your decision.

Reputation:

Penn State's Smeal College of Business is often ranked higher than the UMass Amherst's Isenberg School of Management in various business school rankings. Employers recognize the quality of both programs, but Penn State's Smeal College might have a slightly stronger brand due to the larger alumni network and wider recognition.

Curriculum:

Both schools offer a strong core curriculum in business, covering subjects like finance, marketing, and management. They each provide opportunities for students to engage in internships, research projects, and study abroad programs.

However, Penn State's Smeal College does offer a few more areas of concentration, such as supply chain management and real estate, whereas UMass Amherst's Isenberg focuses on more traditional areas like finance and marketing. If you're interested in specializing in a certain field, take a closer look at the course offerings and faculty profiles at each school.

Overall Experience:

Penn State is known for its spirited school environment, with numerous clubs, organizations, and sports—these can lead to excellent networking opportunities. The university is located in a college town, which is an essential part of the quintessential college experience for many students.

UMass Amherst is located in a picturesque college town as well, and the school has a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. They have many clubs and organizations and are part of the Five College Consortium, allowing students to take courses at four other nearby liberal arts colleges, which can create diverse educational opportunities.

Ultimately, you'll want to consider factors such as campus culture, location, and specialized program offerings when deciding between these two schools. If possible, visit each campus to get a sense of how well you fit in both environments. Good luck with your decision!