Duke vs Lehigh: Which school is better for engineering?

Hey everyone! I'm considering both Duke and Lehigh for studying engineering, and I'm not sure which one to choose. Can you guys help me explore the pros and cons of each one, considering factors like campus life, opportunities, reputation, and anything else you think is important? Thanks!

Congrats on getting into both Duke and Lehigh! Both schools are excellent choices for engineering, so let's break it down based on the factors you mentioned.

Academics:

- Duke: Duke's Pratt School of Engineering is well-regarded and offers various engineering majors such as biomedical, civil, electrical & computer, and mechanical. It focuses on interdisciplinary studies, encouraging students to get a well-rounded engineering education.

- Lehigh: Lehigh's P.C. Rossin College of Engineering is also highly respected. It has a broader range of engineering majors, including chemical, materials science, environmental, and industrial. Additionally, Lehigh has strong connections to industry and enjoys a solid reputation in the engineering field.

Campus Life:

- Duke: Duke is known for its iconic gothic architecture and beautiful campus. It's located in Durham, North Carolina, which offers a mix of urban and suburban experiences. The social scene is vibrant, with sports playing a significant role. Basketball games at Cameron Indoor Stadium are a memorable experience.

- Lehigh: Lehigh's campus is located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, nestled in the Lehigh Valley, offering both a picturesque campus and proximity to major cities like NYC and Philadelphia. The social scene at Lehigh focuses more on Greek life, with about 40% of students involved in fraternities or sororities.

Opportunities:

- Duke: Engineering students at Duke can explore research opportunities, internships, and multidisciplinary learning. Duke's location in the Research Triangle (Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill) area provides access to numerous tech companies and research institutions.

- Lehigh: Known for its robust co-op program, Lehigh offers practical work experience for engineering students. The university also has numerous partnerships with companies and connections with alumni, which can lead to excellent job and internship opportunities.

Reputation:

- Duke: Overall, Duke has a stronger global reputation and is often ranked as one of the top universities in the United States. While its engineering programs may not be as well-known as some other schools, its status as a prestigious institution carries weight.

- Lehigh: Although not as universally recognized as Duke, Lehigh has a strong reputation in engineering circles. Its undergraduate engineering program is consistently ranked highly and has a loyal alumni network that can be beneficial for job prospects.

Ultimately, the choice between Duke and Lehigh for engineering depends on your preferences and priorities. Consider the factors mentioned above and visit the campuses (if possible) to get a sense of the school culture and environment. Both institutions offer strong engineering programs and numerous opportunities, so you'll receive a quality education at either one. Good luck with your decision!