UMD vs UMBC?

I'm caught in the classic dilemma between UMD and UMBC. They're both great options, but I’m stuck. For anyone who chose between the two, what made you choose one over the other? Looking for some insights... Thanks!

UMD and UMBC both offer a unique set of benefits, but ultimately, your academic goals, desired campus atmosphere, and financial situation should guide your decision.

University of Maryland, College Park (UMD) is generally known for its competitive, larger programs, especially in business, engineering, and journalism. As a larger, research-intensive university, it offers a larger variety of majors and courses. UMD’s less positive aspects might include a large student body, which can sometimes result in larger class sizes, especially in introductory courses, and a more competitive atmosphere.

On the other hand, University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) is recognized for its strong programs in information systems, biological sciences, and psychology. UMBC has a smaller, more intimate campus atmosphere, which can result in greater access to professors and potentially smaller class sizes. However, it might not offer as wide a range of majors and programs as UMD.

Location could be another difference to consider. While both are relatively close to major cities, UMD is located inside the DC metro area, which might offer more internship and career opportunities (especially in government, non-profit, and journalism fields), while UMBC is located outside Baltimore.

If costs are a concern, you might want to compare their financial aid packages or use their net price calculators to get an estimate of what you'd have to pay at each.

Ultimately, visiting the campuses, if possible, and talking with current students can give you a better feel for the environment and help make your decision easier.