Northeastern vs University of Maryland-College Park (UMD)

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Northeastern University and the University of Maryland-College Park?

  Northeastern University is a private research university known for its cooperative education (co-op) program, experiential learning opportunities, and urban campus in Boston. The University of Maryland-College Park (UMD) is a large, public research university with a more traditional campus setting and a strong emphasis on research and a wide range of academic programs. Northeastern's co-op program is a defining feature, while UMD offers a broader range of undergraduate and graduate programs and a more prominent athletic presence.

• How do the academic programs compare between Northeastern and UMD?

  Both universities offer a wide array of academic programs. Northeastern excels in fields like engineering, computer science, business, and health sciences, often integrating experiential learning into the curriculum. UMD is strong in engineering, computer science, business, journalism, and public policy, with a greater emphasis on traditional research and academic scholarship. UMD's larger size allows for a wider variety of specialized programs that might not be available at Northeastern.

• What is the co-op program at Northeastern University, and does UMD offer something similar?

  Northeastern's co-op program is a hallmark of the university. It allows students to alternate semesters of academic study with semesters of full-time, paid work experience in their field of study. This provides invaluable real-world experience and professional connections. While UMD doesn't have a formal co-op program of the same scale, it offers internships, research opportunities, and experiential learning programs through various departments and career centers, allowing students to gain practical experience.

• How do the campus environments differ between Northeastern and UMD?

  Northeastern is located in the heart of Boston, offering a vibrant urban campus experience with access to numerous cultural, professional, and social opportunities. UMD has a more traditional, sprawling campus located in College Park, Maryland, a suburb of Washington, D.C. UMD offers a more classic college town feel with a greater emphasis on campus life and school spirit, while Northeastern provides a more integrated urban experience.

• What are the typical class sizes and student-to-faculty ratios at Northeastern and UMD?

  Northeastern generally has smaller class sizes and a lower student-to-faculty ratio compared to UMD. This can lead to more personalized attention from professors. UMD, being a larger public university, tends to have larger lecture classes, especially in introductory courses. However, UMD also offers smaller, more specialized classes as students progress in their studies. Both universities strive to provide a supportive learning environment, but the scale differs.

• How do the costs of attending Northeastern and UMD compare?

  Northeastern, as a private university, typically has a higher tuition cost than UMD, especially for out-of-state students. UMD offers lower tuition rates for Maryland residents. When considering the overall cost, factor in living expenses, which can be higher in Boston (Northeastern) than in College Park (UMD). Both universities offer financial aid and scholarships to eligible students.

• What are the research opportunities like at Northeastern and UMD?

  Both Northeastern and UMD are research universities with significant research activity. UMD, being a larger public institution, has a broader range of research areas and funding opportunities. Northeastern focuses its research on areas aligned with its strengths, such as cybersecurity, health, and sustainability, often involving undergraduate students in research projects. Both universities provide ample opportunities for students to get involved in cutting-edge research.

• How does campus life and student activities differ between the two universities?

  UMD offers a more traditional campus life experience with a strong emphasis on school spirit, athletics (especially football and basketball), and Greek life. Northeastern, while also offering a variety of clubs and organizations, has a campus life that is more integrated with the city of Boston. Students at Northeastern often take advantage of the city's cultural and entertainment offerings. Both universities offer a wide range of student activities to suit diverse interests.

• What are the career services and alumni networks like at Northeastern and UMD?

  Northeastern's career services are heavily focused on leveraging the co-op program to help students secure internships and full-time employment. Its alumni network is strong, particularly in industries related to technology, business, and healthcare. UMD also has a robust career services center and a large, active alumni network across various industries, especially in the Mid-Atlantic region and government sectors. Both universities provide resources to help students with career exploration, resume writing, and job searching.

• Which university is better for international students?

  Both Northeastern and UMD welcome international students and offer resources to support their academic and personal success. Northeastern's location in a global city like Boston and its emphasis on experiential learning can be attractive to international students seeking international co-op opportunities. UMD's diverse student body and strong academic programs also make it a popular choice for international students. The 'better' choice depends on the student's specific academic interests, career goals, and preferred campus environment.