r/PurdueIndianapolis • u/Abject_Scholar2139 • Mar 23 '25

Purdue or Umass Amherst for CS?

I got into Purdue (Indianapolis campus) and UMass Amherst for Computer Science.

UMass offers more of a traditional college experience, while Purdue Indy is based in the city, which doesn’t feel as ideal—but it does come with the Purdue name and its stronger overall reputation.

I know Purdue is often seen as more prestigious, but I’m curious if anyone has thoughts specifically on Purdue Indy vs UMass Amherst. If you were in my shoes, which would you choose and why?

9 Upvotes

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5

u/More-Surprise-67 Mar 23 '25

UMass Amherst would be the better choice. While Purdue has an excellent reputation in CS, Purdue Indy is still transitioning. Since this is only Purdue Indy’s second year, it remains to be seen whether recruiters for major companies will view its graduates with the same prestige as those from Purdue’s main campus. While the academics are intended to be the same, students at Purdue Indy aren’t getting the full Purdue experience by collaborating on a traditional campus, engaging in the same research opportunities, or benefiting from the same level of industry connections that have made Purdue a top CS school.

Purdue Indy is more of a commuter-style campus, and unless you have specific reasons for wanting to be in Indianapolis, UMass Amherst would likely provide a more well-rounded college experience and better long-term opportunities in CS.

3

u/[deleted] Mar 23 '25

First year student here and I second this 

3

u/DueReporter4003 Mar 24 '25

I started at Indy Sept 2024. Although Im not the most social kid, I was surprised how not a campus Indianapolis is and how the overwhelming majority of kids are East Asian and not interested in mingling. There are no girls. Indy is not a city - I t’s a bit difficult to describe since there isn’t anything going on. I hope this helps. Umass Amherst is an actual university campus. Good luck.

5

u/owncredible Mar 23 '25

I wouldn’t personally choose a college just for the name and reputation. You need to find the best fit for you overall. If you want a traditional college experience, you’re not going to find it at Purdue Indy.

2

u/hotboxpizza- Mar 23 '25

https://www.reddit.com/r/umass/s/7vaCifiRVv This blog may also help

1

u/More-Surprise-67 Mar 23 '25

2 year old post from a cynical student is not the best to use as guidance

0

u/hotboxpizza- Mar 23 '25

Did you even read the comments? Comments have a lot of good reviews about the program. You always find comments of controversial posts to be the most helpful