UIUC vs Northwestern for chemical engineering - which one?

Hi everyone! I've been accepted to both UIUC and Northwestern for chemical engineering, and I'm having a difficult time choosing. I'm particularly interested in research opportunities and eventually going to grad school. Can anyone shed some light on the differences between these two schools in terms of their engineering programs, research opportunities, and campus life? Your input would be super helpful!

Congratulations on your acceptances! Both UIUC and Northwestern are excellent choices for chemical engineering, so you can't go wrong with either one. Here's a comparison of aspects you've mentioned:

Engineering Programs:

UIUC's College of Engineering is consistently ranked among the top programs nationally, with the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering being a well-regarded program. Northwestern's McCormick School of Engineering also holds strong prestige, but it is not as highly ranked as UIUC in the area of chemical engineering.

Research Opportunities:

Both universities have strong research focuses and offer various opportunities for undergraduate participation. UIUC is known for cutting-edge research, and faculty members are involved in numerous research projects across diverse fields in chemical engineering. Northwestern's chemical engineering program also emphasizes research, and you'll find faculty-led projects in areas like energy, materials science, and biotechnology. Overall, both schools provide ample opportunities for undergraduate involvement in research.

Campus Life:

UIUC has a large and bustling campus, making it suitable for students who want a traditional college experience. With more than 50,000 students, you'll find a wide variety of clubs, activities, and sporting events to get involved in. The campus is located in Urbana-Champaign, a quintessential Midwest college town offering a blend of urban and suburban life.

Northwestern has a smaller undergraduate population (~8,000 undergraduate students) and the campus has a more intimate feel. Located in Evanston, Illinois, Northwestern is close to the bustling city of Chicago, allowing for easy access to city life, including internship opportunities and cultural experiences. Northwestern offers a rich campus life as well, with a wide array of clubs, organizations, and events to participate in.

In conclusion, both schools have strong chemical engineering programs with ample research opportunities. If you prioritize a higher-ranked chemical engineering program, UIUC might be the better choice. If campus life and location are more important, consider factors like the size of the student population and campus environment, as well as proximity to a major city like Chicago. Ultimately, it comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. Good luck in making your decision!