Selecting a university is undeniably a challenging task as it plays a pivotal role in determining one’s academic and professional future. In this article, we will compare two renowned institutions – Cal Poly (California Polytechnic State University) and UMES (University of Maryland Eastern Shore) – in terms of costs, admissions, academics, diversity, campus life, and outcomes to help you make an informed decision.
Cal Poly Overview
Cal Poly, located in San Luis Obispo, California, is a top-ranking public university known for its emphasis on learning by doing. With over 64 undergraduate and 32 graduate programs, Cal Poly provides its students with a comprehensive, hands-on educational experience in various fields, including engineering, agriculture, business, and liberal arts.
Cal Poly Costs & Tuition
Tuition fees at Cal Poly are relatively affordable, especially for in-state students. For the academic year 2021-2022, the estimated tuition and fees for in-state students are approximately $10,071, while out-of-state students can expect to pay around $26,391.
Cal Poly Admissions
Admission to Cal Poly is competitive, with an acceptance rate of around 30%. The university focuses on a holistic evaluation of applicants, considering factors such as GPA, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, and personal statements. High school coursework and performance are also essential components of the admission process.
Cal Poly Degrees Offered
Cal Poly offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs through its six colleges: Agriculture, Food & Environmental Sciences; Architecture & Environmental Design; Business; Engineering; Liberal Arts; and Science & Mathematics. Popular majors at Cal Poly include Business, Engineering, Agriculture, and Architecture.
Cal Poly Academics
Cal Poly is well-known for its strong emphasis on experiential learning and a hands-on approach to education. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 20:1, students receive personalized attention and have ample opportunities to engage in research, internships, and projects.
Cal Poly Diversity
Cal Poly has a diverse student population, with around 47% of its students identifying as an ethnic minority. The university has numerous clubs and organizations that promote diversity and inclusion on campus, including cultural, religious, and identity-based groups.
Cal Poly Students
With an undergraduate enrollment of approximately 22,000 students, Cal Poly offers a vibrant and engaging campus life. Students are encouraged to participate in clubs, organizations, sports teams, and other activities that cater to a wide range of interests and passions.
Cal Poly Campus
Cal Poly’s picturesque campus spans over 9,000 acres and offers several state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational centers. The university is also known for its commitment to sustainability, with numerous green initiatives and environmentally friendly practices in place.
Cal Poly Alumni
Cal Poly’s alumni network consists of over 190,000 professionals across various fields. Notable alumni include Peter Oppenheimer, former CFO of Apple Inc.; Bruce Rowe, founder of the architectural firm RNT Architects; and astronaut Robert A. Parker.
Cal Poly Rankings
Cal Poly consistently ranks among the top public universities in the United States. According to U.S. News & World Report’s 2021 rankings, Cal Poly is ranked #3 in Regional Universities West and #1 in Top Public Schools in the same category.
Cal Poly Outcomes
Graduates of Cal Poly enjoy a strong job placement rate, with 85% of graduates employed or pursuing further education within one year of graduation. The university’s hands-on approach to education and strong industry connections contribute to the positive outcomes of its graduates.
UMES Overview
Located in Princess Anne, Maryland, the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) is a historically black university that offers a wide range of academic programs. With an emphasis on research and experiential learning, UMES provides its students with a solid foundation in various fields, including business, engineering, agriculture, and health professions.
UMES Costs & Tuition
Tuition at UMES is quite affordable, particularly for in-state students. For the academic year 2021-2022, the estimated tuition and fees for in-state students are approximately $8,302, while out-of-state students can expect to pay around $20,122.
UMES Admissions
UMES has a more accessible admissions process, with an acceptance rate of around 56%. The university evaluates applicants based on factors such as high school GPA, standardized test scores, and extracurricular involvement.
UMES Degrees Offered
UMES offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs through its 12 academic departments, including Agriculture, Food & Resource Sciences; Business, Management & Accounting; Education; Engineering & Aviation Sciences; Health Professions; and Natural Sciences & Environmental Studies.
UMES Academics
UMES focuses on providing a strong academic foundation and research opportunities for its students. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1, students receive individualized attention and support from their professors.
UMES Diversity
UMES has a diverse student body, with approximately 90% of its students identifying as an ethnic minority. The university is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive campus environment, with various clubs and organizations aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion.
UMES Students
UMES has a close-knit community of approximately 3,000 undergraduate students, providing ample opportunities for students to get involved in campus life. Students can join clubs, organizations, sports teams, and other activities to explore their interests and build connections.
UMES Campus
UMES’s campus spans over 1,100 acres and features modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational centers. The campus is also home to several historical landmarks and buildings, adding to its unique charm.
UMES Alumni
UMES has produced successful professionals across various industries, including Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist E. R. Shipp; former NASA engineer and inventor Aprille Ericsson; and actress and comedian Wanda Sykes.
UMES Rankings
UMES is recognized for its quality academic programs and commitment to research. According to U.S. News & World Report’s 2021 rankings, UMES is ranked #54 in Regional Universities South and #17 in Top Public Schools in the same category.
UMES Outcomes
UMES boasts a strong job placement rate, with over 70% of graduates employed or pursuing further education within one year of graduation. The university’s emphasis on research and experiential learning contributes to the success of its graduates.
Cal Poly vs UMES Cost Comparison
While both Cal Poly and UMES offer affordable tuition rates, UMES has slightly lower costs for both in-state and out-of-state students. In-state students can expect to save around $1,769 per year at UMES, while out-of-state students would save approximately $6,269.
Cal Poly vs UMES Admissions Difficulty
Admissions at Cal Poly are more competitive, with an acceptance rate of around 30% compared to UMES’s rate of 56%. This indicates that Cal Poly has a more selective admissions process, requiring higher academic performance and involvement from applicants.
Cal Poly vs UMES Academic Difficulty
Both Cal Poly and UMES place a strong emphasis on academics and experiential learning. However, Cal Poly’s more competitive admissions process and higher ranking suggest that the academic rigor may be more challenging at Cal Poly.
Cal Poly vs UMES Outcome Comparison
Cal Poly has a higher job placement rate, with 85% of graduates employed or pursuing further education within one year of graduation, compared to UMES’s rate of 70%. This may be attributed to Cal Poly’s hands-on approach to education and strong industry connections, which provide graduates with valuable skills and experiences.
In conclusion, both Cal Poly and UMES have their own unique strengths, and the choice between the two ultimately depends on your individual preferences, academic goals, and financial considerations. Make sure to visit each school’s website for more information to help you make an informed decision.
