Is Berkeley or UCLA Better for an Applied Math Undergrad?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the comparison between the University of California, Berkeley (Cal) and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) for an undergraduate degree in applied mathematics. Participants explore various factors influencing their decision, including academic rigor, prestige, campus culture, and living costs.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that Cal is perceived as slightly more rigorous and has a higher graduate mathematics ranking, raising the question of whether this translates to undergraduate strength.
  • Another participant suggests that the difference in prestige between the two schools may be minimal for undergraduate degrees, emphasizing the importance of personal fit and campus environment.
  • Some participants highlight UCLA's reputation as a party school, while others challenge this characterization, arguing that it is not reflective of the academic environment.
  • Concerns about the high cost of living in Los Angeles are raised, with specific figures mentioned regarding rent for off-campus housing.
  • A suggestion is made to visit both campuses and engage with current students to better gauge the overall experience at each institution.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the academic rigor and social culture of both schools. There is no consensus on which institution is definitively better for an applied math undergraduate degree, as opinions vary based on personal experiences and values.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention factors such as campus culture, personal preferences, and living costs, which may influence the decision but are not strictly academic in nature. The discussion reflects a range of subjective experiences and perceptions.

Who May Find This Useful

Prospective students considering undergraduate programs in applied mathematics at UC Berkeley or UCLA, as well as individuals interested in campus culture and living conditions in Los Angeles.

torquerotates
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Hi, I'm a applied math major who has trouble deciding between Cal and UCLA. I know that Cal is slightly more rigorous. Also, Cal's graduate mathematics is ranked #2 in the nation. So I'm wondering if this equates to Cal being #2 for undergrad since there hasn't been any rankings published regarding undergrad ranking of specific fields(except engineering).

So to get to the point, I like UCLA better but Cal's prestige is very tempting. So much so, that if Cal is significantly stronger academically, I might choose it.

Any advice would be appreciated(if possible, lists some pros and cons of both schools). Thanks.

BTW, I need to decide soon!=(
 
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While Berkeley is rated a bit higher than UCLA, I think the prestige factor of an undergrad degree would be pretty minimal between the two schools. You would get a top-notch education at either place. Your best bet for deciding would be to tour both of the campuses, sit in at a class or two at each one, and talk to some students there. Find out which one feels "right" to you. When you enjoy the overall school environment, you will do better, both academically and socially/recreationally.

UCLA is more well-known as being somewhat of a party school.
Berkeley is quite politically active and liberal, though you would not be exposed to this as much if you major in maths.
 
usahockey said:
UCLA is more well-known as being somewhat of a party school.

Oh, please. Just because we run through the streets in our underwear during finals week..
 
While Berkeley students run through Main Stacks NAKED at midnight... except for that one guy who was on rollerblades...
 
If you've been accepted to both, visit the campuses and decide that way or start evaluating other non-academic factors. It doesn't matter that much academically. (For grad school, it's a different story since the active research groups and interests of the faculty affect what you can do for your own research.)
 
UCLA is more well-known as being somewhat of a party school.

Are you kidding?

My husband is a professor in the Applied Math Department at UCLA. It's definitely not a party school.

ETA: By the way, here's something to consider: the cost of living here in LA is quite high. If you decide to live off-campus, expect to spend at least $600 per month for rent for an apartment that you share with at least 3 other people.
 
Last edited:
Geezer said:
Are you kidding?

My husband is a professor in the Applied Math Department at UCLA. It's definitely not a party school.

ETA: By the way, here's something to consider: the cost of living here in LA is quite high. If you decide to live off-campus, expect to spend at least $600 per month for rent for an apartment that you share with at least 3 other people.

the only major parties are at the fraternities, so its easy to avoid them. also, i live off-campus and pay $450 per month with 2 other people
 

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