Fels or Columbia

[marid]

I'm considering applying for Columbia's Masters in Non-Profit Management and UPenn's MPA. I love both programs, but I am unsure which one I shold apply to.

Columbia

Pros: Brand name, great courses and great location+network.

Cons: My biggest concern is the degree--I've read from somewhere that their School of Professional Studies is looked down upon by employers and other students for not being a "real" degree. The other concern that I have is that it focuses specifically for non-profit management. Now I do want to work in nonprofits in NY, but I don't know if I would change my mind 10-15 years down the line and I don't want to restrict myself.

Upenn

Pros: Brand name, network is expansive, small classes. MPA degree is flexible if I decide to change my mind.

Cons: Biggest worry about the program is that there are a lot of core/fundamental classes. Not sure how applicable they are if I'm interested in pursuing a career in public service.

 

I would also have to relocate for both. If there are any suggestions for great MPA schools,let me know!

[Quickmick]

Just curious, why not just apply to both, then if you get in to both, figure it out?

[Guest SIPA_MPA18]

Have you looked at Columbia SIPA's MPA? It's very flexible, has a great reputation, and a large alumni network. I'm biased because that's where I enrolled, but make sure you consider SIPA and not just SPS. 

[marid]

On 8/31/2016 at 10:08 PM, SIPA_MPA18 said:

Have you looked at Columbia SIPA's MPA? It's very flexible, has a great reputation, and a large alumni network. I'm biased because that's where I enrolled, but make sure you consider SIPA and not just SPS. 

 

I would love to get into SIPA, but there are two big reasons why I probably won't get in:

1. I don't think I'm competitive enough (a few scholarships, 3.5 GPA, internships, and extracurriculars, but compared to the student profiles I've read, I don't even come close)

2. Too expensive and I would need to re-locate to NYC and I don't have the funds to do so as of now. 

[MD guy]

You're concerned that Fels won't be applicable if you want to go into public service?  The entire curriculum is built for people who want to go into public service. Which of the core classes don't you think would be helpful for you?

[pubpol101]

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Edited September 3, 2016 by AAAAAAAA

[callahbd]

@marid hi! I am not considering either program specifically given my inability to relocate, but did you end up deciding between MPA and Nonprofit Management? I am having a hard time with that decision myself and would love to hear another's perspective/experience! 

[went_away]

Definitely Penn. I wouldn't do school of 'continuing' or 'professional' or 'adult' studies from any uni for my principal MA. My impression is those students get no love from career services and sort of have a commuter experience. 

[marid]

@callahbd Haven't picked one yet! Still didn't take the GRE, but would like to start thinking about schools now.