Hi, I got accepted to the M.A. program too w/ full funding and a TAship. Same information verbatim regarding the possibility to continue on for the PhD.
I've also researched housing and apartments, etc. in the area and the rent is really reasonable.
I think the program sounds fantastic---I especially like the "tracks" to focus yr. interests. I have some good offers from other schools, but I'm almost positive I'm going to take it.
Yes, I've heard its pretty humid down there---I'm from the northeast so it'll be a big climate change. haha
Hope this helps and thanks for the post =)