Beamesly

Yes, I am also dealing with this hzko. I was accepted to UChicago's CMES program and have been decidedly trying to determine the positives and negatives of the extremely high tuition and the generous scholarship. I am additionally waiting to hear back from another university on their admission decision as well as their available funding option(s). Chicago has been a tough debate primarily because of the second year scholarship -- it's like the Siren's call. It seems as though Chicago's first-year tuition is equal to most other American universities' first AND second-year MA program fees; in this case, you're just being billed for it in the first year instead of over the course of two, due to the full second year scholarship. I can't speak to the funding or fees in the UK but it seems as though they would be similar at the outset (considering the scholarships etc.)? In regard to the "cash cow" statement, I think it's important to consider the reality of graduate education in America. The vast majority of MA programs are expensive. UChicago is certainly not alone in their high price tag, but I think what sets them apart IS their scholarships. It is very difficult to find institutional funding from MA programs. Because they offer it, and so generously, solidifies my opinion that they are not a "cash cow", at least entirely. If that were the case, they would have no prerogative to give out scholarships, particularly for 1/3 to 1/2 of the total ticket price. I truly believe that the department does this so as to attract some of the best students like you, me, and the others on this feed who were accepted or are currently attending. Regardless, congratulations on your acceptances!