MBR

It seems like everyone on here is pushing you not to do this. I'll take the opposite position. Obviously, there are a lot of factors here, and it's not an easy choice. You wouldn't be here if it was. And if you're doing this JUST for a US visa, then I wouldn't do it. With Trump in the White House in charge, we're losing great talent. But, look, this is a good degree. It's not like it's in art history or something. It builds hard skills. And you're right that you would almost certainly have some good academic options afterwards, if you want to go the PhD route. CIPA even offers the chance to do a formal masters thesis (good prep for PhD). And I'm sure if you're flexible about where to go after you're done (academic or non-academic), you can find a position that is rewarding. I would argue that you SHOULD study your passion. This degree seems much closer to your passion than an MBA would be. If you're passionate about something, that will help carry you through a difficult program. So, I say go.