Hi guys! I know it's a little bit late to make final decision, but I still want to ask someone for help me to choose. For me, I'm a CHinese student with a international politics background, and I plan to pursue for a position in Private sectors or consulting firms, like some multinational corporations. Both of these two schools are very selective in its own fields.
IRPS MPIA:
Pro:
1. More business-oriented. This is the most factor that attarcts me. I'd like to choose the international manegement track (a little like a MBA) and I believe its a better fit for me according to my carrer goal.
2. Strong faculty like Susan Shirk and Barry Naughton.
3. San Diego
4. Emphasis on language study.
5. Strong quantitative training.
6. Good student-faculty connection.
Cons:
1. Less reputation compared to CMU. Especially in China more employer recognize CMU than UCSD.
2. MPIA is not a MBA. I have to try to tell employers what my degree looks like.
CMU Heinz MSPPM:
Pros:
1. Pracrical curriculum.
2. Extremely strong quantitative emphasis.
3. High reputation.
4. I can choose some courses in Teppers school of business.
Cons:
1. Pittsburgh seems to be less attractive to me, especially in job markets.
2. It is a public policy degree. I cannot convince myself pursuing for a MPP degree but going to Private afterwards. It does not match to my career goal. Although lots of people there go to private corporations, I believe it is harder for MPP graduates get into private than IR students.
Currently, it's only 2 days left for me to reply. I'm more leaning towards IRPS, and my girlfreind is going to USC as well. It's so urgent to me! Hope you guys can help me and offer me some advice! Thanks you so much!