[SAIS Idev vs SIPA MPA-DP]

Hi team!

I am admitted to SIPA MPA-DP and SAIS IDev with the same amount of aid which amounts to similar costs of attendance for both. I am trying to decide between the two. I have about 6 years of experience in International development and want to transition into working in sustainable development finance. Based on what I have gathered - 

SIPA -

• great for working in sustainability in general with the option to take classes at SUMA,
• great campus etc.
• Lots of flexibility in coursework.
• Older cohort with people coming from more experience background (in the DP prog)
• However, I am not able to map out how well connected sipa alums are within themselves as well as to policy networks in multilaterals etc and I am not necessarily keen on working at the UN.
• I am generally less aware of the opportunities NYC offers as a city for international development professionals.

SAIS -

• Less flexible coursework with a lot of quant requirements that I have done before & taking waiver exams is not a risk free option.
• there aren't many courses focusing on sustainability issues within international development, in comparison to SIPA. 
• SAIS does not have a campus vibe at all.
• younger cohort - significant number of students, straight out of undergrad
• Situated in DC - with great access to multi-laterals think thanks working in sustainability.
• SAIS alum networks seem tighter and more well-knit within certain institutions. 

Generally, so far having interacted with the two schools through the admissions process, I found SAIS folks to be way more approachable and readily available with information than SIPA. At SIPA, it definitely felt like a struggle trying to get info and connect with alum. I am trying to assess how much of a difference that would make in the overall experience.

Any inputs/suggestions for people who know more on either course/school would be great!