okkoflo

You can qualify for income-based repayment and public loan forgiveness if you decide to work in the public or non-profit sector. Since you're in social work, I'm guessing you won't have a problem with the program. Just be sure to take out federal loans that qualify for this program. Hope this helps in your decision.

I can speak on behalf of Cal Poly Pomona because I went there for my undergrad in URP. I think this really depends on whether or not you want to stay or go. CPP has an excellent program and have very caring faculty, but most (if not all) of their graduates tend to work at local public agencies afterwards. CPP has an excellent reputation in the Southland but I think thats where it stops. There's also a fair amount of design involved at CPP and I recommend going on the "China Study-Abroad Studio" held during the summer. Planners, architects, and landscape architects work together to develop urban design ideas for various Chinese neighborhoods, its a worthwhile experience that I wish I did. Many CPP classes are held during the evening because the program is geared towards working adults so you can definitely gain valuable experience by interning and taking classes. Btw, there are many elective courses that will have undergrads so be prepared to share the limelight. Like I said earlier, its a matter of if you want to stay or go and if you're willing to shell out the $$$ to relocate to NYC. At CPP, you're getting a solid education at hard to beat prices.

USC is a good school with a fabulous reputation. Like many grad (masters) programs, they accept many qualified people because their matriculation rate is probably low. That doesn't mean it's program is weak or anything. good luck.