learn_after_reading

I want to do MS in Aerospace(structures), got an admit from UIUC MS (non-thesis). A prof from Georgia Tech mailed me with a weird little reply to my mail showing interest in his fields of research, saying, "currently funds are unavailable, fund yourself initially, then I promise to search for funds as spots vacate. If you are still interested, I am willing to accept you to the program". So I guess its an admit. UIUC they say no funding from dept for non-thesis students. So need to look outside the dept for assistantships etc. Currently I am leaning towards georgia, because they have a great aerospace program and there is some hope of funding, the prof looked interested. And its a thesis program. I might go for a PhD later, don't want that option closed. Can anyone compare the aerospace programs (structures) and help me make my decision?