daphoon

I'm deciding where to go between the two schools. I know that both two programs might not be very outstanding, but it seems that I can only make choice between these programs. Perhaps a little different, I would like to pursue a doctoral degree after getting the MS degree, but not to find jobs directly. About UPenn, its SE (Systems Engineering) seems to be smaller-sized, and on their website I find that I can choose to do independent research and graduate thesis, and that is the research experience. UPenn clearly says that this program is not only for students who want to go to industry fields, but also for those who want to reapply phd in the future. If I go to UPenn, I can also select courses like real analysis or macroeconomics from the School of Art and Sciences, or courses in Wharton. It is quite flexible. But "Systems Engineering" is not like a very popular program, isn't it? And what is more important, this SE program is in the department of Electrical and Systems Engineering, and most faculty members work in the field of EE, such as electromagnetism, microelectronics mechanical system, VLSI, etc. However, given the limitation of my undergraduate background, it is impossible for me to do researches in these fields; my best choice is to pursue the doctoral degree in fields like operations research, finance and economics. So that's a problem. Upenn is even more expensive than Columbia, considering its high tuition for every course unit. About Columbia, MSOR (Master of Science in Operations Research) is a "famous" large-sized program that so many students are in it. I know the syllabus is also flexible, and I can also choose analysis, or advanced economic courses in School of Art and Sciences, but I'm worried that this program is more professional-oriented, and it is no needed to finish any independent studies or thesis (it is even not available in the course lists!) I do not know is it possible to switch (or reapply) to phd in Columbia or other institutions after getting MSOR. As I do not want to work after graduation, perhaps the good location of Columbia will also not help; and it is hard to estimate the opportunities for doing researches with professors in master's phase. (If anyone have such experience or know something about the chance to work with faculty members in such circumstances, please tell me! ) Please help me!!!!!! Thank you very much!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!