Ford Vs Maxwell

[PublicPolicy2010]

Hi All,

I am an international student with a strong background in engineering and interest in appropriate technology and development. I have admits from Ford School(U mich)for MPP and Maxwell School (SU) for MPA.

I am trying to decide between the two. I intent to work on international development policy topics and would like to get into a multilateral world organization. Since I do not intend to work in US for a long time accruing a huge debt burden is not an option.

Here is the deal. Maxwell is rated higher than Ford, but I am not sure if it has a stronger international development focus. Since I do not have any experience in the policy sector, I would have ideally preferred to be able to intern before looking for a full time job. Maxwell has a one year program, which does not give me a chance to intern, but on the other hand reduces the total cost. From the point of view of getting my foot into the door of a world organization which one of the two institutes should I prefer?

Decision regarding financial assistance is still pending. A lot will depend on that.

Please advise.