Georgetown Biohaz. vs SSP

[csacwp1315]

It seems like there is some overlap between the Georgetown Biohazardous Threat Agents and Emerging Infectious Diseases masters and SSP. Does anybody know how these two programs compare? I'm interested in national and international security policy relating to terrorism and armed conflict, and how endemic infectious disease and threats of biological and chemical weapons affect the strategic planning of military operations and contribute to the destabilization of security situations. I double majored in molecular biology and public health for my B.A. but now want to make a shift towards policy and government for my Master's. 

I was accepted in the Biohaz. program back in January but am still waiting to hear about SSP. 

 

[csacwp1315]

I got my acceptance from SSP today so now the decision is real. Anybody know how these two programs compare? I assume the SFS is far more prestigious than the medical school, but the SSP program is two years and costs $30,000 more.

[pol_mil_junkie]

Congrats on acceptance to SSP. I also got accepted and look forward to matriculating.

Here are some questions to help you think about the best course of action:

• What is your ultimate career goal? Do you see yourself only working in Biohaz? Or do you think you will want to explore other opportunities within the broad security studies later in life?
  • SSP will give you a much better foundation and network for more career options.
• Do you think you will get tired of saying "Georgetown Biohazardous Threat Agents and Emerging Infectious Diseases" every time you explain to someone what you did for grad school? It's definitely a mouth full and people will never know what that really means.
• Time and money... what is your pain tolerance for personal finance? Do you already have savings and/or financial support lined up? An additional year of grad school is not only lost wages but also another $30k+ in tuition and living expenses. I assume you're young so the additional year is not a big deal, it's more about the money and whether you can stomach that debt or not.