Unique circumstance = hard decision...

[Kinkster]

Hey guys I hope to get some perspective here. So I have applied to some MA and Ph.D. programs in psychology. Go to the school where debt is at least minimized? Renowned prof? Here's my situation:

1) I got accepted to a Ph.D. program in neuropsych even though I applied for social psych (I have a solid neuro track record), but with no funding. However, the Chair of the Department mentioned that some of the current students in the Ph.D. program paid their way for the first year but received assistance (tuition waivers and stipends) after the first year. I am a little hesitant to go here since nothing is guaranteed per se.

2) Accepted to a masters program at a school where there is a possibility to work with a renowned and prolific professor in my field of interest. He has published many articles (about 150), textbooks, served on editorial boards for various journals, was an editor for two well-known journals, and seems to be at the forefront and a pioneer of a developing new field. It seems like he has a great deal of connections and influence. However, I would have to incur some debt. The Department website indicated that a little over 95% of their masters students go on to fully funded Ph.D. programs (including their own department).

3) Accepted to a university where I may be able to secure a Teaching Assistantship. It's a solid program in NYC and the living costs is what bothers me. I seem to like it and wouldn't mind attending this school but I would still incur debt here, even with TAship. From what I've learned, there seems to be no scholarships for grads.

4) Then there is a school in L.A. and I would have to incur debt here as well but they offer a range of scholarships for grads to apply to but again, it isn't guaranteed.

5) Finally, I am waiting to hear a decision from one school that does offer full funding to masters candidates.

Oh boy, I am having a tough time deciding...Where should I go?

BTW my application credentials are solid but pretty average.

Edited April 9, 2010 by Kinkster

[shakespearebro]

I'm confused about Option 3, though. Most Teaching Assistantships come with tuition remission, so I don't understand what you mean by the school offering no scholarships.

That point aside, it sounds like none of your options is funded, so I'd say either choose (in this order) A - none of the above. (Don't go to grad school unless you are funded.), B - Option 5 if they fund you, or C - Option 2 since all other things (i.e. funding or lack thereof) being equal, you seem to have the most passion for that option.

[zerolife]

Is there any reason why you can't contact the schools and ask how much funding you are getting? I've contacted one of my school and they were very understanding with my request to get some preliminary award breakdown before the offer acceptance deadline.

[zonko]

Assuming 1 year program, isn't option 2 obviously the best choice?