A low cost per credit program pros vs cons

[Joshua Helios]

Dear All,

I am international student trying for full time masters in economics in USA. My goal is entry into a PhD program in business. My main concern : Cost of masters program vs value of the program towards my PhD application. I am trying for masters in economics after a few profs advised me to do so for the kind of research I am interested in, in order to strengthen my appln for a PhD prog.

My profile

Undergraduate degree grades(from India) : poor, B. or a C+. Depends on the grading system. 57%. In India it is a B+.

Work Ex : Business Intelligence, 5 years. Did well.Passed some coveted internationally accepted certification exams in Project Management.

Distance learning MBA from India just completed.Good Grades here. A overall and A+ in maths,managerial economics and some of my finance majors. 2 years program and $650 only, recognized by Govt of India.

Now would it be better to concentrate on trying for a school with cheap per credit cost and living expenditure, not worry of the competitive value of the school in the job market and bank on a good GRE score and good grades in masters for an entry into a good PhD program?

or

Take a whole different approach. Go for a reputed school,possibly with higher costs for my masters.

What do PhD programs look for, a heavy weight school or good grades in an application?.........I got a positive response from Western Kentucky university(Gordon ford college of business) and South Dakota State University, especially on my work ex. I had sent my work ex and educational docs to them to recommend my chances into their masters program. They have low tuition rates haven't they?

With a poor undergraduate record I don't feel its wise for me to bank on tuition waivers, scholarships etc. I mostly probably will have go into debt pursuing a master's course. A debt I plan to carry into my PhD,through it and handle it post PhD.

Regards,

Joshua

Edited May 30, 2010 by Joshua Helios