Is U Chicago's MAPH worth it?

[Chatra]

Hi I was rejected from a PhD program and recommended to the MAPH with a $13,000 scholarship. After reading a lot of reviews I'm now having second thoughts about attending. When I decided to accept the MAPH I figured it would make me a stronger candidate for a PhD in area studies. I'm not a rich person with a perfect background (strong gpa at state school okay in community college). My assumption was MAPH would make me a better candidate in PhD programs (U Chicago's and others') and have transferable skills for the real world. Its the only program (of two universities I applied to) that I got into. My basic questions are:

1: Should I go?

2) Does the M.A. increase my value as a PhD applicant or on job market?

3) What are the opinions of those who have attended? Is it really just a money grabbing scam?

4) Since I've already accepted the program, is it too late to back-out (with or without penalties?).

Edited July 2, 2021 by Chatra