PhD BioE at UCR vs M.Eng Bio at UCSD

[curious_mind]

I have an offer for M.Eng in BioE at UCSD and a full funded PhD from UCR in Bioengineering. While the UCR one is FUNDED, I know UCSD is renowned for BioE with strong connections and networking opportunities. I also want to pursue a PhD after but UCSD seems more prestigious and may lead to better PhD admissions in the future. Keep in mind I did complete m Bachelors from UCR already. I am torn between the 2 choices, any insights?

[complexgenome]

UCR is University of California Riverside, correct?

[yayeducation]

I wish someone had all the answers, but unfortunately, I can only highlight more philosophical questions:

1. How much do you need a change in scenery?

(I understand that you might want to experience something new, but how important is that to you?)

2. How much do you need the money?

(San Diego is now the most expensive place to live in the country, I think, so I hope you have some way of paying for tuition and living or receive adequate financial aid, because it is EXPENSIVE)

Have you looked at the courses and research? Are they equally interesting to you at both locations? Are there particular professors who you'd like to connect with? Maybe reach out to them?