UT Mpaff vs UNC MPA

[dgtxsg]

Hey Guys,

So let's start figuring things out. I don't have a word on money yet, but I figure it would be nice to get some perspectives. In one corner, we have the University of Texas at Austin's Master of Public Affairs. In the other corner we have the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's Master of Public Administration.

As far as career aspirations go, I am looking for substantial policy work in emergency management and homeland security. I look forward to working at the federal level, probably for Congress.

Thanks

[dgtxsg]

Can you guys help me out?

[s33]

Can you guys help me out?

My impression (based only on anecdotal evidence) is the Texas (LBJ) has greater national reputation and reach, and has a more established 'pipeline' into the federal government. I would recommend asking each school about their federal placements over the past few years. This might give you a better idea, once you adjust for the respective size of each program.

[dgtxsg]

I just accepted my offer to to UNC's MPA program. The professors were very open and supportive and their research interests were much closer to my background. The really small cohort and the ability to take electives at Duke sealed the deal. The research assistantship also helped things out.