Columbia ESP vs. Maryland PCPP

[stephis]

Obviously I'm getting desperate!

I've been accepted into the Columbia ESP program to get a MPA in just one year at a cost of about 80,000, that compared to the Maryland dual degree (MS/MPP) in conservation biology and public policy that comes with full funding for the 3 years of the program. They both seem like great programs but I've come across a few very angry posts about the low quality of the Columbia Master's degrees and was hoping for a bit of third party advice from the internet world. I am also waiting to hear from an Erasmus Mundus Program (MESPOM) that might come with a full fellowship and the Natural Resource MSc at McGill...but the decision for the first two has to be made by April 15th. Any Advice?!

I recently finished up a Peace Corps service in Senegal and have to make this decision before I can get out and start making up for two years away from friends, family and good food!

Thanks so much!

Stephanie

[looking!]

I think it depends on what you want from the experience. SIPA attracts some of the most well accomplished students from around the world. However, yes Columbia is known for taking too many Masters students and being NYC the competition is high. Especially because you are also competing with people who are extremely well accomplished. However, that being said SIPA is one of better graduate schools at CU, and most of my friends who went there enjoyed the experience. Also, quality control notwithstanding, CU does have the intellectual atmosphere most people choose Ivy Leagues for. And, its New York and close to UN. So they have fancy stuff like important people speaking at events.

Not sure about Maryland. Either ways, I think you should base your decision on whats important to you and not rankings or a few angry posts. I would be wary of a program where everyone was all happy anyways.

Hope this helps and good luck with your decision.

Obviously I'm getting desperate!

I've been accepted into the Columbia ESP program to get a MPA in just one year at a cost of about 80,000, that compared to the Maryland dual degree (MS/MPP) in conservation biology and public policy that comes with full funding for the 3 years of the program. They both seem like great programs but I've come across a few very angry posts about the low quality of the Columbia Master's degrees and was hoping for a bit of third party advice from the internet world. I am also waiting to hear from an Erasmus Mundus Program (MESPOM) that might come with a full fellowship and the Natural Resource MSc at McGill...but the decision for the first two has to be made by April 15th. Any Advice?!

I recently finished up a Peace Corps service in Senegal and have to make this decision before I can get out and start making up for two years away from friends, family and good food!

Thanks so much!

Stephanie