Chicago Harris MPP VS. Columbia SIPA MPA

[Ryu]

I got admitted both Harris($19k) and SIPA(none). However this is really challenging mission to pick. I would like to need some advices and opinions.

Considerations are described below;

1. I am not considering Ph.D. degree after this. And also want give some flexibility on my future job. Which means not only seeking for governmental sector, but also considering being a businessman as well.

2. If someone can tell me about the studying atmosphere btw these school, it will be awsome! ie. difficulties of catching up the courseworks or how stingy GPA etc.

3. Grad life and Living condition: Heard some rumors grad life at Harris is not pleasant because of its overloaded hws and studies. Is this notorious fame really true?

As you can see from above, I am attracted to Columbia but because of Deans Scholarship offer from Harris is also making me hesitate. Emotionally, my heart is beating to NYC but rationally my head is telling me I should go to Chicago. is it worth it to go SIPA without funding? Also want to know some opinions thinking without scholarship issue(ie, general reputation between these two schools in the job market). Any advices?

[carpecc]

I don't know much about Harris, but have done some research on SIPA and visited a couple of times. For SIPA the study atmosphere seems reasonable. People take 4 to 6 classes. 4 classes a semester is pretty cushy, and six is very intense. It seems grades aren't the biggest concern here and it's easy to get a B, but hard to get an A. SIPA has a lot of practical classes, especially in the electives.

Just glancing at the Harris courses, it looks very focused on policy. I didn't see much up there talking about business or development work. They also offer a lot less classes then Columbia.