Heinz-DC MSPPM vs LBJ MPAff

[publicservicegal]

Hi Everyone!  I am wondering if anyone can comment on either of these programs.  I am interested in pursuing a career in local government but have an international development and management background.  I've been offered a half scholarship at Heinz and nothing from LBJ, however, LBJ is still slightly less expensive to attend.  Thanks for your comments!  

[zpal91]

Hi Everyone!  I am wondering if anyone can comment on either of these programs.  I am interested in pursuing a career in local government but have an international development and management background.  I've been offered a half scholarship at Heinz and nothing from LBJ, however, LBJ is still slightly less expensive to attend.  Thanks for your comments!  

 

I'm assuming that the half tuition scholarship to Heinz makes UT only marginally cheaper... Hmm.. Is any skills you specifically want to get out of your degree that is offered at one school, but not the other?

[publicservicegal]

Yeah, the cost is basically the same.  I am particularly interested in developing my quantitative analysis skills and supplementing that with some formal management training.  The DC track at Heinz would allow me to apprentice full-time but the curriculum is focused on policy and is set-in-stone.  UT would allow me more flexibility in taking classes related to local governance.  Are you a current student at Heinz?  (I assume based on your program title.)  If so, are there students in your program who are pursuing careers in city/local/state government?  Thanks for your reply!

[scholl43]

I don't know much about the UT program since I looked at it a few years ago.  I think I would either do the UT program for flexibility to focus on local governance issues or transfer to the 2 year Pittsburgh degree (or 3 semester) to get more flexibility at CMU.  From my perspective, the only reason to do the DC track with its set concentration is if you want to work for the city in DC.  Cost of living is also going to be significantly higher in DC compared to UT or Pitt.