E/MBA decision: Auburn University or West Virginia University?

[ATXMBA2014]

I received acceptance letters from Auburn and West Virginia to their EMBA program.  After much consideration about local programs (I'm in Austin, TX) an out of state distance program with scheduled residencies is going to be my best option for completing my MBA.  Although certainly not Ivy league schools, they both have somewhat of a presence in their own right.  The Auburn program is about $18k more expensive and requires almost 3x's more days of residency on campus and not sure my employer is too thrilled about all the time away.  Auburn is ranked about 25 spots higher on US News however starting salaries and % placement are almost identical.  Does Auburn have a better name and worth the extra cost and time away or at this tier of bschool is it splitting hairs and not make much difference at all?  Looking for feedback and thoughts.  

 

Thanks!