HKS vs WWS

[bktz]

Anyone else having a tough time with this decision? Specifically looking at the MPP at HKS (I know other threads have discussed the differences for people looking at the MPA/ID.) 

[sklorange]

I didn't apply to WWS, but I have been accepted into HKS. All of my advisors have warned me not to take out any debt that is substantially more than what you expect to make with this type of degree in your first couple of years post-grad. At most, that's around $60k, if you're lucky. If you got a dea where you can feasibly expect to leave either the HKS or WWS program with that amount of debt or less, I would choose the more financially viable one. 

 

However, the Harvard name attached to your degree is arguably worth at least $10k or $15k of extra debt, in my opinion, especially if you are ultimately seeking a private sector job. I hear that when it comes to public and nonprofit sector jobs, the HKS name isn't AS hefty of a tool compared to other comparably well-ranked program, which does include WWS. 

What aid packages are you looking at for HKS and WWS? 

Edited April 8, 2014 by sklorange

[Santino]

Assuming you got full ride + stipend at WWS and little aid at HKS, then I think it is a no brainer in favor of WWS, as WWS is as good as or arguably better than HKS, depending on your preferences.

 

If HKS is offering significant funding, then it becomes a harder decision. HKS does have an advantage in terms of a greater number of course options, including the option to take courses at Harvard's other proffessional schools. The relatively limited course offerings is really the only shortcoming I can see with WWS. WWS has the edge in other areas, such as smaller class sizes and superior career services (from what I hear), and of course the big one being the ability to graduate with zero debt.

Edited April 8, 2014 by Santino

[MPAallday]

Take the offer from WWS, unless Harvard is offering a decent amount of funding. It's literally an Ivy League school that hands out full-rides (and more) to students. What more could you want?

[bktz]

Sklorange, sent you a PM. Thanks for the input everyone... the decision is just a little more complicated than I've described, but I think the general consensus here is right. Once I've committed I'll update with stats, etc. on the Decisions thread.