Decision Time - Vanderbilt IEPM vs. Penn IEDP

[changy06]

Hi everyone!

 

I wanted to get some insight about these programs as my decision as come down to these two schools/programs.  As of now, I'm not 100% certain on the direction I'd like to take after graduate studies, which is part of the issue.  I don't want to be limited because of the program I chose.  I have an external scholarship that will cover up to $37,000 of the cost of attendance each year, and currently no other funding except loans (possibly work-study as well).  This is regarding master's programs.

 

Here are the stats:

 

Vanderbilt IEPM:

-2 year policy/research focused

-freedom to take classes throughout the university to apply to my interests

-director of the program worked for the World Bank and has connections to it

-2 month practicum in the summer

-lower cost of attendance/out of pocket expenses (~$10,000 estimated for 2 years)

-Possible assistantship (interview required, can't make it, trying to arrange a Skype interview)

 

Penn IEDP

-1.5 years policy/development focused

-freedom to take classes throughout the university to apply to my interests

-2 month international internship (most likely with UNESCO b/c of the program director's connection to it)

-cost of attendance ~$45,000 estimated on my end

-no assistantship/financial aid offers (looking into positions with residence life or working at Penn to defray costs)

-possibly a professor that I want to work with

-However - it's Penn!  

 

I'm really trying to avoid looking at it from purely a financial standpoint, as I'm seeing it as an investment in my future.  

 

1) My main issue currently is about the focus of each program - is Vandy too policy/research focused and limiting in the field of international education?  I am also interested in development, but would like to use my studies to refine that interest.  I'm wondering if Penn offers a balance between policy and development.  Any thoughts/info?

 

2) Is the Penn name/reputation worth the investment?  Both schools are highly regarded in education, but seems that it's pretty damn close.  

 

3) Any and ALL info about international education programs generally and at these schools would be very welcome!  Or, where to locate this info would be appreciated.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[jasper8625]

i know it's late but can i ask where you went? i'm under the exact same situation right now