Graduate Admission Decision (MSCS) : Should I choose SJSU or SFSU?

[sognaviva]

My Background:

Non-CS Undergrad (Architecture)

Fairly new to CS - began taking fundamentals courses at my local CC 1.5 years ago

Non-Traditional student (35 years old)

 

My Dilemma:

I have conditional admits to both bay area schools. SFSU is requiring 2 foundation courses, but SJSU is requiring 7!  This means that it would take roughly 1 year longer to complete the degree from SJSU than from SFSU.

 

The pragmatic side of me says to choose SFSU because I would finish 1 year sooner, and because the concentrations in SE or Business offered seem to fit my situation (links below).  The program description seems to market them as a more practical program that actually "prepares you for the software industry,"  I mention this because I am aware of the debate regarding CS majors that come into the SE industry with "too much theoretical knowledge" and "too little programming skills".

 

SFSU MSCS - General

Computer Science

 

SFSU MSCS - Software Engineering

Computer Science

 

SFSU MSCS - Computing & Business

Computer Science

 

That said, I recognize that SJSU is probably a more complete CS education and a more respected degree.  In my situation, however, that extra year is a major factor as I am already "late to the game."  Purists will cringe, but I am a little wary of "theoretical overkill."  Ideally, 100% of what I learn would actually be applicable to my new career.  Ideally.  

 

SJSU MSCS - General

Department of Computer Science

 

I also think that SJSU may offer better internship & recruitment opportunities due to it's adjacency to SV.  Is SFSU at a clear disadvantage here?  Or am I wrong to assume that?  

 

My Anticipated Future Role in CS / SE:

I am a competent programmer and do enjoy problem solving a great deal.  However, I know I will never be a "superstar hacker", nor do I aspire to be one.  I am more than willing to pay dues and get the experience needed, but I am hoping to eventually exploit my experience in project management and design from my architecture background into areas like PM, HCI, UX in the software industry.  I feel like I have the "soft people skills" that might go unused in the wrong role.

 

Are there any SFSU grads or those familiar with the program that can comment?  I'd really like to know if any have suffered from or noticed the SFSU degree being disrespected??

[s_rez87]

What did you end up deciding on?