On nonprofit research/industry/government jobs...

[TheMercySeat]

Hi all,

So I have been accepted into two PhD program (social sciences) that are amenable to having students pursue non-academic research scientist positions upon graduation, and I'm trying to resolve a dilemma now so that I don't have regrets later. I appreciate all of the feedback I can get:

(1) R1 institution, strong reputation. Traditional program, complete with qualifying exam and old school thesis/dissertation.

(2) R2, reputation is neutral. Students secure two paid research internships in lieu of comprehensive exams. Journal publication in lieu of thesis.

Both universities have impressive professors, graduate quant certifications, connections to industry/gov, and so on.

The million dollar question: how much does institutional reputation matter in non-academic social science research gigs? I REALLY want to write off reputation because it's silly, superficial, and (sometimes, so I'm told) unwarranted, but I fear it might make a difference.

Advice, please

Edited March 31, 2015 by TheMercySeat