Master in I-O Psychology Decision

[mera vidorra]

I have to make a decision between Hofstra University, Carlos Albizu University and The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.

 

Pro to Hofstra is I live with family half an hour away in Queens, NY so I will save money on living expenses, and I will be able to take the train to Manhattan to work. 

 

Pro to Carlos Albizu University (Miami campus) is it is only second to U. of Central Florida for Hispanic students. 

 

Pro to The Chicago School of Professional Psychology (Chicago campus) is its emphasis on culture and diversity. 

[mera vidorra]

Thoughts? Input? Comments? 

[rising_star]

Are any of the programs offering you funding? What are your career goals?

[mera vidorra]

Thank you for your inquiry. No, they are not offering me any funding. However, I am not overly concerned about the tuition because it is only a couple of years and I am very resourceful. Hofstra and Chicago will run about $50,000 and CAU $25,000. My goals are to work professionally in an applied/research setting both domestically and internationally. My main concern is the program's perception and reputation to outsiders. The programs themselves all fit me very well, but they do not seem to be too well known. My notion is that Hofstra is very well-known only in the New York area, and CAU only amongst the Hispanic community. The Chicago School seems to vary depending on who I ask. 

[rising_star]

I wouldn't go to Univ of Central Florida just because of its focus on Hispanic students. It doesn't sound like a good fit overall for you. I think you'll find that none of these schools are exceptionally well known. It may be that people think you went to U Chicago if you say "The Chicago School", so that could work in your favor in conversations. I would go with the program that you think will give you the best academic and research preparation for the career you want to have. That is, where can you get experience doing research or applied work domestically and internationally while in the program? Do any of these programs offer study abroad courses you could take? Which one has faculty doing the research you'd most like to and potentially can get involved in during your master's? That's what I'd use to make the decision given what you've said here.