Help me decide where to go

[Happy89]

I have two  options: Tulane and  UC Davis. I really want to go to Tulane, but it is scary expensive.  UC Davis is all right. However, it is the most affordable (and logical) option for me. I also want to get a Dr.PH in the near future. I want to attend a  school that can help me achieve that goal. 

[COGSCI]

If your ultimate goal is pursuing a doctoral degree, I would urge you to examine which school would allow you to take on a research project or thesis while you are doing your MPH 

[AlphacentauriC]

Tulane is a clear choice. Their strong program guarantees you success not only on the job market, but for the DrPh issues. 

I might be biased, I got into Tulane's DrPH two weeks ago, so I know the university well. Unfortunately, even though I was happy to get in....i'm not going. 

Good luck!

[Billowack]

Someone can correct me if I'm wrong, but it seems that if your goal is to get a DrPH getting the right type of experience will be more important than which school you get your masters from. I'd pick the program that will allow me to get the experiences/jobs that DrPh programs require. 

[Happy89]

Yes, your post MPH experiences and impact definitely matter. However, I have noticed that many of the best opportunities in public health go to those who went to the best schools. I may be wrong, but I have noticed that more than once. That is primary concern about UCD vs Tulane. Tulane is my dream program and has great connections, but its debt load is terrifying. 

[PhDinPublicHealthHopeful]

Debt is real. You're in SF (or so your profile says), so you know how expensive living is! Luckily it should be cheaper in UCD, and hopefully Tulane (not sure about that area).

I agree that your experiences and abilities to do work outside of your classwork will be important. 

Can you get an assistantship while you're there? Even if it's not an assistantship within the program, you can check for grad assistantships within the school, or at minimum work study.

[soc13]

On 4/4/2016 at 3:01 PM, Happy89 said:

Yes, your post MPH experiences and impact definitely matter. However, I have noticed that many of the best opportunities in public health go to those who went to the best schools. I may be wrong, but I have noticed that more than once. That is primary concern about UCD vs Tulane. Tulane is my dream program and has great connections, but its debt load is terrifying. 

As someone who took on similar debt for an MPH... DON'T TAKE ON THE DEBT.

If you're looking to get a DrPH, just get strong research experience while you're in the program, and realize you'll be a better candidate if you take a couple years between to take on a relevant job.  I don't know where you want to do your DrPH, but I highly doubt most schools will ding you for the difference in UC-D v. Tulane if you have highly relevant experience. I believe Davis' program is CEPH accredited, so you're fine.

Also, are you sure you want to get a DrPH, or are you thinking you may want to get a PhD? If you're highly practice-oriented, look for a program that provides those opportunities (i.e. the DrPH track). If you're research focused, see if either of those places support student research in a significant way.

PS. I went to a lower-ranked MPH program than Tulane and got incredible research experience and now will be going to a top school for my Ph.D. (in sociology, not public health, because forget that with all the unfunded programs out there).

Edited April 27, 2016 by soc13