Duke MEM Vs Columbia MS&E Decision

[Jain0909]

Hello Everyone!

I have been accepted to Duke MEM and Columbia MS&E Programs starting Fall'17 and need to decide between the two in next 2 days due to my deadline for deposit. I am EXTREMELY confused between these two schools. My main concern is "Choosing better ranked university or better ranked program"? Both can be completed in 1 calendar year.

Duke has no doubt one of the best MEM Programs (ranked 3rd in the world) and huge campus and great university ranking (11/US) but is in Durham NC. Total cost is aprox 75k USD

Columbia has the Ivy League tag to it, not known for its MEM but is in NYC and ranked 3-4 points above Duke overall. Total cost is approx 110k USD which is very expensive for me considering I will be an international Student and taking loans for my Masters program.

I am from mechanical engineering background who wishes to work as a special consultant in future for engineering firms in fields ranging from Supply Chain, Operations, Innovation technology, Optimizing Manufacturing processes etc. I haven't been to US yet but do not mind NYC or Durham given that I get to network.

As the University ranking and Program rankings difference for both negates the other, I would really appreciate your insight on how much does location matter in terms of NYC and Durham for job opportunities? Outside US, people know Columbia better than Duke, Does this hold true within US as well? Does brand value matter to an extent that a similar ranking school which is not as popular but with a better program should be declined? How is the student life at these two schools? How is the MEM faculty, student competitions, work load and alumni network specific to both these programs at these schools? Does Duke being part of MEMPC holds greater relevancy in MEM course for future recruiters? How does the industry collaboration opportunities given to MEM students vary between these schools?

Sorry for the long post. I feel regardless of what I choose, at some point I guess I am going to regret not taking the other in some way. As this is something where I am investing all of my life savings, I want to be sure of what I choose. I would really appreciate your honest feedback on above even if you're able to answer just few of my concerns and not all. 

Thanks a lot for your time!

[Moccalatte]

110K in loans is INSANE, 75K is also insane.... my 2 cents.

NC has a hub of good schools and they are known at least in the US for being good. 

[Jain0909]

6 minutes ago, Moccalatte said:

110K in loans is INSANE, 75K is also insane.... my 2 cents.

NC has a hub of good schools and they are known at least in the US for being good. 

Thanks for your response. I would be taking 25-45k USD loans depending on which school I choose to go to. Rest are my savings  

[cocomomo]

@Jain0909 Do you mind sharing when you were interviewed for Columbia ?

Edited March 31, 2017 by cocomomo

[gbl]

hi, which one did you choose?