Chicago Harris vs Duke Sanfrod

[cdr415]

Hey All! Cross-posting this from Decisions-Decisions.

Going semi-crazy over here trying to make a decision between Chicago and Duke, would love some input.

My main motivation with the MPP is to advance my quant skills. Currently working for an international climate/development NGO, and would like to continue this sort of work either for an org like the World Bank, or in a developing country... That being said, I want a strong technical and broadly applicable skillset in case I make career shifts later on.

I went to both admitted students days and was impressed by both programs (I know a lot of people had negative reactions to Chicago... I had a few eyerolls but was fine besides that).

Duke has offered me more money (60k vs 25k), but I wonder if Chicago has a better brand name. Where do you think the two schools stand on brand strength in relation to each other and big name schools like HKS, Berkeley, Princeton? Also think Chicago will likely give a more rigurous quant skillset, but unsure how much more to pay for that.

Thanks!

[thex11factor]

I highly recommend looking at syllabi at both schools and do a comparison for yourself

[Ella16]

I would say Duke, much better aid, Durham is way cheaper than Chicago and the name difference isn't too big. I'd say UChicago is probably a step below HBP and Duke is maybe two steps below, or one and half. Where do you feel you fit in the most? Where will you be happier. 

[encal]

Why do you think that Chicago is a step below Berkeley?

I've been admitted to both programs and I feel like Chicago is better in most fronts - unless you want to work in state government of bay area ngos.

[3dender]

1 hour ago, encal said:

Why do you think that Chicago is a step below Berkeley?

I've been admitted to both programs and I feel like Chicago is better in most fronts - unless you want to work in state government of bay area ngos.

I think she meant to say a step below HKS?