Columbia (ranked #3 in the nation, expensive)
Hunter (ranked top 10, very affordable)
NYU (ranked top 15, expensive, but has offered me money)
I would LOVE a degree from Columbia, but with social work schools, I've heard that it doesn't MATTER where your degree is from. The thing is, no one has heard of Hunter outside of NYC, and I was raised to go to "name brand" schools, that everyone knows.
Any input is welcome, ESPECIALLY from those with MSWs!
2007-02-09 03:01:21 · 3 answers · asked by sjbchapman 2 in Education & Reference ➔ Higher Education (University +)
The previous responder has a great point. However, if social work is your passion you should go for it. But, do think carefully about the investment in a "brand name" education just for the brand name sake. Although Columbia has a great name, is the program that much better than Hunter's? (I am from NJ - very familiar with Hunter's good reputation). And unless you have someone else supporting you, you will be paying those Columbia loans for many, many years to come, long after your career is established and it no longer matters what school you went to. Good luck in your decision.
2007-02-09 03:28:29 · answer #1 · answered by Mary C 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
A degree from Columbia does have more value, especially if you plan on moving around the country. However, all three of the schools are actually known outside of NYC (even Hunter). Also remember that ranking of schools is not based on the education you get but rather on the productivity of the faculty, the admission stats (entering GPA, GRE's, etc.). Also all of the NYC schools cooperate in the field placement and you will find that some of the adjucts teach for many of the schools. I believe the NYU has a very good teaching reputation. With financial aid being offered I would think very seriously about going to NYU if the program they offer meets your needs (e.g. the areas of study, the faculty with a focus in the area you are interested, and course that excite you). DA
2007-02-09 21:41:26 · answer #2 · answered by Dr_Adventure 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
My friend learned painfully that his MSW degree cost him more than he would ever earn using it. It was practically a ticket to the dole queue, since social work jobs are the first ones to be cut during economic downturns. He was in and out of work for years before he gave up and took an administrative job.
Think carefully about this. Social work can be personally rewarding, but if you need to make a living, it can be problematic in that regard.
2007-02-09 11:11:41 · answer #3 · answered by Mooseles 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋