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ADVICE NEEDED: Should I stay or transfer?!
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For starters, congratulations on getting into your dream program.
I would personally transfer.
Attending an accredited program opens up quite a few doors for you. According to the CEPH, an accredited degree allows you to apply for jobs and fellowships that require you to have a degree with their seal of approval - my thoughts: better safe than sorry. I'd rather have the opportunity to be eligible for these jobs. I think this begins to address your 2nd and 3rd concerns (3rd, not so much because it is stressful regardless).
Regarding concern 1: I was weary of no-concentration programs because for the cost of earning a master's, I figured that I better come out with something to show for it. That's not to say that you do not learn hard skills when the school/program isn't accredited, but I didn't want to go to a program where I would have to explain what I learned when I had the opportunity to go to a place where the degree does a lot of the talking for me.
For what it's worth, I would take the financial hit early on to improve my chances of finding a job at the end of the road. I just recently graduated from an accredited school and have classmates that are still job hunting four months after graduation. The market isn't particularly friendly to newly minted MPHs...
I would personally transfer.
Attending an accredited program opens up quite a few doors for you. According to the CEPH, an accredited degree allows you to apply for jobs and fellowships that require you to have a degree with their seal of approval - my thoughts: better safe than sorry. I'd rather have the opportunity to be eligible for these jobs. I think this begins to address your 2nd and 3rd concerns (3rd, not so much because it is stressful regardless).
Regarding concern 1: I was weary of no-concentration programs because for the cost of earning a master's, I figured that I better come out with something to show for it. That's not to say that you do not learn hard skills when the school/program isn't accredited, but I didn't want to go to a program where I would have to explain what I learned when I had the opportunity to go to a place where the degree does a lot of the talking for me.
For what it's worth, I would take the financial hit early on to improve my chances of finding a job at the end of the road. I just recently graduated from an accredited school and have classmates that are still job hunting four months after graduation. The market isn't particularly friendly to newly minted MPHs...
Thank you! As the debt racks up, so does my panic about living in debt (for the rest of my life, sigh). But you're right, and I especially agree with the last point you made. Despite the odd way I went about starting the new program, I really should look at the bigger picture, though it might cost me a nice chunk of change.
Sort of an aside, I'm wondering what kind of work your classmates are looking to do. Four months out of the program and still looking for jobs- just another bonus for my stress levels 👍
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It sounds like a very tough decision to make. Kudos to you for braving through this, and definitely congratulations are warranted for getting into your dream school.
Please, do not feel compelled to answer this, but the first thing that jumped out for me is why you decided to matriculate to the current program? I am sure there are both professional and personal reasons, so please, there is no need to answer. Part of me feels like there had been initial impetus to transfer anyway.
1.) Without a concentration track, did I learn all the skills to get the job I want? This is difficult to answer, as it varies for the kind of position(s) you want. For some folks the MPH is a way to specialize and broaden their experience. Programs that require advanced degrees for their MPH cohort - I put them in this category. Also, while the current program may be generalized, it may be generalizable. Perhaps through practicum experience? Perhaps through course selection and electives? Does the program have connections to the local community and/or public/private sectors that may facilitate networking and potential job prospects? It is hard to imagine that a "general" MPH does not have other courses/practica experience above and beyond the foundational courses. Perhaps this is a way to "specialize."
2.) Will the lack of accreditation hurt me finding jobs? I agree with the point above. Some will explicitly outline whether or not they require an applicant/graduate to be from an accredited program. (Take it from someone who holds a doctorate in psychology. Coming from an accredited program opens doors. Whether or not there is inherent value in that is a different argument. Is it possible that some programs are just as competitive and enriching as accredited ones but do not have the money to pay for accreditation review? The process of accreditation costs programs a lot of money. Ok, done with the soapbox.) Overall, it will come down to the job you want. I do not think it is impossible to get the job you want without the accreditation.
3.) What if I don't find a job out of school? Will this be a really stressful time for me (anticipating repaying GradPlus loans)? Again, this is where networking and your program's available resources are valuable. Connections to community, organizations, etc.? Did the program require a practicum experience/internship? Is this a possible way in?
The financial question is key here, as you know. Again, tough decisions to make. While folks who come from an accredited program may (likely) get job offers and (likely) get the higher-paying ones, it is critical, I think, to keep things in perspective. They may be the same people who are likely to attend more expensive programs (i.e., higher tuition) and to live in bigger cities (i.e., higher cost of living). The salary-to-debt ratio does not necessary "even out." This is why the business school at Michigan State is "better" than the Yale School of Management because graduates at the former have less debt despite earning less. Lower debt affects all aspects of financial life - mortgage, credit card, life insurance, etc.
Wow, that just sounded morbid. So I will end with a big-a** smile 😀
Please, do not feel compelled to answer this, but the first thing that jumped out for me is why you decided to matriculate to the current program? I am sure there are both professional and personal reasons, so please, there is no need to answer. Part of me feels like there had been initial impetus to transfer anyway.
1.) Without a concentration track, did I learn all the skills to get the job I want? This is difficult to answer, as it varies for the kind of position(s) you want. For some folks the MPH is a way to specialize and broaden their experience. Programs that require advanced degrees for their MPH cohort - I put them in this category. Also, while the current program may be generalized, it may be generalizable. Perhaps through practicum experience? Perhaps through course selection and electives? Does the program have connections to the local community and/or public/private sectors that may facilitate networking and potential job prospects? It is hard to imagine that a "general" MPH does not have other courses/practica experience above and beyond the foundational courses. Perhaps this is a way to "specialize."
2.) Will the lack of accreditation hurt me finding jobs? I agree with the point above. Some will explicitly outline whether or not they require an applicant/graduate to be from an accredited program. (Take it from someone who holds a doctorate in psychology. Coming from an accredited program opens doors. Whether or not there is inherent value in that is a different argument. Is it possible that some programs are just as competitive and enriching as accredited ones but do not have the money to pay for accreditation review? The process of accreditation costs programs a lot of money. Ok, done with the soapbox.) Overall, it will come down to the job you want. I do not think it is impossible to get the job you want without the accreditation.
3.) What if I don't find a job out of school? Will this be a really stressful time for me (anticipating repaying GradPlus loans)? Again, this is where networking and your program's available resources are valuable. Connections to community, organizations, etc.? Did the program require a practicum experience/internship? Is this a possible way in?
The financial question is key here, as you know. Again, tough decisions to make. While folks who come from an accredited program may (likely) get job offers and (likely) get the higher-paying ones, it is critical, I think, to keep things in perspective. They may be the same people who are likely to attend more expensive programs (i.e., higher tuition) and to live in bigger cities (i.e., higher cost of living). The salary-to-debt ratio does not necessary "even out." This is why the business school at Michigan State is "better" than the Yale School of Management because graduates at the former have less debt despite earning less. Lower debt affects all aspects of financial life - mortgage, credit card, life insurance, etc.
Wow, that just sounded morbid. So I will end with a big-a** smile 😀
Thank you for your response! No worries, I will gladly tell you why I decided to matriculate into my current program.
1.) For starters, it didn't require a GRE. I was more confident in getting accepted into this program because a GRE score wasn't required. I was never a good "test-taker", so the thought of taking the GRE at that time was really daunting.
2.) The program was also fairly new (I was the second incoming class, I believe), so I was excited to join a program that had potential to grow and establish their name. It definitely looked the part with a new building, a fresh cohort of students, and excited staff.
3.) They provided me with some funding- nothing earth shattering, but a nice gesture on their part.
For these reasons, I thought, "hey, why not go to this program? everything looks great for me!"
What I realized after a semester, however, is that the program did not have accreditation. In fact, I never really thought about the whole accredited issue until a professor mentioned it during class. My world got slightly rocked when hearing that the school was not accredited yet. I continued my studies, however, hoping that my concerns would alleviate themselves and that I made the right decision.
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Also, I think I understand your points about the MPH degree being generalized but also specialized by a field practicum and/or electives. Fantastic point you made there.
The more I think about it, I think the ideal MPH experience would be having the ability to choose your own track, and on top of that, having fieldwork experience to really bring it all together. That opportunity is now here (by transferring), and I'm strongly considering taking it.
But of course, the financial question is like that nagging back ache that reminds you of its existence everytime you move left or right. I do feel a bit stunned after thinking about the extra $$$ I have to spend to transfer to another school. It's like starting a program all over again. But, if transferring means that I'll be in a better position to work the job I want in public health, then I guess it's worth it. Atleast, I hope so 🙂
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I also would transfer in your situation. Financially it is a huge decision and a potential risk. However, where do you want to work? The CDC, NIH, Hospital Fellowship, WHO? Your opportunity risk is potentially at stake.
Am I saying if you want to get a Presidential Management Fellowship for DHHS do you have to go to a top school? No. But if you look at percentages, you stand a far greater chance.
Anything Global Health related and it pays dividends to have alumni abroad and a recognizable name brand education. Transfer.
You should really connect with those from the first class and ask them about their job prospects? Where did they do there internships? Who is recruiting them? If you don't like what you hear, transfer.
Assuming you are 20 some years of age, you have the next 30 years at least to work. I really don't want you to look back when it's all over and wonder what if? As long as you pay your loans
If you don't mind me asking, are we talking about Columbia, Michigan, UNC, Berkeley, etc. level? If so, transfer. We're not just talking about the Diploma or the caliber of professors here. We're talking about the bedrock of your professional network in public health. You want people in positions to be able to refer you or collaborate research with. I mean no disrespect to your current classmates, because many factors affect the graduate school decision, but in general the mean is higher at better schools.
Am I saying if you want to get a Presidential Management Fellowship for DHHS do you have to go to a top school? No. But if you look at percentages, you stand a far greater chance.
Anything Global Health related and it pays dividends to have alumni abroad and a recognizable name brand education. Transfer.
You should really connect with those from the first class and ask them about their job prospects? Where did they do there internships? Who is recruiting them? If you don't like what you hear, transfer.
Assuming you are 20 some years of age, you have the next 30 years at least to work. I really don't want you to look back when it's all over and wonder what if? As long as you pay your loans
If you don't mind me asking, are we talking about Columbia, Michigan, UNC, Berkeley, etc. level? If so, transfer. We're not just talking about the Diploma or the caliber of professors here. We're talking about the bedrock of your professional network in public health. You want people in positions to be able to refer you or collaborate research with. I mean no disrespect to your current classmates, because many factors affect the graduate school decision, but in general the mean is higher at better schools.
This is really good advice. I appreciate it. For purposes of anonymity, I will say that I am transferring to a top 20 program in social and behavioral sciences (i.e. community health). So while it doesn't have the brand recognition of a Columbia or a Berkeley, it has a solid reputation especially in this region and DEFINITELY a more established name than my current program.
Your thoughts on asking alumni from my program of how they've fared so far is a really good idea. I only have heard about one person, who is now working at a health department in the New England area. There's a very small sample size of graduates to look for, and the majority of them are foreign students. Some have already left the States for their home countries.
Like you said, regret is probably the worst things ever to hold in your heart, especially if you're reminded of it on a frequent basis. Perhaps more than the money, I really should just go for it. I'm seeing a bit more clearly now.
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Just to play the other side of the token...
Personally, I think ranking is overrated because no job or fellowship opportunity will be handed to you purely on the basis of the name of a school. What gets you in the door for quality opportunities are the same no matter what your degree says: 1.) ambition, 2.) personality, 3.) track record, and 4.) luck/timing. The most important factor on that list, for better or worse, is number 4. You need to be in the right place at the right time for an opportunity to work out.
Next, ask yourself where you lie on the ambition scale. Too many people believe that a big name school will offer and open up opportunities that wouldn't have existed before when this is the furthest thing from the truth. Don't get sucked into that trap. Opportunities will exist for everyone--you just have to be proactive to find those that fit you, no matter where you go to school.
One big suggestion I have is: if the debt difference is $40k vs. $150k, that's a no brainer. Finish up where you're at. If it's a $85k vs. $100k difference, consider the transfer. Remember, there's a major opportunity cost by losing the year, which you could spend at a fellowship, attending a doctoral program, or some other great opportunity. And don't forget interest (Direct Plus @ 6.8% compounded for that extra year). It's something that should be seriously considered. Particularly since social/behavioral jobs do not generally compensate highly.
Points all well taken. Some thoughts of my own:
1.) Focusing on your last suggestion, what would you say if the debt difference is around $30k? That will be my situation should I decide to transfer into the new program.
2.) I absolutely agree with your comments regarding ambition. Nothing was ever given to me, so I know what it's like to push and work hard to get where I want to be. I have ambition, no doubt.
But, as discussed earlier, a concern of mine is not having a "specialized" degree that will prepare me to do the things I want to do. For example, these are some classes I will be able to take at my new school: 1. patient health education, 2. health communication, 3. program planning and evaluation, 4. multivariate analysis (for my research project during school), and 5. 3 electives pertaining to health education. I haven't taken any of these classes at my current program. And I believe these should be learned to be successful in my field practicum and future career.
I wonder if you have any thoughts on these 🙂
I would echo the exact same sentiments. I see this a lot in my concentration (Health Administration) with students getting caught up in rankings. In fact, during a fellowship interview last fall, two students from "top" MHA programs were actively campaigning that their degree was superior to other candidates at the interview (all happened during a welcoming dinner with current fellows and a few administrators). For the record, neither student was offered the fellowship.
Every program has alumni, so I wouldn't get sucked into that trap either. Just because a school has a large alumni base doesn't guarantee you a job either. Sure it might help, but so does networking with individuals who have similar interests. I have expanded my network considerably becoming involved with various professional networks. My hindsight advice for students who were in my shoes is to make the most of the opportunities your university provides. If you take advantage of the resources a program has, that will go a long way in determining success in your graduate program.
For me, I started off in a school in Michigan that was predominantly for working individuals. It was accredited regionally, but not from the golden "CAHME" accreditation. At the time, I was working full-time at UMHS and could only attend classes at night. Many individuals in the program were using that degree to advance their established careers, but since I was transitioning from research and only had a two years of work experience post-undegrad, realized that I needed a program that catered more towards the entry-level MHA student who didn't have a business background.
When vetting other graduate schools to "transfer", I personally looked at class size, internships and post-graduate job placement. Cost was definitely a factor, but can obviously be justified by your experiences during the program and your first job. This led me out of Michigan where none of my credits transfered. I took on more debt than staying in-state, but because I attended a smaller school, I was able to see and do more. I was able to get involved with the professors and their research, while holding a part-time job in administration at a local health care system affiliated with the University. I never felt like I was competing with my classmates (something that the larger top programs sometimes have to deal with). I firmly made the most out of my experience and had numerous fellowship opportunities waiting for me when I graduated.
In your case, I would check to see if ANY of the credits are transferable. I might help to knock some of those core classes out so you have more room to specialize in what interests you. I would also take a hard look at what practical experience you're going to get by attending your dream school. You want to add to your resume while in graduate school. If the only line your going to add is "MPH, University X" it probably isn't worth transfering. If this school only offers marginally more than what you're getting now, it by no means is worth the delay in time, extra classes, and especially the $30K.
Thanks for taking the time to write all of this! I am currently waiting on the MPH program director to see whether some credits can be transferred over. The issue right now is that, since I am coming from a non-accredited program, their policy transfers credits from accredited schools only.
Also, thinking about what kind of experiences will I have in the program is something really good to think about. A couple things that the new program offers is an opportunity to do a research project collecting data on my own or collaborating with a research center or organization to use the data they already have. The school also as a center for research that focuses on populations I want to work with, so setting up something with them is definitely in the cards. Moreover, as I mentioned earlier, being able to take different classes that pertain to my goals and interests is huge as well. I mentioned some of the courses I can take at the new school that are not offered in my current program.
I know that my current program has a few resources it can provide, especially with supportive faculty who've really wanted me to reach my goals, but perhaps the new program can offer a little bit more.
Great question.I would like to work in my city's department of health. Do health education work in different communities. Maybe later become director of health communication and promotion. Be an active researcher and do CBPR for minority populations, especially the AAPI groups. Would love to do some outreach work back in my mother's country. Maybe get involved in academia later on. I'm still thinking of other stuff 🙂
Edit: I made this sound like...I don't know...a bit elementary? Apologies for that. Ideally, these are some things I can see myself doing for the rest of my life. Hope you don't see me as some naive, linear minded person.
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1.) $30k in my head isn't a lot of money. But $70k vs $100k can be a lot, especially if you choose to follow on the career path of being a health educator. There isn't a lot of money in that line of work if you follow the traditional path. Then again, you might not be so averse to $30k over 10 years or so. Then again, I'm a person who has no problem plunking down $30k for a sports car, but... that's me
While classroom work is good to have, you won't be listing your courses taken on your resume (or even your CV for that matter). If you have the skillset, you have the skillset. And many of the courses you've listed, you can learn just as much from the on-job training as you can as in the classroom (with the exception of the data analysis course you listed which you need proper classroom training before you attempt on your own).
So if you have an opportunity to learn in a job placement now, I would say that the advantage of the course at the other school is probably washed out.
For most of those jobs, I would say that having a 'top 20' degree wouldn't make you absolutely more desirable than having the degree you'd receive now. But if you wanted to be a researcher in a PI capacity (academic or government), you'd obviously need to get a doctorate of some sort (whether it was a PhD or MD is up to you). Generally speaking, director level positions are also filled by people with a PhD or MD, as well. Not because it's a requirement for the job, but generally they start out somewhere on the ladder and climb their way up (doctorates could also be something of a proxy for ambition).
1.) $30k in my head isn't a lot of money. But $70k vs $100k can be a lot, especially if you choose to follow on the career path of being a health educator. There isn't a lot of money in that line of work if you follow the traditional path. Then again, you might not be so averse to $30k over 10 years or so. Then again, I'm a person who has no problem plunking down $30k for a sports car, but... that's me
While classroom work is good to have, you won't be listing your courses taken on your resume (or even your CV for that matter). If you have the skillset, you have the skillset. And many of the courses you've listed, you can learn just as much from the on-job training as you can as in the classroom (with the exception of the data analysis course you listed which you need proper classroom training before you attempt on your own).
So if you have an opportunity to learn in a job placement now, I would say that the advantage of the course at the other school is probably washed out.
For most of those jobs, I would say that having a 'top 20' degree wouldn't make you absolutely more desirable than having the degree you'd receive now. But if you wanted to be a researcher in a PI capacity (academic or government), you'd obviously need to get a doctorate of some sort (whether it was a PhD or MD is up to you). Generally speaking, director level positions are also filled by people with a PhD or MD, as well. Not because it's a requirement for the job, but generally they start out somewhere on the ladder and climb their way up (doctorates could also be something of a proxy for ambition).
As always, great advice. Had I found the opportunity to learn in a job placement now, then yeah, this might be a totally different conversation.
And I too have no issue putting down that kind of money for a sports car 👍 The new subaru brz can be had for ~25K. But since I won't be making any big time money, I guess I'll buy a really old miata and take that auto-crossing 🙂
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Of course, that's why we're all here.
Haha! The BRZ is the car I'm going to buy next spring when they become more widely available and dealers aren't taking $3k+ markup on them 👍 The only thing that makes me slightly worried is trunk space--the car needs enough space to fit my hockey gear so I can schlep to my hockey games (pretty much the only reason I own a car, DC's subway system is my "daily driver"). Otherwise, I'll likely end up getting a hot hatch (Mazdaspeed 3 or Focus ST).
Okay, no more off-topic
Of course, that's why we're all here.
Haha! The BRZ is the car I'm going to buy next spring when they become more widely available and dealers aren't taking $3k+ markup on them 👍 The only thing that makes me slightly worried is trunk space--the car needs enough space to fit my hockey gear so I can schlep to my hockey games (pretty much the only reason I own a car, DC's subway system is my "daily driver"). Otherwise, I'll likely end up getting a hot hatch (Mazdaspeed 3 or Focus ST).
Okay, no more off-topic
Yeah, I go on the vwvortex forums a lot and they've been noting the ridiculous markups these cars are getting. I think you can make the most out of the space- where there's a will, there's a way. (kinda like those miata drivers that go to home depot and buy massive amounts of plywood LOL)
And, speaking of hot hatches, I drove a GTI mk6 for the past year, but unfortunately had to sell because of a sudden financial issue in the family 🙁 Probably has the best "balanced" package among the hot hatches. The Focus ST has already got some good press, and the price point ain't bad either. But the mazdaspeed3...that is a bad, bad, mamajama. VERY juvenile, but holy crap, SO MUCH TORKS. now THAT's a hot hatch.
okay, i guess no more off-topic....😀
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"should i stay or should i go now?"
...totally in my head right now.
...totally in my head right now.
LOL, you know what, I didn't know the Clash sang that! Shame on me!
I should change the thread title to "how do i... say goodbye?"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VastXQ_hPb0
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First off, Stories gives great advice. I've read many a posts of theirs and glad they offered a counter argument to mine.
Academia is PhD/MD/JD intensive, no getting around that.
You could work for the DHHS Office of Minority Health, PAHO Gender, Diversity and Human Rights, APIAHF, etc. I am also a member of the AAPI community, so I can really appreciate those career aspirations. if specifically interested in public policy and being a congressional staffer focusing on healthcare, apply to the APAICS or JACL fellowship.
The difference between 30K is as much a difference as you think it is. Don't let anyone of us convince you otherwise, just go with your gut. Will you be Stafford or Gradplus loans? Those have very different interest levels. Also, remember the College Cost Reduction and Access Act of 2007. If you stay in Public Service for 10 years and pay the required amount each year leading up, your debt is forgiven. Just something to think about.
To become a Director of anything will take quite a bit of work, but no doubt the "top-20" school could help. It definitely won't hurt you, unless of course you flaunt it. You work just as hard at the "better" school as you would in your current position and I guarantee a few more doors will open.
There will always be people who defy the odds and enjoy incredible success via hard work and timing. Just think about this, why put yourself in that position in the first place? Just my two cents.
Either way, I want you to actively pursue the positions you seek. Don't wait until graduation and send out resumes. Call, meet for coffee, job shadow the people you want to work for. Too many recent graduates are waiting for someone to respond to them. Make them respond. Until they have a restraining order that is. 🙂
Really thoughtful advice you're giving me. I really appreciate your response as well as everyone else's.
I agree with everything you said, and again, it really does come down to hard work and Stories' remark on "ambition". I know going to this school isn't suddenly going to make me privileged. I still have to work at it and not slouch back 👍
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Oh, sorry you had to sell that hatch. I've always liked the GTI, although I've always felt it wasn't hardcore enough. If the MS3 is a 9 and the ST an 8 on the sport spectrum, I always thought the GTI was a 5 maybe 6--a little bit too much comfort and plush 😉 I haven't driven the MK6, but I did the MK4, and I wasn't a fan of the steering feel in that car (the clutch and shifter were kind of meh, too). Hopefully that's been improved since then.
Agreed on the interior of the MS3, though. It could stand to grow up a bit (that wing is too big--thankfully it's not an Evo or STI, though, right?
). But man does that car handle and does it have power. The WRX in the Limited trim (HIDs, heated leather seats, SatNav) is intriguing at the same price as the Focus ST, although I *hate* the clutch and shifter on that car. It's so..... clunky. You shift fast and it feels rubbery and loose (sort of like the 370Z).Anyways. Once I test drive the BRZ and fall in love and buy one like I expect to, I'll be a happy man 🙂
Okay, on-topic again 🙂
Oh, sorry you had to sell that hatch. I've always liked the GTI, although I've always felt it wasn't hardcore enough. If the MS3 is a 9 and the ST an 8 on the sport spectrum, I always thought the GTI was a 5 maybe 6--a little bit too much comfort and plush 😉 I haven't driven the MK6, but I did the MK4, and I wasn't a fan of the steering feel in that car (the clutch and shifter were kind of meh, too). Hopefully that's been improved since then.
Agreed on the interior of the MS3, though. It could stand to grow up a bit (that wing is too big--thankfully it's not an Evo or STI, though, right?
Anyways. Once I test drive the BRZ and fall in love and buy one like I expect to, I'll be a happy man 🙂
Okay, on-topic again 🙂
Oh man, I just watched a review by Chris Harris, who was comparing the FRS to the 370z and a Porsche Cayman- he said the same thing what you described about the 370, that it gets pretty clunky when you try drive at higher speeds. Looks good though; heavy, but still looks good haha.
I'd give the GTI a solid 7.5- it really has gone a long way, but has rested on its laurels in terms of performance. As an overall package, it is really refined and you can still have a blast to drive it.
I'd take that over the beater box civic I have right now 🙁 At least it's a manual, so I'm not driving an entirely econo-slush box.
In my opinion, due to the federal public service loan forgiveness program, debt in public health is largely irrelevant. That said, there are mechanisms to prevent you from taking on debt past a certain threshold. Specifically, you will have to complete your MPH within a credit limit specified by your degree program. If the new college has a standard of 55 credit hours to complete the degree, and you have 50 credits already, but the new college does not accept all of your transfer credits and requires you to complete credits beyond their 55 credit hour program, you will have difficulty obtaining loans for the credits beyond those required to complete the program.
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It should also be noted that attendance at an accredited graduate program of Public Health will allow you to exceed the yearly loan limits up to your estimated need as determined by the new college. Most graduate students are limited to $20,500 Stafford loans a year. Under the discontinued HEAL financial aid program, medical, dental, and health professional students were able to secure additional funding beyond the aggregate loan limits. Now, those funds are available directly through the Dept. Of Education as Stafford loans. So, if the new program says it will cost you $40,000 to attend, you can get $40,000 provided you have not exceeded a percentage of total credit hours required for your degree.
good information that i wasn't aware of. thank you for your input! i made my decision to move forward to the new school. i'll be starting next week 👍
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My only worry with counting on loan forgiveness programs like this is that they are at the mercy of whatever lawmakers in Congress feel like. Could these types of programs be in danger of being cut? Who knows? But remember that it's always a possibility, particularly when the campaign trail is all about budgets and government waste. Even those of us at NIH are worried with every passing budget.
