Columbia 2010

[concern]

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Seems like a lot of us got accepted by Columbia. Firstly, congratulations on the acceptance.
I thought it would be a good idea to start a thread on the pros and cons and the various other issues like fees, course duration, funding, campus jobs, placements post the MPH etc. How are you analyzing? What are you basing your decision on?

 

[Cho231]

Thanks for the post!! I'd love to know more pros and cons about Columbia's MPH program too! I got into the Department of Health Management and Policy (Global Health Track). Anything people wanna say about Columbia's SPH?

 

[Razmatazz]

I got into the mph for epi ...

The con for me right now is the $100,000 bill

 

[luckyjoe]

holy crap 100k is that including living expenses as well?

 

[FeedMeSushi]

Calling premad! Premad went to/is going to Mailman and offered to answer any questions.

 

[concern]

holy crap 100k is that including living expenses as well?

100K did you say? Got into Epi as well. If that's the figure, Columbia, a top choice, is out, even if it DOES include the living expense.
As for scholarships, I think they have only merit based ones for international students and though the rest of my application is reasonably decent, I don't have a scholarship GRE score.

Hell. How I wish the Columbia Epi program was just a year long and affordable. Uggghhh.
Gawd. Crisis time continues...heard in the affirmative from 4 schools so far, yet, I'm nowhere close to a decision. It's time ALL schools sent out their decisions and that INCLUDES scholarship decisions .

 

[luckyjoe]

100K did you say? Got into Epi as well. If that's the figure, Columbia, a top choice, is out, even if it DOES include the living expense.
As for scholarships, I think they have only merit based ones for international students and though the rest of my application is reasonably decent, I don't have a scholarship GRE score.

Hell. How I wish the Columbia Epi program was just a year long and affordable. Uggghhh.
Gawd. Crisis time continues...heard in the affirmative from 4 schools so far, yet, I'm nowhere close to a decision. It's time ALL schools sent out their decisions and that INCLUDES scholarship decisions .

I agree, but you are paying for the name of the school as well... I too am annoyed that I havent found out ANYTHING about scholarships from any schools, just the fact that I was accepted. I heard that columbia is doesn't give out as much aid as other schools? Can anyone confirm if this is correct or not? Because if it's need-based and off of our parent's income...I don't know if I will qualify even though they wont help pay for the school

 

[citrusguy2010]

I agree that you're paying for the name. I emailed and they said scholarships are determined by the individual departments. Though I did hear that something might be sent out this week, but I could be wrong. I'm assuming this is referring to the Leadership addendum we filled out for the application?

 

[Razmatazz]

I am an international student so I will not be able to get financial aid.

http://www.mailman.hs.columbia.edu/prospective-students/financial-aid/tuition-fees

The epi program is 45 credit hours,

tuition alone is $56160 (1248x45)

Living expenses $18000 x 2

 

[concern]

Even if they gave me a scholarship, I don't think it would be more than 5K. The texas scholarship too was measly at $1500. Any idea if the program can be done in 1.5 years? That would at least bring down the living expense a bit.

Waiting eagerly for next week...

 

[luckyjoe]

Even if they gave me a scholarship, I don't think it would be more than 5K. The texas scholarship too was measly at $1500. Any idea if the program can be done in 1.5 years? That would at least bring down the living expense a bit.

Waiting eagerly for next week...

it depends on your program and what the course requirements are. If you go on the website, they give you a breakdown of the courses and when you take them and what not. this is for management

http://www.mailman.hs.columbia.edu/...programs/management-track/course-requirements

also, what's next week? are they giving out the scholarships and financial aid package then?

 

[citrusguy2010]

does anyone know how to find apartments or housing in the neighborhoods around? like what neighborhoods are ok and what's average rent like? where do most of the grad students live, etc etc? THANKS!

 

[MollyB618]

does anyone know how to find apartments or housing in the neighborhoods around? like what neighborhoods are ok and what's average rent like? where do most of the grad students live, etc etc? THANKS!

The great thing about NYC is that you really don't have to live close by to get to school. Columbia's SPH is right off the subway, so you could live pretty much anywhere an commute. If you really want to live close by, that neighborhood is ok, though it can get pretty dead at night. Check Craigslist for Washington Heights/Inwood. I also lived at International House by Columbia's main campus a few years ago. I would definitely look into them if you're doing the Global Health track, it was a great deal. That neighborhood was really fun, and just a 10 minute subway ride away.

 

[incognito1]

The great thing about NYC is that you really don't have to live close by to get to school. Columbia's SPH is right off the subway, so you could live pretty much anywhere an commute. If you really want to live close by, that neighborhood is ok, though it can get pretty dead at night. Check Craigslist for Washington Heights/Inwood. I also lived at International House by Columbia's main campus a few years ago. I would definitely look into them if you're doing the Global Health track, it was a great deal. That neighborhood was really fun, and just a 10 minute subway ride away.

Are all International House students in the global health track? I'm thinking about applying, but I would be in a mangement track for health policy and management. Thanks!!

 

[concern]

Has anyone heard about scholarships yet?
If they do not award you a scholarship, do they notify that AS WELL?

 

[concern]

also, what's next week? are they giving out the scholarships and financial aid package then?

I got this impression from the forum itself. I thought I heard someone mention that they had been told this over the phone. Next week has come and I haven't heard from them.

 

[Deem23]

I got this impression from the forum itself. I thought I heard someone mention that they had been told this over the phone. Next week has come and I haven't heard from them.

don't take everything everyone says at face value. They haven't even made their financial aid forms available yet so I'm not quite sure how they can make proper aid decisions yet.

 

[luckyjoe]

i am visiting them tomorrow. Is there anything that anyone would like me to ask while I am there besides the financial aid?

 

[citrusguy2010]

don't take everything everyone says at face value. They haven't even made their financial aid forms available yet so I'm not quite sure how they can make proper aid decisions yet.

they did tell me that they'd let us know about visit day agendas last week but i guess they're lagging on it. i actually did call them, they're just lagging.

 

[concern]

luckyjoe, I've written you a few questions in pm. I hope you can read them in time... but even if you cannot, it's okay.🙂

 

[luckyjoe]

luckyjoe, I've written you a few questions in pm. I hope you can read them in time... but even if you cannot, it's okay.🙂

got it checked it before I start heading out. will let u know tonight when I get back

 

[concern]

I've been trying to know about the one year 'General Public Health' track for trained health professionals. It is mentioned under 'Program of Instruction', separate from the rest of the MPH tracks on the website. I dunno what to make of this. Does it award a proper master's degree? Is it popular and are the job prospects after this at least at par? I would really prefer a 1 year MPH over a 2 year one.

 

[concern]

got it checked it before I start heading out. will let u know tonight when I get back

OH! Just in time! Thanks so much.

 

[espre]

I've been trying to know about the one year 'General Public Health' track for trained health professionals. It is mentioned under 'Program of Instruction', separate from the rest of the MPH tracks on the website. I dunno what to make of this. Does it award a proper master's degree? Is it popular and are the job prospects after this at least at par? I would really prefer a 1 year MPH over a 2 year one.

it's a one year MPH track for those with more extensive medical backgrounds. It allows for more customization of curriculum than the other tracks. I've applied only to one year programs, and was glad to learn that Columbia has such a path.

 

[citrusguy2010]

has anyone heard back about financial aid from columbia? or the scholarships? or visit day?

 

[feminista]

I've heard nothing. Haven't even gotten word on the school's financial aid form yet.

 

[luckyjoe]

the general mph track for health professionals is accredited by CEPH (i think thats the name) and it is overseen by susan cohen (whom I met with today). As for costs, columbia has it so that it is based off the amt of credits. I have the figures in my backpack, but that is not with me right now. espre was pretty much on the ball with that. the full time for mgmt concentration is a 16 month course.

As for financial aid, I know a lot of people have been asking, the director says that they are lagging behind because they are switching systems. It is supposd to be taken care of this week and they are aware that many students are waiting. Also, they said they will email out notifications when they are ready. As per the director, she says that the amt of financial aid given out is lousy and according to current students, it's not great: "They simply just throw a bone at you and you take care of the rest through loans and what not"

i hope that answered your questions?

 

[concern]

LUCKYJOE! Thanks a GOOD DEAL.
Thanks to espre too!
👍

 

[espre]

Check your emails. I received an acceptance today to the Columbia 1-year General Public Health MPH program.

 

[lebeth]

I didn't get in. So bummed. Congratulations to everyone who did!

 

[Randy123SD]

I was accepted into both Columbia and Yale for the healthcare policy program. I'm really leaning towards Columbia, but family friends etc. are all pushing me towards Yale.

How do you think the 2 programs compare to each other? Academic, alumni/connections, and reputation wise...

 

[qwerty524]

I was accepted into both Columbia and Yale for the healthcare policy program. I'm really leaning towards Columbia, but family friends etc. are all pushing me towards Yale.

How do you think the 2 programs compare to each other? Academic, alumni/connections, and reputation wise...

I am having the same dilemma (but with the biostats/epi program) of deciding between Columbia and Yale. Friends and family are pushing me towards Yale b/c it has a better overall name, but at the same time my fam is pushing Columbia since I'm from NYC and ultimately am going to settle there after grad school. My main concern are the job prospects after graduation. Any input is appreciated!

 

[espre]

I was accepted into both Columbia and Yale for the healthcare policy program. I'm really leaning towards Columbia, but family friends etc. are all pushing me towards Yale.

How do you think the 2 programs compare to each other? Academic, alumni/connections, and reputation wise...

I think it would depend on which program more closely addresses your interests. Where are you located? Having grown up in Manhattan, I can only say that I truly love it there, and am excited to be possibly moving back, now that I have a Columbia offer. The resources and cultural diversity of NY are probably unsurpassed, and I can only imagine it will make my MPH education richer. Like you, I need to find out more about the school to see how it fits my needs.

 

[prerna]

I also received an email with the same details but nowhere on the website do they mention its a one year program? do we get a masters degree or is it just a diploma? i actually applied for Epi/Bio but got this- just wondering what prospects it has or if i should choose a two year mph program instead - please advice!

 

[Deem23]

I was accepted into both Columbia and Yale for the healthcare policy program. I'm really leaning towards Columbia, but family friends etc. are all pushing me towards Yale.

How do you think the 2 programs compare to each other? Academic, alumni/connections, and reputation wise...

I am having the same dilemma (but with the biostats/epi program) of deciding between Columbia and Yale. Friends and family are pushing me towards Yale b/c it has a better overall name, but at the same time my fam is pushing Columbia since I'm from NYC and ultimately am going to settle there after grad school. My main concern are the job prospects after graduation. Any input is appreciated!

I am in the EXACT same situation.

I'm in for Health Policy at both schools. Both are getting strong consideration and everyone I talk to (not in the PH know) is all about the Yale name. I'm also from NY so the fam likes Columbia as an option too. Although it isn't like Yale is that far away.

It doesn't help that both schools visit days are the same day. I gotta see who gives me what money wise, that might play into it. I also need to hear back from Columbia. I e-mailed them about coming to see them earlier in the week. Hopefully they get back to me and that isn't a problem.

Hopefully all of u Yale/Columbia people can talk through this together because it is not an easy choice.

 

[kam77]

I am in the EXACT same situation.

I'm in for Health Policy at both schools. Both are getting strong consideration and everyone I talk to (not in the PH know) is all about the Yale name. I'm also from NY so the fam likes Columbia as an option too. Although it isn't like Yale is that far away.

It doesn't help that both schools visit days are the same day. I gotta see who gives me what money wise, that might play into it. I also need to hear back from Columbia. I e-mailed them about coming to see them earlier in the week. Hopefully they get back to me and that isn't a problem.

Hopefully all of u Yale/Columbia people can talk through this together because it is not an easy choice.

I received an email from Columbia saying they have two visit days set up for admitted students: March 26th and April 9th. So you can make it to both if you elect to visit Yale first on the 26th. This is what I will do if I get accepted at Yale (have yet to hear from them).

 

[MBARG]

I am in the EXACT same situation.

I'm in for Health Policy at both schools. Both are getting strong consideration and everyone I talk to (not in the PH know) is all about the Yale name. I'm also from NY so the fam likes Columbia as an option too. Although it isn't like Yale is that far away.

It doesn't help that both schools visit days are the same day. I gotta see who gives me what money wise, that might play into it. I also need to hear back from Columbia. I e-mailed them about coming to see them earlier in the week. Hopefully they get back to me and that isn't a problem.

Hopefully all of u Yale/Columbia people can talk through this together because it is not an easy choice.

Hi everyone!

I'm an international student. I've been accepted to Columbia and I'm having an interview with Yale tomorrow morning.

The amount of money makes a great difference to me, can anyone help me with the comparison of both schools?

 

[concern]

Similar dilemma. Got admitted to AP MPH at Yale. Finding my preference leaning more towards Columbia though Yale as such is more renowned (as rightly pointed out earlier), except that Columbia SPH is ranked higher. But I also have opportunities in mind...Guess I'll decide by the end of March. Scholarship decisions will help.

 

[Deem23]

I received an email from Columbia saying they have two visit days set up for admitted students: March 26th and April 9th. So you can make it to both if you elect to visit Yale first on the 26th. This is what I will do if I get accepted at Yale (have yet to hear from them).

April 9th is a little late in the game for me. I was hoping to have a decision made by then.

 

[MPH2010COLUMBIA]

Congrats to everyone that has been accepted to Columbia. I am a long time lurker and decided to join today yay!!!

Columbia is my first choice and I applied to the Urbanism and Build Environment Track. I was wonder has anyone heard back from Columbia that applied for this track. Secondly, does anyone know how many people apply to this track and are accepted? Is this a very popular track? I am so nervous, I REALLY want to go to Columbia. I just want to know already urgggggggg🙁

 

[Deem23]

Congrats to everyone that has been accepted to Columbia. I am a long time lurker and decided to join today yay!!!

Columbia is my first choice and I applied to the Urbanism and Build Environment Track. I was wonder has anyone heard back from Columbia that applied for this track. Secondly, does anyone know how many people apply to this track and are accepted? Is this a very popular track? I am so nervous, I REALLY want to go to Columbia. I just want to know already urgggggggg🙁

I know a lot of people on here hadn't heard back form that track yet.

Lets home you didn't jinx yourself with your username!

Just kidding. Good luck to you!

 

[barrymanilow]

congratulations to everyone! got my email on tuesday and am ecstatic. anyone else in here doing dept. of sociomedical sciences? if so, which track?

haven't received e-mail yet on accepted students days.. so march 26th or april 9th are our choices? also, spoke to someone today and was told that aid applications would be up on the website "very soon"...that could mean next week, but i wouldn't worry if you haven't heard about your scholarships yet.

does anyone know how to inquire about graduate research assistantships or becoming a ta? do i contact my dept. head for this?

 

[PA16]

I hope this isn't bad...

Is anyone's profile still marked as incomplete? The website reflects that they have received everything but it still says "incomplete." Am I the only one with this problem (still)? Could this be a problem or why I haven't heard anything back?

 

[feminista]

As long as everything is marked as received, I wouldn't worry too much. My application wasn't marked as complete until I logged on to look at my acceptance letter.

 

[PA16]

how are people hearing back? Is it by email or checking the site?

 

[Razmatazz]

how are people hearing back? Is it by email or checking the site?

I got an email saying that my decision was up, I had to then go to the site and check the letter that said what the decision was.

 

[MBARG]

the general mph track for health professionals is accredited by CEPH (i think thats the name) and it is overseen by susan cohen (whom I met with today). As for costs, columbia has it so that it is based off the amt of credits. I have the figures in my backpack, but that is not with me right now. espre was pretty much on the ball with that. the full time for mgmt concentration is a 16 month course.

As for financial aid, I know a lot of people have been asking, the director says that they are lagging behind because they are switching systems. It is supposd to be taken care of this week and they are aware that many students are waiting. Also, they said they will email out notifications when they are ready. As per the director, she says that the amt of financial aid given out is lousy and according to current students, it's not great: "They simply just throw a bone at you and you take care of the rest through loans and what not"

Luckyjoe:

Full time for mgmt concentration is a 16 month course? the description on the webpage lists course for fall 10, spring 11, fall 11...

 

[concern]

Columbia wants a reply (with $500) by April 15. If they haven't even made their scholarship forms available (let alone scholarship decisions), how do they expect us to decide by that time?

I've heard from all the 10 unis I applied to (8 acceptances) and I think I want Columbia but I still need to work out the costs and other things!

Does Columbia offer jobs on campus (to international students) with a full time General Public Health (1 year) MPH?

Thanks and happy deciding!

 

[Deem23]

Columbia wants a reply (with $500) by April 15. If they haven't even made their scholarship forms available (let alone scholarship decisions), how do they expect us to decide by that time?

I've heard from all the 10 unis I applied to (8 acceptances) and I think I want Columbia but I still need to work out the costs and other things!

Does Columbia offer jobs on campus (to international students) with a full time General Public Health (1 year) MPH?

Thanks and happy deciding!

I don't think anyone here is at Columbia currently so it would probably be tough to answer that question. I can only imagine that it depends.

Why don't you shoot an e-mail to someone at Columbia asking them that very question about jobs? I'm sure they would know much better than any of us. Just search around the mailman website, also there should have been a contact name on your acceptance letter online. Try starting there.

 

[SchoolMPH]

Does anyone know what the class schedule is like at Columbia for the 2 year full time MPH program? Any clue if it's generally organized as class 5 days a week...?