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Is it worth the debt?
- Thread starter gumbyj
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The above post hit it on the nail: think about the ROI.
Public Health as a general field isn't known for its high compensation level. And, coming out with a MPH, yet without some type of work experience, will probably qualify you only for entry-level to low management type positions.
With 150K in federal student loans, you would approximate monthly payments of 1,000+ if using the standard 10 year repayment plan. With interest, this would likely total over 200K.
If you feel it's the right thing to do, go for the masters. Otherwise, perhaps get some work experience first, contribute as much as you can towards the undergraduate loans, and enroll in graduate education at a later date. The extra work experience can never hurt.
Public Health as a general field isn't known for its high compensation level. And, coming out with a MPH, yet without some type of work experience, will probably qualify you only for entry-level to low management type positions.
With 150K in federal student loans, you would approximate monthly payments of 1,000+ if using the standard 10 year repayment plan. With interest, this would likely total over 200K.
If you feel it's the right thing to do, go for the masters. Otherwise, perhaps get some work experience first, contribute as much as you can towards the undergraduate loans, and enroll in graduate education at a later date. The extra work experience can never hurt.
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Honestly, now that is a fair amount of debt to take. Are you coming straight from undergraduate? Would you consider attending a school known for greater scholarship aid (i.e. USC, Penn State).
Like the above poster stated, would you consider getting a health management related job? Apply to an Avalere Health, Advisory Board, Huron Consulting. Even Health IT Consulting such as Cerner, Epic, Practice Fusion are relevant work experience.
I am of course playing devil's advocate. Remember, 2+ years of health working experience will allow you to save for grad school/pay off loans and make you more compeitive for scholarships. If you really don't want to work, go to grad school. Just be willing to make a few sacrifices in the coming years. Hospitals are not shelling out the 6 figure salary for barely anyone these days in administration.
Good luck with whatever you choose and stay positive!
Like the above poster stated, would you consider getting a health management related job? Apply to an Avalere Health, Advisory Board, Huron Consulting. Even Health IT Consulting such as Cerner, Epic, Practice Fusion are relevant work experience.
I am of course playing devil's advocate. Remember, 2+ years of health working experience will allow you to save for grad school/pay off loans and make you more compeitive for scholarships. If you really don't want to work, go to grad school. Just be willing to make a few sacrifices in the coming years. Hospitals are not shelling out the 6 figure salary for barely anyone these days in administration.
Good luck with whatever you choose and stay positive!
