Is Shenandoah Univeristy worth it?

[Apollo#1585...]

---

Members do not see this ad.

Hello All,

I posted earlier about the ATC/DPT combo, turns out this place is the only one that does it. According to what I've found online, ATC/DPT combo won't necessarily get you a pay-raise, but on the flip side from what I'm reading, people that are on the sidelines/in the locker room for collegiate/professional teams are ATC/DPT. For those of you that work in that area/know people that do, is going here worth it? I know people in the Pre-PT and PT forums consistently say go to the cheapest school you can find. Shenandoah is a approx total of $120,000 for 4 years to get your MS in AT and DPT. Would that be worth it or shoot for cheapest DPT and worry about ATC later/get sports residency?

http://www.su.edu/physical-therapy/degree-programs/dual-program-in-pt-and-at-2/

I apologize in advanced for any ignorance to information in this.

Thanks.

 

[jblil]

Only you can decide if it's worth it or not, since we all have our personal requirements when it comes to financial matters.

My usual advice is to project yourself into the future: research salaries (esp. starting salaries), estimate your living expenses + loan payments + taxes, and see if you can live with what's left. If yes, then go get the degrees. Else, find cheaper schools or a different career.

 

[NewTestament]

It would be cheaper to get your DPT at VCU or ODU and then get your ATC later. $30k is steep but you can expect that from any private school. Living costs in Winchester are lower than most areas so that is an advantage. If you can't get into a state school, then go to Shenandoah and get the DPT/ATC at once.

 

[starrsgirl]

To me, you also need to factor in any debt you have now. If you have no debt it's a much different scenario than full expenses from undergrad. If you do have undergrad debt, can you work for a few years and pay that off before returning to school? I'm a non traditional student and realize there is no rush to go to school. I am thankful in many ways for the years I spent working before returning to school and my financial burden is very small because of it.

 

[DesertPT]

Only if being a DPT/ATC is the only thing in life that will make you happy.