Is UW COPHP worth it?

[Waiguoren]

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I've been accepted to University of Washington's Community-Oriented Public Health Practice program, and though I like the small class size and UW is a great school for public health, the tuition is a little steep. I'd basically be living off loans, which scares me, but I'd be more comfortable if I knew the program was worth the money. I know it's a pretty general program. Does anyone know anything about the program? What do graduates go off to do? Is it worth all that money?

I've also been accepted to UCLA and UC Berkeley, which are in-state for me and thus a lot cheaper. UW is my first choice, but cost-wise, I'm not sure it's worth it... I'd really appreciate some advice! Thanks!

 

[Emph]

If you like the small class size of UW and you are a California resident, I strongly recommend looking into Berkeley. Small classes, highly regarded - MUCH cheaper.

 

[Lock]

I am a second year student in the COPHP program. I think whether or not out-of-state tuition is worth it to you depends on a few things.
First of all COPHP is not just small class size, it is a whole style/method of learning, problem based learning through case study, that is particularly well suited to adult learners who bring a lot of experience into the class room. It is a very general degree. While we learn all the competencies of public health you would learn in any MPH program we also learn how to work with dynamic communities. We learn how to ask the right questions and problem solve, rather than just learning static theories that will probably be out-dated in the next decade. Graduates go on to all sorts of careers at the local, state and the federal level of government, not-for-profits, and international work. Practicums during the first year and the capstone project during the second year offer opportunities to get experience with amazing site supervision. If you have a particular area of interest there are plenty of opportunities to take electives in any department of the school. Our class work is all very practical and applicable to the jobs that I am now applying for.
I came from California and paid out-of-state tuition of part of my first year, all off loans, got a Research Assitantship which paid tuition, generous stipend and health insurance for one quarter. This year I am back to living off loans but the university waives out-of -state tuition for the second year if you fill out some paper work.
You should contact the program coordinator to ask more questions, she can also put you in touch with first and second year students to hear more about current students experiences.
Good luck!