Program-Specific Info / Q's MOT vs OTD (with a twist)

[OTOnTheWay]

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I've been accepted to both a MOT program and a DOT program. Both are located in very popular area in CA (think LA, SF, etc). The MOT program is 3 years and the DOT program is 3 years. The price difference in tuition is 35k. With the DOT program, I can live at home and not have a very high COL (other than gas, food, books, etc) whereas the MOT program is a 1.5-2 hour commute with traffic. I cant afford to live in the area that has the MOT program so I will have to commute, but the commuting itself would drive me crazy.

So the options are:
MOT
-3 years
-93k tuition
-1.5-2 hours commute

or

OTD
-3 years
-128k tuition
-15 min commute

I've have read all the things said about an OTD. I don't expect that an OTD degree will make more than an MOT when I graduate, but I believe in the long run it can be quite helpful after I have some more OT experience. PLUS, both of these programs are 3 years! If the MOT was closer and shorter, then no doubt I would go there. But with them both being the same amount of time, and the OTD one being closer to me, will a 35k difference really be that big of a deal?

 

[sngot]

35K is a large sum of money but I think 1.5-2 hours commute is more valuable. I have met some people who would commit to that form of commute but I see it as 1.5-2 hours for studying, rest, and so many other things that can translate to self-care and wellbeing.

 

[Nfzavala]

I've been accepted to both a MOT program and a DOT program. Both are located in very popular area in CA (think LA, SF, etc). The MOT program is 3 years and the DOT program is 3 years. The price difference in tuition is 35k. With the DOT program, I can live at home and not have a very high COL (other than gas, food, books, etc) whereas the MOT program is a 1.5-2 hour commute with traffic. I cant afford to live in the area that has the MOT program so I will have to commute, but the commuting itself would drive me crazy.

So the options are:
MOT
-3 years
-93k tuition
-1.5-2 hours commute

or

OTD
-3 years
-128k tuition
-15 min commute

I've have read all the things said about an OTD. I don't expect that an OTD degree will make more than an MOT when I graduate, but I believe in the long run it can be quite helpful after I have some more OT experience. PLUS, both of these programs are 3 years! If the MOT was closer and shorter, then no doubt I would go there. But with them both being the same amount of time, and the OTD one being closer to me, will a 35k difference really be that big of a deal?

I did a commute myself for Undergrad through the Inland Empire. Often, I was stuck way more than the eta of 1 to 2 hours. It also kept me away from participating within campus events, networking, etc. trying to not get home at midnight. I think it depends on the financial situation you are currently in to cover the 35k. Keep in mind, cars take on wear and tear, along with unpredictable things that happen during a commute like accidents, flats, waking up late.... Personally, I would have preferred to stay closer, but feel it gave me an appreciation for podcasts.

 

[MrTL]

What do you value? Money or time? Each year is an $11,667 difference. Will you be working to any capacity? Are you receiving any financial aid? For me, I'd rather save myself 1-2 hours nearly daily for 3 years and commuting is a stressor. You could use the time you save commuting by learning about budgeting and finance so you can take care of those loans better after graduating anyway. Just my 2 cents.

 

[OTOnTheWay]

What do you value? Money or time? Each year is an $11,667 difference. Will you be working to any capacity? Are you receiving any financial aid? For me, I'd rather save myself 1-2 hours nearly daily for 3 years and commuting is a stressor. You could use the time you save commuting by learning about budgeting and finance so you can take care of those loans better after graduating anyway. Just my 2 cents.

Thanks for your advice! I do plan on finding a work study job at both campuses plus babysitting here and then when I can, but that is never consistent. I commuted a ton for my undergrad so the thought of me commuting again give me horrible flashbacks. I know that 11k difference per year is a lot, but I guess I just have to suck it up and just work hard after I graduate because the more I think about commuting 1.5 hours plus a bridge toll.. really scares me.

 

[Confusedandlostone]

Personally, I would go to the DOT program just for the sake of convenience. Commuting that far absolutely sucks and can negatively affect your studying time. The amount of time you will graduate is the same. You will be in a great deal of debt anyway.