Well, for starters, none of my state's schools had a legit "School of Public Health" lol. There are like 3 MPH programs, but they don't offer the same breadth of quality or opportunities. One of the MPH programs in my state is actually the lowest ranked in the entire country, for good reasons lol. Having gone to undergrad at the school with the best ranked MPH program in my state (and the only one in a good location for jobs), I just wanted something different and higher quality since the bachelors public health program just didn't feel very intellectually stimulating or challenging. I already knew most faculty since I took their undergrad classes and they're very hit or miss. Plus people who did end up pursuing their MPH there didn't have great things to say about it lol.
Another thing was that my degree is an investment, and I want it to be a good one - I'd rather throw $60k at a reputable, quality program/school for good global connections, opportunities, and job outcomes than $30k at my state school which was average quality and not as well known by employers outside my state. If I planned on living in my state forever, then yes, it would have sufficed, but I definitely don't want to do that. I can def see myself working internationally. If my state schools had bigger name recognition nationally, like UMich or UNC, then yes, I certainly would've chosen an instate school.
I'm also not sure if my MPH is "the end" for me. I may or may not want to pursue a PhD or DrPH down the road, but I want to be prepared for that if I do, so choosing a more reputable school/program would give me a more competitive edge on that admissions process.
An MPH is still what you make of it, going to a top school means nothing if you don't put in the effort to take opportunities that will help you succeed. But if I can do both, imma do both 🤷♀️
Phew, ok I think I've talked too much tonight. I'll shut up. The thread is all y'alls now
ok edit bc I just thought of more reasons:
@mackeral mentioned a good point about how out-of-state tuition at some schools is similar to private schools - this is definitely true. My jaw dropped when I took a good look at the price of UMich, a public school, for out-of-state. Also, the MPH programs in my state offer mostly generalist concentrations with no way to customize the program the way I could at other schools. Lastly, my undergrad state school is literally 30 min away from GW, and within close-ish proximity to UMD and JHU, all of which are much better known and far more reputable than my school. So if I were to stay, I would have to compete with those students for jobs, and it would be really difficult. DC area job market is competitive enough as is.