The difference in total cost of attendance over a four year period between Duke and UNC-CH for an OOS student is $72,892. I am applying to both, and, if I am accepted at both, I’m not sure which I would chose. My older brother had the same choice and elected to go with UNC-CH. I’m planning to major in Economics (if at Duke) or Business (if at UNC), and plan to get an MBA eventually. Thanks!
EDIT: Just to clarify, I don’t mean to sound presumptuous in my question. I would be extremely fortunate to be accepted at one of these prestigious institutions, let alone both. But my question is mainly to provoke discussion on the monetary value of perceived prestige.
I think it depends on what you can afford. If you like Duke better than UNC and can afford it, then it is worth it. If you can’t afford the difference, then it is not worth it.
To answer your questions simply - No. They are both great institutions with Duke certainly being more prestigious, but it is not worth the extra &@K even if you can afford it. I say this because you indicate your goal is to go to graduate school and get your MBA. Both schools have above average acceptance rates into the top 20 MBA programs around the country and the both have their own top 20 MBA programs on campus. You should save the money for grad school (both are around 50K for OOS) or put it towards your off campus housing when you are attending grad school. Your folks might appreciate it even if they can easily afford full tuition at both and grad school.
