Need help talking through the pros/cons of 2 schools

College Search & Selection
1

<p>I want to pursue a Master's in Education with an emphasis in Adult learning. My ultimate goal is to go into a PhD program and I hope to use the Master's program to gain research/writing experience/skills and also give me a few extra years to gain experience.</p>

<p>I am looking at either the University of Wyoming or Colorado State University - both are online programs, both are taught by the same faculty who teaches the on campus classes, both offer a thesis option, both are decent schools.</p>

<p>Now for the differences:</p>

<p>UW (university of wyoming) is MUCH cheaper. I can get the entire degree for under $10,000. Whereas Colorado State will be closer to $16,000. I will be paying out of pocket so cost is a huge determining factor. </p>

<p>Since I live in Denver, CO my goal is to get into a PhD program either at Colorado State or University of Denver so I need to keep that in mind as I decide which master's program to take.</p>

<p>Our my odds of admission into Colorado State better if I have a master's from Colorado State? If so, is that advantage really worth an additional $6,000?</p>

<p>The programs seem to compare apples to apples in terms of quality but differ greatly in cost. </p>

<p>What factors do you think are most important to consider? Given the information above, which school would you pick?</p>

2

<p>Since you live in CO why don’t you make an appt at the school to discuss with someone in the postgraduate admissions office. They should have stats on where PhD students originate (though I’m not sure how rigorous they will view an online program - another good question to ask).</p>

3

<p>Good advice, also I’d give the same advice as to undergrads - apply to both and decide when they both accept you.</p>

<p>Good luck!</p>

4

<p>I agree with Erin’s Dad. Talk to people in your target PhD programs.</p>

<p>I admit that I am skeptical about online graduate programs that do not have a residential component; however, this may well differ by field.</p>