Public college or prestigious university?

College Search & Selection
1

<p>I want to major in music education and don't know which is the better option: a (cheaper) public university or a more prestigious (and more expensive) university. Money is an important matter to consider when choosing a college, but a school's reputation can be very important in my future too. For a Music Education major, which of the two options is best?</p>

<p>I've been looking at the following schools:
Augsburg College
Carthage College
Case Western Reserve University
Colorado State University
Columbia University
Concordia College
DePaul University
Drake University
Iowa State University
Pacific Lutheran University
University of Iowa
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
University of Rochester
Vanderbilt University</p>

<p>Should I look more into the more expensive and prestigious schools like Vanderbilt or would I be fine at a cheaper school like CSU?</p>

<p>Also, does anyone know what these schools are like (i.e. reputation? education quality? music program quality?)</p>

<p>Thanks</p>

2

<p>You’ll probably be fine at the cheaper schools. Are you an in-state resident for any of these schools?</p>

3

<p>I wouldn’t want to pay off a lot of loans on a music teacher salary. </p>

<p>Secondarily, keep in mind that you will likely only get certified for the state where the school is located. It isn’t a huge deal, but it can be a hassle to get certified to teach in another state right at graduation.</p>

4

<p>What are your PARENTS saying? How much will THEY pay each year? </p>

<p>Many publics have good programs, too.</p>

<p>What is your career goal? High school music teacher? Band Director? what?</p>

<p>Those OOS publics may not give you much need-based aid, but some might give you a talent award. </p>

<p>Much will depend on your stats, your level of talent, and how much your family will pay each year.</p>