<p>My parents are making me take a look at UC Merced because it would be financially cheaper for me to attend (I got a grant and workstudy/loan awards that would pay for just about everything) but I really don't know anything about it. I'm attending SJSU as a Business Admin/ Marketing major and I want to participate in Journalism during college, both programs which, I know UC Merced does not have. There is a possibility of me going into some sort of science major in the future, but... I just wanted to hear about any benefits there may be about UC Merced that SJSU cannot give me. My aunt did the math and it would be $5,000 more expensive for me to attend SJSU than UC Merced, but is that $5,000 worth it if I don't get anything in return from Merced? I know it's not accredited yet.</p>
<p>Merced is going to be accredited in June, and if you wanna learn more about Merced, there a big “get to know the school” expo taking place at Merced this Saturday, they can probably answer any questions you may have</p>
<p>I’d recommend SJSU. </p>
<p>It doesn’t make sense to go to a university without any of the majors you are interested in and $20k debt is pennies in the long haul. In contrast, your career will be with you your entire life, earnings and all.</p>
<p>20 K is NOT pennies, that’s ridiculous. Merced will be accredited it’s a UC. Also, given that most students change their majors I wouldn’t worry about major. Finally there is no way on Earth a CSU is worth 20K more than a UC, plus you can spend time at another UC campus, through the UC exchange program.</p>
<p>^The number of majors Merced offers is rather restricted. Furthermore, a number of CSUs, such as CalPoly SLO, are worth significantly more than the lower tier UCs for reasons varying from the strength of their programs or merely higher earning potential. </p>
<p>A business degree from San Jose State University is a good example of a worthwhile program to pursue over a liberal arts degree from Merced.</p>