I could have a MAID

Next up, for your consideration, American University’s MAID: Master’s of Arts in International Development.

Let’s discuss the positive first: It’s in DC, right up close to where I want to work.  A lot of grad school is making connections with those in your field, and my field is in DC.  Also, I’m familiar with the city; I have friends and family there.  All points for AU.

The course work also looks great, although there is an overwhelming enormous selection(scroll dowwwwwn).  Holy crap on a cracker.  They’re diverse, they’re varied, there… are WAY too many to choose from.  Big points here, but it’ll be hard to choose.

Also, it’s a big school, so there would be a higher chance (if not a high one) of getting a fellowship/TA position, so the price tag might not hurt as much. Though there will also be more competition for those few positions.

But wow, does the tuition ever hurt.  At $1,237 per credit and a 42-credit program, plus semesterly fees, it comes to about $58,000 total.  Cheaper than Claremont, but more than some Mercedes.

Also, it’s a big school, and while that does have some benefits, it also means there’ll be a lot of students.  I can’t find any info regarding class size, though.

So I’m pretty sure the competition is now between AU, AGS, NC State and Claremont (though Claremont would have to blow me away on a visit, or guarantee a free education, to justify the 80 grand tuition).