Transfer to SCSU or University of Minnesota? (St. Cloud, Wells: house, schools)

[mintygreen]

I'm having trouble deciding what college I should go to after I complete my transfer curriculum at a community college. My two options are either go to the State University (St. Cloud State University) that's 30 miles from my house and cheaper or the more prominent University of Minnesota-Twin Cities which is obviously more expensive, nationally renowned, and most likely (but not necessarily) a better education.

Here's some of the things running through my head about my dilemma:
My intended major as of right now is public relations (mass communications) or something close to it. At the U of MN the major would be called 'Strategic Communications' which is a mix of public relations and advertising. If I choose to go to the U of MN I would also have to take four semesters of a second language. The U of MN is definitely a better branded institution nationally.

What I really need is some guidance and advice from some people who may be seasoned on this type of predicament. I appreciate any information and advice you have, thank you.

[MrMinneapolis]

I may be biased but having gone to scsu and having lived at 7 corners in mpls I would recommend the U of M. I think the overall quality of education and life is much greater.

[ozzie679]

I'm a SCSU Alumnus and I know the Mass Comm department is well known. But the UM is a top university nationally. You probably won't get a "better education" at one or the other. But on a national level, a UM degree is probably more valuable. If you're going into broadcasting, I would choose SCSU. But nobody will deny that a degree from UM carries more clout nationally.

Your degree is about networking. The UM has a huge network of alumni and more people in a position of power.

[mintygreen]

I appreciate your advice.

[knke0204]

I am too a St. Cloud State University Alum. Comparing the schools is difficult since the UofM isn't part of MnSCU like SCSU. Being a State University, you get quite a break in tuition. But, since it is cheaper, you basically get what you pay for. I can vouch the the Mass Communications department is a great department, as well as its Business College. The CEO of Wells Fargo went to SCSU, and then later UofM. SCSU is regionally known within the midwest, but like I said, you get what you pay for.... I have heard that SCSU since it is smaller is much more intimate.

St Cloud State's Television department is the best in the country. Its the only college TV station that is 100% completey run BY STUDENTS. Every single person from Accounting, Advertising, Cameramen, Producers, Actors and anchors are all run by students. It is also always winning awards for being the best.

[keha0302]

I am an SCSU Alum (Public Relations major, Marketing minor) and had a great experience there. The Mass Communications program is excellent and has a good reputation. The classes are much smaller than those at the U of M, so it is easier to get to know your professors and your classmates.

The U of M's national reputation is a huge asset if you are applying to top-tier grad schools or want to work outside of the midwest. That being said, I know plenty of people who have done both with the SCSU degree also.

If you are looking to stay in the midwest after graduation, I think the programs are so similar that desired lifestyle/cost should be the biggest factor in your decision. Spend some time on both campuses and see what "feels" better. If you have friends that go to either school, stay the night and go to a few parties, etc.

[mintygreen]

Thanks again for more advice. When you say you get what you pay for are you saying that the fact that SCSU is cheaper do you mean that you'll get a cheaper level of education?

Also, if a person would get an undergraduate degree from the U of M and then later on in life gets a masters degree from SCSU or something similar, would that 'water down' the undergraduate from the U of M?

[ozzie679]

Originally Posted by mintygreen

Thanks again for more advice. When you say you get what you pay for are you saying that the fact that SCSU is cheaper do you mean that you'll get a cheaper level of education?

Also, if a person would get an undergraduate degree from the U of M and then later on in life gets a masters degree from SCSU or something similar, would that 'water down' the undergraduate from the U of M?

Absolutely not. You still claim the UM degree with all of the national prestige.

[Slig]

For me this is a no brainer. Go to the U of M.

[ozzie679]

Originally Posted by Slig

For me this is a no brainer. Go to the U of M.

Especially for your undergrad. I agree.