After working for a few years, I've been accepted to both of the aforementioned programs for Fall '17. I'm leaning toward UT for financial reasons, but I've got a few days to decide and I wanted to see if anyone had insight into either of these programs at these schools.

UT pros:

-In-state tuition

-*Possible* part-time position with current employer

-I can continue to network with local design professionals and build on the relationships I've already made in the state (don't need to start over, per se)

UT cons:

-Feels more like a lateral move than an upward move from my undergraduate university

-Small class size

-Longer program (1.5 years vs. 1 calendar year)

-The faculty seemed to have something of a blasé, almost unengaged attitude, and both visits I took there left me feeling slightly underwhelmed

-Program is still in its infancy, and isn't well known even among urban design professionals

WashU pros:

-I got the exact opposite impression from the faculty and students than I did from those at UT. Everyone was very engaged, welcoming, and helpful.

-Large class size

-Recognition and prestige (second-oldest MUD program in the US)

-Well-organized curriculum. I know it's important for most people that graduate school offers a good amount of freedom, but I think it's important that a one-year program keeps students on track and disciplined.

WashU cons:

-$$$ (even with merit scholarship)

-Moving to Misery

-The desire to obtain a master's degree in urban design after achieving an accredited Arch/LA degree is already prone to skepticism, and one can make the argument that prestige and value of education just aren't worth it for such an obscure industry