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Have to choose between SCI-ARC and IAAC

smith0880

Hello all,

Need to make a last minute selection between IaaC in Barcelona and Sci-Arc for master's program.. (IaaC's 1-yr Master in Advanced Architecture vs. Sciarc's 5-term M.Arch II)

Until last week, I was almost determined to go to IaaC. I thought that IaaC's program, despite some negative opinions here on Archinect, was worth a try. (Since I couldn't really get any feedbacks on their program in the recent years, I had to decide based on the program description on their website.) It's a one year program, so if I don't feel that the education is not "sufficient" for me after the program, I'll apply for a postprofessional degree, I thought.

The problem was (and still is) finding a way to fund myself. FAFSA doesn't apply, student loans from private banks don't apply, and my last resort is probably a peer-to-peer lending... In the midst of despair, I got a "congrats, you got accepted from the waiting list" email from Sci-Arc. The email was followed by a "we're here to help you" email from their financial aid office, and now Sci-Arc can't sound any more tempting. Plus, I live right here in LA.

Sorry I rambled on... so my questions are: is Iaac worth the hell I'm going through to find a loan, and the interest on it? (living in Barcelona for a year is, maybe?) Basically, I'm worried by choosing IaaC over Sci-Arc, i'm going through hell, into debt, for a "lesser" program...

Sorry again if I'm not making any sense- it's three am and my eyes are completely out of focus and can barely read what i'm typing :P

I would really really appreciate any thoughts from you!!!

 
May 20, 10 6:34 am
fays.panda

they are very, very, different programs.

My advice is sit down, dissect them carefully, and choose what you think is best for you.

also, Iaac is 9 months, Sci-arc is 2 calendar years. That will amount to something.

May 21, 10 8:13 pm  · 
 · 
IamGray

To continue with fays' recommendation, you really should have done more than read Iaac's website description. Contact some faculty members, ask them questions, explain your goals and interests as they relate to the program and see if there's a fit.

good luck

May 22, 10 8:22 am  · 
 · 
fays.panda

also, and im not sure, but is Iaac's degree a post professional mArch degree? or a msc?

I do not know where you're from, and where you will be practicing in the future, but, if it's in the u.s. try to understand the differences between what they both offer

however, I would adopt naivety and say that doesnt matter, because you seem to have a 5yr degree in arch, which allows you to really do whatever you want for your grad education.

May 22, 10 9:09 am  · 
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