APU vs. Valdosta MPA opinions please!

[mongoose65]

I was heavily leaning towards Valdosta for an MPA based on the low price and the NASPAA accreditation. However when I stack these programs side by side I am leaning toward APU.

Valdosta:
Cons:
1. Requires a GMAT, GRE or MAT and may factor in GPA of which I have none (tested out at TESC).
2. Requires 3 letters of recommendation including a form that must be filled out from the referrors (a pain in the butt as far as I’m concerned) and must be sent directly from referror to the school.
3. Full semester schedule (16+ weeks plus summer session).

Pros:
1. NASPAA accred. (this is big).
2. About $1000+ cheaper all in all.

APU:
Cons:
1. Not NASPAA
2. About $1000+ more expensive
3. Name recognition which may be moot since APU and Valdosta are probably equally “not” well known (which comes back to the NASPAA accred.)
4. Masters in Management, Public Administration concentration instead of MPA (although this could be a positive in light of my work experience in Purchasing and Administration).

Pros:
1. Easy admission with no red tape, letters, exams, etc.
2. 8 week terms (this is big)

I feel like jumping through hoops to meet Valdosta’s admission requirements is a waste of time and resources and just the kind of red tape that drove me away from higher ed in the first place. APU’s streamlined process assumes that I am professional enough to know what I am doing and I like that.

Questions for the illustrious forum gurus:
1. How big a difference is the NASPAA accreditation or does it really only matter if looking to teach at an NASPAA accred. school?
2. Does MPA carry more water than Masters in Management, Public Administration? Since my 2nd choice is an MBA, I thought this might be a good middle ground.

Any input on experiences with either program is greatly appreciated!

Best,
Mike

[tbradford1]

I don't personnally know how important that accreditation is, but if it is importaant at all I wouldn't let slightly tougher admissions guidelines deter you. You can always give it a shot and consider APU your "safety" school. Good luck whatever you decide.