BU vs JHU for master (need advice!)
Hi all, I’m choosing between two offers and honestly pretty torn.
Background:
First-author pub in molecular/dev bio (plant model). Limited biomed exposure. Goal is a PhD in US&Canada (biomedical fields), open to 1 year RA if needed.
Options:
JHU – MHS Biochem & Molecular Bio
Applied for ScM, got MHS (might try to switch, but uncertain)
Expensive
Concern: large cohort in public health → competitive for labs / rotations
BU – MS Biology (Research Track)
2-year thesis-based, with rotations
~$20k/year scholarship → much cheaper
Concern: very limited info on cohort size, workload, and outcomes
My dilemma:
I’m not super prestige-driven, but I do wonder how much the JHU name actually matters for PhD admissions. At the same time, it’s hard to ignore the BU funding. I mainly want solid research experience, a supportive lab, and good PhD placement.
Interests: immunology / aging / developmental biology (open to explore)
Would you prioritize funding + potentially better research stability (BU), or brand name + network (JHU)?
Any insight on lab access, cohort size, or outcomes for either program would be super helpful. Thanks!!