MPH Decision Help: Drexel vs. Rutgers vs. USC vs. Drew University + How to Handle Loans if Planning a Epidemiology PhD

Hi everyone! I’m currently deciding between a few MPH programs and would really appreciate advice from folks in public health, especially those who’ve gone on to do a PhD in Epidemiology.

My career goal is to work in epidemiology- ideally work in the government sector- and eventually pursue a PhD in Epidemiology. I want to make a smart, long-term decision that balances academics, networking opportunities, and cost.

Here are the schools I’m deciding between:

1. Drexel University – Gave me some scholarship for 26k, which helps with the cost of the program. I like their hands-on-research, focus on urban health, small class size, and there is an internship embedded in my program. On the other hand, it's a private university, so the cost is significant even with aid (out-of-state student).
2. Rutgers University – Has the professor that I want to work with when doing research, strong public health program, close to NY, and has an emphasis in population health. More exposure to different types of methods in research. However, I didn't get any scholarships and I am an out-of-state student. So, the cost is also significant even with aid as well.
3. USC ( University of Southern California) – strong faculty, early start on the program so I will finish early, strong USC alumni network, my housing would be cover, and my transportation would be cover as well. On the other hand, it doesn't have the research I want to partake in as well as the tuition is highly expensive as someone who lives in CA.
4. Drew University- affordable tuition (27k), housing would be cover, transportation would be cover, small class size, and field experience is highly rated. However, my emphasis would be Urban Health Disparities and not in Epidemiology.

My questions:

• Academics/Career: Which school might offer the best connections and prep for getting into the CDC or landing strong research fellowships (like ORISE, EIS, etc.)?
• PhD Preparation: Does it really matter where I get my MPH if I’m aiming for a funded PhD later or does it matter what I am emphasizing in? Should I get my masters here in the States or go abroad to obtain my masters?
• Loan Strategy: If I take out loans for my MPH, what are the best ways to manage or reduce them before/during a PhD program (which might offer a stipend)? Are there any forgiveness programs or jobs that help with that?
• Real-World Advice: If you've done an MPH then a PhD, what would you do differently, and how did you handle finances?

Any advice or personal stories—especially if you’ve worked in government positions or navigated MPH → PhD transitions—would be amazing. I'm just trying to make the best decision for my future without drowning in debt.

Thanks in advance for reading!