<p>Another comment: Yes, if the state school offers the program and the private college in question does not, then the choice is obvious. The OP’s program was not offered in his state school. However, before making their minds up which type of college they want to attend, students should be absolutely certain that they want to go into teaching, and that they want to stay in the same area. </p>
<p>I think there are different situations being discussed here: that of the OP and that of several other students. Economium, I presume, wants to attend a private school, possibly an Ivy league. He (or she, not sure) wants to become a teacher after his education, and the program he wants to study is not offered in his state schools. Cost is not a factor. For Jamimom’s students, who also want to become teachers, cost is a major factor, the programs are only offered in the state schools, and thus their situation is significantly different. No one can make blanket statements regarding their choices or opportunities, since they are individual. </p>
<p>My point is, the field of teaching should not be denied to graduates of any college, regardless of the type of college it is. Any student deserves (for them, regardess of type of school) the best education available, no matter what career they desire (even though career plans may need to be taken into account). An Ivy league education is not just “good enough” for the more prestigeous fields, and is not a waste of time for prospective teachers.</p>