Day 1 CPT Course Options

So, I am currently in STEM OPT status and this year was my last attempt (3rd attempt) in H-1B lottery. Unfortunately, I did not get selected. I am thinking of joining Day 1 CPT program, which would buy me some time (2 more attempts) and meanwhile prepare for Canada PR pathway (Express Entry) as a backup for worst case scenario. I am looking for some suggestions of possible Day 1 CPT courses I can take?

Background:

I have previously completed my Masters in Business Analytics (first masters) and since then I have been working as Data Engineer. There are no contingency plans that my current employer is providing, i.e. neither Day 1 CPT nor Relocating to other country. So I will be losing my present job no matter what.

Current Options:

I am thinking of joining Day 1 CPT program and find an employer who would support this. Below are options that I am considering:

  1. University of Cumberlands - Executive MS in Project Management
  2. WestCliff University - MS in Computer Science

Option 1: I feel it will have much lighter coursework, and I can attend the in-person classes from my city so it would be good choice. However, I am not sure if it's too diverging from my career path and if there would be complications in future? Will I be able to work as Data Engineer if I take this course and would University accept it?

Option 2: This would be safer bet as there is a lot of overlap between Computer Science and Data Engineering. I feel I can still maintain my career path and continue my studies here. However, this would mean I will have to travel to different city for in-person classes. Still not bad considering the proximity to the airport.

Just wondering if Option 1 is fine, then there would be less hassle. Any suggestions?

Posted Apr 1, 2023, 7:02 PM UTC

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