Certificate of Advanced Studies

I've been considering pursuing this Certificate of Advanced Studies in Digital Libraries now that I'm finished with my Master's Degree and there are a few reasons for this:

1.) I had no idea that there really was such a program when I entered the Master's program and to pursue it simultaneously with the Master's Degree, every single elective must be Digital Libraries-related.

2.) The classes in this certificate program actually sound interesting and helpful and I've heard - from people in the classes - that this is true.

3.) Many, many job postings that I've seen ask for some element taught in this program.

4.) Pursuing further education lets me get more federal financial aid, which can help me pay my rent as I job search.

5.) The program can be entirely completed online and is only 15 extra credits for me, so I could fit this in with a job anywhere in the world.

So, all things considered, I haven't totally decided what to do, although I am leaning in that direction. Registration is not until Sunday. However, I was invited to and attended the new student orientation yesterday for all new students. I am considered a new student since I officially graduated. Anyway, I went out of curiosity, to see what they told the newbies, to see a few friends I knew would be working, to get free food and to hopefully kiss ass of the professor of the one class I want to take. Check, check, check, check. Everything was accomplished. But, what also was accomplished was that I got so pissed off at the ass-backwards way the school conducts things. They throw all this random information at the students in the most ridiculous order and format and then usher them off into advising sessions. They are told how to register and what they should register for... then they have to wait three days before they can do it. Then, because there is a holiday on Monday, if there are any problems, these can't be addressed until Tuesday. It's just ridiculous. What would be so awful about allowing registration to start earlier? What would be so awful about leading the groups to a computer lab and letting them register immediately after the orientation? There are just so many things about the way the program was organized that it made me so mad! So, yes, this really does make me rethink giving more money to this school!!