Time vs. Quality of an MFE program

[Daniel R]

I'm currently a rising undergrad junior and am planning on applying to MFE programs upon my graduation. I have two main options for MFE programs and wanted to get some input on what you guys think:
(1) My first option would be to go to Claremont Graduate University's MFE program which is affiliated with my college. I have already started taking courses at this MFE program, and if I attend it upon my undergraduate graduation, I should at this rate be able to finish the program in one semester. However, from these threads and other forums, I have gathered that this program is a "second tier" program.
(2) My second option would be to apply to programs that are generally considered to be first tier, such as the MFE programs at the University of Chicago or Columbia University. If I went to these programs, I would most likely have to spend the average 2-3 semesters.

So, I could go to an alright program and complete it over a summer or I could try to get into a great program, graduate later, but also most likely start off with a higher salary and better job. What would you guys do? Thanks for the advice,

 

[Stefan Zota]

Time should not be a criteria for choosing your education. This defines the start of your career, you want to make the best decisions. If you are in school 2, 3 years more than some of your peers, nothing is lost. Learn to cherish those times.
Apply to the best programs (in your opinion) and strive to be accepted. It takes years to have a basis for quantitative finance. A strong MFE program will provide a good start.