Mac VS PC?

Dear technically minded friends: I need your help!!!

Since I am going to be switching to U of I's online program in January, and will hopefully have a little extra loan money this summer/fall, I am thinking about buying a new computer or laptop, probably laptop. Though I have had no end of trouble with every single PC I have ever bought, I am hesitant about buying a Mac just because of the cost.

So....help! Which is better, Mac or PC? Which is cheaper? Is cheaper really better? I really want a Mac, so are there any discounts or anything on Macs that you know of? What about getting a netbook plus an external hard drive? Leave your comments please! :)