When I am in the recording studios playing commercials or movies, I notice that the music sheets are almost always written on Sibelius. The guys using the program really rave about how good it is. You can download a demo version. It will do everything that the paid-for version does, except 'save'. It really is a writing program, though.
I believe you would be able to get the educational discount for it. I would love to own Sibelius - I've got finale (darn)
hope that helps!
