The 4' coralife is a good option, and only about $225 after shipping online:
http://www.premiumaquatics.com/Merch...Code=Aqualight
4.7 watts per gallon of flourescent isn't enough for
SPS corals, but most softies and a few LPS would probably be happy.
If you can scam your boss for more by not using the words metal halide, there is the 8x54 watt T5, too, but it's over $400. 7.8 watts per gallon will let you keep most critters, though. Might want to still be cautious with SPS and clams, but they are more likely to make it.
http://www.premiumaquatics.com/Merch...ode=SunlightT5
EDIT: Just noticed this is a 12" wide. Nevermind. T5's will probably not be a good option. You can get a 4x54 for about $250 + shipping, but that's worse than the cf in both light and price. A 4x96 cf would cost over $500 and might be more like 14" wide.
Honestly, if you are constructing your own hood, though, you can probably make a MH 250 and two T5 actinics for maybe 3-500. Maybe $100-150 for the actinics and $200-300 for the MH portion.
I use a 2x96 watt cf on my 45 gallon and the few corals I have are doing well. One of the bulbs broke in transit and
Premium Aquatics had a new one to me in 2 days. F&P has about a 30-50% markup.
