PolyWonk

I did Chicago's MA program in IR, and I agree that it's a great starting point to launch PhD applications from. They're very supportive from the very beginning. Even though the program is only a year, a majority of people made great use of their time there. For example, I left there with more than 3 potential solid LORs. In the end, I decided I wanted at least one from my BA thesis advisor. They also offer great advice on SOPs, resumes, and all aspects of the application. They also have numerous workshops set up to give you a feel for dissertation writing and critique. They really enjoy when master's students get in on the process. You can't leave Chicago and not know what being an academic is about.

I did my masters at Chicago, and it seemed that they were in the 7-9 range. I thought it was extreme, but it appears that I just didn't know the trend.

Anyone out there applying for the Public Policy Fellowship this year? What countries?

Ok, so I can see it's time to change the question. Anyone out here apply for PhD's in PP/PA? Which schools?

I'm planning on applying! I have a friend who is as well. I am also applying to start a PhD in Public Policy, so we'll see how the whole admissions cycle goes. What's your background: work? School?

So I haven't been able to find a forum dedicated to those who want to do Policy PhDs. I see people here and there, and there are IR/PolySci/Econ vs Policy threads out there, but this is not one of those. Nor is it about MPPs & MPAs. Please. Policy only. If you are or would like to apply for a PhD in PP or PA, I want to pick your brain. I am currently applying too! What are your research interests? What led you there? Did you do a master's? Work? Coming straight from undergrad? Where are you applying? Are you applying to Econ/PolySci/IR programs as well? What's the dream school - your numero uno? Have you visited it? For those who are currently doing your PhD in Public Policy/Affairs, tell us about your application process. Where did you apply? Where did you get in? Where did you choose?

I'm applying to 9. My advisors/recommenders didn't seem to think it was too many, but it's starting to become really difficult. But their support makes me feel like it's an okay number. 1 is an AMAZING fit. 4 Great fit. 5 Good fit. That's what was most important to me, as I'm applying to do my doctorate. If there had been less good fits, I would be applying to less. If there had been more, there would have been more.