mknight230

An incoming grad student at the Center for Global Affairs- good luck to you guys and look forward to meeting some of you this fall!

I had an interesting question regarding the importance of getting a degree from a "name" program in a university compared to a similar degree from a less heralded program. For example, the reputations of SIPA (Columbia), SFS (Georgetown), SAIS (Hopkins), SIS (American), Elliot (GWU), etc. are well-documented and are obviously the cream of the crop. However, there seems to be a trend of having similar programs with slightly different curriculums within the same university with different names. For example, if International Relations is the marquee degree program from the "name-brand" school, that same school may offer MAs in similar subjects in different departments such as International Studies, Political Science, Public Administration, etc. with a concentration in International Affairs or something similar. So let's say you get a degree in Political Science (with International Relations concentration) from Columbia's Graduate School of Arts and Science (rather than a IR degree from SIPA) or a degree in Global Affairs (with a IR concentration) from NYU SCPS rather than their primary IR department, or a degree in Political Science (IR concentration) from George Washington School of Arts and Science (rather than a IR/IS Degree from Elliot).... is it really that drastic of a difference even though the same University will be listed on your CV? I'm not referring as much to the connections/networking aspect or even the overall education level (which, presumably, will be better at a name brand department within a school), I'm referring more to the overall downgrade as far as prestige or independent job prospects. But any opinions on this matter will be appreciated. Would love to hear everyone's thoughts!

Yes that's what I've heard as well. I seem to be leaning strongly towards London, accepted at Kings and still awaiting word on LSE. What program did you apply for at Kings BTW?

yeah, that is my hesitation as well (the reputation of catering more to older students/adults). Got accepted there and plan on visiting before making a decision. Otherwise, can't beat NYC and the overall reputation of NYU, but the program/department itself is giving me pause.

Anyone apply to this program for Fall 2013?

I know, I know... I probably couldn't have picked two more different universities But I would love some input on which university/program you would go for? I've been accepted to Miami for International Administration and Kings College London for International Relations, both MA. I've actually retrieved a lot information on Kings College - lots of reviews, rankings, opinions, etc. but I can't seem to find anything about MAIA. I'm actually intrigued by the MAIA cirriculum - Kings obviously has a better name, however, and the MA is only a year. Anyone have any thoughts? Please feel free to share!