Taniwha

Hi all, I am in a similar position and am looking at this program. I have about ten years experience in (government) economic policy and financial governance but outside the United States. I am wanting to formalize my practical experience, develop my statistical skills and get a US qualification to help with job prospects in and around DC. I am interested in research (currently in a policy research role) and may want to do a PhD later on. I'm torn between this JHU programme, the JHU SAIS master of international economics and finance, and the MA Economics at American University. I do want to be in or near to DC, applied research is important to me, and I want to beef up my quant skills. Could anyone offer insights? I'd be incredibly grateful. How do other DC/NOVA/Marylanduniversities compare? I have good grades at undergrad and a decent GRE (170 V/162 quant) so while I doubt I'd get straight into a good Econ PhD program I hope I would make it into a master's. I have considered applying straight to PhD but was doubtful I would get a good offer without more quant on my CV. Thank you for any insights ...