DennisK

Hey everyone, After my MPA/ID (LSE) I'd like to do a PhD, most likely in the field of economics, and more specifically development economics. I'm interested in doing the PhD in the US in one of the good schools. So far, I was thinking of Yale or Berkeley for instance. To be honest, I haven't acquainted myself very well yet with the different programmes and options. I've read a lot in the boards here and find that you guys can be very helpful generally. So what I'd like to know is, in your opinion, what's the nicest place to do a PhD for dev.econ? After having done an MPA/ID, would it still take 5 years as indicated on the websites? (in Europe they mostly speak of 3 years, so I'm a little confused why these 2 years more?) Any other input would be much appreciated.

The MPA is actually entirely in English, so you don't need to be fluent in French. I think they also offer language courses so that by the time you're graduated you will however be able to communicate in French. Otherwise from what I've heard it's similar to the one at LSE (London). Don't really know anything else...

it's entirely in English.

Try and have someone accompany you. Perhaps your sources there, or anyone local that you can trust. They may be more than willing to take you around a little, in return for some money, or little gifts. Even if it's only to bring you to the bus, or go to the next city/village to meet your next informant... This depends very much on the context, so I don't know if it's possible at all and how, but it may help. I worked and did research in Sri Lanka. Once during the civil war, and another time right after it officially 'stopped'. I'd say as well that careful judgement helps, too. Be alert and careful of course. Other than that I can't give any advise, also I'm not familiar myself with Central America, except with the Dominican Republic which was a great and seemingly safe experience to me, even in the mountains/country side. Cheers Dennis

Thanks stilesg57 and Amorphous. I guess I'm going to LSE, but may consider Hertie for the dual degree in the second year. Comparing the two, LSE just seems to be way ahead.

Hey there, has anyone heard of the Hertie School of Governance in Berlin, Germany? I didn't find any information on here or other student forums, so I was just wondering how the reputation is at all and if it's comparable with some of the top schools offering MPAs/MPPs?... Since the school offers double degrees with Columbia, LSE, and Sciences Po Paris I figured it might be okay, but really I haven't got a clue. Well, I'm holding an offer by both LSE (MPA) and Hertie (MPP), (still waiting for Columbia). Although I'm opting for LSE, I don't wanna decline the offer just yet. Any opinions?