Hey all,
Just got accepted to both SAIS and CIR for a masters in IR. 1/3 funding at Chicago, nothing at SAIS. I'm willing to go pretty deep in debt for either, though. Too shocked that I got into either to think clearly about my choice right now, so I could use some input:
I know that for policy focused programs, SAIS is near unbeatable. However, I think I'm more interested in research/academia for a career, and I want to know which program would set me up better if I choose to go for a Phd. I'm also interested in working for a FoPo think tank like the Atlantic Council or Brookings. I'm attracted to Chicago because I enjoy the theoretical side of IR and that seems to be their focus (also, Mearsheimer). However, SAIS is better ranked as an MA program (although that's for "policy programs"), and I feel like I could keep my options open career wise. Any insights?
Also, before someone says CIR "isn't worth it" for future Phd, I'm coming from a no name undergrad school with no work experience. I seriously doubt my chances getting into a top tier Phd program direct from UG, or getting an even halfway decent job given the low name recognition of my UG institution, which is why I want a big name MA.