NELCy

Without getting into my story, I've found this supposedly enlightened bastion of thinking to be completely steeped in patriarchy. The odds are so against women succeeding, if not in grad school, once you get to the real deal. Achieving tenure while mothering is difficult. I could go on and on, but it would be unfair and depressing.

I didn't quite understand why you aren't applying for your PhD? Skip the MA. It's worthless--at UofC, most serious students start with the PhD (and I don't say this flippantly or arrogantly. I wasted two years doing an MA since I was fully funded). At the first go-around, I was accepted to the PhD program with full tuition (and no stipend) and I decided not to go (stupid decision since I went on anyway. . . ). most PhD programs have MAs built in. If you've read the chronicle of ed lately, you'll see that most MA programs that don't lead to the PhD are worthless. There's no point in doing them at all (IMHO).

I'm at UofC; I've been here for a good amount of time. MAPH is generally regarded as a moneymaker. The acceptance bar is low and this is well-known inside and outside of the academy. Best of luck to you in your decision. I know nothing about the other program.

Congrats to all of you! I have a fondness for Late Antiquity. It's great to see those who specialize.

You probably have a very high chance; others will probably end up at other places. Try to stay positive. And congrats. Getting funding at the MA level is quite rare (as you know).

Yes, most MAs have a cash cow rep, especially at UofC. CMES and MAPhs are well known for this. If you think there's a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, go for it, but think over your options. Husband is at the end of the rainbow (in NELC at UofC, as am I) and we are very disappointed with our choice. He has lots of debt, so we've been a bit blindsided. peace.