al-reding

I am not sure how it works at UB. I would call and ask if you do need to apply for both. I know at some schools that if you only apply for the PhD program and do not get in, but you are a good candidate for the MA program then they grant you acceptance at the MA level. Not sure if this applies at UB as well though! All of the professors and secretaries in the department are really down to earth and helpful, don't hesitate to call them. It will show that you are interested and serious about their program!

It may not be the most helpful info but....I am currently a first year at UB, but I am in the MA program. The PhD requirements are more strict than MA, but I also did not have a good GRE score. I actually called the department before applying to express my concern. I was told that they look at your application holistically and that they do not weigh one component more than others. Based on that, I would say that your experiences are very valuable and should be the highlight of your application. Additionally, at UB if you do not get into the PhD but you do get into the MA program, you can reapply for the PhD, I believe after your second year. You have a better chance of getting in then and you can still complete the PhD in the same amount of time that you would have normally.