Recent grad (August, 2010) looking into grad programs for urban planning. Originally considered MS in architecture, but in reality I'm more interested in planning/preservation issues and I have no portfolio to speak of. BA in Art History and International Affairs (double major) from GWU, undergrad GPA 3.5 (closer to 3.65 if you discount my unfortunate second semester freshmen year). Previous internships at federal govt, Smithsonian museum, preservation non profit, music label (in France). Currently in Cambodia volunteering/interning with several architecture or housing related NGOs/ snooping for potential Fulbright research topics (another discussion...). Upon returning to the States, will look into jobs/internships related to planning/preservation (although now that I'm out of undergrad, I will need to make some $) in addition to becoming more involved with local preservation groups.
So those are my stats, my question is, which programs are worth applying to? Obviously there are the top schools according to whatever list, but what are the best programs that I have reasonable shot at getting into? I'm very interested in historic preservation, but I'm a bit worried that a MA in HP would leave me with very limited job opportunities and lots of debt. I know Cornell offers a Historical Preservation Planning Program, and at Columbia you can do a 3 year HP/UP program. But I've also heard that a good planning degree is enough to allow for specialization later.
Anyone with any good advice/tips on good programs, admissions, or ways to get involved (and bolster my CV) before I start applying? I'm really just starting this process now, I haven't even taken the GREs and plan on applying for Fall 2012.
Thanks in advance!
