masters program abroad (uk, germany)

[skinnyarms123]

hello,

i'm an American undergraduate history major, and i'm seriously thinking about applying to grad school abroad, specifically in the UK and Germany. my interest, broadly speaking, regards contemporary african history. I'm currently looking at SOAS, King's College, and Freie/Humboldt University (im not too sure about the last uni, since the subject is in global history, but still an option).

I'm mainly worried about competitiveness. I have an average gpa, with some questionable marks, but I've definitely improved this year. It's currently my last year in college, so I'm not too sure how impressive the late upward trajectory would be to an admissions committee. however, i know i can definitely get some strong letters of recommendation. i also have some strong writing samples that could be particularly persuasive.

if anyone has any advice on getting into these programs, that would be super helpful. 

Thanks in advance!!!

[Bana81]

Following...Interested in responses here..

[psstein]

Are you interested in using the MA en route to a PhD?

 

[AfricanusCrowther]

I don't know your background, but if you are interested in a PhD, knowledge of an African language and experience on the continent are very important for admission to African history programs. Not essential, but generally highly recommended, and I would say more likely to matter than a European MA.

[Tigla]

Europe is a bit different than the US when it comes to graduate admissions. The first thing that is looked at and weighed is your GPA. From there, the committee goes down their list and narrows it by looking at the rest of the package. If your GPA is above 3.5 (a 3.7 would be better) then you are going to be in a good position to get past the first round of cuts. After this round, the decision process becomes closer to the American-style and begins by looking at research fit, interest in the program, ability to do graduate work, etc.

As for your specific field, African history has become more popular in Germany, however, your research still needs to look at German colonies and German experiences on the continent. This speaks to a larger issue with history in Europe. Most countries are focused on their national experience and history, thus, your research will need to somehow accommodate this political/funding trend.

[skinnyarms123]

just to clarify, im not particularly interested in getting a PhD in history....at least not yet. I have a pretty solid grip on French, and I'm in the process of learning a native African language.