Heinz switching to D.C. track?

[sushitooth]

So, I have read on here that once someone is enrolled in the regular Pitt program, that it's possible to switch into the Pitt/D.C. track. Is it really so, and if yes, when should I begin to inquire about it? What steps should I take in order to do this, and are there any certain qualifications for making the switch?

Also, does the 1st year curriculum differ for the regular and the split Pitt/D.C. program (since both programs take place in Pittsburgh in the first year)?

Thank you.

[mppgal55]

So, I have read on here that once someone is enrolled in the regular Pitt program, that it's possible to switch into the Pitt/D.C. track. Is it really so, and if yes, when should I begin to inquire about it? What steps should I take in order to do this, and are there any certain qualifications for making the switch?

Also, does the 1st year curriculum differ for the regular and the split Pitt/D.C. program (since both programs take place in Pittsburgh in the first year)?

Thank you.

I don't know about switching, but the curriculum is mostly the same. With the DC track, you have space for 12 units of electives first semester (1 class) and 18 the second. You automatically get the policy analysis track by doing the DC track, and apparently it is very difficult to get another concentration in addition to that. I just got back from visiting Heinz, and I'm in the DC track, so if you have any questions about it I have lots of paperwork I could refer to.

An observation on switching - I think it would be relatively easy to do so, even though they don't advertise it that way. They only admit 25 people to the program, and they want all 25 to do it. I'm sure some people won't decide to attend Heinz, and some people will decide to stay in Pittsburgh, so there will be some spots. I know this year and last year only 16 and 14 people actually ended up in DC and the director really wants 25.

[cosmike10]

i believe it is possible to switch, but that to be on pace for the program, you need to load up on courses in your first year. this means that you have a more intensive first year than the 2 yr pitt students.

[ropeladder]

I was just at the admitted students weekend and somebody asked your question. They said they have a limited number of slots in the DC program (25?), so switching is possible only if another student drops.

[sushitooth]

I asked them this through e-mail and they just responded that admitted students will receive an e-mail about switching tracks. They will need to submit an essay about why switching to the D.C. track would be a good choice for their career.