I was rerouted from a PhD to an MA at UChicago Harris School, and in need to find funding but also accept or decline the offer, any suggestions?

[PhDApplicantFingersCrossed]

I originally applied to top schools around the US for a PhD in politics, but only got an offer of an MA in Public Policy at UChicago Harris School per their suggestion of rerouting my application from a PhD program to the MA program, to which I got accepted. Three options now: (1) Accept the offer and search for funding/try to get a loan (not preferable) to finish the program, (2) wait a year and apply to more universities for an MA, while applying to scholarships in the meantime, and (3) try my luck with a more diverse set of universities for a PhD while refining my application next year. I really value the offer at UChicago, and want to get back to academia anyway (6 year work experience), and since its a 1 year program, its a choice between waiting and studying; so not sure what to do. Any recommendations? Also, is finding a scholarship within the March-April frame doable (Already got a 15K scholarship)? 

 

Note: I already have an MA in political science from my home country(American University of Beirut/Lebanon; GPA: 3.9), so this makes the decision even more complex. *heavy breathing in paper bag*

Edited March 7, 2022 by Azzam Tomeh

[steadygaze108]

3

[staxdo_21]

I would personally apply again over and over or apply for fellowships while applying to programs. You already have an MA, don't pay for another when you clearly are equipped for more advanced study! Also, always be weary of programs with MA and Ph.D. tracks, usually, the Master's students pay full price to off-set the Ph.D. students. It can be a "cash cow" situation.