Am I applying for the wrong programs?

[crock1255]

I'm finding my interests lie in the intersection of poli sci and sociology, but I want my work to be practical. I'm interested in topics of diffusion and the role of networks as they relate to national security. Do I belong in sociology, Poli-sci, public policy? I was introduced to social networks through sociology, so didn't really think to look in other departments, but have since been speaking with a lot of people in different departments who all (shocker) think their department is the bees knees.

Ultimately, I want to apply my research first and teach second. I am wondering how my potential advisors in sociology/poli-sci would feel if I didn't go straight to academia. And if I belong in a public policy program, which one? Network analysis is key for me. One person recommended UMich with their join PhD in Public Policy and Poli-sci.

Stats:

Undergrad: solid, well known research university

UGPA: 3.56/4

double major poli-sci/sociology (a theme?) GPA: 3.76 and 3.81

GRE: V: 680

Q: 620

AW: 5

Solid research in networks, political theory. Solid recs.

Worked in large consulting firm doing health care (don't want to focus on healthcare). Two presentations at international conferences.

Edited December 8, 2010 by crock1255

[hoobers]

You could probably do any of those, but sociology is still by far the best place to get a solid social networks training. Off the top of my head, I can think of three sociologists who do networks/national security: Brashears at Cornell, Carley at Carnegie Mellon (she teaches in computer science there), and maybe Carter Butts at Irvine. Any of the three should be a good fit for you.