UChicago MA in Mid East Studies or reapply?

[Floripas]

Hey all. Originally posted this in Interdisciplinary Studies, but I could use some more opinions...Just I found out that I was accepted to for a masters in Middle Eastern Studies at Chicago. I originally applied for a Phd in NELC, but didn't make the cut. This wasn't entirely surprising since I need some language work and I applied during the senior year of my BA. I found out that I got half-tuition for this year and there are opportunities for full funding the second year. So, I need some advice...

How well regarded is an MA from this program? I'm looking to eventually get a Phd in history or NES in the early modern Ottoman history.

I would probably have to take out loans to do this, but I don't have any student loans from undergrad, so I'm a bit more willing to take the dive...is it worth it? My professors/advisors are slightly against an MA due to funding (and told me to apply just for Phds), but I'm not sure they realize how stiff the competition is these days. They're expressing shock that I'm not getting into places, however I'm sure I could do with at least a couple of years of Arabic to be truly competitive.

But this MA could be a huge stepping stone to getting into a great program later. So, what do you guys know about it? How is the student life on campus? Any personal experiences or hearsay?

OR (and this is a big "or"): would I be better taking a year off an applying again next year for a Phd in the field I'm more prepared for and could be just as happy studying: medieval history? I have great stats and recs from a top LAC with advanced training in Latin, German and French with Old English to boot, but for Mid East history I only have advanced Turkish (I know, it was bold move to apply for Phd's in Mid East). I should have applied to programs in both fields, however, I was naive and stressed with my thesis. So should I take this opportunity or wait and hope for a better one the next round?

Whew! I know that's a bunch of questions and an odd situation with my interests, but I'd appreciate any input.

[sacklunch]

Most of my UG professors didn't seem to realize how things have changed. These days, it is almost essential to have an MA in place before applying to PhDs. I'm doing the same thing. Like you said, many of us need a lot more language experience (I'm in ancient Judaism).

At least in theology/religious studies, a half tuition scholarship is pretty standard/good. Most smaller, less well-known programs, don't offer any (or much) scholarship money.

I don't know anything specifically about that MA program, but I do know they have a GREAT religious studies department, some say better than any other, ect. I would take the offer and get the degree. Honestly your chances of getting accepted into a PhD program in that field straight out of UG is pretty uncommon. Imagine how much more qualified the other applicants are, some of them having two master's degrees, years of language training, ect.

My .2 cents, take the offer and be thankful you got into a great school.

[Floripas]

Thanks for your advice! For many of the reasons you mentioned I was already leaning towards accepting the offer. And believe me, I was grateful for getting something! Also, I know that for what I want to study Chicago is amazing. I just wonder how different it is at the MA level vs. PhD. Or if the MA program has a different reputation than the PhD, since many people go in to prep for govt. jobs in the CIA or NSA and such too.

Perhaps I'm over thinking this, but I feel like I should get as many opinions as possible since a large chunk of money is on the line.

Any other thoughts?