Mathematics and Economics --> Poli Sci/IR MPA/MA/PhD?

[slackslack]

Hi everyone. As mentioned in the title, I am basically wondering what are the criteria one is judged upon when evaluated for MPA/MA/PhD in International Relations/Poli Sci. Would an undergraduate double major in mathematics and economics disqualify one from consideration? What should be stressed? I am looking at policy-oriented degrees, as opposed to the academic-research oriented ones. Thanks a lot!

[Damis]

Hey! I hope folks with more authority are able to comment here soon, but I'll take a stab as well:

I don't think any degree disqualifies you from applying to any of the degrees you mentioned. In actuality, your quantitative skills will likely help you in getting into your respective program, as it appears that many policy schools are placing more interest in people who have those skills as of late.

Know that you should also have some policy experience as well. Do you have any work/internship experience that you can elaborate upon within an application? Why are you looking to apply to these programs? What are your interests?

Stuff like that is quintessential to programs, because the Statement of Purpose and Personal Statements appear to define what type candidate you are.

Long story short, so long as you have a degree from an accredited University or College, your major doesn't matter so much as the intangibles.

Best of luck! Hope you get more opinion.