A Few Continental Philosophy Programs...

[pleasestaycalm]

I'm applying to about 15 programs that specialize in twentieth century continental philosophy this fall. However there are two programs in particular that are troubling me:

The University of Toronto: obviously a very reputable program in many philosophy circles. However, I've read that the faculty at this institution have the "tendency" to be considerably detached or disconnected from their students (similar to NSSR). This seems like it could be one of those programs that has far too many people coming and going through it; thus making it very difficult to not end up as another student who made it through without so much as a trace. Does anyone have any objections or affirmations to this?

Penn State: this was at one time an incredibly reputable program in continental philosophy circles (and still is to a degree). However, to point out the elephant in the room concerning this school, it is obviously now synonymous with the Sandusky scandal (and not to mention many other questionable activities according to some of its former students/employees). Is it wise to acquire a degree from an academic department that has the potential to be overshadowed by the school's reputation as a whole?

Thank you for your responses.

[especially]

Are you applying for MA or PhD? I considered Toronto for the MA, but after emailing and hearing responses from some of the current MA students interested in more continental things it sounded like a bad environment to me. I can message you excerpts of their emails if you're considering an MA. It might be better for the PhD students, though - I would email them asking about the atmosphere, courses available, how the profs seemed. I really found that the MA students were more than willing to type up details, even ones I hadn't specifically asked for.

I don't know about Penn State, unfortunately.

[pleasestaycalm]

especially,

Thank you for your reply. I am considering an MA at Toronto, but a PhD at Penn (it's a long story). If you should find the time, shoot me a few excerpts of some of the MA student's emails. Thanks.

Edited November 6, 2012 by pleasestaycalm

[ProspectStu8735]

Penn state is a highly respected school and any academic or professional who is worth their weight will be able to separate their opinions of a sex scandal from their opinions of your department and academic advisors. I think you second point holds no water. I wouldn't worry about it.