Chicago CIR or Columbia MIA?

[Gn Peng]

Hi everyone,

       I recently got accepted to Chicago CIR and Columbia MIA. Does anyone know which program might be a better choice?

       Specifically, I prefer pursuing a Political Science Phd after receiving MA. My field of interest might be International Political Economy. Does anyone know which program might be a good transition to Phd?

 

Right now I know some pros and cons for each program:

Chicago CIR:

Pros: Dedicated to academic training. Rigorous Course, MA Thesis and Good Phd placement (Shown in the CIR website)

Cons: Only one year program. Faculty Strength < Columbia (with a focus on IPE)

 

Columbia SIPA:

Pros: Great Faculty! 2-year program, joint-degree with QMSS.

Cons: Professional School. Almost no student pursue Phd degree right after graduating.

 

P.S.: International Student. No funding for two programs.

 

Thanks!

 

 

[phdhope2013]

Did you apply to PhD programs this cycle? I am just asking because while CIR placement is good, it is hard to deny that the majority of those schools these students are being accepted to are ranked below Chicago, so you may be better off going straight into a PhD program.

Considering your 2 choices are almost complete opposites of each other, I would go with Chicago since you are interested in doing a PhD and financially I believe Chicago would be the less risky option. 

[Gn Peng]

Thx for replying! I did apply two Phds(all rejected) and I applied to CIR master rather than being accomadated to it.