Phd in CS at Top Schools / realistic list

[kenkl]

Recently, I am beginning to prepare for my phd application.

 

My degree is a Non - CS major BS in Mechanical Engineering - 3.2 gpa. My research experience might keep me in the league. I am currently taking a Master in Engineering Science by Research at a no name local school. I have 2 good first author international publications and 2 conference papers. All my research are heavy in math theory in computer vision area , BUT I am going to apply for machine learning/HCI. I also have 1 year of GRA experience with my advisor ( a Math PhD from Santa Barbara, if that helps...).

 

I wonder what kind of realistic schools that I should be looking at?. I might also try my luck with one or two top schools.

 

I am actually thinking to boost my gpa by taking a coursework master in statistics at a better school. I think using one more year to increase my chance significantly is worthwhile since graduating from top schools is good in the long run.

 

What's your thought?