Unsuccessful but promising PhD apps forwarded to MAs?

[kdavid]

My goal is to get a PhD. However, I'm worried my background may not be strong enough and that an MA may be needed for the programs I want to get into.

 

For the upcoming cycle, I have about 10-15 different programs I'm very interested in. Many of these programs also have strong MA programs in which I'm interested.

 

My question:

 

If I apply to a PhD program and the committee sees me as promising but not yet ready for a PhD, will they automatically forward me to the relevant MA program, or, should I apply to both?

 

Clearly, applying to both programs makes more work and potentially higher application fees.

 

I also think it would be a bit strange writing one SOP which states I'm clearly ready for a PhD, but then another for an MA (for the same university and potentially same readers!) stating that an MA would be beneficial prior to starting a PhD. I also wouldn't want to write in an MA SOP that I'm only applying to the MA as a back-up.

 

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated!

Edited August 26, 2013 by kdavid

[nugget]

I think you need to call each school you want to apply to and ask as the practices and policies will probably vary from school to school.

[czesc]

Yes, there are schools that automatically forward applications, but they tend to forward them to their general humanities MA programs. For example, Chicago may offer you a place in its MAPH program, or NYU in the Draper program. Other schools allow you to check a box on your PhD application that will give you the option of having the application forwarded. I second jenste's advice to look into each school individually to see how they do this.

[Beckert]

I would also recommend looking into BA to PhD programs if you haven't already since you get a masters along the way in the same program.

[dr. t]

Yes, there are schools that automatically forward applications, but they tend to forward them to their general humanities MA programs. For example, Chicago may offer you a place in its MAPH program, or NYU in the Draper program. Other schools allow you to check a box on your PhD application that will give you the option of having the application forwarded. I second jenste's advice to look into each school individually to see how they do this.

 

Small correction: UChicago forwards its PhD apps for History to its MAPSS program, not the MAPH. I mention this because there is significant difference in how these programs are perceived and represented on the interwebs.

Edited September 28, 2013 by telkanuru

[TMP]

After my PhD app was rejected (years ago), I called for it to be forward to another dept for their MA program (which my adviser was a chair of) so I could have another shot at working with her.  Worked out just fine