Conflict Res. - American vs. Georgetown vs. GMU

[cdunlap]

I was admitted to all 3 D.C. area school that offer a Conflict Resolution program, but I am having a really hard time deciding where I should enroll. . .

 

American - I applied for the Master's International program (i.e. Peace Corps and Masters). Actually I applied for the International Affairs: Global Governance, Politics and Security program, but I received an email saying I would be a better fit for the CR program. AU was my first choice (after I was rejected from my original top choice) because I was really interested in the IR program I applied for. Now that I was admitted to their CR program AU is in line with the other 2 schools. 

 

Georgetown - Pretty straight forward 2 year program. I am leaning toward Georgetown because it is well known. 

 

George Mason - Applied through for the Master's Int'l program just like I did with AU. GMU is my 3rd choice, but recently I have been hearing that their CR program is more highly regarded then Georgetown. Is this true?

 

Currently I am debating a couple of things. First, do I want to spend 2 years in the PC halfway through my program? If so, I would go to AU. However, I could always join the PC after school or forgo it all together even if I do enroll in AU. Second, should I chose a school based on name recognition and possible networking opportunities? If so, I will probably choose Georgetown. 

 

Does anyone have any advice on any of these program? Maybe experience or information about networking or career services? At the moment, career services and post-grad career opportunities are my main selling point. But any advice will be greatly appreciated!

[cdunlap]

I realized I should add some more info!

 

1. I am not taking loans/fees into consideration when deciding. 

 

2. I am interested in working internationally, especially with refugees. I would eventually like to be a Foreign Service Officer. 

 

3. AU's program in Int'l Peace & Conflict Resolution. One of the selling points for me is its specific international focus especially with my career goals. 

 

4. However, Georgetown has a concentration in Refugee and Humanitarian Studies. 

[m-ttl]

Personally I would go with Georgetown since it has a concentration in the exact thing you want to do. Seems to me like that would be the biggest pull in choosing any graduate program if finances are of no concern.

[MeowMeowMeow]

Loved Georgetown. Great balance of professional development and intellectual practice. Totally loved it.

[X-Thor]

I think Georgetown is a great fit for you. I also was accepted into the CR program (so proud!), but I'll probably decline the offer and go to Fletcher (it has a CR option). I get the impression that S-CAR's MS in CR is better or as good as Georgetown's, but I'm not sure it's a good fit for what you want to do. 

 

Awesome to see someone else interested in the CR field!