Top Tier Divinity School With Unrelated Undergrad

[-viveladifference-]

I am currently in the process of deciding which schools to apply to for a Masters degree and wasn't sure whether I'm over- or under-estimating my own prospects.

 

My top choices are Harvard MTS and Chicago's MA in Religion. My main interest in is Islamic Studies (medieval history). However, my undergrad is in Political Science, with little overlap in my proposed area of research. I have taken 2 years of Arabic and a 7 courses in Islamic studies at my school, with A grades in all of them. I feel like my lack of preparation may put me at a disadvantage. On upside, my stats are good: 3.7 cGPA (3.9 not including a poor first year) and 164V 163Q 5.5AWA GRE scores. 

 

I was thinking of applying to one another "safety" school, but am beginning to worry that one safety school may not be enough.

 

And finally, for the SOP - how in depth should one be when discussing possible areas of research? Something like "Medieval Islamic history" or "Sufism" is quite broad, but at the same time I think being too specific (I want to investigate the intellectual history of X period by investigating the thought of Y person) may make me seem too myopic. 

[sacklunch]

Your background is not unrelated. In fact I think you will find you have a much stronger background than many of your fellow students wherever you end up. The fact that you have begun Arabic is a huge plus and one that will very likely help you secure a spot at both schools (generally speaking Islamic Studies tracks are the least applied to in such programs, making admissions a bit lighter). If there is anyone of interest there, you might throw YDS in the mix, only because they traditionally offer good funding. Chicago, as you likely know, is fairly stingy with giving out full rides (most get 50%, I think).

Concerning the SOP, I would be more specific than "Sufism," but not so focused as to pit yourself as only interested in one particular topic. You can be specific, but just make sure you pull back a bit and, best of all, why X program will help you develop aforesaid interests. 

[mdiv2014]

being at harvard, i can say there is a fair handful of M students with 'unrelated' bach. degrees. take a look at hds courses and how they (into 2017) match your interest and keep in mind you can cross enroll to greater harvard community (gsas, etc)

sop should show passion. what you can bring to the table. i see many specific and many broadly interested mts students here. you have a shot , feel free to pm me

Edited October 4, 2014 by mdiv2014