Contacting profs for MPP/MPA/Masters in IR programs?

[socaljournalist]

How crucial is it to contact professors who share your interests for these professional-type programs? I have only been in touch with one prof at one of ten schools so far, after a suggestion that came out of a campus visit. But I haven't been very aggressive with scanning school websites and emailing profs. Do I need to get on this ASAP? Seems like a great thing to include in a personal statement about why a particular school would be a great fit...

I know it's vital for h.D. programs, but what is the thinking for MPP/MPA/Masters in IR programs?

Thanks, fellow applicants!

[Dreams]

How crucial is it to contact professors who share your interests for these professional-type programs? I have only been in touch with one prof at one of ten schools so far, after a suggestion that came out of a campus visit. But I haven't been very aggressive with scanning school websites and emailing profs. Do I need to get on this ASAP? Seems like a great thing to include in a personal statement about why a particular school would be a great fit...

I know it's vital for h.D. programs, but what is the thinking for MPP/MPA/Masters in IR programs?

Thanks, fellow applicants!

Contacting professors in masters level programs is not necessary, and in some cases discouraged. It definitely will not give you leverage in admissions, as it is the adcoms that will decide the applications, not the professors themselves. If it is someone who you have interest in, and would like some suggested reading lists, then maybe. But I would definitely not be contacting them about admissions related questions.