MA then PhD, or just PhD?

CheddarcheeseMN
Wed, 06 Sep 2017 15:25:12 +0000

You won’t get into a top PhD program in poli sci with your record, but it isn’t clear that you would get in even after you get a masters first. With your JD and MBA, you will be coming across as a perennial student. My advice if you really want to get a PhD in poli sci is to study hard for the GRE and only consider PhD programs where you will be funded. Then look closely at the placement history in the department to see if you are willing to accept placements like that (understanding that only the employed students tend to be listed.) Another idea is to identify the particular skills you need for the research positions you seek and get those skills without enrolling in another degree program.