<p>I've read up on A LOT of SOP advice these past few weeks, which was helpful. Problem is, they talk about a lot of things like research interests, which sounds more PhD specific. A good number of MS programs I'm applying for autotrack to a non-thesis program first, so research doesn't seem as applicable to talk about.</p>
<p>What unique advice for the SOP applies only to MS that PhDs don't need to worry about, or what advice only applies to PhD SOPs and not MS?</p>
<p>If you intend for the MS to be your terminal degree - meaning you want to get a job afterwards - you can refer to opportunities the school sponsors that helps you do that. Maybe they have a great internship program, or they place students in very desirable practica. Maybe their career services office is awesome or they have a strong alumni network. Maybe they have a world-class reputation in your field. You can mention those things as what attracted you to the program. (PhD applicants can do the same thing, but just more applicable to their own fields.)</p>
<p>Perhaps there are professors who are famous not only for their research but for their policy work, for connections in business, or for their community work. Perhaps there are really interesting courses. Maybe there’s a really unique curricular offering, like a special concentration you want to do, a dual-degree program, or the possibility of independent study or study abroad. You can highlight the ones that you are interested in and why, how they will shape your experience and your career.</p>
<p>You can still talk about research interests, if you are interested in moving into a PhD after your master’s or if you are interested in getting research-related jobs after you complete the MS. When I applied to MPH programs, my interest was completing a PhD following them, so I talked about research interests and what professors I would like to work with in addition to talking about the stuff I mention above.</p>
<p>I’m sorry for the late reply, but thank you SO much for all of that! I never even thought about mentioning direct influences such as career services.</p>
<p>This is the thread I was looking for. I’m currently in the same situation as you’re right now. My biggest question for an MEng SOP is, what percent of the essay should outline my past experiences, and what percent should be on the prospective school? My essay is currently 1100 words long, is it too long? And I only used up about 30-40% of my essay to talk about the opportunities in that school (I was very specific about my goals though). Would this be enough?</p>
<p>Also, I know that everyone here is busy here, but would anyone want to do me a favor and take 8 minutes of their time reading and commenting on my SOP? I have no one around me to ask for this, and I need someone’s opinion before I submit it. I will read yours in return if you want. PM me if you’re interested, thanks a lot!</p>