M.A. in Poli Sci — should I be looking at safety schools?

Graduate School
1

<p>Ok, so here's the deal. I'm about to graduate in May from a very, very strong Journalism program near the top of my class. Problem is, with the economy as abysmal as it is, and with my chosen area of emphasis (newspapers) hobbling on its last leg, I think it'd be best to bolster my resume with some post-graduate education.</p>

<p>Since I'll have a solid journalism background and have a strong interest in politics, I want to get a terminal master's degree in political science. I figure the two degrees, journalism and poli sci, should pair together nicely to open up a number of career options. (I could see myself doing political journalism, working with the communications side of campaigns, writing speeches, anything along those lines.)</p>

<p>Anyway, I'm applying to six schools, each of which offer some variation of a terminal master's degree or certificate in poli sci:</p>

<p>Georgetown
George Washington
Penn
Columbia
Virginia
and Texas</p>

<p>My stats are as follows:
GPA: 3.93 (4.0 in my major)
GRE: 750Q, 660V. Waiting on AW, but the last time I took the GRE, I got a 5.5 and figure my worst possible score this time around would be a 4.5; best case, another 5.5. (Old GRE Scores were 650Q and 590V, ugh.)
Recs: Two really killer ones, one pretty damn strong one. All from journalism professors.
Relevant experience: Loads of reporting and editing background, went to the DNC this year for a political academic seminar based on campaigns, politicking and conventions. Several writing awards.</p>

<p>Long story short, what are my chances at these schools? Do you guys think it's at least 90% likely I'll get into at least one of them, or should I tack a state school or two on there? (If so, any suggestions?)</p>

<p>Thanks!</p>

2

<p>Meh. Forget it. Obsessing over this is dumb anyway. I'll just get a job if I don't get in.</p>

3

<p>I think you should have a very good chance at getting into the MA programs at all the schools you listed. The only downside, of course, is that terminal MA programs can be expensive - some of the schools listed above have limited financial aid for terminal MA students, but most of the expense, and all of the living expenses, will likely come out of your pocket.</p>

4

<p>you should be a shoe-in to most of the places you applied. don't stress over it.</p>