Penn -- what do you think for grad school?

<p>Hello all,</p>

<p>I am planning on going into law after undergrad… But I also sort of want to get my [useless] Ph.D in Philosophy.</p>

<p>So I heard (from here actually) that Penn has this program where I could get both my JD and my Ph.D in 6 years. This sounds amazing, and after researching Penn, I am starting to become very interested in it.</p>

<p>Here’s my question: How competitive do you imagine this program is? Also: is this a good idea? </p>

<p>Penn is becomming my new dream university and I would really like to hear what you guys think or know about Penn’s grad school. Apparently, they are ranked very highly in both Law and Philosophy and I do care that it is a top tier school (an Ivy!)… But I care less about where it places than what it has to offer. </p>

<p>In fact, if anyone can give me names of other universities which have such programs, I would be very grateful.</p>

<p>Thanks.</p>

<p>Harvard has this program as well, except 5 years.
I am in the exact same boat.
My dad wants a JD for me, but I want a Ph.D (Philosophy).</p>

<p>I didn't know that Penn has this.
Makes me feel a little warm inside.</p>

<p>I'm currently an undergraduate in Philosophy and I'm familiar with the program you mentioned. You must apply and be admitted to both the Law School and the Philosophy Graduate School in order to enroll, and from there you alternate years of Law and Philosophy, though I think you begin with two years of Philosophy work and TA'ing. Also, your choice of careers has a huge impact on what the program will cost you: go into philosophy, and you owe nothing, go into law, and you pay many thousands of dollars (the reasoning being that you'll be making ridiculous sums of money as a lawyer). Good luck with your decision.</p>

<p>Thank you very much to both of you. </p>

<p>wsdavid: How do you like Penn's Philosophy courses and department in general? Do you plan on getting a Ph.D?</p>

<p>Smoke&Mirrors: What university do you plan on attending for your Ph.D? On what do you plan to focus?</p>

<p>Thanks in advance...</p>