PHD in Public Administration, American and George Washington University

Graduate School
1

<p>Hello everyone,</p>

<p>I have two semesters left to get my MPA from the University of Alabama Birmingham, it's not a top tier school, but it is ranked and the second best in my state. I am interested in pursuing my PHD, and the two programs I am drawn to the most are George Washington and American University in DC. These programs seem like great private institutions, that I could recieve a great education at as well as possibly networked in the capitol.</p>

<p>I do have a few detriments to my application. I only recieved a 3.15 in my undergraduate coursework with a 3.55 in my major coursework. I will also have to retake the GRE and work toward a 1300, I am planning on taking the Kaplan course. My first semester in graduate school was at Penn State and I got a 3.67, this semester my grades are floating in the A- range as well.</p>

<p>I wanted to know what would improve my chances of getting into these universities, as the faculty have been very vague and unhelpful to my inquiries. Also, I wanted to know how the funding and tuition system works in a PHD program. Thank you.</p>

2

<p>Just out of personal curiousity, what are the different career prospects once you get a ph.d public administration? The reason I am asking is that my son is in the MPP program at American University, and I am curious about the different career paths available.</p>

3

<p>Someone more knowledgeable could correct me, but as far as career options goes, you can obviously be a professor, but I also believe you could get hire on with various think tanks and interest groups to public research depending on your interests.</p>