<p>I graduated from UCSD with a BA in History (2008). My GPA (2.9) and GRE (440V/650Q) clearly were not good. BUT I decided to apply to doctoral programs in History (Middle East focus) in 2007 anyways. The only school that accepted me was the University of Arizona for an MA program in Near Eastern Studies. So far I am doing really well in my MA program and have a high GPA. I am going to retake the GRE in October. My question is - will having an MA in Near Eastern Studies increase my chances for being accepted into a PhD program in History (with a Middle East emphasis), provided that my GRE scores improve significantly? What I really want to know is whether or not a high graduate school GPA can offset a low undergraduate GPA?</p>
<p>Having a high GPA in your MA will definitely help, but it’s not going to instantly make you competitive at the top programs. You chose one of the toughest fields when it comes to PhD admissions. Improve that verbal GRE. Get good letters of rec. Apply to a nice mix of programs where you fit in well…and hope for the best.</p>
<p>Thanks for the response! I currently have a 3.8 in my MA program, but I am trying to work it up to a 3.9, and yes, I need to improve the verbal GRE.</p>
<p>I agree completely with VastlyOverrated. Your MA grades should help, but your letters of rec will be even more important. A substantial jump in the verbal score is also necessary.</p>
<p>Demonstrated linguistic expertise (classes on transcript, evidence in writing sample, LORs attesting to linguistic skills) will also help your application.</p>
<p>Forget about the +/-. The adcoms will see how the transcript and grading system work and figure out for themselves. Your LORs, SOP, and fit with the department will be among the very top consideration.</p>