Statement of Purpose, Masters

Graduate School
1

<p>Hi everyone, </p>

<p>I'm having trouble writing my statement of purpose. I'm planning on applying to a few Masters programs in Comp Sci, but a lot of samples and advice for SOPs out there are directed towards PhD and research. I have a couple specialties (security and distributed systems/computing) in mind that I'm interested in, based on classes I've taken, research work that I've done, and internships that I've had. However, there isn't a single one that stands out as the one and only thing that I'm interested in.</p>

<p>How different is a SOP for a Masters program compared to a PhD program? </p>

<p>I'd also like to note that for the time being, I'm only interested in a Masters program, but I don't want to rule out a PhD program for later in the future. Several reasons is that I have a good return job/internship offer and my grades in undergrad are not up to par for a PhD applicant. There is also a chance that I may branch out and get an MBA or JD (IP law in the tech industry). To be honest, I find that it's scary to not know where I'll end up in 5 years...</p>

2

<p>I don’t think it’d be too different, honestly. But instead of putting reasons as to why you want a doctorate, put in your reasons for pursuing masters studies. Since you’re not sure where you’ll end up in 5 years, focus on your experiences and what you want to do at the moment, and what the specific masters program you’re applying to can do to help you achieve your momentary goals.</p>

<p>I wouldn’t mention going into a masters program because of grades, though.</p>