<p>I've heard from many that it's a good idea to go to another school to pursue a Master's degree. For the record, I will be studying history.</p>
<p>Well, I've done extensive research and have been frustrated every step of the way. All the programs I would like to attend are way too expensive, even with tuition assistance. So I'm considering staying at my undergrad for a Masters and then pursuing a Ph.D later on in life at a different institution.</p>
<p>Is this bad? I know people say it's best to relocate, but does it actually hurt you to stay? And please note, I would be going somewhere else for a Ph.D later, so does it really matter if my Masters and Undergrad are at the same institution? The reason for this is that I can really only afford to stay in my state (Michigan), and only a few universities have History masters programs. MSU and UofM have Ph.D only and the others (except for mine and one other place) don't specialize in fields I'd like to study. Now, my school (Central Michigan) does have a US history with a few professors who specialize in military history and various international things) which is what I like. My other option is Public History at Western Michigan, but they focus on medieval history which is useless to me. </p>
<p>So, does it really matter if I stay at CMU?</p>
<p>I’ve had the same problem. Everywhere I want to go for an MA is so expensive. I’m not sure about History, but I was advised by one of my prof’s (Philosophy) that it really dosen’t mater where you get your MA, just your PhD.</p>
<p>PhD is what really matters. There are several reasons to get your degrees at different places including contacts, alumni network, environment, etc…</p>
<p>The only real stigma is when undegrad-masters-phd are all from the same place. 2 of 3 from one school is no problem, nor is undergrad-masters from same school.</p>
<p>The most important factor in your case will be the MA program’s PhD placement rate. Ask the DGS for this data, and for information about which PhD programs recent MAs now attend. If these PhD programs are not stellar, then you should absolutely not choose to do your MA at Central Mich.</p>
<p>also, consider applying for PhD programs right out of your BA. those programs will often give incoming students full funding with a living stipend, either through fellowship or work as a TA. that will eliminate the cost factor and you earn an MA along the way, unceremoniously mailed to you after about two years in the program.</p>
<p>of course, you can apply for a terminal MA now anyway, but doing the PhD degree now will be cheaper and will free up your choice of school and location.</p>