[AnnaKR]

Hi there,

I'm trying to decide between two postgraduate programmes and could use some help and advice! I got accepted into Oxford's MPhil programme in Russian and East European Studies and Columbia/LSE's dual master's programme in International and World history.

I have always loved Russian history, so Oxford's programme seemed a natural fit, but lately I've been drawn towards the dual master's course. I'd like to go into journalism after graduate studies, and I'm worried about career prospects. Columbia would offer the opportunity to take some journalism modules, but the specialization in Russian studies at Oxford really appeals to me.

Then again there is the price issue. The dual master's programme is incredibly expensive.

Any thoughts or advice?

Thanks,

A.

[janjanmmm]

(Original post by AnnaKR)
Hi there,

I'm trying to decide between two postgraduate programmes and could use some help and advice! I got accepted into Oxford's MPhil programme in Russian and East European Studies and Columbia/LSE's dual master's programme in International and World history.

I have always loved Russian history, so Oxford's programme seemed a natural fit, but lately I've been drawn towards the dual master's course. I'd like to go into journalism after graduate studies, and I'm worried about career prospects. Columbia would offer the opportunity to take some journalism modules, but the specialization in Russian studies at Oxford really appeals to me.

Then again there is the price issue. The dual master's programme is incredibly expensive.

Any thoughts or advice?

Thanks,

A.

Hi,
I got into MPhil REES, too! And I actually am going to do it.

Now, regarding your choice:
It is clear that International and World History will have a lot less to do with Russia. It is probably more useful if you want to stay and work in the US, since Columbia name will be helpful. What is your plan after Masters?

MPhil at Oxford is aimed to go into DPhil. It is basically half way DPhil, with dissertation expandable to Doctorate dissertation. This is what I like about it.

I do not know what much about dual degree, but in the US in general you do not do Masters first, then PhD. You either do Masters and get a job or do PhD. You could do one then the other, but it would be a waste of time, since you will most likely have to start from zero and it will still take 4-5 years. At best 2 years of Masters can buy you one year off PhD, but it is not even a fact.

So, I would say, if you want to work in the US after your Masters - go with Dual, otherwise go with MPhil REES.

[sj27]

Very difficult decision. My 2c: If you want to do journalism then Columbia is a fantastic option - its journalism school has an outstanding reputation so being able to take courses there would be very helpful. A broader degree might also be more useful if you don't plan to do something Russia-specific after the degree. For me personally, the opportunity to study in both London and New York would also be a big draw to that programme.

[Vanbrugh]

I agree with the notion that if you want to go into journalism (especially in the USA) then the Dual Degree programme is best. This is the career choice.

If you want to persue your academic passion then go for Oxford. I know many of the historians who teach Russian history there (taught by them) and they are excellent.