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UCL History and Politics of the Americas

Hi, I was wondering if this relatively new program would limit the scope of my future career aspirations - although I am definitely going for a master's right after the bachelors (most probably in the US), do you think History and Pol of the Americas could potentially limit my other school applications or work later down the line? I know UCL is obviously prestigious, but wondered if the same could be said about this program. I've also got an offer for politics at King's and awaiting a decision for a Bsc in Politics at LSE, so I'd also want to know how these options weigh up. Thanks!
Original post by DavidLeech
Hi, I was wondering if this relatively new program would limit the scope of my future career aspirations - although I am definitely going for a master's right after the bachelors (most probably in the US), do you think History and Pol of the Americas could potentially limit my other school applications or work later down the line? I know UCL is obviously prestigious, but wondered if the same could be said about this program. I've also got an offer for politics at King's and awaiting a decision for a Bsc in Politics at LSE, so I'd also want to know how these options weigh up. Thanks!

I don't think it's that new? Pretty sure the Institute of the Americas at UCL has been running it for a while now.

I can't see how it would limit you if you wanted to do anything relating to the history and/or politics of North or South America. Probably an excellent preparation. Obviously if you have broader interests outside that focus it may not be as good a fit but if you know that's what you want to do then I imagine it's a good option.

If you want a more general course LSE is an option that is probably of similar calibre.

In terms of studying in the US LSE might have some more immediate name recognition but UCL is well know and quite strong in its own right (there are quite a few academics that started in the US then came to UCL; also a fair few American undergrads and postgraduate so obviously it has international pull, which goes both ways).
Reply 2
Original post by artful_lounger
I don't think it's that new? Pretty sure the Institute of the Americas at UCL has been running it for a while now.
I can't see how it would limit you if you wanted to do anything relating to the history and/or politics of North or South America. Probably an excellent preparation. Obviously if you have broader interests outside that focus it may not be as good a fit but if you know that's what you want to do then I imagine it's a good option.
If you want a more general course LSE is an option that is probably of similar calibre.
In terms of studying in the US LSE might have some more immediate name recognition but UCL is well know and quite strong in its own right (there are quite a few academics that started in the US then came to UCL; also a fair few American undergrads and postgraduate so obviously it has international pull, which goes both ways).

And do you think choosing this program could impact employability down the line in industries like NGO's or political journalism? I am just trying to judge what kind of effect having a more narrow scope of study could have in the future
Original post by DavidLeech
And do you think choosing this program could impact employability down the line in industries like NGO's or political journalism? I am just trying to judge what kind of effect having a more narrow scope of study could have in the future

I'd imagine it's equivocal just in general as I'd be surprised if they were particularly fussed about UCL vs LSE for that kind of course, but am not that familiar with those areas so can't say with certainty.

That said UCL actually has a bunch of journalism, radio and documentary filmmaking related modules in the anthropology department so I think that might be a but of a thing at UCL in general perhaps?

Might have some more opportunity to get involved in such things from student projects as a result (although invariably print journalism and radio opportunities are usually available at most unis).

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