Potential Joint Degree Forum

[franksandbeans]

I'm rushing to send out law school apps as soon as possible, but am also considering applying for a joint degree in policy at HKS/WWS/SIPA. However, I have not yet made my decision and doubt that I will be able to do so before I send out my law school apps. Can I just mark "no" my law school apps when it asks if I am applying for a joint program and then try to get status as a "joint" student if I get admitted to both? I'm wary of just calling the schools to update my application if I end up deciding to do the second degree because it might make me appear a bit flaky (especially since my personal statement doesn't really relate to policy as it stands now).

Thanks!

[franksandbeans]

bump...

[Samara]

If I'm understanding you correctly, I think you're fine to go ahead and send your app with it marked no. I think it's almost there more as a marketing thing since you have to be admitted separately anyway. I can't imagine it's something that can't be worked out later, but call the school if you aren't sure. It's not flaky to not yet be sure about a second degree, it's prudent.

[nealric]

I'm thinking about having a bonfire of $50,000 too. What a kawinkidink!

[gin]

I don't think most people who do joint degrees decide until their 1L year. Even if you choose right now, on your first year you would only take the standard 1L classes and don't start classes for the other school until your second year so you still have time

[yuzu]

It really shouldn't matter. I think it's primarily an indication of interest. If your PS is stronger without any mention of an interest in policy, you might as well say no.

If you get in to both programs and call the admissions offices, they should have no problem making you a joint student.

Personally I think if you are accepted to one program and the counterpart application is pending, you would want to write the pending program's admissions office and mention your acceptance and your interest in the joint program. They may view it as an accomplishment, and I don't think they would view it negatively. Instead, it would highlight your interest in their school specifically.

I have heard of cases where a student is accepted to one program immediately after the other. (think it was at Stanford?) It's possible that the joint acceptance would be a benefit in those cases.