CGU, Temple, and UConn for Applied Research/Evaluation
Hi everyone,
I’m currently trying to decide between three online graduate programs focused on evaluation/applied research:
• Claremont Graduate University — Evaluation & Applied Research
• University of Connecticut — Research Methods, Measurement & Evaluation
• Temple University — Applied Research & Evaluation
My background is in public administration, policy implementation, systems coordination, and program operations within government/public sector spaces. I’m interested in moving further into evaluation, systems analysis, applied research, and policy effectiveness work, particularly in education, social services, and government systems.
I was hoping to hear from anyone who attended, applied to, or seriously considered any of these programs.
Some things I’m trying to figure out:
• Which program is viewed most favorably professionally?
• Which feels the most practical/applied versus overly theoretical?
• How quantitative/statistics-heavy are they really?
• Which has the strongest reputation/networking opportunities?
• Did the degree actually help your career advancement?
• Which program best supports working professionals?
I’m also curious about admissions competitiveness. I have extensive professional experience, leadership experience, strong recommendations, and a substantial professional portfolio, but my GPA is around a 3.1.
For anyone admitted into any of these programs:
• What were your stats/work experience like?
• Do these programs weigh professional experience heavily?
• Has anyone gotten in with a GPA around mine?
I’d especially appreciate perspectives from people working in government, policy, education, nonprofit leadership, implementation, or evaluation/research fields. Thanks!