Where should you apply?

U. S. News and World Report lists the top programs (in many cases, according to different areas of specialty), and you might want to consult their rankings in deciding where to apply. Better yet, ask your professors what schools might be best for you. Schools' strengths vary (some are strong in some fields, weaker in others), and these strengths also vary over time (as important professors come and go), so it's best to make use of as many sources of information as possible. There are at least 50 fine places to do graduate work (all with websites). Some of these, however, have better success placing their graduates in jobs, and this success-rate might be a factor in your decision. But location might also play a role-as might resources (libraries, financial support), ancillary programs (in other languages, cultural studies, history), and availability of particular professors. Because good graduate programs are all very competitive, it makes sense to apply to as many as possible, and to make your decision once you see what each school has to offer you.