On a similar theme of CO's last post

I'm looking at many different schools to apply for regarding my DMA/PHD. My current list is: John Hopkins, Rice, Northwestern, North Texas, and Miami (more as a safety school). My question for you guys, especially those that have followed my compositional development over the past 3 years, what schools do you guys think I should apply to that will help me go in the direction I need to go. What schools do you think I have a chance at getting into, what do you guys think I need to work on in regard to composition, do these schools seem ideal for me? What would you guys suggest.

I actually think you should add an international school on your list - one in Germany and Royal School of Music in England.

I have heard very good things about U of North Texas. I also wonder - have you thought about Columbia Steindhardt? I think it would boil down to a) the professors you want to work with and b) the environment you want to be around. Personally I think you would benefit from a planned stay of a few years in a larger music center such as NYC (which encompasses the Boston and DC music scenes due to ther extensive public transport) or international locale.

Though I will say with Texas you have a healthy music scene down there especially in central eastern TX where Louisiana is a few hours drive to offer more diverse music options.

For practicality, aside from Miami or U of North Texas, Northwestern may be the best choice as Chicago has a great music scene, international connections, and probably more affordable to live. If you want to take the NYC plunge and save money, one of the best deals for a PhD program is The Graduate Center at CUNY. The main drawback of this school is it is very very theory heavy and a bit more mid 20th century traditionalists. That is why I would apply to Columbia Steinhardt. But I really think as a "dream" school you try something international - either Germany or UK (not sure what France offers except IRCAM).

What does your teacher suggest?