msc or phd degree

Should I Pursue A Master’s or A Ph.D.?

The first step in deciding on the right graduate program for you is to figure out which degree will best serve you—a master’s or a doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.). Here are a few factors to consider.

What are your career goals?

• Professional master’s: A good choice if you want to develop a particular skill set in order to practice a particular profession. This type of degree provides coursework focused on learning and practicing skills.
• Research master’s: A good fit if you want to gain expertise in a discipline and know how to teach it. A research master’s typically includes a research project or thesis and comprehensive exams in addition to coursework and provides experience in research and scholarship.
• Ph.D. (doctor of philosophy): Consider this option if your goal is to ground yourself in a body of research and develop the ability to add to that body of knowledge. Ph.D. study includes a major research project in addition to coursework, and a Ph.D. is the highest scholastic degree awarded by American universities. Contrary to common perception, career paths for Ph.D. graduates are quite varied, not just limited to academia. Ph.D. training helps you hones skills such as writing, research, teaching, data analysis, communicating complex topics—all of which can translate into many sectors, including industry, government, nonprofit, and entrepreneurship.

See career data for Duke graduate programs' alumni

How much time do you have to pursue a graduate degree?

Master’s degrees typically take two years to complete, while Ph.D. programs generally take five to seven years ( see Duke programs' time-to-degree ). That is a significant difference in commitment and opportunity costs. It might also play a key role in deciding which factors take higher priority as you evaluate a program. How does the length of the program fit with your career and family plans? How important is the surrounding community if you are going to be there for seven years instead of two? How long are you able or willing to go on a limited income while in graduate school?

How much can you afford to pay for a graduate degree?

Consider your personal financial situation (e.g., how much savings and student loans do you have), as well as how much financial aid you can get. Master’s and Ph.D. programs differ greatly in the amount of financial aid available. Ph.D. programs tend to offer significantly more financial support than master’s programs (but often will have research or teaching requirements). 

A typical Ph.D. financial aid package usually includes coverage of tuition and fees, a living stipend, and some level of support for health insurance for a set number of years. For instance, Duke’s standard Ph.D. package covers tuition, mandatory fees, and a stipend for five years, as well as health insurance premiums for six years. 

Within an institution, the level of financial support often differs across programs, so be sure to ask your specific program about the financial aid it offers. There are also many national organizations that provide competitive fellowships and scholarships for graduate students.

Know which degree you want to pursue? Here are some key things to look for in a program .

Tips for Online Students , Tips for Students

Master’s vs PhD — These are the Main Differences

Updated: July 18, 2022

Published: October 31, 2019

The consideration between earning a master’s vs PhD is not always an easy choice. While many careers and personal aspirations may be complete with just an undergraduate degree (Associate’s or Bachelor’s), a lot of people continue their higher education to obtain graduate degrees. These include a master’s and/or a PhD.

Neither a master’s degree nor a PhD is considered to be a walk in the park. Therefore, it’s useful to understand why you would earn either and then decide how far to go.

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Definitions: master’s vs phd.

Bost a master’s and PhD are defined as postgraduate degrees, but they require different commitments and styles of learning.

1. Master’s Degree:

Mostly all master’s degrees will require the completion of an undergraduate bachelor’s degree to enroll. They generally all share the same common requirement for a thesis or dissertation to graduate.

Earning a master’s degree through a taught program will result in the completion of a Master of Art (MA), Master of Science (MS), or Master of Philosophy (MPhil). For those who earn their master’s degree through research, they will earn a Master of Research (Mre), in a tailored field of study. There are also degree-specific master’s programs like Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Education (M.Ed).

After earning a master’s degree, the next step is a PhD, which entails both working and performing research at an institution. A PhD is an abbreviation for “Doctor of Philosophy.” It is the highest academic degree one can achieve. As such, it is a time-consuming pursuit that requires a lot of studying and research.

You may be wondering, “Do you need a master’s to get a PhD?”

Technically, the answer is not always. Some students skip a master’s and go straight for their PhD, but they may lack research experience. While it could save money, the transition between a bachelor’s and a PhD is incredibly sharp. It may be harder to complete a PhD without the experience from a master’s.

Yet, some institutions may allow for the possibility to earn both your master’s and PhD in conjunction with one another. This will alleviate the transition between skipping a master’s and going straight to earning a PhD.

Should You Get a Master’s or PhD?

There are many considerations to factor when deciding between a master’s of PhD. For starters, it’s useful to consider the amount of time it will take, the cost, and the benefits and disadvantages of each. It is also of utmost importance to explore your own personal goals and reasons for wanting a graduate degree.

If your desired career of choice requires a PhD, like becoming a university professor, then you have your answer. If you want to start a business and benefit by networking while in school, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) could be a good idea. Consider what you want to pursue as a career and find out the requirements first.

Another useful thing to note is that a master’s degree can be used for a shift in careers. For example, if you attended college and earned a bachelor’s degree in humanities, but now you want to pursue science, you can still earn your master’s degree in a scientific discipline. On the other hand, a PhD is tailored to your field of study and specialty, so it will require that you are sure of your direction when you first earn your master’s degree.

Length of Time

A typical master’s degree program takes about two years full-time. However, there are accelerated programs that can be completed in just a year or so.

A PhD, in general, requires five to six years of studying, teaching, and research. However, it may even take some students up to eight or nine years to graduate. With this significant investment in time, it’s necessary to know if a PhD is right for you before starting.

The cost of both programs varies by institution and enrollment status of part-time versus full-time. However, since a PhD takes longer to complete, it will end up costing more. With that said, if you look into your return on investment, a PhD could end up yielding a higher salary, and therefore end up “costing less.”

Additionally, there is also the possibility of being paid to complete your PhD. Some students may receive an academic stipend, a university fellowship or apprenticeship or a reduced fee to earn their PhD while completing research (or teaching) at an institution. It’s also possible to get financial aid through a scholarship or grant.

As tuition rates continue to rise, it’s useful to look into alternative institutions for affordable education. For example, the University of the People offers a tuition-free master’s program in Business Administration and Education. This means you can study 100% online and graduate for less than the cost of most programs.

Weighing the Benefits

When comparing the two degree types, here are some benefits of each:

• Career-oriented
• Can open the door for more job opportunities
• Costs less than a PhD
• Takes less time than a PhD
• Helps you stand out from those with only an undergraduate degree
• You can perform research in your field of choice
• You become an expert in your field
• The prefix Dr. is added to your name
• You can teach in academia at the highest level

Required Commitment and Reasons to Pursue

Both a master’s and a PhD require a huge amount of hard work and utter commitment. You must be dedicated and motivated to complete either degree. Since most careers only may require a bachelor’s degree, having a master’s or PhD will set you apart from the competition. However, this should not be the sole reason to pursue either.

You may be wondering why would you earn either degree. Here’s a look at some motivational factors:

Reasons to Study for a Master’s

• Your career requires it (see next section)
• You want to advance your subject knowledge
• You want to experience graduate school and network with peers

Reasons to Study for a PhD

• You want to contribute new research to your field of choice
• Your career requires a PhD
• You want to earn the title of Dr.

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Required degrees by career.

Most people are motivated to pursue higher education because their desired careers require they do so. Here, we will break down those fields that require the completion of a master’s degree as it’s high on the list of reasons why to get one.

• Education Administration: To work as an administrator in an educational institution, you need to hold an advanced degree. A Master’s in Education (M.Ed) will provide you with the necessary knowledge and required skills to succeed in the field.
• Executive Level Business: A Master’s in Business (MBA) will not only place you ahead of the competition to land high-level positions in the field of business, but it can also be the jumping off point for becoming your own boss.
• Environmental Science: With issues in climate change and technological advancement, careers in Environmental Science are growing. As with most scientific careers, it requires a master’s degree where you will learn Applied Ecology, Environmental Policy, Environmental Chemistry, and more.
• Mental Health: To become a licensed practitioner and assist in mental health counseling, you will continue your education through a master’s degree in the field.
• Physical Therapy: Employers of physical therapists often prefer them to obtain a master’s degree in the discipline as the field is highly specialized.

Of course, some careers require a PhD. These careers are easy to spot because they have the prefix Dr. in front of them or the suffix like J.D. (Juris Doctor). To become a lawyer, doctor of medicine, veterinary medicine or psychologist/psychiatrist, you must obtain a PhD in the respective field.

Salary Differences Between Master’s and Ph.D. Graduates

According to a study performed by the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce , the overall evidence shows that the higher the degree you have, the higher your salary potential. However, the differences vary by subject level and field.

In general, the expected lifetime earnings of those with each degree level is as follows:

• High School Diploma: $973,000
• Bachelor’s Degree: $1.3 million
• Master’s Degree: $2.7 million
• Doctorate Degree: $3.3 million

The Bottom Line

Aside from the financial cost and length of time, the opportunity to earn a master’s and a doctorate degree can offer several benefits.

However, it is an undertaking that requires a lot of dedication and motivation on behalf of the student. As such, it’s important to perform research on your desired career’s requirements, as well as your personal interest in pursuing either a Phd vs master’s.

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Demystifying Graduate Degrees: Comparing Master’s vs. Doctorate

You want a graduate degree — to continue exploring your passions, make discoveries or advance your career — but how do you turn that decision into a plan?

It starts with understanding the difference between a master’s and a PhD in your field. They differ in length, intensity, curriculum and career paths, so you’ll also need a clear idea of why you want to pursue a graduate degree to determine which one you should get.

What Is a Master’s Degree?

If you’ve completed your undergraduate degree, it might be time to ask, “What’s next?”

That’s where Master’s degrees can come in.

Whether you want to specialize in a particular area or get advanced skills in your profession, a master’s degree can help you get there in 1-2 years.

The most common types of master's degrees include:

• Master of Arts (MA),
• Master of Science (MS),
• Master of Business Administration (MBA),
• Master of Education (MEd),
• and Master of Fine Arts (MFA). 

What do you learn in a master’s program?

The short answer? A lot.

Master’s degree programs are designed to build on the foundational knowledge gained during your undergraduate studies, and the curriculum focuses on advanced knowledge and skills in a particular field.

Here’s what you can expect to encounter in a master’s program:

Advanced coursework:  Master's programs provide advanced courses that build upon the foundational knowledge gained during your undergraduate studies. These courses delve deeper into specific topics within your field and often explore the latest research and developments. 

Specialization:  One of the primary goals of a master's program is to allow you to specialize in a particular area. Whether pursuing a Master of Arts, Master of Science, or a professional degree like an MBA, you can focus your studies on a specific subfield or concentration within your discipline. 

Research and analysis:   Many master's programs require you to engage in research projects and analytical work. This could involve conducting independent research under the guidance of a faculty advisor or participating in group research projects with fellow students. Through these research experiences, you’ll develop critical thinking and analytical skills, learn how to gather and evaluate relevant data and draw meaningful conclusions.

Practical applications and internships:  Some master's programs incorporate practical training opportunities like internships, practicums, or field experiences; hands-on experiences allow you to apply the knowledge and skills gained in the classroom to real-world settings.

Collaboration and networking:  A Master's program is a rich collaboration and networking environment. Collaborative projects, group discussions, and professional events allow you to exchange ideas and build connections within your field, often leading to long-lasting professional relationships and potential career opportunities.

Thesis project:   Outside of building skills like project management, problem-solving, project management, and effective communication, thesis projects in master's degree programs serve as a cornerstone for building advanced skills, expanding professional networks, and contributing to the body of knowledge in your respective field. 

Why get a master’s degree?

Career advancement: One primary advantage of getting a master’s degree is an edge in the job market. Employers value the specialized knowledge and advanced skills that come with a master’s degree, opening up new and exciting career opportunities.  The cherry on top? Individuals with a master’s degree often earn more than those without an advanced degree — you can take that to the bank, especially if you set yourself up for financial success during your studies. Flexibility: Another aspect to consider is the flexibility that a master’s degree offers. Many programs offer part-time or online options, allowing you to balance your studies with work or other commitments.  This flexibility can be particularly helpful if you’re already established in your career but want to gain additional qualifications.  Growth opportunities: Depending on your field, a master’s degree can be a stepping stone toward a PhD or other doctoral programs. It gives you a solid foundation in research methods and academic rigor — a boon if you want to pursue a career in academia or conduct advanced research.

What is a Doctoral Degree or PhD?

A doctoral degree is a terminal degree — it represents the pinnacle of academic achievement and is the most advanced degree you can attain. Doctoral students want to become authorities in their chosen fields and develop the skills to conduct independent and original research. 

Doctoral programs usually span 3-6 years of full-time study, during which students complete advanced coursework, pass comprehensive examinations, engage in extensive research and ultimately produce a dissertation that contributes new knowledge to the field. 

There are several types of doctoral degrees based on different academic and professional aspirations, including:

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD),
• Doctor of Education (EdD),
• And Doctor of Psychology (PsyD), among others. 

What do you learn in a doctoral program?

When you successfully defend your dissertation and complete your degree, you also become an expert in your field — but it doesn’t happen overnight. Here's what you can expect to encounter in a doctoral program:

Advanced research: If you’re looking for a hard emphasis on research, a doctoral program is the place to be. Over several years, PhD students engage in extensive research activities — including conducting independent research, producing scholarly publications, and contributing to the knowledge base of their field through original research contributions.

Theoretical and conceptual frameworks:  PhDs are an incredible opportunity to deepen your understanding of theoretical and conceptual frameworks in your field of study. You'll critically analyze existing theories, evaluate their applicability, and develop your theoretical frameworks to advance knowledge and understanding in your chosen area of research.

Advanced methodological training:  Because a dissertation is an original research project, you’ll gain advanced training in research methodologies and data analysis techniques, like designing robust research studies, collecting and analyzing data, and drawing valid and reliable conclusions from your research findings.

Critical thinking and intellectual independence: Both academia and industry employers highly value independent thinkers and workers. Doctoral programs foster critical thinking and intellectual independence by challenging you to evaluate existing research, identify gaps in knowledge, and propose innovative research ideas. Teaching and Mentoring Experience: Being a teacher or mentor is a great opportunity to share your hard-earned knowledge, and universities agree. Doctoral programs often provide opportunities to teach and mentor undergraduate students, develop effective pedagogical skills, and contribute to the academic community.

Dissertation project:  Your dissertation is the culmination of years of hard work within your field. By enrolling in a doctoral program, you’re also given the chance to participate in a significant and original research endeavor that demonstrates the expertise you’ve worked so hard to cultivate.

Why Get a Doctorate?

Having a doctorate doesn’t just open doors; it can kick them down. A doctorate might be right for you if you’re looking for a door to these things:

Expertise and specialization:  Doctoral degrees can be a labor of love. They help you delve deeper into a specific subject area, gaining expertise and specialization.

Research opportunities:  Extensive research training, opportunities for conducting original research, and contributing new knowledge to the academic community — these three things make a doctorate coveted by students, universities, and employers.

Salary potential and career advancement: In some fields, having a doctorate can lead to higher earning potential and increased salary opportunities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , doctoral degree holders made an average of $1,885 per week in 2020, while master’s degree holders made an average of $1,545 per week.

Contribution to society:  Doctoral research often addresses pressing societal issues, contributing to advancements in technology, healthcare, education, and other areas for the benefit of society — for many students, contributing to the greater good is just as rewarding as career advancement or personal development.

What’s the difference between a dissertation and a thesis?

You might have heard “thesis” and “dissertation” used interchangeably, but they’re not quite the same. Here are the general distinctions to consider:

• A thesis is usually associated with a master's degree program. Students undertake a research project in the final stage of their degree.
• It typically involves conducting original research or analyzing existing research to answer a specific research question.
• The length of a thesis varies based on the field and program requirements, but it’s usually shorter than a dissertation.

Dissertation:

• A dissertation is typically associated with a doctoral degree program. It is an extensive, in-depth research project that marks the culmination of a doctoral program.
• in-depth exploration of a research topic
• comprehensive literature review
• methodology section
• data collection and analysis
• substantive discussion of findings and conclusions.
• Dissertations are usually longer than theses and may take several years to complete.
• Once you’ve completed your dissertation, you participate in a formal defense of the research, where you’ll present your findings to a committee of experts in the field.

Key Differences: Master's vs. PhD

Deciding between master's vs. phd programs.

“Should I get a master’s degree or a PhD?”

Answering that question can be exciting — and a bit intimidating. You must consider long-term career objectives, personal interests, and the time you can commit. Plus, the level of specialization you wish to achieve based on your career path is also a factor. Typically, a PhD is a prerequisite for those aspiring to research careers in academia, while professional roles in various industries may require only a master's degree. 

It’s still worth noting that students have the option of completing a master's degree first and then, based on their experiences and career aspirations, deciding whether to pursue a PhD.

Find the right graduate degree at SMU 

A graduate degree is a big investment, so investing in the right program is important.

SMU offers a diverse array of master's and PhD programs tailored to align with your unique interests and career goals, and personalized support, from the applicant to the graduate, is always available. 

Whether you're interested in pursuing a PhD in Chemistry or are almost finished with your MBA, we can help you find the right advanced degree.

This could just be the beginning of your journey. Get a closer look at applying to graduate programs of your choice with our guide, How to Get a PhD: A Guide to Choosing and Applying to PhD Programs .

Learn More About

Doctoral degrees at SMU, and how you can choose the right program and thrive in it, in our Guide to Getting a PhD.

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Articles & Advice > Graduate School > Articles

Master's or PhD: Which One Should You Choose?

You know you want an advanced degree, but just how advanced? Keep reading to discover the key differences between master's and doctoral degrees.

by GradSchools.com Graduate School Directory

Last Updated: Dec 18, 2023

Originally Posted: Jun 20, 2011

Just as there are many reasons people choose to go to graduate school, there are many options from which they may choose. Do you want to attend full-time? Maybe you want to go part-time and work. Or perhaps an online program option will work best for you. But before you can decide on the format type of your program, you need to decide on your program. If you’ve selected a field of study, you may be wondering whether you should get a master's degree or a doctoral degree. Here are some things to consider to help you choose which one is best for you.

3 key differences between programs

Before you can properly weigh the pros and cons of a master’s degree vs. a doctoral program, you must understand the major differences between the two programs. And although that may sound like pros and cons in itself, a pros and cons list is based mainly on your personal preference. So before figuring out preference, you must consider the facts, and these are it.

A graduate degree requires a significant investment of time. Master's degrees require less time than doctoral degrees. Typically a full-time student can acquire a master's degree in about two years. A PhD usually requires at least five to six years and many people take seven to nine years.

The adage "time = money" was never so true as with graduate school. Since a PhD takes longer to complete, it also requires more money. (Not that a master's degree is cheap either!) The flip side to this is that a PhD may yield a higher salary upon completion and is therefore worth the increased cost long term. With both degrees, school costs money (tuition, fees, books, etc.). In addition, however, there is also a significant loss of money if the student is not working or is earning low wages through assistantships or part-time employment. Many people find they must either live a Spartan lifestyle for many years or find themselves strapped with huge loans when they graduate .

Graduate school takes work. Most people are not going to argue with this. However, many students who drifted through college are surprised to find that graduate school requires a much larger commitment in terms of work and intellectual energy. Graduate schools are frequently very competitive. Students who are taking a full course load as well as teaching often find themselves overwhelmed. And of course, the many years of school required for a PhD require perseverance on a scale above and beyond what undergraduates must contemplate. The difference between college and graduate school lies in the ability of the student to focus on their field and the subjects and areas that most interest them. While graduate school requires more work, most students find the work enjoyable since it involves an area in which they are very interested.

Related: Great Expectations: How Grad School Differs From Undergrad

The what ifs of choosing a master's or PhD

So we know that graduate school requires time, money, and commitment for both a master's and a PhD. So which should you choose?

• If all you want is a raise, a PhD is probably not the road to choose. A master’s degree will boost your career possibilities enough for the kind of raise you want.
• If you love learning in and of itself , then the work required for a PhD may be worthwhile. Master's degrees tend to be more career oriented while PhD's tend to be more research oriented since they’re preparing people for highly academic, research-based careers.
• If you want to save time and progress your career, a master's degree has benefits in that it requires less time and money than a doctoral degree but will still set you apart from those who only have a bachelor's. A master's can allow specialization within a field. The degree works well for those who’ve been working in a career for some time and hope to advance within their field.
• If you’re looking for a new path in life, a master's degree can also be an excellent method of changing careers. For those who’ve found their career or undergraduate education aren’t leading them in the direction they would like to go, a master's degree can allow them to start fresh by gaining new knowledge and skills.
• If you want to become a professor, a PhD is practically mandatory. Even for those few who can find teaching positions with only a master's, most schools want to see progress toward a PhD.
• If you really want to impress, a PhD can also be helpful outside the world of academia in today's increasingly competitive job market. Businesses are searching for extremely qualified people who have demonstrated intelligence, perseverance, and the ability to learn. A PhD can open doors.
• If you want to impact the world with original work, PhD work requires original research that contributes new information to your chosen field of study. People interested in pursuing a PhD should love their studies and be excited by the prospect of meaningful contribution.

Related:  Choosing the Right Graduate Degree for Your Goals

Making your decision

To summarize, a PhD may be worth it if you truly love your field, enjoy your studies, and want the benefits and prestige associated with the doctoral degree. If you are simply looking to change fields or gain a promotion or do not think you could maintain interest through at least five to six years of school, then a master's is probably a better choice. However, it is worth noting that you may be able to get more financial aid for a PhD Since it takes longer, schools recognize that those trying to acquire their PhD's need more assistance than those who only want a master's degree. This adds an interesting dimension to the application process for two reasons.

First, if you think you may want a PhD but still are not sure, it is probably better to apply to the doctoral program. There is no penalty for changing your mind later and deciding to leave with a master's degree, and it increases your chances of getting financial aid. The second consideration is that the PhD program can be more competitive, and applying to it rather than the master's degree program might decrease your chances of admission. If you are denied entrance to the PhD program, you could ask them to then consider you for the master's degree program, but that may not be allowed.

Related:  7 Important Things to Do Before Applying to Graduate School

We’re glad you came seeking advice on which advanced degree program is right for you. It’s a big decision to make that you shouldn’t take lightly, and seeking the right knowledge to make an informed decision is only going to benefit you. Use this advice, take some time to think it over, and go forward knowing you’re making the best decision for your future goals and career.

Once you’ve made your decision on applying to a master’s or PhD program, start searching for just the right one with our Graduate School Search tool .   

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Pros and Cons of Earning a Master's Degree Before a PhD

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As a potential applicant to graduate school you have a great many decisions to make. The initial decisions, such as what field to study , may come easily. However, many applicants struggle with choosing what degree to pursue, whether a master’s degree or PhD is right for them. Others know what degree they want. Those who choose a doctoral degree sometimes wonder if they should first complete a master’s degree. Do you need a master’s degree to apply to a doctoral program?

Is a master’s degree an essential prerequisite for gaining admission to a doctoral program? Usually not. Does a master’s degree improve your odds of admission? Sometimes. Is it in your best interest to earn master’s before applying to PhD programs? It depends.

Pros and Cons of Earning a Master's Before Applying to PhD Programs

There are both advantages and disadvantages to earning a master’s before applying to PhD programs. Below are some of the pros and cons:

Pro: A master’s degree will introduce you to the process of graduate study.

Without a doubt, graduate school is different from college. This is especially true at the doctoral level. A master’s program can introduce to you the process of graduate study and help you understand how it is different from undergraduate study. A master’s program can help you make the transition to graduate school and prepare you for making the transition from college student to graduate scholar. 

Pro: A master’s program can help you see if you are ready for doctoral study.

Are you ready for graduate school? Do you have the right study habits? Are you motivated? Can you manage your time? Enrolling in a master’s program can help you see if you have what it takes for success as a graduate student – and especially as a doctoral student.

Pro: A master’s program can help you see if you are interested enough to undertake a PhD

The typical college survey courses present a broad view of a discipline, with little depth. Small college seminars present a topic in more depth but it will not come close to what you will learn in graduate school. It is not until students are immersed in a field that they truly come to know the depth of their interest. Sometimes new grad students realize that the field is not for them. Others complete the master’s degree but realize that they have no interest in pursuing a doctorate.

Pro: A masters may help you get into a doctoral program.

If your undergraduate transcript leaves much to be desired, a master’s program may help you improve your academic record and show that you have the stuff that competent graduate students are made of. Earning a master’s degree shows that you are committed and interested in your field of study. Returning students may seek a master’s degree to obtain contacts and recommendations from faculty.

Pro: A master’s degree can help you change fields.

Are you planning on studying a different field than your college major ? It can be hard to convince a graduate admissions committee that you are interested and committed to a field in which that you have little formal experience. A master’s degree can not only introduce you to the field but can show the admissions committee that you interested, committed, and competent in your chosen field. 

Pro: A master’s degree can offer a foot in the door to a particular graduate program.

Suppose you hope to attend a specific graduate program. Taking a few graduate courses, nonmatriculated (or nondegree-seeking) can help you learn about the program and can help faculty learn about you. This is even more true for master’s students. In many graduate programs, master’s and doctoral students take some of the same classes. As a master’s student, you’ll have contact with graduate faculty – often those who teach in the doctoral program. Completing a thesis and volunteering to work on faculty research can help faculty get to know you as a competent and promising researcher. A master’s degree might offer you a foot in the door and a better chance of gaining admission to the department’s doctoral program. However, admission is not guaranteed. Before you choose this option, be sure that you can live with yourself if you don’t gain admission. Will you be happy with a terminal master?

Con: A master’s degree is time-consuming.

Typically a full-time master’s program will require 2 years of study. Many new doctoral students find that their master’s coursework doesn’t transfer. If you enroll in a master’s program recognize that it will likely not make a dent in your required doctoral coursework. Your PhD will likely take an additional 4 to 6 years after earning your master’s degree.

Con: A master’s degree is usually unfunded.

Many students find this a big con: Master’s students usually do not receive much funding. Most master’s programs are paid for out-of-pocket. Are you prepared to potentially have tens of thousands of dollars of debt before you begin your PhD.? If you choose not to seek a doctoral degree, what employment options accompany your master’s degree? While I’d argue that a master’s degree is always of value for your intellectual and personal growth, if the salary-return of your degree is important to you, do your homework and think carefully before enrolling in a master’s program prior to seeking your PhD.

Whether you seek a master’s degree before applying to doctoral programs is a personal decision. Also recognize that many PhD programs award master’s degrees along the way, typically after the first year and completing exams and/or a thesis.

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Master’s vs PhD/Doctorate Degrees – Key Differences

So, you are done with your bachelor’s degree but not with studying–according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , this seems like a good idea. In its projections for the years 2019–2029, it lists 36 occupations that typically require a master’s degree and 63 requiring a doctoral or professional degree. The Bureau of Labor Statistics data also shows that the wages for these occupations are higher than the median for all occupations. 

Now you might wonder: What is the difference between master’s and PhD degrees and which one should I get? Read on for all the information you need to make this important decision!

Difference Between Masters and PhD: An Overview

A master’s degree is designed to teach you the knowledge and skills that you will need in your future profession. A PhD or doctorate degree, on the other hand, is designed to develop your critical thinking as well as your analytical and writing skills and is usually a years-long commitment to independent research on a specific subject. The purpose of a PhD is to prepare you for a career in academic research—although it can also help you get into a variety of other professions, and at a higher entry/salary level. In the US, a master’s degree is integrated into a PhD program, as a necessary preparation period involving mostly coursework, while in most other countries, a separate master’s degree is required to enter a PhD program.

If you want to stand out, you should definitely opt for a PhD degree: According to the United States Census Bureau , 24 million people in the US had master’s or professional degrees in 2019, whereas only 4.5 million had PhDs/doctorates. But is it worth the extra effort? And what exactly would the extra effort be? Have a look at the table below to get an idea about the key differences between master’s and PhDs.

Master’s vs PhD

Master’s or doctorate: which should you choose, how long does a master’s vs doctorate take to complete.

While the length of time it will take you to complete a PhD or master’s degree varies significantly between institutions and countries, we will focus on the US system here. Obviously, PhDs take much longer, because they are in fact a combination of both degrees and involve a long period of independent research that can get even longer than expected, depending on your topic, the available equipment or support, and a lot of other factors.

How long to complete a master’s degree

In the US, a full-time master’s degree takes students generally 2 years to complete, while part-time degrees are usually double the time.

How long to complete a PhD/doctorate

Since US PhD programs only require a completed bachelor’s degree, they start with an integrated master’s of 2 years of coursework, followed by 3–4 years of independent research into a specific topic. That usually includes publishing results, presenting at conferences, and preparing the final dissertation. Note that stipends/funding do not always cover the entire time it can take you to complete your PhD project—make sure you are aware of alternative options and additional funding at your institution or have at least thought about a backup plan before you start.

Master’s Degree Cost vs. a PhD Cost

Most people assume that PhDs are more expensive because they take many more years to complete. However, since PhD students usually receive scholarships or stipends, sometimes just for their commitment to full-time research and sometimes in exchange for teaching, the direct costs for a dissertation can be lower than those for a master’s degree. 

Additionally, while you are very likely to earn more with both degrees, the additional years of studying for a PhD should be factored into any estimation of costs vs outcomes.

Cost of a master’s degree

Master’s degrees at US universities can cost anything from $30,000 to $120,000, with tuition depending on the type of institution (public, private nonprofit, or for-profit). University rankings and general reputation also affect tuition costs. 

Whether an expensive degree (e.g., MBAs are often notoriously expensive) is worth the money for you personally depends on what kind of salary you think you can expect after graduating from that specific school. The universities you consider applying to should be able to provide you with data on the career and salary outcomes of their students, either on their website or if you contact them and ask for these details.

You can of course try to get a stipend and/or apply for a teaching or research assistant position at your school, depending on your undergraduate degree and experience. Moreover, many institutions offer the possibility to complete a master’s degree part-time, while working, which allows students to fund themselves.

You might also be eligible to transfer credits toward your degree if you have a professional certification or have earned graduate-level course credit—which can significantly reduce your total cost for both degrees.

Cost of a PhD/dissertation

PhDs, unlike master’s degrees, are usually funded, which means that tuition fees are waived and stipends or scholarships take care of living costs. Phd students are, however, often expected to take on teaching or research responsibilities in exchange for their funding. 

There are a variety of scholarships you can apply for if you want to pursue a PhD in the US as an international student—US-based ones like the Fulbright Foreign Student Program or the HHMI International Student Research Scholarships , but there are probably also funding opportunities in your home country for students who want to embark on a PhD abroad.

Pursuing a PhD degree part-time might sometimes be possible, but since students are expected to invest a full workweek into their research and potential teaching responsibilities, this is usually not realistic.

To estimate the overall cost of a doctoral program, the extra years that you could be working a full-time job with a regular salary also need to be factored into the equation—and take into account that projects may end up taking longer than expected, due to difficulties in collecting data, supervisors dropping out or moving on, or unforeseeable crises such as the COVID-19 epidemic.

Career Prospects for a Master’s vs PhD

While both a master’s and a PhD degree will qualify you for a variety of occupations that require higher degrees, they can also get you a higher salary in a profession that is also open to employees with a lower education level. PhD holders can in theory expect the highest wages, but since the two degrees prepare you for very different careers, that alone shouldn’t be what you base your decision on.

Master’s degree jobs and positions

Master’s degrees are overall more versatile than PhDs when it comes to employment opportunities and cover a wide range of fields and professions. The most common master’s degrees are the Master’s of Arts (MA) and the Master’s of Science (MS). 

Master’s programs can generally be divided into three different types:

Research master’s degrees, such as an MA in Comparative Literature or an MS in Biology, prepare students for academic and non-academic research disciplines and usually end with a thesis based on an original piece of research. In some fields, however, you are expected to enter a Ph.D. program after completing your master’s to be competitive when it comes to finding a job later.

Professional master’s degrees teach you practical skills and in-demand competencies that qualify you for a specific field and enable you to understand issues that are relevant in a certain profession. Examples include the Master of Public Health (MPH), the  Master of Business Administration (MBA), or the MA in Teaching (MAT). 

Terminal master’s degrees are the highest academic degree in fields where doctorates are not offered, and prepare students for careers outside of academia. The Master’s of Fine Arts in Creative Writing, for example, or the MS in Library Science are as high as you can go in those fields.

To give you an idea, below, we listed the 10 occupations at the master’s level that are projected to have the most openings annually from 2019 to 2029, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and the highest-paying occupations for master’s degree holders without required work experience, based on projections from 2016 to 2026.

Master’s degrees, apart from helping you develop professional skills tailored to the requirements of the profession you intend to enter, can also serve as a stepping stone if you are already in employment and want to progress your career development, earn a higher salary, or change careers by learning new skills and subject knowledge.

PhD/doctorate jobs and positions

PhDs are usually intended to lead to an academic career, and many students aim to eventually become university professors. However, careers in academia are highly competitive, and there are not nearly as many professor positions as there are PhD holders. The good news is that the skills you learn during your doctoral program are often “transferable” and can be applied to other types of careers. 

Some PhD graduates end up (and enjoy) being colleague teachers, while others embark on non-academic research careers, for example at pharmaceutical companies, government agencies, consulting and technology firms, or think tanks. Job prospects vary widely across fields, with some—computer science, engineering, or economics—having very low unemployment rates, and others, for example the humanities, offering fewer and less desirable employment opportunities. Keep in mind, however, that someone with a PhD entering a different field or one that does not necessarily require a PhD may find that their degree sometimes does not help them or that they are even considered to be “overqualified” or as lacking practical skills and relevant professional experience.

Since there is no clear career path for PhD graduates, you should really take your time figuring out what field you want to work in later, what the career prospects for that field are, and if they are worth the time and effort you will have to invest to complete a PhD program. Your university should have data on the careers and salaries of their students, and should either display these details on their website or send you the relevant information if you contact them directly.

Master’s vs PhD: Application Process

The application process for master’s and PhD programs is overall very similar. In general, you will need to provide the following:

Frequently Asked Questions about Master’s vs PhD Degrees

How long does a master’s degree take vs a phd.

Full-time master’s degrees usually take 2 years to complete. Many universities offer the option to do a master’s part-time, which takes double the time. PhD programs in the US  start with an integrated master’s of 2 years of coursework (since you enter the program directly after completing your bachelor’s degree), followed by 3–4 years of independent research. 

Is a PhD harder than a master’s degree?

A PhD takes substantially longer and requires more self-motivation, organizational skills, and the willingness to carry on even when things do not go according to plan. You might also have other responsibilities, on top of your research, such as teaching or assisting your supervisor. But whether that is “harder” for you than a master’s degree that consists of mostly coursework and does not take more than 2 years depends on your interests and general working style. 

Is a master’s or doctorate better?

Master’s and doctorate degrees prepare you for different occupations and work positions, and which one is the right for you depends on what kind of career you are planning to pursue. Generally, a master’s degree is right for you if you want to deepen your career-oriented knowledge and skills for a specific profession, while a doctorate degree prepares you for a career in research, whether that is inside or outside a university.

Preparing Your Graduate School Essays

Now that you have figured out whether a master’s or PhD degree is the right choice for you, all that is left to do is to put your application together! Make sure that you focus on your chosen degree and its aim (research or a professional career) in all required documents—for example, highlight your professional and personal development in your CV for an MBA program, but the publication you got out of your bachelor’s thesis and how passionate you are about doing more research on the same topic for your application to a PhD program. 

As always, Wordvice can help with our professional Personal Statement Editing Services or Admission Editing Services , which help ensure that your application is error-free and showcases your full potential so that you get admitted to the graduate or doctoral program of your choice. For more academic resources on writing the statement of purpose for grad school or on how to request a letter of recommendation , head over to our Admissions Resources pages.

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BA, BSc, MA, MSc, PhD - what do they all mean?

BA, BSc, MA, MSc, PhD (and more) are abbreviations of British degrees.

They reflect the specific level and discipline of a qualification achieved at university.

While most courses are conducted on a full-time basis, there are options for part-time, distance learning and other flexible learning arrangements.

Here is a breakdown of some of the most common qualifications and ones that Aberystwyth University offers.

• BA = Bachelor of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences;
• BSc = Bachelor of Sciences;
• BENG = Bachelor of Engineering (Software, Robotics and Physics);
• LLB = Bachelor of Law.

Achieved after 3 to 4 years of study. The extra year (for a 4 year course) can be from a year studying abroad or a year working in industry.

Integrated-Masters:

• MARTS = Masters of Arts;
• MBIOL = Masters of Biology;
• MCOMP = Masters of Computer Science;
• MENG = Masters of Engineering;
• MMATH = Masters of Mathematics;
• MPHYS = Masters of Physics;
• MSCI = Masters of Sciences and Humanities.

4 years course (3-year Bachelors, 1 year Masters) that enables you to secure a loan for the full duration rather than having to fund a Masters degree separately.

• MA = Masters of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences;
• MSc = Masters of Sciences;
• MBA = Masters of Business Administration;
• MPhil = Masters of Philosophy: Advanced research Masters degree;
• MRes = Masters of Research: Contains some taught and research elements;
• LLM = Masters of Law.

Achieved after graduation from Bachelors level, usually 1-2 years duration.

• PhD = Doctor of Philosophy: for a range of disciplines.

Achieved after graduating from Masters level, usually 3-8 years duration.

A wide range of Undergraduate, Postgraduate and Further-Research courses – across the Arts and Sciences – are available at Aberystwyth.

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Which research degree should I do—MSc, MD, or PhD?

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You should think carefully about what kind of research degree you want. If you want only a taste of research or are doing it only to improve your chances at a specialist registrar interview, go for the MSc. This is usually a one year taught course with an experimental project and is a good way of learning the basics of science. If you wish to do more detailed science and are considering a career in academic medicine, then think about a PhD. This will mean more time commitment (at least three years) and more intellectual commitment. The compromise degrees are the MD or MS. These usually require two years of work and therefore permit more in-depth research than the MSc. The MD or its equivalent is popular among medics. When deciding which degree to go for you should check all the various regulations and also the fees that may be entailed.

At the end of the day the choice is up to you. The key questions are: why are you doing research and how much time and energy do you want to commit to it?

• MPhil vs MSc – Differences Explained
• Types of Doctorates

On first glances, the difference between an MPhil and an MSc may appear marginal, but this couldn’t be further from the truth.

While both degrees are a postgraduate Masters qualification, they’re designed for two opposite career paths – an MSc for a career in industry, and an MPhil for a career in research or on the way to a PhD. Learning the differences between the two forms of postgraduate study will allow you to make an informed decision about your next steps and offer a clearer path to your ideal career.

This page will give you an understanding of what an MPhil and MSc are, their differences, and ultimately, which of the two degrees is better suited for you.

What Is an MPhil?

An MPhil is an advanced postgraduate degree short for Master of Philosophy . The degree is typically undertaken after an undergraduate degree by those who wish to gain specialised knowledge in original research. Although discussed later, it’s important to distinguish between the two ways an MPhil may be undertaken as we will only focus on one of them for reasons you will see.

An MPhil can be undertaken as either:

• a  standalone degree lasting two years. Successful completion of this research degree will lead to being awarded a Master of Philosophy.
• (1) their research skills are considered suitable and their MPhil programme is upgraded to a PhD programme, or
• (2) their research skills are considered unsuitable, but they have the opportunity to complete the second year of their MPhil programme to be awarded a Master of Philosophy.

While the MPhils from both routes will be identical, it’s likely that if you’re trying to weigh up the differences between an MPhil and an MSc, you would be more interested in the standalone MPhil route given its greater similarities to an MSc. Because of this, we’ll mainly focus on the standalone path in comparing an MPhil to an MSc. We recommend you read our full guide to an MPhil if you’re interested in undertaking one as a precursor to a PhD.

What Is an MSc?

An MSc is a Master’s degree short for Master of Science . Like an MPhil, they’re typically undertaken shortly after completing an undergraduate course such as a Bachelor’s degree. While MPhil courses are available in nearly all fields, MSc’s are exclusive to STEM-based subjects, such as engineering, physics and maths.

An MSc may sound like a specialist degree reserved for a few career paths, however, they’re a common Masters course taught in most universities. Regardless of your subject or university, an MSc is typically a one-year course and aims to increase your knowledge of specific topics within your field.

MPhil vs MSc – Differences Explained

An MPhil and an MSc may seem similar – both are postgraduate Master’s degrees, both are typically undertaken after an undergraduate degree, and both are available to STEM students. Yet, there is a crucial difference between the two; and this difference will likely be the deciding factor in which degree is best for you.

This difference is your intended career path .

The degrees target two different professions; an MSc a profession in industry and an MPhil a profession in research. To make this possible, the degrees set out to provide you with a unique set of skills and specialised knowledge.

As an MSc is aimed at those wishing to develop a career in industry, it focuses on providing practical knowledge which has uses within the workplace. Therefore, while theoretical-related concepts may be taught, they will form a small part of your learning material with the focus instead on practical topics. For example, a civil engineering student may undertake an MSc in Construction Project Management ; here, topics from resource planning to cost and risk management would be covered.

Finding a PhD has never been this easy – search for a PhD by keyword, location or academic area of interest.

Unlike an MSc, which although may contain research-based components depending on the university, an MPhil is almost always a research-only degree. As a result, the degree is mainly undertaken by those who wish to pursue a research-based profession.

As discovered earlier, an MPhil may also be undertaken as a precursor to a PhD by those who wish to have a career in advanced research or academia. Where an MSc focuses on broader knowledge around several specialised subject areas, an MPhil focuses on a specific research question, within a specialised topic. In other words, it goes a level of specialisation deeper than an MSc. For example, had the previous civil engineering student opted for an MPhil instead of an MSc, their study and therefore resulting knowledge may have centred around ‘how risk management may better be managed through the use of technology’. It’s for this reason most consider an MPhil a ‘mini-PhD’ and an MSc as a specialised ‘addon’ to an undergraduate degree.

MPhil vs MSc: Table Summarising Differences

Is an mphil better than an msc.

Academically, an MPhil is the most advanced Masters qualification you can obtain. For this reason, it sits above an MSc but below a PhD in terms of course difficulty, and ‘academic prestige’ if such a thing even exists.

However, you would be mistaken to think this makes an MPhil degree better or more valuable than an MSc degree. In truth, we’ve seen how both degrees meet the different long-term requirements of the postgraduate student undertaking them. Therefore, the better question would be ‘which degree is better suited for you?’.

If your goal is to gain practical knowledge which you can apply to your industry, then an MSc is likely for you. On the other hand, if your goal is to have a profession in education or research, an MPhil will likely be the better option, especially as a precursor to a PhD degree.

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Master’s or Doctorate: Which Degree Fits My Counseling and Psychology Career Path?

April 26, 2024

School of HHS

Assess Your Goals When Considering an Advanced Counseling and Psychology Degree

Completing your bachelor’s degree opens many new paths on your way to a career in counseling and psychology. With so many options, it’s important to assess your goals when selecting which program of study is the best fit. Consider your career aspirations, academic interests, and lifestyle needs as you embark on this journey toward finding an education that will set you up for success in this fascinating field.

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers outstanding programs to help you earn an M.A. in Counseling and Psychological Services  or a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) in Counseling Psychology  degree. Below, we discuss several options for those looking to advance in their counseling and psychology education and career.

What Can I Do With an M.A. in Counseling and Psychological Services?

A M.A. in Counseling and Psychological Services provides students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to become licensed practitioners, such as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). Licensed graduates can provide mental health services, including individual counseling, and work in a variety of healthcare and human service settings. This type of work requires patience, empathy, and compassion as well as technical expertise. Mental health counselors are labeled as a “bright outlook” job by the U.S. Department of Labor and are in high demand.

What Can I Do With a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) in Counseling Psychology Degree

Pursuing a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) in Counseling Psychology degree offers graduates the educational requirements and opportunity to make an impact as licensed psychologists. Licensed psychologists often work in clinical practice settings, such as community mental health centers or private practices, where they provide psychotherapeutic services to individuals or families. This type of work is both challenging and rewarding. It is also highly sought-after due to its potential for long-term growth and professional development opportunities.

Earning this degree can also open students up to a wide range of opportunities. Students gain many transferable skills that apply in different practice settings, including advocacy, consultation, critical thinking, and leadership.

Counseling and Psychology Graduate Degrees at St. Mary’s University of Minnesota

At Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, we are proud to offer two state-of-the-art graduate degrees in counseling and psychology.

• A. in Counseling and Psychological Services
• Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) in Counseling Psychology

The M.A. in Counseling and Psychological Services program  offers a unique opportunity to apply for early entry to the Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) program  which allows for an accelerated pathway for earning both your master’s and doctoral degree. This accelerated pathway allows you to achieve your academic goals faster by allowing for simultaneous completion of your master’s degree while beginning your Psy.D. coursework.

Our Psy.D. curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practices in psychological assessment and diagnosis, treatment, interdisciplinary collaboration, and supervision. It is accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) and prepares students for licensure as health service psychologists.

Get Started on Your Advanced Counseling and Psychology Degree

Both graduate degree programs in Counseling and Psychology provide students with theoretical knowledge and practical application strategies that prepare them for success wherever they go.

Whether you’re interested in becoming a licensed counselor, working as a licensed psychologist,      in clinical practice settings, or pursuing research opportunities, we’re confident a degree from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota will be beneficial to your long-term goals. Serving students throughout Minnesota and beyond, we provide person-centered education with a commitment to the principles of the Catholic Lasallian tradition .

Reach out to us to learn more  or start your application  today.

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M.Sc Ph.D Integrated Course, Eligibility, Admission, Syllabus, Scope & Career

• What is M.Sc Ph.D

M.Sc Ph.D is a three to six years-long dual degree programme that combines MSc and P.hD. This integrated course rewards a student with a double degree. A M.Sc. is a postgraduate degree in science discipline. Candidates who have completed a B.Sc. are eligible for enrolling in M.Sc. While a PhD is a doctoral level research degree programme. Candidates who have completed 10+2+3+2 or 10+2+4 level course are eligible for enrolling in the Ph.D. course. The multi-disciplinary curriculum covers the core and elective course modules. M.Sc. Ph.D integrated course is designed to fulfil the requirements of a modern researcher of familiarity with the experimental and theoretical fields.

What is M.Sc. Ph.D full form?

M.sc ph.d highlights, m.sc. ph.d fee structure, why choose m.sc ph.d, m.sc ph.d eligibility, m.sc. ph.d. skills, m.sc ph.d admission process, m.sc ph.d entrance examinations, m.sc. ph.d. cut off, m.sc ph.d syllabus, m.sc. ph.d. specialisations, what after m.sc ph.d dual degree, career opportunities after m.sc ph.d dual degree, top private m.sc. ph.d. colleges, top government m.sc. ph.d. colleges.

M.Sc. PhD stands for Master of Science- Doctor of Philosophy. It is an integrated programme designed by combining postgraduate degree M.Sc. and doctoral degree Ph.D. It involves advanced courses, foundation courses, and research work. Students are rewarded with M.Sc and Ph.D degrees on completion of the one-degree program.

This M.Sc. Ph.D dual degree program consists of two semesters, and for the first two years in each, students are dedicated to pursuing some small research projects. They are given a choice to select their guides and laboratories during this period. The next 4.5 to 5 years of the candidate's educational journey revolves around research. M.Sc Ph.D integrated course is ideal as it spares additional years for those students who pursue both M.Sc and Ph.D separately.

M.Sc.-Ph.D dual degree program fee structure varies significantly across government and private-run institutions. The fee structure at public institutions fluctuates between Rs. 60,000 to Rs. 2.38 Lakhs per academic year. The fee structure at private institutions fluctuates between Rs. 2.60 Lakh to Rs. 11.20 Lakh per academic year.

On average, top institutions like IIT-Bombay charges Rs. 50,000 per academic year, IIT- Kanpur charges Rs. Thirty-six thousand per academic year, and IIT- Kharagpur charges Rs. 12,000 per academic year. Other than the tuition fee, these charges often include the library fees, hostel charges, campus development charges, museums/ art visits, and incidentals. Public colleges typically charge a lower fee.

It is an integrated course of Master of Science with Doctorate of Philosophy ideal for students with scientific vigour for theoretical knowledge and research.

Depending on the choice or interest, students can choose a specialisation that edges their research-oriented skills and aids them in constructing a career in this field. M.Sc Ph.D integrated course is an ideal programme for students with an inclination towards advanced research in fundamental sciences.

M.Sc. Ph.D dual degree is a program explicitly designed for students who choose to pursue a research-oriented career.

The M.Sc-Ph.D integrated degree program involves research work, foundation courses, and advanced courses that rewards students with both the M.Sc and Ph.D course programs simultaneously on completion of one program.

Students who complete the M.Sc+Ph.D integrated degree course will be paid a stipend for their fellowship associated with the institution.a

The Master of Science with Doctorate of Philosophy degree program typically includes writing a thesis or dissertation in the M.Sc period.

The M.Sc course program is designed for those students with a want to involve themselves in scientific research & theoretical knowledge with specialisations in the field of interest.

Students with an M.Sc+Ph.D integrated degree course can get an average starting pay package of INR 26,000/- to 30,000/- per month, depending on the job profile and employment area.

The institutions like Rajiv Gandhi University, Itanagar , University of Engineering and Management, Kolkata IIT, Kharagpur , offer the M.Sc+Ph.D integrated course.

The eligibility criterion for the M.Sc Ph.D integrated degree is similar to various integrated programs in other disciplines. The following candidates are eligible for an M.sc Ph.D course -

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates with a Bachelor's degree in Biotechnology or Chemistry or Pharmacy or Biology or Mathematics or Agriculture or Veterinary Sciences or Physics as applicable to individual disciplines, under the 10+2+3/4 system, can apply to this program.

Candidates with BE or B. Tech degree programs who qualify in the Mathematics or Mathematical Statistics paper in the JAM entrance exam can apply for the Mathematical Sciences.

Students with BE or B. Tech degree programs who qualify in the Biotechnology paper in the JAM entrance exam can apply to the Biological Sciences.

Candidates who have cleared JEST are eligible to apply for an M.Sc Ph.D integrated degree.

Candidates who seek admission for M.sc Ph.D integrated degree at IISc should qualify in the JAM Entrance examination.

Additional Criteria Requirements

The minimum eligibility criteria for admission in M.Sc. Ph.D integrated degree program is an aggregate of 55 percent to 60 percent and above or equivalent grade in the Bachelor’s degree.

The minimum eligibility criteria for SC/ST candidates are relaxed to pass class over the first class in the qualifying examination.

Departmental specifications require an eligibility criterion of subjects at the Bachelor's or 10+2 standard levels. To deem eligible for certain institutional departments, candidates must ensure that these requirements are met.

Final year graduates - students appearing for their final year qualifying examination and awaiting the results are also eligible to apply. However, this sect of students should have met the eligibility criteria for the award of the qualifying degree, including all the entrance examinations, dissertation projects, and viva-voce at the time of admission.

Candidates who pursue M.Sc. Ph.D. integrated course develop following skills over the period of time being enrolled in the dual degree integrated programme.

The admission procedure for M.Sc. Ph.D. dual degree program consists of a written test - Entrance examination. Candidates need to qualify in the written entrance test. Qualified students will be called for final selection. Qualified students will have to complete a six-year course. Upon successful completion, students can successfully start with their course program.

Aspirants must appear for an entrance examination to get admission into M.Sc. Ph.D integrated course there are various institutions-based entrance examinations for the M.Sc. Ph.D dual degree program. However, the top four entrance examination are as follows:

M.Sc Ph.D Entrance Exam

Admissions to M.Sc. Ph.D. programmes are provided on the basis of candidates performance in the entrance examination or merit of previously passing examinations. Several institutions conduct their own entrance examination to provide admissions while the rest accept the scores of national and state level entrance examinations. We have provided below details of major M.Sc. Ph.D. entrance examinations.

JEE Advanced: JEE Advanced is also known as Joint Entrance Examination Advanced. It is a national level entrance examination famous for providing admissions in engineering colleges. JEE Advanced score is valid for admissions in technical and architectural courses.

BITSAT: BITSAT stands for Birla Institute of Technology and Science Admission Test. BIT SAT is a university level entrance examination conducted to provide admissions in various academic courses running in college.

AP EAMCET: AP EAMCET stands for Andhra Pradesh Engineering, Agriculture and Medicine Common Entrance Test. It is a state level examination conducted to provide admissions to eligible candidates in academic courses of engineering, agriculture and medicine disciplines.

KIITEE : KIITEE stands for Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology Entrance Examination. It is a university level entrance examination conducted to provide admissions to various academic courses running in university.

CUSAT CAT : CUSAT CAT stands for Cochin University of Science and Technology Common Admission Test. It is a university level examination conducted to provide admissions in various academic disciplines running in Cochin University.

Cut off is the minimum requirement of percentage, marks or scores acquired by candidates in the previously passing examination or entrance examination. Cut off is released every year by colleges to provide admissions. Those who secure more scores or higher rank than cut off or equivalent to it are eligible for further participation in the admission process and get themselves enrolled in the respective course and college.

Popular Engineering Colleges in India

We have provided below a list of popular engineering colleges. Aspirants who want to enroll in an engineering programme may check out the admission criteria and other details of these colleges.

Top Ph.D. Colleges by Location

There are plenty of Ph.D colleges in India . Candidates seeking admission in Ph.D. course may check top colleges offering the course in various locations with the assistance of table provided below.

The syllabus of integrated M.Sc. Ph.D integrated course may vary from college to college. After completion of a B.Sc. in any specialisation relevant to physics, chemistry, mathematics or biology, candidates can enroll in M.Sc. Ph.D. programme. We have provided below the syllabus of integrated M.Sc. Ph.D. depending on specialisations.

M.Sc. Ph.D Mathematics Syllabus:

Syllabus for Semesters 1 and 2

Syllabus for Semesters 3 and 4

M.Sc. Ph.D Chemistry Syllabus

Aspirants may check M.Sc. Ph.D. Chemistry syllabus provided below. The M.Sc. Ph.D. syllabus may vary from college to college. The M.Sc. Ph.D. syllabus combines the major subjects of both the course M.Sc. and Ph.D.

List of Electives for Chemistry

M.Sc. Ph.D Physics Syllabus

If you are willing to enroll in the M.Sc. Ph.D. integrated course with the specialisation in Physics. Then, you may check the syllabus provided below. It could vary from college to college. We have listed the majority of M.Sc. Ph.D. dual degree program in Physics subjects in the syllabus provided here.

List of Electives for Physics

There are numerous M.Sc. Ph.D. specialisations. The academic fee may vary depending on the specialisations offered in the MSc. Ph.D. Individuals may opt for a M.Sc. Ph.D. in any relevant specialisation after successful completion of B.Sc. We have listed below the major ones:

After receiving M.Sc. Ph.D dual Degree students have a plethora of options to choose that caters their education. In addition to campus placements, students are offered the roles as Research Scientist, Senior Research Scientist, or Professor at reputed institutions of their choice. Institutions often offer full-employment right after they complete their internship with the firm.

M.Sc.-Ph.D Degree offers students to experience innovative learning with outstanding knowledge. M.Sc.-Ph.D Degree graduates are educated in sharing techniques and practical execution of ideas at a more significant level. As mentioned earlier, M.Sc.-Ph.D Degree graduates can opt for their dream career in pots such as ONGC (Chemist Post), NTPC (Chemist), IOCL, BPCL, and more.

M.Sc.-Ph.D Degree graduates are eligible to apply for the UPSC Geo-Scientist post for the Geological Survey Department. The job openings at the Geological Survey Department for scientist posts are available in the departments like ISRO, BARC, DRDO, and some more. For foreign universities, examinations like TOEFL and GRE are compulsory.

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Private Sector Career Options:

M.Sc.-Ph.D Degree graduates have career scope in famous private firms such as IOCL inclusive of Japanese and German universities, Asain Paints, CIPLA, and ONGC. Several other companies such as Walmart, Fuzzy Logics, Goldman Sachs, Amazon, and Dunia Finance offer a pay package of Rs. 20 Lacs per annum to M.Sc.-Ph.D graduates.

Government Sector Career Options:

M.Sc.-Ph.D Degree graduates hold a massive career scope in government sectors as follows:

Research or Scientists:

The candidates must qualify the CSIR NET Exam to get the Scientist or Researcher Position in any of the below-mentioned institutions.

• Nuclear Science Centre, New Delhi
• Physical Research Laboratory, Ahmedabad
• Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO)
• Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC)
• Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
• Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, Kolkata

Officer Jobs Profiles

Career prospects for M.Sc.-Ph.D Degree graduates in India’s prestigious Government Organisations are:

• Bharat Petroleum
• Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC)
• National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC)
• Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL)
• Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL)

Assistant Professors

Career prospects for M.Sc.-Ph.D Degree graduates as Assistant Professors at India’s Top Most Universities. Qualified candidates can apply for the Direct Recruitment process for the job profiles Assistant Professors or Lecturers in any reputed Indian University. However, the pay package depends on the candidate's skills and academic background. Candidates are hired on higher salary packages. Candidates need to qualify the UGC NET Exam to deem eligible to apply for the Lectureship Jobs in any reputed Indian University.

Railway Officer

There are various employment posts for qualified M.Sc.-Ph.D Degree graduates in Indian Railways. Candidates can opt to employ in the following positions:

• Trainee Officer
• Honoring Visiting Specialist
• Project Associate
• Junior Research Fellow
• Deputy Country Representative
• Associate Analyst
• Research Associate
• Associate Software Engineer

Other Government Organisations

Below is a list of a few government organisations that offer other various platforms for M.Sc.-Ph.D Degree graduates such as Universities, Ministries, and Banks.

• Wildlife Institute of India
• Punjab Agricultural University
• State Bank of India, SBI
• Regional Centre for Biotechnology, RCB
• Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science, IACS
• Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science
• ICMR - National Institute of Cancer Prevention
• Bank of India
• Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, HAL
• CSIR-Institute of Minerals & Materials Technology
• National Institute of Biomedical Genomics, NIBMG
• Ministry of Agriculture & Welfare Affairs
• Central University of South Bihar
• Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change
• National Seeds Corporation Limited
• National Payments Corporation of India, NPCI
• Indian Farmers Fertilizer Cooperative Limited, IFFCO
• Central Silk Board

Salary Prospects

There are numerous universities that offer various academic courses in disciplines of science. But, there are only a few colleges that offer M.Sc. Ph.D. integrated programme. We have listed below such top private M.Sc. Ph.D. colleges in India.

M.Sc.-Ph.D Degree program is a popular integrated course program across government and private-run institutions. Given below are a few public and private institutions that offer M.Sc.-Ph.D Integrated Degree programs. We have listed below top government M.Sc. Ph.D. colleges that offer this course.

M.Sc colleges by States

There are plenty of M.Sc. colleges in India . An M.Sc. can be pursued after successful completion of B.Sc. The admission process, eligibility criteria and fee structure of M.Sc. course may vary college to college.

PhD Colleges by States

PhD is a doctoral degree programme. It is usually offered with a duration of five to seven year. Candidates who successfully complete PhD may conduct their own independent research. They get opportunities in the academic sector as professor, lecturer or researcher in universities and colleges. Aspirants may check top PhD colleges located in various states with the help of table provided below.

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

The primary difference that distinguishes between a ‘dual-degree program’ and that of joint M.Sc-Ph.D is that students cannot leave without completing his/her doctorate while pursuing a Joint M.Sc-Ph.D degree course. However, the former course programme gives students the option to move out with a Master's degree if they have no interest in studying further.

The course duration for the M.Sc-Ph.D course programme is between three to seven years.

To pursue M.Sc-Ph.D course programme, candidates should meet the following eligibility criteria:

An aggregate of 55 per cent to 60 per cent and above in B.Sc with first-class specifications in high and higher school ( 10 and 10+2)

Final year graduation students are eligible to apply.

A few of the entrance examinations for students to prepare for the MSc-PhD course are- JEE Advanced, AP EAMCET, BITSAT, CUSAT CAT, Symbiosis Entrance Test, JCECE, and IPU CET.

Graduates from this field have a great scope in both private and government organisations. M.Sc.-Ph.D Degree graduates can opt for their dream career in pots such as ONGC (Chemist Post), NTPC (Chemist), IOCL, BPCL, and more.

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Explore the 10 Best Graduate Clinical Psychology Programs

Graduates with Ph.D. degrees in clinical psychology often work in academia.

(Getty Images) |

Clinical psychologists help treat mental illness.

With the rise in mental health awareness, clinical psychology has become an attractive career path for those who care about mental health issues. Clinical psychologists diagnose and treat mental health problems and often work in private practice or health care facilities. These are the Best Graduate Clinical Psychology Doctorate Programs , based on the results of peer assessment surveys sent by U.S. News to academics in the field in fall 2019.

Scott Goldsmith | Aurora for USN&WR

• 10 (tie). Harvard University

Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts

Peer reputation score (scale of 1-5) : 4.3

Key facts about the program: "The main emphasis of the program is research, especially on severe psychopathology," Harvard's website explains. "The program includes research, course work, and clinical practica, and usually takes five years to complete." Required courses for the program include classes in psychological testing, diagnostic interviewing and psychometric theory.

Learn more about Harvard University .

Indiana University |

• 10 (tie). Indiana University—Bloomington

Location: Bloomington, Indiana

Key facts about the program: This graduate program is very small and highly selective; it usually admits between three and five students per year. The curriculum of each student is tailored to the needs of that student, which means that students can define their own majors. "We have minimal course requirements, which enables our students to learn by doing," the program website states.

Learn more about Indiana University—Bloomington .

Andy Colwell |

• 10 (tie). Pennsylvania State University—University Park

Location: University Park, Pennsylvania

Key facts about the program: This clinical psychology Ph.D. program offers two tracks, one that focuses on adults and another that focuses on children. Doctoral students generally spend three to four years on coursework, and then spend a year apiece on producing a dissertation and completing a predoctoral internship. "The program includes courses in clinical psychology, neuroscience, personality, research design, psychopathology, psychotherapy, clinical assessment, and statistics," the Penn State website explains.

Learn more about Pennsylvania State University—University Park .

Temple University photography |

• 10 (tie). Temple University

Location: Philadelphia

Key facts about the program: "The overarching mission of the program is to train creative and accomplished clinical scientists who produce, consume, and disseminate psychological science and who function successfully in academic, research, and applied settings," the program website states. From the start of their Ph.D. program, Temple University clinical psychology graduate students gain research and clinical experience, and they receive education on mental, behavioral and emotional disorders, according to the university.

Learn more about Temple University .

Photo by Glenn Asakawa | University of Colorado

• 10 (tie). University of Colorado—Boulder

Location: Boulder, Colorado

Key facts about the program: The university's clinical psychology Ph.D. students are encouraged to work on interdisciplinary projects, according to the university website, which notes that the school has several interdisciplinary academic institutes that relate to clinical psychology. These include the Institute for Behavioral Genetics, the Institute of Behavioral Science and the Institute of Cognitive Science. The clinical psychology graduate program also operates several clinics, such as The Raimy Psychology Clinic, Sutherland Center for Bipolar Disorder, The Attention Behavior and Learning Clinic, and Brain Behavior Clinic.

Learn more about the University of Colorado—Boulder .

Daryl Marshke | MichiganPhotography

• 10 (tie). University of Michigan—Ann Arbor

Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan

Key facts about the program: Alumni of this program often find jobs at top-flight academic institutions. "Our recent graduates have obtained post-doctoral appointments at some of the most prestigious programs such as the University of Minnesota, UCLA, and the University of Pittsburgh Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic," the program website states. "Our graduates also hold tenure track positions at leading universities such as the University of Michigan, the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Emory University, and NYU."

Learn more about the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor .

The University of Texas at Austin |

• 10 (tie). University of Texas—Austin

Location: Austin, Texas

Peer reputation score (scale of 1-5): 4.3

Key facts about the program: Doctoral students must complete four years of graduate-level coursework, a second-year research project and a clinical practicum sequence to gain hands-on experience interacting with patients. They also need to finish a one-year predoctoral internship at a specific treatment site and successfully defend a dissertation in order to qualify for a doctorate. It typically takes six years, particularly for students who want to compete for academic positions, to complete the program, according to university faculty.

Learn more about the University of Texas—Austin .

Joe Angeles | WUSTL Photo

• 10 (tie). Washington University in St. Louis

Location: St. Louis

Key facts about the program: This clinical science training program is accredited by the American Psychological Association and the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System, according to the program website. Students sometimes specialize in neuropsychology, clinical aging or health psychology. "Our students do not need to choose whether they will be scientists or practitioners; they must see these activities as being inherently intertwined, and they must be able to function in both roles," the program website states.

Learn more about Washington University in St. Louis .

University of Pennsylvania | University Communications

• 8 (tie). University of Pennsylvania

Peer reputation score (scale of 1-5) : 4.4

Key facts about the program: This program is tailored to the needs of aspiring clinical researchers, according to the program website. "Clinical training (in assessment, diagnosis and psychotherapy) is seen as an integral part of the education of highly qualified, creative clinical scientists," the website states, adding that "the principal goal of Penn clinical students is to become expert psychological scientists, not simply expert clinicians, and the program is designed to support that goal."

Learn more about the University of Pennsylvania .

University of Pittsburgh |

• 8 (tie). University of Pittsburgh

Location: Pittsburgh

Key facts about the program: The mission of this program is to prepare future research scientists to conduct groundbreaking research on mental health issues and to advance understanding of those issues, according to the university. "Program faculty members include presidents of national organizations, journal editors, and members of federal grant review committees," the program website states. "Faculty research funding was several million dollars for the past year, which supports extensive laboratory facilities."

Learn more about the University of Pittsburgh .

University Relations Department, University of Minnesota Crookston |

• 5 (tie). University of Minnesota—Twin Cities

Location: Minneapolis

Peer reputation score (scale of 1-5) : 4.5

Key facts about the program: According to the university, the Clinical Science and Psychopathology Research program's faculty particularly excel in personality and behavioral genetic research, as well as research into psychological disorders. The program's faculty conduct psychological experiments and epidemiological studies. "Our program is designed to train students who wish to become academic clinical psychologists or research scientists, although of course graduates will also find themselves well-prepared for various careers as clinicians or more applied researchers," the university website states.

Learn more about the University of Minnesota—Twin Cities .

Dennis Wise | University of Washington

• 5 (tie). University of Washington

Location: Seattle

Key facts about the program: A goal of the Ph.D. program in clinical psychology is to prepare students to become excellent researchers who can discover new information about mental health conditions and potential treatments, according to the university website. "Our training program is primarily an apprenticeship for a career that will encompass making significant contributions to scientific clinical psychology," the university website states. "The program is not appropriate for those interested solely in clinical practice and not in research."

Learn more about the University of Washington .

Bryce Richter | UW-Madison

• 5 (tie). University of Wisconsin—Madison

Location: Madison, Wisconsin

Key facts about the program: Because this program involves mentorships between faculty and students, one of its admissions criteria is the alignment of student and faculty research interests, according to the university website. Most students selected for the program majored in psychology, but some have majors in other related academic disciplines. The university encourages prospective clinical psychology students to conduct research on the school's faculty in this field.

Learn more about the University of Wisconsin—Madison .

Stony Brook University |

• 3 (tie). Stony Brook University—SUNY

Location: Stony Brook, New York

Peer reputation score (scale of 1-5) : 4.6

Key facts about the program: This Ph.D. program in clinical psychology is most appropriate for students interested in either a research or academic career, according to the Stony Brook University website. The program historically placed a heavy emphasis on behavioral psychology, but it has evolved to embrace a broader array of psychological perspectives while still providing a strong foundation in behavioral psychology. The program is designed to teach students how to take an empirical approach to the practice of psychology, according to the university.

Learn more about Stony Brook University .

Steve McConnell | UC Berkeley Public Affairs

• 3 (tie). University of California—Berkeley

Location: Berkeley, California

Key facts about the program: Doctoral students are matched with a faculty mentor at the beginning of their first year, and that person oversees the student's research, according to the university. The psychology clinical science program involves a combination of research and "hands-on clinical experience," according to the program website. It includes a one-year clinical internship. Berkeley's program is a member of the Academy of Psychological Clinical Science, a coalition of doctoral programs that is focused on advancing clinical science.

Learn more about the University of California—Berkeley .

Dan Sears UNC-Chapel Hill |

• 2. University of North Carolina—Chapel Hill

Location: Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Peer reputation score (scale of 1-5) : 4.7

Key facts about the program: Students in this program have a choice between two tracks, one focused on adult mental health and the other on the mental well-being of children and families. "We emphasize training in clinically-informed research and evidence-based clinical work and recognize that students have varying career aspirations that may evolve over the course of graduate training," the program website states.

Learn more about the University of North Carolina—Chapel Hill .

• 1. University of California—Los Angeles

Location: Los Angeles

Peer reputation score (scale of 1-5) : 4.8

Key facts about the program: This is a six-year, full-time-only Ph.D. program. UCLA's psychology department does not offer separate M.A. or Psy.D. programs. The Ph.D. course of study includes a full-time, one-year internship. The Ph.D. program's mission is to train influential experts in the field of clinical psychology.

Learn more about the University of California—Los Angeles .

Learn more about top graduate schools.

Find out what you can do with a psychology degree , and check out all of the 2021 Best Graduate Schools rankings to find the right program for you. Stay up to date on education news by following U.S. News Education on Facebook ,  Twitter  and LinkedIn . 

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Explore the highest-ranked clinical psychology doctoral programs.

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Master’s in Human Resource Development Graduate Pursues Further Education for Her Love of Teaching

April 29, 2024

Chloe Gibb is a master’s student in the human resource development (HRD) program at the Idaho State University College of Education. Gibb is set to graduate in May 2024 and hopes to have a fruitful career teaching students at the collegiate level.

Growing up in a household that promoted learning and personal growth, Gibb noted that her parents deeply shaped who she is today. One of her most recurrent memories was being quizzed by her father on the drive to school on her spelling, and celebrating with her mother when she got good grades. It was through their continuous support that Gibb understood the impact of education, chose to pursue higher education, and become a teacher.

Gibb graduated from Renaissance High School with a dual enrollment associate’s degree in general arts from Idaho State in 2015, which allowed her to go on to pursue a secondary associate’s degree in culinary arts. After relocating to Oregon and working on her culinary diploma, Gibb moved back to Meridian, Idaho to work in a restaurant and gain real-world service experience.

“At the time, my goal was to own or manage a restaurant,” Gibb shared. “After experiencing multiple restaurants not being run properly, and observing certain attitudes toward those who did not perform well, I wanted to make a change.”

Making a change for Gibb meant teaching—which is exactly what she began doing. While simultaneously working toward her bachelor’s degree in workplace training and leadership, Gibb taught culinary arts to students at Renaissance High School. She also sought out support from her current program advisor and professor, Dr. Robin Lindbeck, who helped Gibb on the path toward a master’s program in HRD, which she is now set to complete this spring.

The HRD program prepares students for rewarding careers in a variety of industries, including corporations, nonprofit organizations, K-16 educational institutions, and so on. Students grow into leaders in this program and can complete their courses at their own pace, thus allowing them to graduate at a time that is right for them.

Coming into the HRD program allowed Gibb to grow and learn despite challenging assignments and classes. Gibb noted that her teachers have all been a great support system for her during her time in her program. “I have enjoyed every teacher I have worked with,” Gibb said. “Every teacher and course provided a different perspective for me and helped me grow and become well-rounded.”

Gibb noted that she plans to utilize her master’s degree to give different perspectives to organizations she works in. She is currently pending approval to begin a doctorate program in higher education and hopes to teach courses in HRD, as teaching is what she loves.

When it comes to both her program and advisors and how they prepared her for her future career, Gibb said, “Both did a great job in preparing me. Dr. Lindbeck was the best advisor I could have ever had, and she really went above and beyond to help me find the program that would fit my future goals and create a plan to achieve them. I cannot thank her enough.”

To learn more about the HRD program at the College of Education, please visit isu.edu/olp .

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