I am applying to grad school in computer science and having trouble choosing between masters and Ph.D. Both the content of each program and the applications process is a mystery to me. For applying, I understand that getting in touch with a professor is probably the most important thing for a Ph.D applicant, is this still important for Masters? Does a Masters grad still work with a professor, or is it the more traditional route of simply taking classes and writing a masters thesis. Are Ph.D progrms more competitive? Require higher GPA/GRE, or subjective stuff like letters of recommendation/research work? Does it make sense to apply for Masters in a reach school and for Ph.D in the safetys?
Any help would be appreciated, trying to fill in the black hole of information on this whole process.
