An interesting twist on the MS second place prize

[chevy chef]

So, I applied to a few schools this last season for a PhD and the only funded offer was for a MS program.

Sounds good, no? However, I already have a MS in the same field (different school of course) and asked them about this, while making it clear I don’t want a MS. From the DGS himself, basically, stated that the program is generally giving everyone accepted funded MS offers first with the ability to move into PhD status after the program made the mistake of admitting a couple of students that could not cut it (but had PhD student status that made for a lot of red tape).

I got a lot of positive feedback that the transition will not be a problem for me at the end of the first year.

Yet, I am risk adverse and fear that I could end up wasting my time.

Any thoughts; too cynical on my part?

[BKMD]

The fact that they're funding an MS makes me think that they're serious about having the students move on to a PhD. I would make sure that they continue to fund PhD students, and if it seems to be the case I would say go for it.

[fuzzylogician]

I agree with the previous poster that this program sounds serious. I think you won first place with your offer, not second place:)

I'd suggest that you talk with graduate students who are currently in the program. Ask them about the program's admissions policy and about the transition from MS to PhD. Grad students are usually very honest and don't have any reason to lie or omit facts, so you can count on what they tell you--especially if you hear it from several people. All you need to do is ask them how hard it is (or isn't) to move to the PhD program. As long as the program guarantees you funding for 5 years, provided you meet the academic requirements, I don't think you should be worried.