Easier to get into MS or PhD program?

[qbeta]

Let me preface this by saying that my goal is a PhD and my field in molecular biology. Ideally I would just apply as a PhD candidate. The problem is that I bounced around at different schools before I was studying biology and though I have a high GPA in biology (3.68) and high GRE scores (1510) I have a number of "W" grades due to some health problems (since resolved). My thinking is that it might be easier to get into a program as a Master's candidate and then upgrade into the PhD or go elsewhere for it. I have heard, however, that it can be easier to get in as a PhD candidate. I find this hard to believe due to the fact that the school usually pays your way as a PhD student while Masters students don't get support but I'm open to hearing otherwise.

[anthropologygeek]

It's easier to get into a masters program for soft sciences and everything besides the hard sciences which its easier to get in a phd program.