physics, master of ENS vs master of UToronto vs phd of Rice

[littlefat]

I have got these three offers. But I really don't know how to choose between them.

 

First, master vs phd. I applied to master program simply because I haven't clearly known where my interest lies. I think a master program will give me a broader development that a phd program. But is it true?

 

Second, if master, which school? Both ENS (Ecole normale supérieure) and UToronto have huge reputation. But which one is better for academic career? Which one is better for working outside academia?

 

I need helps since I have to make a decision soon. Thank you in advance for any advice and suggestions.

[winddancer]

While I'm not a Physics student (I do biology) I'm very familliar with the French system. In France (and most Europe) you can't do a PhD without doing what they call Master Recherche.

In France they are basically 2 kind of Master, Master Recherche (for doing a phd later) or Master Professionel (which is supposed to prepare you to work without doing a PhD)

In the states what is called a PhD is a 5 year program (or often more)  that includes the Master (2 years) and then the  PhD part of it (the thesis dissertation)

In France you do first a Master (2 years) and then you apply for research PhD (3 years or more).

Also the ENS is focused on research, I would be very surprised if they have a Master Professionelle (I really can't say for physics, but I know that in Biology the ENS Lyon master is a master recherche for research), so if you go for the Master in France you would be expected to go afterward for a 3/4 year phd.

Edited April 6, 2013 by winddancer

[littlefat]

Thank you for your information, winddancer.

 

It is certainly a master for research.