masters vs. Ph.D

[sgusev]

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.

[Othello]

I'll be applying for a materials science PhD program this fall, so I'll tell you what I think I know.

Getting in touch with professors is not necessary or even usually recommended for prospective graduate students. Just research the professors at schools you're interested in, and look at what they're doing. I guess it won't hurt to e-mail them, but it probably won't be much help. I e-mailed one professor and got no reply, though I was mostly expecting this. I've heard it's more helpful to e-mail the department secretary if you're wanting to ask if they're accepting students and whatnot.

Yes, PhD programs are more competitive. According to US News, accepted PhD applicants typically have a higher a GPA and GRE than the accepted MS applicants. I'm sure a prospective PhD applicant will also need better recommendations and research experience on average.

If a PhD is what you want, there is no need to apply to an MS program at the more selective schools. When applying to schools, you typically have the option of being considered for an MS if rejected for the PhD program.

I hope this helps.

[Minnesotan]

Some reasons to apply to a masters program include:

-If you are interested in a unique program, not offering a PhD

-To be allowed extra grace time to make up whatever deficiencies (languages, etc.) exist

-If you're not sure you can hack 5-8 years of grad school (honestly, in a respectable program, you're going to be pushed hard)

-If you want additional training in research methods, etc.

Personally, I'm doing my masters in interdisciplinary studies at a large (60k students) research uni, and I am loving it. It's a very rigorous program, and everything - the people I've met, the contacts I've made, the training I'm receiving - I'm getting out of it is invaluable.

[jennesy]

What's your program?