Masters or PhD

[lilspike333]

I'm applying to graduate school for fall 2010 and I'm not sure whether to apply to MS or PhD programs. I'm a mechanical engineering major and I'm pretty sure I don't want to get a PhD, but I also can't really afford to pay for school all on my own. I've been told by several people that I should apply to PhD programs and then drop out after getting my masters in order to increase my chances of receiving funding. Is it okay to do such a thing? Are there usually stipulations for receiving funding in a PhD program or is it okay to drop out after getting a masters? Thanks.

[JerryLandis]

I'm sure its feasible, but keep in mind that you'd have a departmentload of potentially interesting folks feeling kind of bitter about your sneaky plot. Could be hard to get recommendations in the future and all that.

[JerryLandis]

Oops I meant influential, not interesting.

[socialcomm]

Each program is probably a bit unique in terms of stipulations/funding. But from the research I've done I haven't seen anything that would prevent a person from doing that. I would never do it though.

[glasses]

I've been told by several people that I should apply to PhD programs and then drop out after getting my masters in order to increase my chances of receiving funding. Is it okay to do such a thing?

This strikes me as a huge faux pas.