PhD or MSEd?

[jlt646]

I applied to a number of PhD programs, all highly ranked in my field (ed. policy). One R1, three Ivy. I should have applied to more, but my options were limited by distance, as my mom is sick and I don't love the idea of going more than a few hours away. I got into the R1 PhD program, and got deferred to master's programs in the others. I'm leaning heavily toward the PhD- the fit is great, the location is what I want right now, the faculty have amazing CVs, and they publish constantly. The alum network is massive, and there is still name recognition. 

Is there any reason I should consider the master's programs instead? 

[BeaLaCuriosa]

I am in an equally tougher position. I've been accepted by my 2 top choice schools same program. but one Master and the other PhD

What makes it complicated is that the Master's level program is from Harvard and the other one is a PhD with full funding. 

Even though I wanted the Ph.D from Harvard the idea of a 1 year masters is also appealing. But I wish I could defer the PhD and go to Harvard for a year and then attend the other one. 

What do I do?

[COGSCI]

Congratulations to both of you! If the PhD institution is reputable in your field, I would seriously consider going there. Academia is not about what 'label' you have on your CV. It is about how many publications and grants you have under your belt when you graduate with your degree. Choose a school that would allow you to do that. 

Lastly, one should never turn down a fully funded PhD over a master's program (if you are planning on staying in academia). Even if the master's offer is from Harvard. 

-From person who is going to attend a fully funded doctoral program over an unfunded Ivy league Master's program this year-

[juilletmercredi]

Academia is not about what 'label' you have on your CV. It is about how many publications and grants you have under your belt when you graduate with your degree.

Well, that's not true. It's about both. The publications and grants certainly matter but so does the reputation - and yes, prestige - of your department.

That said, OP, the only reason I think you should turn down the PhD is if you're not sure you want a PhD. Otherwise, it sounds like the PhD program is a good fit for you and you originally wanted a PhD in the first place (which is why you applied to all PhD programs) so go ahead!

[jlt646]

@COGSCI & @juilletmercredi Thank you both for your advice! Situation has changed a bit, and now I'm deciding between two PhD programs- turns out, one of the Ivies was considering me for multiple programs, and I (in my haste to read and forget the letter) didn't realize it. I was accepted to a PhD program yesterday! I'm jazzed, and now it's going to come down to location and funding. The schools are about as different as they get, and I am not sure what I'm going to be more attracted to. 

@juilletmercredi, can I message you about NY? I saw some of your posts in the city guide, and you have such amazing advice- I'd love to pick your brain a little, if I can.