Schools What degree should I select when applying for grad school: Masters or PhD?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the decision-making process for selecting a graduate degree type—Masters or PhD—when applying to graduate school in the United States. The consensus is that applicants should select PhD, as admission committees prefer candidates straight out of undergraduate programs rather than those with a Master's degree. Concerns about appearing incomplete due to lacking a Master's degree are unfounded, as committees understand the typical academic progression. The advice emphasizes the importance of clarity in applications and reassures applicants about their qualifications.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of graduate school application processes in the United States
  • Familiarity with the differences between Master's and PhD programs
  • Knowledge of funding opportunities such as tuition waivers and stipends
  • Awareness of admission committee expectations for applicants
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the differences between Master's and PhD programs in your field
  • Explore funding options available for PhD students, including stipends and tuition waivers
  • Learn about the typical timeline and requirements for graduate school applications
  • Investigate common concerns and misconceptions regarding graduate admissions
USEFUL FOR

Prospective graduate students, particularly those with a Bachelor’s degree in fields like Physics, who are navigating the application process for PhD programs and seeking clarity on degree selection and funding opportunities.

guitarguy314
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Hi everyone. Just for a bit of background info, I earned my B.S. in Physics in May.

I'm applying for grad school (for next year), but I'm kinda stuck on part of the application. It's kind of silly, but I'm a worrier.

There's a spot on the application for you to select what degree you are seeking, masters, or PhD. Which should I select?

I'd like to go for my PhD, but my worry is that if I select that, they'll be looking for me to already have a Masters degree, and I won't get in because they'll think that my resume will be incomplete.

My worry if I select masters degree is that they won't think to sign me up for tuition waivers, and the stipend that PhD students get.

Do you guys have any thoughts?
 
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You should select PhD. In the US admission committees are looking for people fresh out of undergrad, not people with masters degrees.
 
I'm, worried that I wasn't clear. I am planning to go for PhD, but I do not have a masters degree. My worry is that selecting PhD will put me in an incomplete application limbo. The idea being that they will be waiting for proof of my masters degree from somewhere.

Or am I just worrying for nothing, and the department will figure it out?
 
In the US admission committees are looking for people fresh out of undergrad, not people with masters degrees. Does this make sense? Are you in the US?
 
it makes perfect sense, I was just making sure that I worded the question correctly. Thanks for your response.
 

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