Deciding Grad School: Same Institution for BA & PhD?

In summary, there is no consensus on whether employers in academia or industry view hiring individuals from the same BA and PhD institution negatively. Some believe that the quality of research is more important than the institution, while others think that staying at the same place may limit learning opportunities. The individual asking the question is an undergraduate student at UC Berkeley considering returning for graduate school, but also has other comparable options.
  • #1
chickenz
15
0
Hi. I'm in condensed matter experiment, and I was wondering whether employers (in academia or industry) would look less favorably on hiring people whose BA institution and PhD institution are the same.

I've heard different answers from different people about this question. Some say that employers don't like it. Others say that where you get your degree doesn't matter, but that it's the quality of the research that you will do there that does.

So what do people here think?

To put my question into context, I'm an undergrad in physics at UC Berkeley, and I am considering returning to Berkeley for grad school. My other choices for grad school are comparable (e.g., Stanford, Princeton, Caltech, Chicago, Columbia, etc...)
 
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  • #2
It doesn't matter.
 
  • #3
I am more concerned with the question than the answer. The reason it's a bad idea to stay at the same place is not whether potential future employers will care, but it's because you will likely learn less than if you go somewhere else.
 

1. What are the advantages of staying at the same institution for both my BA and PhD?

Staying at the same institution for both your undergraduate and graduate studies can offer several benefits. Firstly, you will already be familiar with the campus, resources, and faculty, which can make the transition to graduate school smoother. Additionally, staying at the same institution may also save you time and money, as you will not have to adjust to a new environment or potentially retake courses. It can also provide opportunities for ongoing research projects and collaborations with faculty members.

2. Will staying at the same institution limit my career opportunities?

No, staying at the same institution for your BA and PhD does not limit your career opportunities. In fact, it can enhance them. By staying at the same institution, you will have more time to establish relationships with faculty members who can serve as mentors and provide strong letters of recommendation for future job opportunities. Additionally, you can take advantage of resources and networking opportunities within the institution to further develop your career goals.

3. Will I miss out on a diverse academic experience if I stay at the same institution?

It is possible that staying at the same institution for your BA and PhD may limit your exposure to different academic perspectives. However, most institutions offer a diverse range of courses and research opportunities within various departments, which can still provide a well-rounded academic experience. Additionally, you can always attend conferences and workshops to broaden your academic perspective and network with scholars from other institutions.

4. How do I know if staying at the same institution is the right decision for me?

The decision to stay at the same institution for your BA and PhD ultimately depends on your individual goals and preferences. It is important to carefully consider the resources, faculty, and research opportunities available at the institution, as well as your career goals and potential for growth within the program. It may also be helpful to speak with current graduate students or alumni who have gone through the same program to gain insight into their experiences.

5. Can I transfer to a different institution for my PhD after completing my BA?

Yes, it is possible to transfer to a different institution for your PhD after completing your BA. However, keep in mind that the transfer process can be competitive and may depend on various factors such as availability of funding, compatibility of research interests, and admission requirements. It is important to thoroughly research and plan ahead if you are considering transferring to a different institution for your PhD.

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