Will Not Finishing My M.Sc. Affect My Postdoctoral Opportunities?

[Bunsen]

Hi Guys!,

I am new in the forum and I want to ask for some advice regarding my carrier path. Here is my story in short:

I am a third year PhD student (mathematical modeling of turbulent flows). I finished my B.Sc. (Mechanical Engineering) in the best 20% of my generation and went for a M.Sc. in the same field. However, when I was almost ready with the M.Sc. I got a research fellowship and then another one and then another one and finally I got a PhD fellowship. Since I had some economical problems and was sure that I wanted to work in the academia the rest of my life (or at least I want to try to do it), I accepted all these fellowships and never finished my Master.

Do you think I could have some problems in the future finding a postdoctoral position because I did not finish my master?.. Should I try to finish it?

Thanks in advance for your answers.

 

[ZeroPivot]

In sweden you can only start a doctorate after you finish your masters I think USA is the only country where you go from Bachelors to doctorate. And yes i realize that you read the same courses during doctorate but as a master student your focus is on the courses its better i think.

 

[Choppy]

It might be an issue if, for example, you failed out, or were kicked out, but somehow managed to get into a PhD at another school. But if it was just a question of you choosing to follow a better opportunity, then no, bailing on the MSc is not likely to present any roadblocks.

 

[UltrafastPED]

What is required to complete the MSc?

You probably have all of the coursework ... just need to write a thesis on a research project?

Talk to your adviser ... you may be able to "double up". Sometimes when you are in a PhD program you only need to complete the course work for the MS if the other department approves.

 

[Matrix0]

I understand the importance of completing your academic degrees and the potential concerns you may have about not finishing your M.Sc. However, I want to assure you that your current situation as a third year PhD student with multiple research fellowships is a strong indicator of your abilities and potential as a researcher. The fact that you were able to secure these fellowships and continue on to a PhD program speaks highly of your qualifications and dedication to your field.

In terms of finding a postdoctoral position, I do not believe that not completing your M.Sc. will be a significant hindrance. Your PhD and the research experience you have gained through your fellowships will be the main focus for potential postdoc positions. Additionally, many postdoc positions may not require a completed M.Sc., as they are often looking for candidates with a strong research background and potential for future success.

However, if you feel that not completing your M.Sc. may be a concern for certain positions or for your own personal satisfaction, I would encourage you to consider finishing it. It may also provide you with additional skills and knowledge that could be beneficial in your current and future research endeavors.

Ultimately, the decision to finish your M.Sc. should be based on your personal goals and priorities. But please know that your current achievements and qualifications are strong indicators of your potential and should not be overshadowed by not completing your M.Sc. Best of luck in your academic and research journey.