Masters or Ph.D for a Research Career?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the decision between pursuing a Ph.D. or a master's degree in physics, particularly in fields like astrophysics and atomic physics. The original poster expresses a desire to engage in research but is reconsidering the commitment of a Ph.D. due to the lengthy duration and limited job opportunities in astrophysics. They question whether a master's degree would be sufficient for research roles, especially since they are not aiming for a university position and are considering government or industry jobs. Responses highlight the competitive nature of the field, emphasizing that many research positions may require a Ph.D., suggesting that a master's degree might not provide a significant advantage in securing jobs where competition includes Ph.D. holders. The poster remains open to pursuing a Ph.D. if it is deemed necessary for research opportunities.
M83
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I'm still in lower division so I know this is jumping the gun, but I wanted to ask this now while I still have time to ponder.

Originally my end goal was to get a Ph.D because I want to do research ideally in astrophysics, although I'm well aware that jobs in this field are few and far between so my second choice would be atomic physics. However, I've recently changed my mind to settling on a masters degree because I know that also involves independent research and I'm not so sure I want to spend the extra years obtaining a Ph.D. But is a Ph.D necessary if I want to do any type of research in physics? Or will a masters degree suffice? I'm not dreaming about a university position. I'd probably either go into a government or industry job. Thanks for any responses I do get.
 
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M83 said:
I'm still in lower division so I know this is jumping the gun, but I wanted to ask this now while I still have time to ponder.

Originally my end goal was to get a Ph.D because I want to do research ideally in astrophysics, although I'm well aware that jobs in this field are few and far between so my second choice would be atomic physics. However, I've recently changed my mind to settling on a masters degree because I know that also involves independent research and I'm not so sure I want to spend the extra years obtaining a Ph.D. But is a Ph.D necessary if I want to do any type of research in physics? Or will a masters degree suffice? I'm not dreaming about a university position. I'd probably either go into a government or industry job. Thanks for any responses I do get.

This is not making much sense. If you realize that "jobs in this field are few and far between" in astrophysics, etc., then what makes you think getting just a Masters degree makes it any better? You do know that for that type of jobs, you'll be competing with those who have PhDs. Who do you think potential employers would tend to hire?

Zz.
 
ZapperZ said:
This is not making much sense. If you realize that "jobs in this field are few and far between" in astrophysics, etc., then what makes you think getting just a Masters degree makes it any better?
Zz.

Ideally, astrophysics would be my first choice but I'm being realistic at this point and moving onto my second and third choices. I'm just generally inquiring into the options I would have for a research job in physics with a masters degree alone or is there no such thing? I'm willing to do a Ph.D program if it's absolutely necessary for any type of research position.
 
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