Question about Graduate school: Masters or a PhD

[andrewrt]

I am an undergraduate mathematics major considering two different options that would lead me to complete a PhD degree in mathematics. I would like advice on my considerations.

Option 1) Complete a MS degree, then apply for a PhD program at a better school.
(I understand that by not applying directly to a PhD program it could take longer to complete a PhD degree, and that I may have to retake certain classes. I also understand that not all students in MS programs receive funding.)

Option 2) Apply directly to a PhD program as an international student in the UK

I like option 1 because it would allow me more time to study for the subject GRE exam. I would be able to take core courses within my major and I feel like by doing a MS program it would would increase my chances of doing better on the subject exam. The schools that have programs within my research interest require top scores. I feel like completing a MS program first, then taking the subject exam would increase my chances of getting accepted by graduate programs that I want to apply to. My only concern is if I complete a MS degree at school A then apply for a PhD at school B, would the committee at school B assume I couldn't complete a PhD at school A (even if I did well in all of my classes and had good recommendations)? This is assuming school A's highest degree offered is a PhD. If that is the case then I would rectify that by only applying to schools that offered a MS degree. Then apply for PhD programs.

Option 2 is attractive because I could directly apply to PhD programs within the UK that focus in my research interest. Those schools do not require the GRE exams. My only concern would be whether or not I should apply directly for their PhD program, or their MS program & whether or not I could receive funding as an international student.

I have been published in an undergraduate journal, I have solid letters of recommendations, and I have research experience but my GPA is slightly above a 3.0. I am wondering if publications, research experiences and letters of recommendations count more than GPA? In summary I am wondering if it is OK to pursue option 1 (or if it'd be beneficial) & whether or not I should apply directly to a MS or PhD program in the UK.

 

[cristo]

I can comment on the UK option.

You will probably have trouble getting into a PhD programme in the UK with a GPA of 3.0. Usually, the minimum requirements are a 2.1 degree (which probably translates to something like a 3.5). I guess this is mainly because PhD students over here are not required to take any classes, and so a solid understanding of undergraduate material is essential. You'll likely get accepted onto an MSc programme, and if you do well enough at that it will increase your chances of getting accepted into a PhD. Research experience is good, but over here it is seldom seem (since students rarely get the chance to do some research as an undergraduate).

Of course, this all goes out of the window if you're planning on paying for your PhD -- I guess most universities will take on self funded students. (That's also something else you should look into, since if you're not an EU student it will be very difficult to get funding)

 

[Shaun_W]

I can comment on the UK option.

You will probably have trouble getting into a PhD programme in the UK with a GPA of 3.0. Usually, the minimum requirements are a 2.1 degree (which probably translates to something like a 3.5). I guess this is mainly because PhD students over here are not required to take any classes, and so a solid understanding of undergraduate material is essential. You'll likely get accepted onto an MSc programme, and if you do well enough at that it will increase your chances of getting accepted into a PhD. Research experience is good, but over here it is seldom seem (since students rarely get the chance to do some research as an undergraduate).

Of course, this all goes out of the window if you're planning on paying for your PhD -- I guess most universities will take on self funded students. (That's also something else you should look into, since if you're not an EU student it will be very difficult to get funding)

Actually, most MSc programmes require a 2:1 degree too.

 

[andrewrt]

As originally stated my GPA is in the 3.0-3.4 range (will possibly increase by the time I graduate). I've been published in a mathematics journal and have several years of research experience. I have good letters of recommendation too. How likely would it be for me to get accepted to a program whose minimum requirement is a 2:1 degree? Would you recommend that I apply for a MS or a PhD directly? My end goal is a PhD. Is it a strict 2:1 requirement? How much of a factor is 2:1 in regards to LoR and research experience?