When it comes to entering graduate school, there are several types of degrees to choose from. Masters degrees and doctoral degrees are the most popular choices. And what would be the difference between these degrees?
Any student will confirm the incredible commitment it takes to complete a graduate school program. It can prove to be quite overwhelming though. If a student intends to continue working while studying they will find this to be especially true.
If you are planning to get a raise, a master degree may be a better choice since they are more career-oriented. For research-based careers though, a doctoral degree is the better choice. A PhD is also practically mandatory for those who want to become professors.
Remember though that a bachelor's degree is inferior to a masters degree. The degree also allows people who have been in a specific field for a while to gain added expertise. You do not need to have a masters in order to get a doctoral degree though, contrary to what many think.
Another great asset of doctoral degrees is that they create knowledge. Since doctoral degrees require original research, individuals are essentially contributing new information to a particular field of study. People in the doctoral degree program are usually those who are excited about being able to contribute meaningful information to the field.
The time of completion is longer for a doctorate than for masters. A full-time masters degree can be completed in two years. It takes a few more years to complete a doctorate.
PhDs are more costly because they take longer to complete. The great salaries one gets after completing a PhD make them worth pursuing. Students are aware of the long-term benefits of the doctorate degree and they therefore see it as worth it.
An important difference is the financial aid options available for these graduate programs. Although both degrees allow help when it comes to paying educational costs, masters degree students receive less financial help if at all. PhD programs have a greater chance of getting full scholarships.
However, one of the best things that both degrees offer is the ability of the student to focus on subject areas that interest him the most. While the graduate school workload is high, this work is enjoyable because the subject is of interest. It is then easy to see the course through.
However, there are more online masters degree programs than there are online PhD programs. The bottom line is that if you really enjoy learning then a doctoral degree is definitely for you. Anyone looking for career growth path is better suited to a masters degree.
