Masters or PhD: Which One Should You Choose?

This is such a broad question with nuance regarding every field, each program of study, and each individual's goals. Ideally I would have a conversation with each individual to help them determine the best fit for themselves. In an attempt to provide a broadly generalized response I will include a couple necessary probing questions. If you read this and still find yourself unsure about which is the best fit for you, feel free to reach out at hello@gradschoolguidance.org.

What is your end goal?

Some people know that the credential they need for a specific job, and that is enough information to make the decision. In some cases this may be a masters. In this case a masters would make the most sense. For example, in order to obtain a clinical license in social work one must have a Masters of Social Work. In order to complete a license to practice therapy one must have a Masters of Family Therapy, or a Masters of Counseling Psychology. In these instances a masters makes the most sense as it is the required stepping stone to practice. This is common in many fields a Masters in Engineering, a Masters in Nursing….This degree will provide focused expertise.

If the end goal is a doctorate, for the credential or the prestige, it is important to know that while many of us complete a masters and then a doctorate, that is not the only path. Some people go straight from undergrad to a doctorate. 

Perhaps someone is shifting fields, this is another reason to complete a masters in one field and a doctorate in another.

Have you looked to see if meet eligibility criteria to apply to a doctoral program?

In many cases doctoral selection committees will want to see research experience, some also look for professional experience. It’s up to you to determine if you meet the eligibility criteria before you apply. If there are gaps that you need to fill to be eligible for a doctoral program you can look at post-baccalaureate or masters programs to fill those voids.

If someone applied to PhD programs and was not accepted, they may seek out master’s programs to gain additional research experience before reapplying to the PhD.

Are you interested in conducting research, publishing journal articles, or teaching in academia?

With an interest in research or teaching at the university level, a PhD would be ultimate goal. While there are many people who teach at the university level with a masters, a doctorate is often necessary to be considered for tenure-track faculty positions and for publishing research.

How much time and money can you commit?

On average, at a full-time student pace, a masters can take 1-3 years, and a PhD can take 5-7+ years. It is important to be realistic when thinking about how many years you want to spend in a program.

In addition to the amount of time, it's important to consider the amount of money each of these degrees’ costs. Program tuition varies widely, while a masters is a fewer number of years, there is a higher likelihood of finding a PhD with funding. This is not because PhD students are benefitting the university by teaching or conducting research.

Ultimately, it would be best to look at the eligibility criteria for a few different programs of interest.  Are you currently eligible, or are there skills you can develop to become more competitive to apply for these programs? Who are they looking for?