Have a language expert improve your writing

Run a free plagiarism check in 10 minutes, generate accurate citations for free.

  • Knowledge Base
  • Applying to graduate school
  • Master’s vs PhD | A Complete Guide to the Differences

Master's vs PhD | A Complete Guide to the Differences

Published on November 27, 2020 by Lauren Thomas . Revised on June 1, 2023.

The two most common types of graduate degrees are master’s and doctoral degrees:

  • A master’s is a 1–2 year degree that can prepare you for a multitude of careers.
  • A PhD, or doctoral degree, takes 3–7 years to complete (depending on the country) and prepares you for a career in academic research.

A master’s is also the necessary first step to a PhD. In the US, the master’s is built into PhD programs, while in most other countries, a separate master’s degree is required before applying for PhDs.

Master’s are far more common than PhDs. In the US, 24 million people have master’s or professional degrees, whereas only 4.5 million have doctorates.

Table of contents

Master’s vs phd at a glance, which is right for you, length of time required, career prospects, costs and salaries, application process, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about master's and phd degrees.

The table below shows the key differences between the two.

Receive feedback on language, structure, and formatting

Professional editors proofread and edit your paper by focusing on:

  • Academic style
  • Vague sentences
  • Style consistency

See an example

difference between a master degree and a phd

A PhD is right for you if:

  • Your goal is to become a professor at a university or some other type of professional researcher.
  • You love research and are passionate about discovering the answer to a particular question.
  • You are willing to spend years pursuing your research even if you have to put up with a lot of dead ends and roadblocks.

A master’s degree is the better choice if any of the following apply:

  • You want to continue studies in your field, but you’re not committed to a career as a professional researcher.
  • You want to develop professional skills for a specific career.
  • You are willing to pay a higher upfront cost if it means finishing with your degree (and thus being able to work) much faster.
  • You want the option to study part-time while working.

The length of time required to complete a PhD or master’s degree varies. Unsurprisingly, PhDs take much longer, usually between 3–7 years. Master’s degrees are usually only 1–2 years.

Length of a master’s

Master’s degrees are usually 2 years, although 1-year master’s degrees also exist, mainly in the UK.

Most of the degree consists of classes and coursework, although many master’s programs include an intensive, semester-long master’s thesis or capstone project in which students bring together all they’ve learned to produce an original piece of work.

Length of a PhD

In the US, a PhD usually takes between 5 and 7 years to complete. The first 2 years are spent on coursework. Students, even those who choose to leave without finishing the program, usually receive a master’s degree at this point.

The next 3–5 years are spent preparing a dissertation —a lengthy piece of writing based on independent research, which aims to make a significant original contribution to one’s field.

Master’s degrees tend to prepare you for a career outside of academia, while PhDs are designed to lead to a career in research.

Careers for master’s graduates

There are two types of master’s degrees: terminal and research-intensive. The career prospects are different for each.

Terminal master’s degrees are intended to prepare students for careers outside of academia. Some degrees, known as professional degrees, specifically prepare students for particular professions; these include the Master of Public Policy (MPP), Master of Business Administration (MBA), Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), Master of Fine Arts (MFA), and Master of Public Health (MPH) degrees.

Other master’s degrees, usually Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Sciences (MS or MSc) degrees, do not necessarily lead to a specific career, but are intended to be a final degree. Examples include an MS in Communications or MS in Data Analytics.

In research-intensive master’s programs, students take coursework intended to prepare them for writing an original piece of research known as the master’s thesis . Such programs are usually intended to prepare for further study in a doctoral program.

Careers for PhD graduates

As research degrees, PhDs are usually intended to lead to an academic career. A PhD can be thought of like an apprenticeship, where students learn from professional researchers (academics) how to produce their own research.

Most students aspire to become a university professor upon the completion of their degree. However, careers in academia are highly competitive, and the skills learned in a doctoral program often lend themselves well to other types of careers.

Some graduates who find they prefer teaching to producing research go on to be teachers at liberal arts colleges or even secondary schools. Others work in research-intensive careers in the government, private sector, or at think tanks.

Below are a few examples of specific fields and non-academic careers that are common destinations of graduates of those fields.

  • Computer Science
  • Lab Sciences

Many government jobs, including economists at a country’s central bank, are research-intensive and require a PhD. Think tanks also hire economists to carry out independent research.

In the private sector, economic consulting and technology firms frequently hire PhDs to solve real-world problems that require complex mathematical modeling.

Graduate students from the humanities are sometimes hired by museums, who can make use of their research and writing skills to curate exhibits and run public outreach.

Humanities PhDs are often well-suited to research and grant-writing roles at nonprofits. Since so much of research is funded by grants, PhD students often gain a lot of experience applying for them, which is a useful skill in the nonprofit sector.

There are a wide range of non-academic research jobs for lab scientists with doctorates in subjects like chemistry, biology, ecology and physics.

Many PhD graduates are hired by pharmaceutical companies that need to perform research to create and test their products. Government agencies, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), also hire lab scientists to work on research projects.

Job prospects after graduation vary widely based on the field. In fields like management, computer science, statistics, and economics, there’s little underemployment—even graduates from less well-known programs can easily find jobs that pay well and use the skills they’ve gained from the PhD.

However, in other fields, particularly in the humanities, many PhD graduates have difficulty in the job market. Unfortunately, there are far more PhD graduates than assistant professor roles, so many instead take on part-time and low-paid roles as adjunct instructors. Even non-academic careers can sometimes be difficult for PhDs to move into, as they may be seen as “overqualified”  or as lacking in relevant professional experience.

Because career options post-PhD vary so much, you should take the time to figure out what the career prospects are in your field. Doctoral programs often have detailed “placement” records online in which they list the career outcomes of their graduates immediately upon leaving the program. If you can’t find these records, contact the program and ask for them—placement information should play an important role in your choice of PhD program.

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

Although PhDs take far longer to complete, students often receive a living stipend in exchange for being a teaching or research assistant. Master’s degrees are shorter but less likely to be funded.

Both master’s degrees and PhDs lead to increased salaries upon graduation. While PhDs usually earn a bit more than those with a master’s degree, in some fields, the wages are identical, meaning that no financial benefit is gained from going on to a PhD.

Cost of a master’s

The upfront cost of a master’s degree is usually higher than a doctoral degree due to the lower amount of financial aid available. However, increased salaries also arrive faster than with a doctoral degree, because people graduate much earlier from a master’s program.

Some master’s students do receive stipends for their degrees, usually as compensation for being a teaching or research assistant. In addition, many people complete master’s degrees part time while working full-time, which allows them to fund their living costs as well as tuition.

The cost varies significantly by school and program. Public schools are usually cheaper than private ones. Some master’s degrees, such as MBAs, are notoriously expensive, but also result in much higher wages afterwards that make up for the high cost.

The master’s wage premium , or the extra amount that someone with a master’s degree makes than someone with just a high school diploma, is 23% on average. Many universities provide detailed statistics on the career and salary outcomes of their students. If they do not have this online, you should feel free to contact an administrator of the program and ask.

Cost of a PhD

PhDs, particularly outside the humanities, are usually (though not always) funded, meaning that tuition fees are fully waived and students receive a small living stipend. During the last 3–5 years of a PhD, after finishing their coursework (and sometimes before), students are usually expected to work as graduate instructors or research assistants in exchange for the stipend.

Sometimes students can apply for a fellowship (such as the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Program in the United States) that relieves them of any obligations to be a teaching or research assistant. Doctoral programs in the US tend to be better funded than in the rest of the world.

Sometimes, PhD degrees can be completed part-time, but this is rare. Students are usually expected to devote at least 40 hours a week to their research and work as teaching or research assistants.

The main cost of doctoral programs comes in the form of opportunity cost—all the years that students could be working a regular, full-time job, which usually pays much better than a graduate school stipend.

The average wage premium for PhDs is 26%, which is not much higher than the master’s degree premium.

In the US, the application process is similar for master’s and PhD programs. Both will generally ask for:

  • At least one application essay, often called a personal statement or statement of purpose .
  • Letters of recommendation .
  • A resume or CV .
  • Transcripts.
  • Writing samples.

Applications for both types of programs also often require a standardized test. PhDs usually require the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), which tries to measure verbal reasoning, quantitative, critical thinking , and analytical writing skills. Many master’s programs require this test as well.

Applying for a master’s

Master’s degrees programs will often ask you to respond to specific essay prompts that may ask you to reflect upon not just your academic background, but also your personal character and future career ambitions.

Northwestern University’s Kellogg Business School requires Master’s of Business Administration (MBA) applicants write two essays, one about a recent time they demonstrated leadership and the second about their personal values.

Who you should ask for your letters of recommendation varies by program. If you are applying to a research-intensive master’s program, then you should choose former professors or research supervisors. For other programs, particularly business school, current work supervisors may be a better choice.

Some professional master’s programs require a specific test. For example, to apply to law school, you must take the Law School Admissions Test, or LSAT. For business school, you must take either the GRE or the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT).

Applying for a PhD

When applying for a PhD, your resume should focus more on your research background—you should especially emphasize any publications you’ve authored or presentations that you’ve given.

Similarly, your statement of purpose should discuss research that you’ve participated in, whether as an assistant or the lead author. You should detail what exactly you did in projects you’ve contributed to, whether that’s conducting a literature review, coding regressions, or writing an entire article.

Your letters of recommendations should be from former professors or supervisors who can speak to your abilities and potential as a researcher. A good rule of thumb is to avoid asking for recommendations from anyone who does not themselves have a PhD.

If you want to know more about college essays , academic writing , and AI tools , make sure to check out some of our other language articles with explanations, examples, and quizzes.

College essays

  • College essay examples
  • College essay format
  • College essay style
  • College essay length
  • Diversity essays
  • Scholarship essays

Academic writing

  • Writing process
  • Avoiding repetition
  • Literature review
  • Conceptual framework
  • Dissertation outline
  • Thesis acknowledgements
  • Burned or burnt
  • Canceled or cancelled
  • Dreamt or dreamed
  • Gray or grey
  • Theater vs theatre

A master’s is a 1- or 2-year graduate degree that can prepare you for a variety of careers.

All master’s involve graduate-level coursework. Some are research-intensive and intend to prepare students for further study in a PhD; these usually require their students to write a master’s thesis . Others focus on professional training for a specific career.

A PhD, which is short for philosophiae doctor (doctor of philosophy in Latin), is the highest university degree that can be obtained. In a PhD, students spend 3–5 years writing a dissertation , which aims to make a significant, original contribution to current knowledge.

A PhD is intended to prepare students for a career as a researcher, whether that be in academia, the public sector, or the private sector.

This depends on the country. In the United States, you can generally go directly to a PhD  with only a bachelor’s degree, as a master’s program is included as part of the doctoral program.

Elsewhere, you generally need to graduate from a research-intensive master’s degree before continuing to the PhD.

This varies by country. In the United States, PhDs usually take between 5–7 years: 2 years of coursework followed by 3–5 years of independent research work to produce a dissertation.

In the rest of the world, students normally have a master’s degree before beginning the PhD, so they proceed directly to the research stage and complete a PhD in 3–5 years.

A master’s degree usually has a higher upfront cost, but it also allows you to start earning a higher salary more quickly. The exact cost depends on the country and the school: private universities usually cost more than public ones, and European degrees usually cost less than North American ones. There are limited possibilities for financial aid.

PhDs often waive tuition fees and offer a living stipend in exchange for a teaching or research assistantship. However, they take many years to complete, during which time you earn very little.

In the US, the graduate school application process is similar whether you’re applying for a master’s or a PhD . Both require letters of recommendation , a statement of purpose or personal statement , a resume or CV , and transcripts. Programs in the US and Canada usually also require a certain type of standardized test—often the GRE.

Outside the US, PhD programs usually also require applicants to write a research proposal , because students are expected to begin dissertation research in the first year of their PhD.

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

Thomas, L. (2023, June 01). Master's vs PhD | A Complete Guide to the Differences. Scribbr. Retrieved March 20, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/graduate-school/masters-vs-phd/

Is this article helpful?

Lauren Thomas

Lauren Thomas

Other students also liked, when to apply for graduate school | month-by-month timeline, how to write a statement of purpose | example, how to write a graduate school resume | template & example, unlimited academic ai-proofreading.

✔ Document error-free in 5minutes ✔ Unlimited document corrections ✔ Specialized in correcting academic texts

difference between a master degree and a phd

  • Masters vs PhD – Differences Explained
  • Types of Doctorates

The decision of whether or not to pursue a Masters or PhD (or both) after you complete your undergraduate studies is not necessarily a straightforward one. Both are postgraduate degrees but are different in terms of the academic experience and the career paths taken afterwards.

In short, a Masters degree involves a year of study, primarily through taught lectures and a final dissertation research project, whilst a PhD (also referred to as a doctorate degree) is a three-year commitment of independent research on a specific subject.

There’s more to it than that, however – read on for more information.

What Is a Masters Degree?

A Masters degree is the next level of education after the completion of an undergraduate degree, commonly known as a Bachelors.

These degree levels are often referred to in terms of cycles so that a Bachelor’s is a first-cycle degree, a Masters is a second-cycle and finally, a PhD is the third-cycle of higher education (and the highest).

Masters degrees demand an intense period of study, usually centred around a core series of lectures and taught modules, coupled with coursework assignments and exams, followed by the completion of a contained research project usually taking students 3-4 months to complete.

These types of degrees are attractive to recent graduates who want to delve deeper into their specific field of study, gaining some research experience and more specialised knowledge beyond what an undergraduate degree can offer.

Equally, some pursue a Masters degree program in a subject that is only tangentially related to their Bachelors degree, helping them gain a broader depth of knowledge.

These degrees also serve as a significant stepping stone for those already in employment who want to progress their current career development and earn a higher salary. They can also be an excellent method for helping in changing careers completely by learning new skills and subject knowledge.

What Is a PhD Degree?

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is the highest academic degree that can be awarded and is the third and final cycle in the progression of higher education.

A doctoral degree is earned on the basis of producing a significant, independent and novel body of work (a Thesis) that contributes new knowledge to a particular research topic.

These are research degrees that are a significant investment of a candidate’s time, resources and energy and are all but a pre-requisite for anyone considering a career in academia, such as eventually becoming a professor.

There are some exceptions to this, such as those with a medical background who may earn an MD (Doctor of Medicine), which is the equivalent of a PhD.

Doctoral degrees can also have a significant positive impact on career development outside of academia, especially in fields such as engineering, business and finance that have a high demand for highly qualified and capable people.

A graduate student engaged in PhD study is commonly known as a PhD student, PhD candidate or doctoral student.

What are the Benefits of a Masters Degree?

There are several reasons one might consider doing a Masters degree rather than a PhD in their graduate education. These include:

  • It takes approximately a third of the time to do compared to a doctorate degree and costs less too.
  • It’s a good way to differentiate yourself from those that hold only an undergraduate degree without having to commit to a substantial research degree.
  • The end goal is more career-focused as opposed to research-focused. For example, it is practically an ‘easier’ route to changing or progressing your career if that aligns with your professional goals.

What are the Benefits of Doing a PhD?

You may continue on into a doctoral program after a Masters or you may even dive straight in after completing your undergraduate studies. So, what are the advantages of completing this third-cycle?

  • You’ll have developed a wealth of transferable skills at graduate school, such as effective communication of complex concepts, multi-tasking time-management and the ability to adapt to and solve unexpected problems.
  • A doctorate helps to establish you as an expert within your chosen subject area; your work will hopefully have furthered the knowledge in this.
  • It will open up career paths and teaching positions within academia that may otherwise be very difficult to get a hold in (although these career paths will still be very competitive).
  • You can add the title ‘Dr’ in front of your name!

Which Degree Is More Impactful: A Masters or a PhD?

On paper, the answer should be clear: A doctorate degree is the highest degree you can earn, so has more impact than a Masters, which in turn has more impact than a Bachelors.

The reality is that the size of the impact (if any) really depends on the subject area and the career path you choose (if the measure of impact is how it positively improves your career prospects, that is).

For someone with aspirations of becoming a professor, a PhD will be of greater value than a Masters alone.

Equally, it’s also possible that someone with a PhD entering a different field or one that doesn’t require a PhD may find that their degree has no bearing on their career or in some cases may even be seen as a ‘negative’ with a concern of the person being ‘over-qualified’ for a position. There are many scenarios in which professional experience would be more valuable to an employer than a doctorate degree.

Check out the links below to our interviews with Prof. Debby Cotton and Dr Nikolay Nikolov to read their experiences of when a going through a PhD program has had a clear benefit (Prof. Cotton) and when it hasn’t been helpful (Dr Nikolov).

Debby Cotton_Profile

Do You Need to Have a Masters to do a PhD?

This really depends on the university, department and sometimes even the project and supervisor.

From a purely application process perspective, some institutions may formally require you to hold a Masters degree relevant to the subject of the PhD project before you can enter their doctoral program.

In another scenario, most universities are unlikely to accept candidates that were awarded below a 2:1 (in the UK) in their undergraduate degree but may consider someone who has ‘made up’ for this with a high-grade Masters.

Lastly, some universities now offer PhD programmes that incorporate an additional year of study in which you would complete a Masters degree before carrying directly on into a PhD project. As you’d expect, even if a university doesn’t formally require you to hold one, a Masters degree can help separate you from other applicants in being accepted on the project.

Check out our detailed guide to doing a PhD without a Master’s .

Why Do a Masters before Your PhD?

Even if you don’t need to have one, it could still be beneficial to begin your postgraduate study by doing a Masters first before you embark on your doctorate journey.

As mentioned previously it’ll help you stand out from applicants that don’t have one, but beyond that, it’ll give you a taster of what research life could be like, especially if you stay at the same university and department for your PhD.

The one-year commitment (in the UK at least) of carrying out a Masters first, and in particular your research project, will help you better understand if this is truly something you want to commit the next three or more years to.

You’ll learn some of the skills of independent research, from performing detailed literature searches to more complex, analytical writing.

At the end of it, you should be in a stronger position to consider your options and decide about whether to continue into a PhD at graduate school.

Finding a PhD has never been this easy – search for a PhD by keyword, location or academic area of interest.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Masters Degree?

In the UK, a full-time Masters degrees take students one calendar year to complete: The programme of study usually starts in September, the final research project the following April and final project viva around August. Part-time degrees are usually double the time.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD?

In the UK, most PhD projects take 3-4 years to complete , as reflected by the majority of funded projects offering stipends to cover living expenses of about 3.5 years.

For many reasons, projects may end up taking longer to complete, however. This might be because of difficulties in collecting enough data, or if the project is being done part-time.

Which One is More Expensive to Do?

As you’d expect, as a PhD takes three times as long to complete as a Masters degree, it will cost you more to do as far as university fees are concerned.

Another thing to consider is that many PhD projects come with some level of funding equivalent to a low salary, which may cover the cost of tuition fees and living expenses, whilst it is usually more difficult to obtain funding for Masters study.

Conversely, a Masters graduate may progress into a higher (versus PhD funding) salary sooner whilst a PhD student will endure three years of a comparatively low income.

A Masters vs a PhD: Conclusion

If you’re considering continue further graduate study after your undergraduate degree, the question of doing a Masters vs a PhD is likely to come up. They are both considered an advanced degree, each with their own advantages.

There are benefits to doing either of these graduate programs or even both of them; your decision here can be easier if you have an idea of the career you want to follow or if you know you have a love for research!

Browse PhDs Now

Join thousands of students.

Join thousands of other students and stay up to date with the latest PhD programmes, funding opportunities and advice.

Should I Pursue A Master’s or A Ph.D.?

Shot of back of graduate looking into the distance with chin resting on hand at hooding ceremony

The first step in deciding on the right graduate program for you is to figure out which degree will best serve you—a master’s or a doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.). Here are a few factors to consider.

What are your career goals?

  • Professional master’s: A good choice if you want to develop a particular skill set in order to practice a particular profession. This type of degree provides coursework focused on learning and practicing skills.
  • Research master’s: A good fit if you want to gain expertise in a discipline and know how to teach it. A research master’s typically includes a research project or thesis and comprehensive exams in addition to coursework and provides experience in research and scholarship.
  • Ph.D. (doctor of philosophy): Consider this option if your goal is to ground yourself in a body of research and develop the ability to add to that body of knowledge. Ph.D. study includes a major research project in addition to coursework, and a Ph.D. is the highest scholastic degree awarded by American universities. Contrary to common perception, career paths for Ph.D. graduates are quite varied, not just limited to academia. Ph.D. training helps you hones skills such as writing, research, teaching, data analysis, communicating complex topics—all of which can translate into many sectors, including industry, government, nonprofit, and entrepreneurship.

See career data for Duke graduate programs' alumni

How much time do you have to pursue a graduate degree?

Master’s degrees typically take two years to complete, while Ph.D. programs generally take five to seven years ( see Duke programs' time-to-degree ). That is a significant difference in commitment and opportunity costs. It might also play a key role in deciding which factors take higher priority as you evaluate a program. How does the length of the program fit with your career and family plans? How important is the surrounding community if you are going to be there for seven years instead of two? How long are you able or willing to go on a limited income while in graduate school?

How much can you afford to pay for a graduate degree?

Consider your personal financial situation (e.g., how much savings and student loans do you have), as well as how much financial aid you can get. Master’s and Ph.D. programs differ greatly in the amount of financial aid available. Ph.D. programs tend to offer significantly more financial support than master’s programs (but often will have research or teaching requirements). 

A typical Ph.D. financial aid package usually includes coverage of tuition and fees, a living stipend, and some level of support for health insurance for a set number of years. For instance, Duke’s standard Ph.D. package covers tuition, mandatory fees, and a stipend for five years, as well as health insurance premiums for six years. 

Within an institution, the level of financial support often differs across programs, so be sure to ask your specific program about the financial aid it offers. There are also many national organizations that provide competitive fellowships and scholarships for graduate students.

Know which degree you want to pursue? Here are some key things to look for in a program .

Graduate Journey Resource Center

Discover valuable resources to assist you in your program search and decision-making process.

Graphic of Balancing Master’s vs PhD

Master’s vs. Ph.D.: What’s the Difference and Which One to Choose?

If graduate school is on your radar, one of the first things to consider is what type of degree you should pursue . While a bachelor’s degree is required for any postgraduate study, many people think you need a master’s to pursue a Ph.D., but that isn’t always the case. While there are benefits to receiving your master’s degree before your Ph.D., it’s not always necessary or required. However, there are important differences to note when deciding which type of program to apply to.

Master’s degree

A master’s degree usually takes about two years to complete full time. There are programs that allow a student to attend on a part-time basis, but that of course extends the completion time. Many master’s programs require a thesis to be completed, but not all. A thesis is a research project that is completed during the final year of a master’s program under the guidance of your program chair or advisor.

Under the master’s umbrella, there are quite a few specific degrees you can obtain. Your professional path will determine which of these you pursue.

  • Master of Arts (MA) is given for disciplines in the arts and social sciences.
  • Master of Science (MS) is given for sciences, health, engineering and statistics.
  • Master of Research (MRes) is focused on training students to become researchers. This is advantageous to a student if they’re pursuing a research-based career or planning to apply for a Ph.D. program.
  • Master by Research (MPhil) is similar to a MRes but is more advanced and focuses on research topics to be explored in depth. It’s often considered a precursor to a Ph.D. program.

Specialized master’s degrees

There are numerous specialized master’s degrees that are categorized by profession. These are often (not always) preceded by some professional experience prior to undertaking these types of advanced degrees.

  • Master of Business Administration (MBA)
  • Master of Library Science (MLS, MLIS, MSLS)
  • Master of Public Administration (MPA)
  • Master of Public Health (MPH)
  • Master of Social Work (MSW)
  • Master of Laws (LLM)
  • Master of Education (MEd, MSEd, MIT, MAEd, MAT)
  • Master of Engineering (MEng)
  • Master of Architecture (MArch)
  • Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
  • Master of Divinity (MDiv)

Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy)

There are many Ph.D. programs and, in general, it’s considered the most advanced type of research degree you can obtain. Ph.D. candidates are required to complete a dissertation to obtain their degree. Unlike a thesis, a dissertation is longer and consists of original research conducted throughout the entire doctoral study. In some cases, students may be awarded a stipend, or pay, to complete the doctoral program and dissertation.

Ph.D.’s take a considerably longer time to complete than a master’s, five to eight years on average, and they carry a rather high rate of noncompletion due to time and financial commitments. Many Ph.D. programs have stipends available, so it’s important to inquire about that when researching a particular program.

Specialized doctorate programs

As with master’s degrees, there are several specialized doctorate programs specific to different disciplines and areas of study:

  • Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
  • Doctor of Engineering (EngD/PhD)
  • Doctor of Education (EdD/D.Ed)
  • Doctor of Social Science (DsocSci)
  • Doctor of Professional Studies (DProf)
  • Doctor of Architecture (DArch)
  • Doctor of Theology (Th.D)
  • Doctor of Divinity (DD/DDiv)
  • Doctor of Science STEM (Dsc/ScD)
  • Doctor of Science Arts & Humanities (DLitt/LitD)

When deciding which one to get, consider your immediate or long-term career goals — which degree would serve you best? In some cases, you can obtain a Ph.D. with just a bachelor’s degree, but often it’s recommended you get a master’s first for the research experience that will be required for a Ph.D.

As with anything, there are exceptions. Students in law school obtain a J.D. (Juris Doctor) but can then further obtain a master’s in a sub-specialty like tax or immigration law. The health care occupations of physical therapist and pharmacist are also doctorate programs obtained post undergrad.

Making your choice

As with any decision, weigh your options, list pros and cons, and go from there. Once you’ve narrowed your options , you’ll have a precise list of programs and institutions generated for your specific goals.

logo (1)

Tips for Online Students , Tips for Students

Master’s vs PhD — These are the Main Differences

Master’s-vs-PhD---These-are-the-Main-Differences-

The consideration between earning a master’s vs PhD is not always an easy choice. While many careers and personal aspirations may be complete with just an undergraduate degree (Associate’s or Bachelor’s), a lot of people continue their higher education to obtain graduate degrees. These include a master’s and/or a PhD.

Neither a master’s degree nor a PhD is considered to be a walk in the park. Therefore, it’s useful to understand why you would earn either and then decide how far to go.

difference between a master degree and a phd

Photo by  Good Free Photos  on  Unsplash

Definitions: master’s vs phd.

Bost a master’s and PhD are defined as postgraduate degrees, but they require different commitments and styles of learning.

1. Master’s Degree:

Mostly all master’s degrees will require the completion of an undergraduate bachelor’s degree to enroll. They generally all share the same common requirement for a thesis or dissertation to graduate.

Earning a master’s degree through a taught program will result in the completion of a Master of Art (MA), Master of Science (MS), or Master of Philosophy (MPhil). For those who earn their master’s degree through research, they will earn a Master of Research (Mre), in a tailored field of study. There are also degree-specific master’s programs like Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Education (M.Ed).

After earning a master’s degree, the next step is a PhD, which entails both working and performing research at an institution. A PhD is an abbreviation for “Doctor of Philosophy.” It is the highest academic degree one can achieve. As such, it is a time-consuming pursuit that requires a lot of studying and research.

You may be wondering, “Do you need a master’s to get a PhD?”

Technically, the answer is not always. Some students skip a master’s and go straight for their PhD, but they may lack research experience. While it could save money, the transition between a bachelor’s and a PhD is incredibly sharp. It may be harder to complete a PhD without the experience from a master’s.

Yet, some institutions may allow for the possibility to earn both your master’s and PhD in conjunction with one another. This will alleviate the transition between skipping a master’s and going straight to earning a PhD.

Should You Get a Master’s or PhD?

There are many considerations to factor when deciding between a master’s of PhD. For starters, it’s useful to consider the amount of time it will take, the cost, and the benefits and disadvantages of each. It is also of utmost importance to explore your own personal goals and reasons for wanting a graduate degree.

If your desired career of choice requires a PhD, like becoming a university professor, then you have your answer. If you want to start a business and benefit by networking while in school, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) could be a good idea. Consider what you want to pursue as a career and find out the requirements first.

Another useful thing to note is that a master’s degree can be used for a shift in careers. For example, if you attended college and earned a bachelor’s degree in humanities, but now you want to pursue science, you can still earn your master’s degree in a scientific discipline. On the other hand, a PhD is tailored to your field of study and specialty, so it will require that you are sure of your direction when you first earn your master’s degree.

Length of Time

A typical master’s degree program takes about two years full-time. However, there are accelerated programs that can be completed in just a year or so.

A PhD, in general, requires five to six years of studying, teaching, and research. However, it may even take some students up to eight or nine years to graduate. With this significant investment in time, it’s necessary to know if a PhD is right for you before starting.

The cost of both programs varies by institution and enrollment status of part-time versus full-time. However, since a PhD takes longer to complete, it will end up costing more. With that said, if you look into your return on investment, a PhD could end up yielding a higher salary, and therefore end up “costing less.”

Additionally, there is also the possibility of being paid to complete your PhD. Some students may receive an academic stipend, a university fellowship or apprenticeship or a reduced fee to earn their PhD while completing research (or teaching) at an institution. It’s also possible to get financial aid through a scholarship or grant.

As tuition rates continue to rise, it’s useful to look into alternative institutions for affordable education. For example, the University of the People offers a tuition-free master’s program in Business Administration and Education. This means you can study 100% online and graduate for less than the cost of most programs.

Weighing the Benefits

When comparing the two degree types, here are some benefits of each:

  • Career-oriented
  • Can open the door for more job opportunities
  • Costs less than a PhD
  • Takes less time than a PhD
  • Helps you stand out from those with only an undergraduate degree
  • You can perform research in your field of choice
  • You become an expert in your field
  • The prefix Dr. is added to your name
  • You can teach in academia at the highest level

Required Commitment and Reasons to Pursue

Both a master’s and a PhD require a huge amount of hard work and utter commitment. You must be dedicated and motivated to complete either degree. Since most careers only may require a bachelor’s degree, having a master’s or PhD will set you apart from the competition. However, this should not be the sole reason to pursue either.

You may be wondering why would you earn either degree. Here’s a look at some motivational factors:

Reasons to Study for a Master’s

  • Your career requires it (see next section)
  • You want to advance your subject knowledge
  • You want to experience graduate school and network with peers

Reasons to Study for a PhD

  • You want to contribute new research to your field of choice
  • Your career requires a PhD
  • You want to earn the title of Dr.

Careers in the medical field often require a PhD

Photo by  Online Marketing  on  Unsplash

Required degrees by career.

Most people are motivated to pursue higher education because their desired careers require they do so. Here, we will break down those fields that require the completion of a master’s degree as it’s high on the list of reasons why to get one.

  • Education Administration: To work as an administrator in an educational institution, you need to hold an advanced degree. A Master’s in Education (M.Ed) will provide you with the necessary knowledge and required skills to succeed in the field.
  • Executive Level Business: A Master’s in Business (MBA) will not only place you ahead of the competition to land high-level positions in the field of business, but it can also be the jumping off point for becoming your own boss.
  • Environmental Science: With issues in climate change and technological advancement, careers in Environmental Science are growing. As with most scientific careers, it requires a master’s degree where you will learn Applied Ecology, Environmental Policy, Environmental Chemistry, and more.
  • Mental Health: To become a licensed practitioner and assist in mental health counseling, you will continue your education through a master’s degree in the field.
  • Physical Therapy: Employers of physical therapists often prefer them to obtain a master’s degree in the discipline as the field is highly specialized.

Of course, some careers require a PhD. These careers are easy to spot because they have the prefix Dr. in front of them or the suffix like J.D. (Juris Doctor). To become a lawyer, doctor of medicine, veterinary medicine or psychologist/psychiatrist, you must obtain a PhD in the respective field.

Salary Differences Between Master’s and Ph.D. Graduates

According to a study performed by the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce , the overall evidence shows that the higher the degree you have, the higher your salary potential. However, the differences vary by subject level and field.

In general, the expected lifetime earnings of those with each degree level is as follows:

  • High School Diploma: $973,000
  • Bachelor’s Degree: $1.3 million
  • Master’s Degree: $2.7 million
  • Doctorate Degree: $3.3 million

The Bottom Line

Aside from the financial cost and length of time, the opportunity to earn a master’s and a doctorate degree can offer several benefits.

However, it is an undertaking that requires a lot of dedication and motivation on behalf of the student. As such, it’s important to perform research on your desired career’s requirements, as well as your personal interest in pursuing either a Phd vs master’s.

Related Articles

Search form

  • Get Informed
  • Before You Apply
  • Choosing a Graduate Program

Masters Vs PhD: What is the Difference Between Masters & PhD/Doctorates

Masters vs phd degree - which is right for you.

If you’re thinking about continuing your education after earning an undergraduate degree, you might wonder what the differences are between a Masters vs PhD . As many reasons as people have to pursue a graduate degree, there are just as many degrees available to you.

As a result, there are many things to consider when choosing between a Masters degree programs and PhD programs , including which degree is higher, which one costs more, and the types of degrees available.

masters vs phd

Which One Is Higher: A Masters or a PhD?

For most students, a bachelor’s degree is the 'first' degree, a Masters is the 'second' degree, and a Doctorate degree, such as the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), is a 'terminal degree'. But that doesn’t mean it’s the same path for everyone or for all subjects.

For instance, some nursing schools offer nursing bridge programs , which allow students to go straight from an ADN to MSN, or an entry-level MSN, which is designed for students with a non-nursing degree.

Do You Have To Get A Masters Before A PHD?

There are some graduate programs that provide a formal plan of study for completing a Masters and PhD at the same time. Referred to as dual degrees, joint degrees, or master’s and PhD combined degrees, grad schools with these practical programs are a great way to earn both degrees at the same time. Find 11 Grad Shools that Offer Dual Masters and Phd Degrees here !

How Long Does It Take to Get a Master's Degree?

Usually a full-time graduate student might acquire a Master's degree in about two years. Master's degrees typically require less time than doctoral degrees. Either way, earning a graduate degree is a significant investment of time.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD?

A PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) usually requires at least five to six years in an accredited graduate school. Many students might take seven to nine years to complete depending on exams, coursework and dissertations required.

Which One Costs More?

Because a PhD takes longer to complete, it usually costs more money. The flip side to this is that a PhD may yield a higher salary upon completion and is therefore worth the increased cost long-term.

Whichever graduate degree you decide to pursue, you’ll have expenses, such as tuition, fees, books, and others. In addition, there is also a significant loss of money if you’re unable to work or only earn low wages through assistantships or part-time employment. Student loans are always an option to pursue, but they may have high interest rates that can take years to pay back.

Another thing to consider is that each school charges a different amount for graduate degrees. Therefore, be sure to consider the cost of each school before making a final decision.

Masters vs PhD: Weighing your Options

We know that graduate school requires time, money and commitment for both Masters and a PhD. So, which should you choose?

Masters degrees tend to be more career-oriented while PhD's tend to be more focused on research since they are preparing people for research-oriented careers or in academia. If all you want is a raise, a PhD is probably not the road to choose.

On the other hand, if you love learning in and of itself, research, and if you want to pursue a career as a professor, then the work required for PhD may be just for you. Also, many PhD programs require that you have earned a Masters, though there are exceptions. Therefore, check with the admissions requirements of all schools and programs before applying.

What Is a Masters Degree?

A Master’s degree is a second-cycle academic degree and the first level of graduate study, which means it is after a Bachelor’s degree and before a PhD.

how many years is a masters degree?

The Master's degree can allow specialization or concentration within a field so that you can focus your studies in-depth on a particular aspect of a subject. Pursuing a Master’s works especially well if you’ve been working in a particular career for some time and hope to qualify for a leadership position within your field.

A Master’s degree can also be an excellent method of changing careers. If you’ve been in the workforce and found that your career or undergraduate education are not leading you in the direction you’d like, a Master's degree can allow you to start in a different direction by gaining new knowledge and skills.

Benefits of Earning a Master’s Degree

Some of the benefits of earning a master’s degree are:

  • Less time and money than a PhD
  • More career-oriented than a PhD
  • Sets you apart from those with only a Bachelor’s degree
  • May have greater employment opportunities
  • May lead to greater career advancement

What Is a PhD?

Doctor of Philosophy, or PhD, are considered terminal degrees, or the highest degree you can earn. PhDs are research-based academic degrees which are awarded in many fields. One of the many reasons to get a PhD is if you’d like to become a professor because a PhD is practically mandatory to become a postsecondary teacher. i  Even for those few who can find teaching positions with only a Masters, most schools want to see progress toward a PhD.

A PhD can also be helpful outside the world of academia in today's increasingly competitive job market. Businesses are searching for extremely qualified people who have demonstrated intelligence, perseverance and the ability to learn in a variety of fields, including engineering , information technology , or many others.

Benefits of Earning a PhD

PhD work requires original research that contributes new information to the field of study. One of the less tangible, though very important, reasons to get a PhD consists in the idea of creating knowledge.

Some of the benefits of earning a PhD include:

  • You’ll be regarded as an expert in your field
  • Enhance your transferable skills, such as critical reasoning, problem-solving, and in-depth analysis
  • Add to the research and knowledge in your field
  • Improve your analytical skills
  • You can include Dr. in your title

Don’t forget, if you can’t or don’t want to relocate to earn your graduate degree, there is always the option of earning your degree through distance learning. Search for accredited online graduate programs  for additional online masters and doctorate programs.

Commitment to Earning a Masters vs PhD

There’s no way around it, graduate school takes work. However, many students who drifted through college are surprised to find that graduate school requires a much larger commitment in terms of work and intellectual energy.

For instance, graduate schools can be very competitive. On top of a full course load, many students are working or teaching, plus trying to balance their personal and family responsibilities. This competitiveness between students, added responsibility, and number of courses that require in-depth analysis and reading, leads many students to find themselves overwhelmed.

This is true for both masters and PhDs. However, the number of years required to earn a PhD requires perseverance on a scale above and beyond what both undergraduates and those pursuing a masters degree experience.

One of the key differences between undergraduate and graduate degrees, whether you pursue a masters or PhD, is the ability of graduate student to focus on a field and subject in which they are very interested. Plus, while a graduate degree may jumpstart your career, it is not perceived as mandatory as an undergraduate degree can be. Therefore, pursuing a masters degree or a PhD can seem like your choice, which motivates some students to perform better.

Still Deciding Between a Masters or PhD?

To summarize, a PhD may be worth it if:

  • You truly love your field
  • You enjoy your studies
  • You want the benefits and prestige associated with the doctoral degree

On the other hand, if you are simply looking to change fields, gain a promotion, or are nervous about five to six more years of school, then a Masters is probably a better choice.

However, it is worth noting that you may be able to get more financial aid for a PhD. Since it takes longer, schools recognize that those trying to acquire their PhD's need more assistance than those who only want a Masters degree.

This adds an interesting dimension to the application process for two reasons:

  • It is probably better to apply to the doctoral program because there is no penalty for changing your mind and deciding to leave with only a Masters degree, and it increases your chances of getting financial aid .
  • PhD programs can be more competitive, and applying to it, rather than the Masters degree program, might decrease your chances of admission. If you are denied entrance to the PhD program, you could ask the school to consider you for the Masters program, if that’s allowed at that particular school.

GradSchools.com Top Schools with Graduate Degrees*

Sponsored Listings

Sponsored Meaning Explained

Finding the Perfect Masters or PhD Degree for You

Depending on your previous education, professional experience, and your future career goals, there are a wide variety of graduate degree programs for you to choose from.

[i] bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/postsecondary-teachers.htm#tab-4 [ii] bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm#tab-4

written by Rana Waxman

Subscribe for information on earning a graduate degree

By entering my email address and clicking "Sign Up" I agree to be contacted by EducationDynamics for additional education products and services, this submission is not required to use our site. Privacy Policy .

Advertise  | About  | FAQs |  Update Programs | Terms of Use | Legal Notice | Privacy Policy   | Sitemap |--> Disclosure: What Determines Top/Best?  | Do Not Sell My Personal Information (CA and NV residents)

© Gradschools 2020. All Rights Reserved.

The sources for school statistics and data is the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics and the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System unless otherwise noted. 

Disclosure: Education Dynamics  receives compensation for many of the featured schools on our websites (see “Sponsored School(s)” or “Sponsored Listings” or “Sponsored Results” or “Featured Graduate School(s)”. So what does this mean for you? Compensation may impact where the Sponsored Schools appear on our websites, including whether they appear as a match through our education matching services tool, the order in which they appear in a listing, and/or their ranking. Our websites do not provide, nor are they intended to provide, a comprehensive list of all schools (a) in the United States (b) located in a specific geographic area or (c) that offer a particular program of study. By providing information or agreeing to be contacted by a Sponsored School, you are in no way obligated to apply to or enroll with the school.

This is an offer for educational opportunities, not an offer for nor a guarantee of employment. Students should consult with a representative from the school they select to learn more about career opportunities in that field. Program outcomes vary according to each institution’s specific program curriculum. Specific School Disclosures . Financial aid may be available to those who qualify. The information on this page is for informational and research purposes only and is not an assurance of financial aid.

The Magoosh logo is the word Magoosh spelled with each letter o replaced with a check mark in a circle.

Master’s vs. PhD: What’s the Difference?

A young woman with her palms turned up

When you are at a college or university, you are likely pursuing the same goal as most other undergraduate students: an Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree. However, what happens if you want to continue your formal education ? You generally have three options. You can pursue a Master’s, a PhD, or both! In today’s guide, we will discuss some of the most important differences between a Master’s and a PhD, as well as the paths required for each one.

Master’s vs. PhD: A Comprehensive Breakdown

What is a master’s degree.

In layman’s terms, a Master’s degree is the next step up from a Bachelor’s Degree. Once you enter a Master’s program, you are officially a “graduate” student (as opposed to an undergraduate). It can be helpful to think of a Master’s as a continuation of your undergraduate studies but with a greater focus on your field of interest. For example, you might get a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and then go on to get your Master’s in Early Childhood Psychology. Getting a Master’s essentially prepares you for a future career with more intensive coursework, greater emphasis on research, and the opportunity to do more fieldwork.

How Long Does a Master’s Take?

In the vast majority of cases, if you hold a Bachelor’s Degree and want to further your education, you can apply for a Master’s program. You can technically go directly from a Bachelor’s to a PhD, but this path is more complex and less common (more on that later!). If you are accepted into a Master’s program, you can expect to finish the program in roughly two years as a full-time student. There are certain Master’s programs that take less time to complete – for example, the J-Term from Columbia Business School which allows you to earn your MBA in 16 months.

Naturally, if you opt to take fewer classes per semester, it will take longer. For example, you may want to get a part-time job to help cover the costs of your Master’s, in which case it could take you anywhere between three and five years to finish your degree. Many universities offer part-time options specifically for students who plan to work while in school.

Master’s Degree Overview

  • Application Process : This varies from one program to another, but it is very similar to the application process for an undergraduate university program. You will need to choose your program, review the requirements, collect the necessary documents, and submit your application. Many schools will require a standardized test like the GRE or GMAT.
  • Length of Time : 1.5 to 2 years (full-time) or 3 to 5 years (part-time)
  • In-School Experience : If you majored in a certain subject in undergrad, you were likely required to take a number of courses on that specific topic. You can think of a Master’s degree somewhat similarly – where you’re spending a lot of time learning about going a field that you’re interested in. Master’s degree coursework generally entails a mix of different types of classes – lectures, research, and project-based courses. The workload is usually more intensive than undergraduate degrees and often requires a final project or thesis. But, remember, you’re likely getting a Master’s because you’re interested in the topic – so you should be interested in many of the classes you’re taking!
  • Career Prospects : As more people go to college, the requirements for jobs become more stringent. You can greatly expand your potential career opportunities and even improve salary negotiations by having a Master’s degree. However, whether or not you really need a Master’s depends on your field of study, as well as your educational and career aspirations.
  • Average Cost of a Master’s : $66,340 [ 1 ]
  • Average Annual Salary with a Master’s : $77,844 [ 2 ]

What is a PhD?

While PhD is short for “Doctor of Philosophy,” it does not mean that you have to get an advanced degree in philosophy. Essentially, a PhD is the highest educational achievement that encompasses nearly all fields of study. With a PhD, you are considered an expert in your field and capable of teaching others at the undergraduate or graduate level. The exact experience varies significantly based on your chosen field of study, but PhD programs are often far more intensive than Master’s programs, with much greater emphasis on research and a final doctoral dissertation.

How Long Does a PhD Take?

This is where things can get tricky. On its own, a PhD can take anywhere between four and six years to complete as a full-time student. However, this is just the PhD program. You can finish your undergraduate degree and apply directly for a PhD program, but you will need to have excellent qualifications to make it through the application process. Moreover, many PhD programs require you to have a Master’s in a relevant field to even apply. As a result, many people first get a Master’s degree (roughly 2 years) and then apply for a PhD program. Therefore, if you add on the length of time you will need to get your Master’s, it could take as long as 6 to 10 years to get your PhD.

PhD Overview

  • Application Process : The application process is often more competitive for PhD programs, as there are fewer slots and more stringent requirements. You will likely need to provide multiple letters of recommendation, personal statements, and examples of your past work.
  • Length of Time : 4 to 6 years (full-time) or 5 to 8 years (part-time)
  • Experience : A PhD is a very intensive and rigorous experience, and you can expect to put hundreds of hours into research and coursework. The majority of PhDs require a final dissertation – which is essentially original research and your contribution to your field of study. For example – someone getting their PhD in Chemistry might do research on molecular properties in certain environments (that’s a real PhD title! ). Typically, completing your dissertation means you present it for review to a board of advisors at your university, and may submit it to be published in academic journals.
  • Career Prospects : Many people debate how much your career prospects improve with a PhD. Oftentimes, people pursue a PhD if they wish to work in academia – teaching or conducting long-term research in their field of study. That said, some people do move out of academia after finishing their PhD. It can be helpful to look at alumni from programs you’re applying to – where do they end up after school? Do most of them work in academia, or move into another industry? This also varies by your focus – you could imagine a construction company might be more interested in hiring a PhD in Civil Engineering than a PhD in Medieval Literature.
  • Average Total Cost of a PhD : Many PhD programs are fully funded, meaning the student does not have to pay tuition and is paid by the university. [ 3 ]
  • Average Annual Salary with a PhD : $97,916 [ 3 ] Note – research from the U.S. Bureau of Labor & Statistics indicates that the average PhD makes 25% more than someone with a Master’s degree.

The Bottom Line

As you can see, there are a lot of factors to consider when deciding whether to pursue a Master’s, a PhD, or both. A Master’s takes less time, but it’s not comprehensive and may not yield as high a salary as a PhD. Alternatively, a PhD takes two to three times as long to complete, but it could help you advance your career even further, command a higher salary, and become a recognized expert in your field. So, while it’s a great idea to pursue higher education, just remember the pros and cons of Master’s vs. PhD programs when you are ready to apply – and ultimately make the decision that’s best for you, vs. what you feel is expected!

Matthew Jones

Matthew Jones is a freelance writer with a B.A. in Film and Philosophy from the University of Georgia. It was during his time in school that he published his first written work . After serving as a casting director in the Atlanta film industry for two years, Matthew acquired TEFL certification and began teaching English abroad. In 2017, Matthew started writing for dozens of different brands across various industries. During this time, Matthew also built an online following through his film blog . If you’d like to learn more about Matthew, you can connect with him on Twitter , LinkedIn , or his personal website !

View all posts

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Idealist logo

Popular searches

Land your dream job, the difference between a masters and a doctorate.

Two people reading books in a waiting room.

There are a lot of degree types out there. Many fall into one of two camps: doctorates and master’s degrees. Both graduate degrees offer a narrower educational focus than the undergraduate experience. The higher the degree, the longer it takes to earn and the more specialized is its focus. We’re taking a closer look at the master’s and doctorate degrees to highlight differences and help you determine which might be most useful to you.

Master’s Degrees

Master’s degrees are more versatile than doctoral degrees, and have a wide range of professional and academic applications. The most common master’s degrees are Master’s of Arts (M.A.) and Master’s of Science (M.S.) . Additionally, there are three types of master’s programs:

  • Research Master’s degrees are typically for academic and applied research disciplines. Examples include a Master’s of Arts in Comparative Literature, and Master’s of Science in Biology. In some fields, earning a research master’s degree without going on to earn a Ph.D. restricts your professional options. Figure out what's best for you and your career trajectory by talking with professors or professionals in your field.
  • Professional Master’s degrees prepare candidates for professional work by introducing practical skills and frameworks for understanding issues in their field. These degrees may also qualify a person to practice in their field. Examples include a Master’s of Social Work, Master’s of Architecture, or Master’s of Art in Teaching. Most of the degrees featured at Idealist Grad Fairs are professional master’s degrees supporting careers in the social good sector.
  • Terminal Master’s degrees are the highest academic degree in their field. While some master’s degrees may serve as the first step towards a doctorate, others—such as a Master’s of Fine Arts in Creative Writing or a Master’s in Library Science—are as high as you can go for academic accreditation in those fields of study.

Before pursuing a master’s degree, candidates must have already earned a bachelor's degree. Master’s programs take one to three years to complete and consist of advanced-level courses and seminars. In some programs, students go on to research, write, and defend a master’s thesis. In professional master’s programs, the thesis is often replaced by final projects and exams.

Doctoral Degrees

The most common doctorate is the Doctor of Philosophy or PhD. These research doctorates prepare students to contribute to the collective knowledge base of the field and offers a unique opportunity for an individual to conduct intensive and prolonged research on a very particular topic, which often leads to publication. With a PhD, many seek careers as professors and researchers, but may also pursue roles in the nonprofit, public, and private sectors. Additionally, there are professional doctorates like the MD (Medical Doctor), and the JD (Juris Doctor). Before pursuing a doctorate, candidates must have already earned a bachelor's degree and in some cases a master’s depending on the program. Due to the nature of specialization, PhD programs tend to be smaller than master’s programs.

PhD candidates begin by taking courses and exams. They go on to take advanced seminars and complete their requirements by researching, writing, and defending a dissertation. A dissertation is one of the central components of earning the PhD and is a doctoral-level thesis about the candidate’s original research. A doctorate degree may take up to eight years to earn depending on the program, whether the candidate has already completed a master’s degree (or is coming straight from undergraduate), and the amount of time it takes to complete the dissertation.

Dual Degree Programs or Joint Master’s and PhD Programs

If you decide both degree programs sound right for you, there are some programs that offer the option to pursue both degrees at the same time. A dual degree program allows you to double count your earned credits towards the completion of both degrees. You can find more information here .

How to decide which degree is right for you?

Figuring out whether to pursue a master's or PhD will depend on your career field and educational goals. You can learn more about requirements in your field by doing some research or your own as well as networking with colleagues. Reaching out to a mentor in the field or alumni from your preferred program can also help you navigate graduate school decisions. Additionally, speaking with admissions staff at graduate schools can help provide insight into the kinds of graduate programming available. 

It can be tricky to offer general guidance on graduate programs since so much is dependent on the field of study. That said, we wanted to offer examples of how master’s and doctorate degrees can set you up for success. We've selected social work and business as fields to illustrate this:

Social Work

If you want to go to graduate school to study social work, you can study at the master’s level or the PhD level. To determine what is best for you, consider what role you’d like to play in the field of social work. If you’d like to be a social welfare direct service provider or government agency administrator, a master’s program may be most appropriate. If you’d like to become a faculty member at a post-secondary institution, a social welfare research scholar, or a social welfare policy analyst, a Ph.D. program will be a better fit. Outside of academic settings—where a doctorate is required for most faculty positions—a master’s combined with practical work experience may provide ample preparation for a career as a researcher, policy analyst, or mid-level manager.

For business administration, you have the option of a Master’s of Business Administration (MBA), or a Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA). If your long term goal is to take on a leadership role in a nonprofit or business enterprise, the MBA (or nonprofit management degree) may be best. If instead, you’re interested in a career in academia teaching and researching on business practices, the DBA will be the better option.

Knowing your professional goals will help guide your choices for graduate study. Certain career paths, such as becoming a public defender or a medical doctor, are more clearly marked with the necessary steps, including the required educational level and graduate degree. Other career paths are less regimented and therefore require more investigation and consideration of what is right for you. Thoroughly researching your field of interest and having a strong understanding of the skills and knowledge you want and need from your graduate education will inform which degree options make the most sense for your goals.

Planning on returning to school? Check out our Grad School Resources and connect directly with social-impact programs through Idealist. And if you’re interested in speaking with an admissions representative, find out which cities near you are hosting an Idealist Grad School Fair this fall.

What Comes After a Master's Degree?

Know Your Graduate School Options Beyond a Master's

  • Choosing a Graduate Program
  • Tips & Advice
  • Admissions Essays
  • Recommendation Letters
  • Medical School Admissions
  • Homework Help
  • Private School
  • College Admissions
  • College Life
  • Business School
  • Distance Learning
  • Ph.D., Developmental Psychology, Fordham University
  • M.A., Developmental Psychology, Fordham University

After receiving your master's degree, there are still more options to study in graduate school, including an additional master's degree, doctorate programs (Ph.D., Ed.D., and others) and certificate programs to consider. These degree and certificate programs all vary in level, time to complete, and more.

Additional Master's Degrees

If you have already earned a master's degree and wish to continue your studies, you might consider a second master's degree. Since master's degrees tend to be specialized degrees, as you grow within your career you may find that a new specialty is required or that two specialties will make you an even more desirable candidate when job hunting. In education, for example, many teachers earn a Master's of Arts in Teaching degree but may return to the classroom to study for a degree in the field in which they are teaching, such as English or mathematics. They may also wish to pursue a degree in organizational leadership, especially if they are looking to grow into an administrative role in the school.

Master's degrees generally take two, sometimes three, years to complete (after earning a bachelor's degree), but pursuing a second degree in a similar discipline might allow you to carry over some credits and complete the program sooner. There are also some accelerated master's programs that can earn you a degree in less than a year; just be prepared for a lot of hard work. All master's programs entail coursework and exams , and, depending on the field, possibly an internship or other applied experience (for example, in some fields of psychology ). Whether a thesis is required to obtain a master's degree depends on the program. Some programs require a written thesis; others offer an option between a thesis and a comprehensive exam . Some programs provide capstone courses, which are usually semester-long courses that provide a comprehensive overview of everything learned within the program and ask students to complete several small thesis statements to demonstrate mastery.

A meaningful way in which master's programs differ from many, but not all, doctoral programs is in the level of financial aid available to students. Most programs do not offer as much assistance to master's students as they do for doctoral students, and so students often pay most if not all of their tuition. Many top institutions even offer full scholarships for doctoral students, but a doctoral program is usually a much more comprehensive and time-consuming educational program, requiring a full-time commitment, versus the possibility of working your full-time job while going for a master's degree.

The value of the master's degree varies by field. In some areas such as business, a master's is the unstated norm and necessary for advancement. Other fields do not require advanced degrees for career advancement. In some cases, a master's degree may hold advantages over a doctoral degree. For example, a master's degree in social work (MSW) may be more cost-effective than a doctoral degree, given the time and funds required to earn the degree and the pay differential. The admission offices at the schools you're applying to can often help you determine which program is best for you.

Ph.D. and Other Doctoral Degrees

A doctoral degree is a more advanced degree and takes more time (often a great deal more time). Depending on the program, a Ph.D. could take four to eight years to complete. Typically, a Ph.D. in North American programs entails two to three years of coursework and a dissertation — an independent research project designed to uncover new knowledge in your field that must be of publishable quality. A dissertation can take a year or more to complete, with most averaging about 18 months. Some fields, like applied psychology, may also require an internship of one year or more.

Most doctorate programs offer various forms of financial aid , from assistantships to scholarships to loans. The availability and types of support vary by discipline (e.g., those in which faculty conduct research sponsored by large grants are more likely to hire students in exchange for tuition) and by the institution. Students in some doctoral programs also earn master's degrees along the way.

Certificate Programs

Certificates can usually be earned in less than a year and are often significantly less expensive than going after additional degrees. If you're wondering what should come after your master's degree and you're not sure if a doctoral program is right for you, this could be the way to go. Certificates range in scope greatly and can allow you to hyperfocus on the areas in which you wish to excel. Some schools even offer certificate programs that are of a masters degree caliber, so you can walk away better prepared for your career and without breaking the bank. Employers who offer tuition assistance may look favorably on a less expensive certificate program as well.

Which Is the Best?

There is no easy answer. It depends on your interests, field, motivation, and career goals. Read more about your field and consult faculty advisers to learn more about which option best fits your career goals. Some final considerations are as follows:

  • What types of jobs do a master's degree, doctoral degree, and certificate holders have? Do they differ? How?
  • How much will each degree cost? How much will you earn after obtaining each degree? Is the outcome worth the cost? What can you afford?
  • How much time do you have to invest in additional schooling?
  • Are you interested enough to pursue many years of schooling?
  • Will earning a doctoral degree offer a substantial benefit in your employment and advancement opportunities?

Only you know which is the right degree for you. Take your time and ask questions, then carefully weigh what you learn about each, its opportunities, as well as your own needs, interests, and competencies. What comes after a master's degree is up to you.

  • A Note About Masters and Doctoral Comprehensive Exams
  • Pros and Cons of Earning a Master's Degree Before a PhD
  • How to Earn a Doctorate Degree Online
  • What Does It Take to Earn a Master's Degree?
  • A Doctor of Philosophy or Doctorate
  • Business Administration Education and Careers
  • Should I Earn a Human Resources Degree?
  • Should I Earn a Management Degree?
  • Should I Earn an Entrepreneurship Degree?
  • Should I Earn an Operations Management Degree?
  • Should I Earn a Project Management Degree?
  • Should I Earn a Doctorate Degree?
  • Degree Requirements for Therapists
  • Abbreviations and Titles All College Students Should Know
  • 6 Tips Applying to Grad School for a Different Major
  • How to Decide Between a Ph.D. or Psy.D. in Psychology

Get our weekly advice

Keep up-to-date with the latest advice from Abound Grad School.

Multiple choice checklist of education degrees and pencil

What Is the Difference Between a Master’s Degree and a Ph.D.?

In the United States, 13.1% of people have a master’s, doctorate, or other advanced degree. Along with the wealth of knowledge and skills you can get from an advanced education, becoming a graduate student is a great way to stand above the remaining 86.9% of Americans as you work toward your career goals.

The most common types of advanced degrees are the master’s degree and the Ph.D. Both are great options for continuing education but still have many differences. 

Do you want to learn more about each of these advanced degrees? Keep reading this article for everything you need to know about the difference between a master’s degree and a Ph.D.

Course Structure

When you are getting an advanced degree, it is important to consider the course structure of each program you are interested in. This way, you can find one that helps you learn in the way that makes the most sense to you. 

With a master’s degree, you can expect primarily to do coursework throughout the first three semesters. The remaining requirements are composed of a capstone project or thesis that culminates everything you will have learned during your program. 

With a Ph.D., you will typically do two years of coursework. After you have completed this work, you will take the remaining years to prepare your dissertation. This requires a lot of research and writing and will allow you to contribute new research to current industry knowledge. 

Degree Length

Another significant difference between a master’s degree and a Ph.D. program is the length of time they take to complete. Master’s programs are much shorter and will typically take two years to complete. Some universities even offer accelerated programs that allow you to complete your master’s degree within a single year. 

Ph.D.s take much longer to complete—anywhere from 5-6 years! There are a lot of things to cover in any field as you pursue a doctorate. What’s more, the research and writing process of a dissertation can be quite time consuming.

The doctorate degree in the United States is typically inclusive of the curriculum you would receive for a master’s in the same field, with more in-depth study beyond that. Outside of the United States, you will likely have to get a separate master’s degree before you start your Ph.D.

Culmination of Degree

As was mentioned before, the culmination of both master’s degrees and doctorate degrees differ. There are a few main differences between a dissertation and a thesis . 

For a master’s degree, you are expected to complete a capstone course or a thesis. This is a paper that is limited to about 40,000 words. The point of a thesis is to allow graduate students to present their research findings and show their aptitude in their field.

The master’s thesis allows you to demonstrate your knowledge about the research area and prove that you can contribute to scholarly work. Once you have completed your thesis, you will go through an extensive editing process before it can be published. 

A doctorate degree requires the completion of a dissertation. A dissertation is much longer than a master’s thesis and can be anywhere between 100 to 300 pages long. 

Dissertations also typically require an oral defense. You will present your work to a committee and will answer questions about the methodology and interpretation of your dissertation. 

To choose the best type of advanced degree for your circumstances, it is also important that you consider the cost of both master’s degrees as well as Ph.D. programs. Comparing degree costs will help you find a degree that you can afford.

Because a Ph.D. takes much longer to complete than a master’s degree, you can expect it to cost a lot more too! That said, many Ph.D. programs provide funding to students. While this funding or stipend is not much, it will often cover the cost of tuition and living expenses. 

On the other hand, you are completely responsible for your livelihood while pursuing a master’s degree. That means you’ll have to work hard outside of school, reminding yourself that your future career prospects will likely help you make back what you’ve spent (and then some!).

With a Ph.D., you will take longer to graduate, but you will get a higher return on your investment with an even higher average salary than that of a master’s degree holder.

If you pursue an online graduate degree , you can find much more affordable options for both master’s degrees and doctorate degrees. These also make it much easier to study while you continue to work or pursue other endeavors. 

Future Potential 

Finally, you need to consider your future potential when it comes to both of these advanced degrees. While money isn’t the only thing that you should consider, you need to know that you will be able to get a reliable job once you graduate with your degree. 

With a master’s degree, you will open the door for more job opportunities but not necessarily different career prospects. On the other hand, those with a Ph.D. typically do research for their job, often at a university. This allows you to contribute new data to your field and as well as to become an expert in your industry. 

You should also consider your potential salaries with both graduate degrees. Both degrees will advance your career and increase your money-making potential. However, you will almost always be able to make more money when you have a Ph.D. 

Becoming a Graduate Student? Learn More About a Master’s Degree and Ph.D.

When you are considering continuing education, there are many different types of degrees to choose from. Both a master’s degree and a Ph.D. are great options to achieve your education and career goals. By learning more about these differences between graduate degrees, you can find the option that works best for your needs. 

Do you want help with the advanced degree application process? Abound Grad School can help! Check out our website today to learn more about your education options as a graduate student and to find the best graduate school for you .

Photo of author

Ana -Marcela joins the team as an outreach associate and assistant editor. She values the pursuit of knowledge and is excited to use her research and writing skills to help others fuel their intellectual curiosity.  Ana -Marcela is a native Austinite and she earned her Bachelor’s in English Literature from St. Edward’s University. Her favorite author is Gabriel Garcia Marquez.  Ana -Marcela spends her free time hiking the greenbelt, cruising the aisles of half price books, or cuddling her cats.

woman sitting at table with notebook and laptop

How to Choose a Grad Program as an International Student

business people networking

How to Network in Graduate School

4 businesspeople interviewing candidate

How to Ace Your Graduate School Interview

Login or sign up to be automatically entered into our next $10,000 scholarship giveaway

Get Searching

  • College Search
  • College Search Map
  • Graduate Programs
  • Featured Colleges
  • Scholarship Search
  • Lists & Rankings

Articles & Advice

  • Ask the Experts
  • Campus Visits
  • Catholic Colleges and Universities
  • Christian Colleges and Universities
  • College Admission
  • College Athletics
  • College Diversity
  • Counselors and Consultants
  • Education and Teaching
  • Financial Aid
  • Graduate School
  • Health and Medicine
  • International Students
  • Internships and Careers
  • Majors and Academics
  • Performing and Visual Arts
  • Public Colleges and Universities
  • Science and Engineering
  • Student Life
  • Transfer Students
  • Why CollegeXpress
  • $10,000 Scholarship
  • CollegeXpress Store
  • Corporate Website
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • CA and EU Privacy Policy

Articles & Advice > Graduate School > Articles

Indian woman in denim shirt sitting in grass with notebook and pink pen to head

Master's or PhD: Which One Should You Choose?

You know you want an advanced degree, but just how advanced? Keep reading to discover the key differences between master's and doctoral degrees.

by GradSchools.com Graduate School Directory

Last Updated: Dec 18, 2023

Originally Posted: Jun 20, 2011

Just as there are many reasons people choose to go to graduate school, there are many options from which they may choose. Do you want to attend full-time? Maybe you want to go part-time and work. Or perhaps an online program option will work best for you. But before you can decide on the format type of your program, you need to decide on your program. If you’ve selected a field of study, you may be wondering whether you should get a master's degree or a doctoral degree. Here are some things to consider to help you choose which one is best for you.

3 key differences between programs

Before you can properly weigh the pros and cons of a master’s degree vs. a doctoral program, you must understand the major differences between the two programs. And although that may sound like pros and cons in itself, a pros and cons list is based mainly on your personal preference. So before figuring out preference, you must consider the facts, and these are it.

A graduate degree requires a significant investment of time. Master's degrees require less time than doctoral degrees. Typically a full-time student can acquire a master's degree in about two years. A PhD usually requires at least five to six years and many people take seven to nine years.

The adage "time = money" was never so true as with graduate school. Since a PhD takes longer to complete, it also requires more money. (Not that a master's degree is cheap either!) The flip side to this is that a PhD may yield a higher salary upon completion and is therefore worth the increased cost long term. With both degrees, school costs money (tuition, fees, books, etc.). In addition, however, there is also a significant loss of money if the student is not working or is earning low wages through assistantships or part-time employment. Many people find they must either live a Spartan lifestyle for many years or find themselves strapped with huge loans when they graduate .

Graduate school takes work. Most people are not going to argue with this. However, many students who drifted through college are surprised to find that graduate school requires a much larger commitment in terms of work and intellectual energy. Graduate schools are frequently very competitive. Students who are taking a full course load as well as teaching often find themselves overwhelmed. And of course, the many years of school required for a PhD require perseverance on a scale above and beyond what undergraduates must contemplate. The difference between college and graduate school lies in the ability of the student to focus on their field and the subjects and areas that most interest them. While graduate school requires more work, most students find the work enjoyable since it involves an area in which they are very interested.

Related: Great Expectations: How Grad School Differs From Undergrad

The what ifs of choosing a master's or PhD

So we know that graduate school requires time, money, and commitment for both a master's and a PhD. So which should you choose?

  • If all you want is a raise, a PhD is probably not the road to choose. A master’s degree will boost your career possibilities enough for the kind of raise you want.
  • If you love learning in and of itself , then the work required for a PhD may be worthwhile. Master's degrees tend to be more career oriented while PhD's tend to be more research oriented since they’re preparing people for highly academic, research-based careers.
  • If you want to save time and progress your career, a master's degree has benefits in that it requires less time and money than a doctoral degree but will still set you apart from those who only have a bachelor's. A master's can allow specialization within a field. The degree works well for those who’ve been working in a career for some time and hope to advance within their field.
  • If you’re looking for a new path in life, a master's degree can also be an excellent method of changing careers. For those who’ve found their career or undergraduate education aren’t leading them in the direction they would like to go, a master's degree can allow them to start fresh by gaining new knowledge and skills.
  • If you want to become a professor, a PhD is practically mandatory. Even for those few who can find teaching positions with only a master's, most schools want to see progress toward a PhD.
  • If you really want to impress, a PhD can also be helpful outside the world of academia in today's increasingly competitive job market. Businesses are searching for extremely qualified people who have demonstrated intelligence, perseverance, and the ability to learn. A PhD can open doors.
  • If you want to impact the world with original work, PhD work requires original research that contributes new information to your chosen field of study. People interested in pursuing a PhD should love their studies and be excited by the prospect of meaningful contribution.

Related:  Choosing the Right Graduate Degree for Your Goals

Making your decision

To summarize, a PhD may be worth it if you truly love your field, enjoy your studies, and want the benefits and prestige associated with the doctoral degree. If you are simply looking to change fields or gain a promotion or do not think you could maintain interest through at least five to six years of school, then a master's is probably a better choice. However, it is worth noting that you may be able to get more financial aid for a PhD Since it takes longer, schools recognize that those trying to acquire their PhD's need more assistance than those who only want a master's degree. This adds an interesting dimension to the application process for two reasons.

First, if you think you may want a PhD but still are not sure, it is probably better to apply to the doctoral program. There is no penalty for changing your mind later and deciding to leave with a master's degree, and it increases your chances of getting financial aid. The second consideration is that the PhD program can be more competitive, and applying to it rather than the master's degree program might decrease your chances of admission. If you are denied entrance to the PhD program, you could ask them to then consider you for the master's degree program, but that may not be allowed.

Related:  7 Important Things to Do Before Applying to Graduate School

We’re glad you came seeking advice on which advanced degree program is right for you. It’s a big decision to make that you shouldn’t take lightly, and seeking the right knowledge to make an informed decision is only going to benefit you. Use this advice, take some time to think it over, and go forward knowing you’re making the best decision for your future goals and career.

Once you’ve made your decision on applying to a master’s or PhD program, start searching for just the right one with our Graduate School Search tool .   

Like what you’re reading?

Join the CollegeXpress community! Create a free account and we’ll notify you about new articles, scholarship deadlines, and more.

Tags: advanced degrees applying to grad school doctorate grad school grad students graduate school graduate students master's degree

Join our community of over 5 million students!

CollegeXpress has everything you need to simplify your college search, get connected to schools, and find your perfect fit.

Maria Fernanda

High School Class of 2023

CollegeXpress is always telling you with time to spare when to apply for certain scholarships, what they require, and if you’re eligible or not. They also provide helpful tips for both incoming college students and current college students, such as what to absolutely have in your dorm.

Fabiola Rodriguez

High School Class of 2022

CollegeXpress helped me on my journey to get to the school of my first choice by showing me all the options I have. I didn’t know of the College of Southern Nevada until I went on this website, and it helped me look for other choices and compare what colleges would be right for me.

Emilie Delgado

Emilie Delgado

$2,000 Community Service Scholarship Winner, 2013

CollegeXpress has tremendously helped me in my search for financial aid opportunities as I enter my college career. It is easy to navigate and quickly narrowed down scholarships that I could apply for. Being awarded the scholarship will greatly help me in my finances regarding books and tuition. Thank you for this opportunity. Without CollegeXpress, it would have been more difficult to apply. I would recommend this site to everyone!

Sonny Harris

College Student

For the entire year before college, I spent a lot of time deeply considering what major I wanted to go into and how to fund my higher education. After a lot of research, I came across CollegeXpress, which helped me ultimately find a ton of scholarships for which I could apply—and some of which I received! If it weren’t for CollegeXpress, I may not have found those scholarships as they didn't appear on any other scholarship search forum. Additionally, I learned more about the options I had been considering for my major through CollegeXpress’s resources. In the end, I chose to major in Computer Science, as it seemed best suited to me and the careers in the field seemed enjoyable, and I've never been more excited to move into my future! Ultimately, I want to thank CollegeXpress for offering their services. I received enough financial aid in scholarships to fund my entire freshman year of college and even got some money refunded which I used to purchase a new laptop, and I bought all of the books I needed for the semester!

High School Class of 2021

CollegeXpress helped me find the school I am currently attending by consistently sending me emails of other schools. This allowed me to do research on other schools as well as the one I am in now!

  •   Preparing for the Legal Journey: 9 Tips for Students Interested in Law
  •   8 Questions Students of Color Should Ask About Graduate School
  •   5 Questions to Ask Before Committing to Graduate School
  •   On-Campus, Online, or Hybrid: Which Grad School Format Is Right for You?
  •   Great Graduate Schools and Programs in the Northeast

Colleges You May Be Interested In

Ashland University

Ashland, OH

Siena College

Loudonville, NY

The George Washington University

Washington, DC

Nova Southeastern University

Fort Lauderdale, FL

Waynesburg University

Waynesburg, PA

Personalize your experience on CollegeXpress.

With this information, we'll do our best to display content relevant to your interests. By subscribing, you agree to receive CollegeXpress emails and to make your information available to colleges and universities, scholarship programs, and other companies that have relevant/related offers.

Already have an account?

Log in to be directly connected to

Not a CollegeXpress user?

Don't want to register.

Provide your information below to connect with

difference between a master degree and a phd

  • Affiliate Program

Wordvice

  • UNITED STATES
  • 台灣 (TAIWAN)
  • TÜRKIYE (TURKEY)
  • Academic Editing Services
  • - Research Paper
  • - Journal Manuscript
  • - Dissertation
  • - College & University Assignments
  • Admissions Editing Services
  • - Application Essay
  • - Personal Statement
  • - Recommendation Letter
  • - Cover Letter
  • - CV/Resume
  • Business Editing Services
  • - Business Documents
  • - Report & Brochure
  • - Website & Blog
  • Writer Editing Services
  • - Script & Screenplay
  • Our Editors
  • Client Reviews
  • Editing & Proofreading Prices
  • Wordvice Points
  • Partner Discount
  • Plagiarism Checker
  • APA Citation Generator
  • MLA Citation Generator
  • Chicago Citation Generator
  • Vancouver Citation Generator
  • - APA Style
  • - MLA Style
  • - Chicago Style
  • - Vancouver Style
  • Writing & Editing Guide
  • Academic Resources
  • Admissions Resources

Master’s vs PhD/Doctorate Degrees – Key Differences

difference between a master degree and a phd

So, you are done with your bachelor’s degree but not with studying–according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , this seems like a good idea. In its projections for the years 2019–2029, it lists 36 occupations that typically require a master’s degree and 63 requiring a doctoral or professional degree. The Bureau of Labor Statistics data also shows that the wages for these occupations are higher than the median for all occupations. 

Now you might wonder: What is the difference between master’s and PhD degrees and which one should I get? Read on for all the information you need to make this important decision!

diploma with money and diploma, master's vs PhD

Difference Between Masters and PhD: An Overview

A master’s degree is designed to teach you the knowledge and skills that you will need in your future profession. A PhD or doctorate degree, on the other hand, is designed to develop your critical thinking as well as your analytical and writing skills and is usually a years-long commitment to independent research on a specific subject. The purpose of a PhD is to prepare you for a career in academic research—although it can also help you get into a variety of other professions, and at a higher entry/salary level. In the US, a master’s degree is integrated into a PhD program, as a necessary preparation period involving mostly coursework, while in most other countries, a separate master’s degree is required to enter a PhD program.

If you want to stand out, you should definitely opt for a PhD degree: According to the United States Census Bureau , 24 million people in the US had master’s or professional degrees in 2019, whereas only 4.5 million had PhDs/doctorates. But is it worth the extra effort? And what exactly would the extra effort be? Have a look at the table below to get an idea about the key differences between master’s and PhDs.

Master’s vs PhD

Master’s or doctorate: which should you choose, how long does a master’s vs doctorate take to complete.

While the length of time it will take you to complete a PhD or master’s degree varies significantly between institutions and countries, we will focus on the US system here. Obviously, PhDs take much longer, because they are in fact a combination of both degrees and involve a long period of independent research that can get even longer than expected, depending on your topic, the available equipment or support, and a lot of other factors.

How long to complete a master’s degree

In the US, a full-time master’s degree takes students generally 2 years to complete, while part-time degrees are usually double the time.

How long to complete a PhD/doctorate

Since US PhD programs only require a completed bachelor’s degree, they start with an integrated master’s of 2 years of coursework, followed by 3–4 years of independent research into a specific topic. That usually includes publishing results, presenting at conferences, and preparing the final dissertation. Note that stipends/funding do not always cover the entire time it can take you to complete your PhD project—make sure you are aware of alternative options and additional funding at your institution or have at least thought about a backup plan before you start.

Master’s Degree Cost vs. a PhD Cost

Most people assume that PhDs are more expensive because they take many more years to complete. However, since PhD students usually receive scholarships or stipends, sometimes just for their commitment to full-time research and sometimes in exchange for teaching, the direct costs for a dissertation can be lower than those for a master’s degree. 

Additionally, while you are very likely to earn more with both degrees, the additional years of studying for a PhD should be factored into any estimation of costs vs outcomes.

Cost of a master’s degree

Master’s degrees at US universities can cost anything from $30,000 to $120,000, with tuition depending on the type of institution (public, private nonprofit, or for-profit). University rankings and general reputation also affect tuition costs. 

Whether an expensive degree (e.g., MBAs are often notoriously expensive) is worth the money for you personally depends on what kind of salary you think you can expect after graduating from that specific school. The universities you consider applying to should be able to provide you with data on the career and salary outcomes of their students, either on their website or if you contact them and ask for these details.

You can of course try to get a stipend and/or apply for a teaching or research assistant position at your school, depending on your undergraduate degree and experience. Moreover, many institutions offer the possibility to complete a master’s degree part-time, while working, which allows students to fund themselves.

You might also be eligible to transfer credits toward your degree if you have a professional certification or have earned graduate-level course credit—which can significantly reduce your total cost for both degrees.

Cost of a PhD/dissertation

PhDs, unlike master’s degrees, are usually funded, which means that tuition fees are waived and stipends or scholarships take care of living costs. Phd students are, however, often expected to take on teaching or research responsibilities in exchange for their funding. 

There are a variety of scholarships you can apply for if you want to pursue a PhD in the US as an international student—US-based ones like the Fulbright Foreign Student Program or the HHMI International Student Research Scholarships , but there are probably also funding opportunities in your home country for students who want to embark on a PhD abroad.

Pursuing a PhD degree part-time might sometimes be possible, but since students are expected to invest a full workweek into their research and potential teaching responsibilities, this is usually not realistic.

To estimate the overall cost of a doctoral program, the extra years that you could be working a full-time job with a regular salary also need to be factored into the equation—and take into account that projects may end up taking longer than expected, due to difficulties in collecting data, supervisors dropping out or moving on, or unforeseeable crises such as the COVID-19 epidemic.

Career Prospects for a Master’s vs PhD

While both a master’s and a PhD degree will qualify you for a variety of occupations that require higher degrees, they can also get you a higher salary in a profession that is also open to employees with a lower education level. PhD holders can in theory expect the highest wages, but since the two degrees prepare you for very different careers, that alone shouldn’t be what you base your decision on.

Master’s degree jobs and positions

Master’s degrees are overall more versatile than PhDs when it comes to employment opportunities and cover a wide range of fields and professions. The most common master’s degrees are the Master’s of Arts (MA) and the Master’s of Science (MS). 

Master’s programs can generally be divided into three different types:

Research master’s degrees, such as an MA in Comparative Literature or an MS in Biology, prepare students for academic and non-academic research disciplines and usually end with a thesis based on an original piece of research. In some fields, however, you are expected to enter a Ph.D. program after completing your master’s to be competitive when it comes to finding a job later.

Professional master’s degrees teach you practical skills and in-demand competencies that qualify you for a specific field and enable you to understand issues that are relevant in a certain profession. Examples include the Master of Public Health (MPH), the  Master of Business Administration (MBA), or the MA in Teaching (MAT). 

Terminal master’s degrees are the highest academic degree in fields where doctorates are not offered, and prepare students for careers outside of academia. The Master’s of Fine Arts in Creative Writing, for example, or the MS in Library Science are as high as you can go in those fields.

To give you an idea, below, we listed the 10 occupations at the master’s level that are projected to have the most openings annually from 2019 to 2029, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and the highest-paying occupations for master’s degree holders without required work experience, based on projections from 2016 to 2026.

Master’s degrees, apart from helping you develop professional skills tailored to the requirements of the profession you intend to enter, can also serve as a stepping stone if you are already in employment and want to progress your career development, earn a higher salary, or change careers by learning new skills and subject knowledge.

PhD/doctorate jobs and positions

PhDs are usually intended to lead to an academic career, and many students aim to eventually become university professors. However, careers in academia are highly competitive, and there are not nearly as many professor positions as there are PhD holders. The good news is that the skills you learn during your doctoral program are often “transferable” and can be applied to other types of careers. 

Some PhD graduates end up (and enjoy) being colleague teachers, while others embark on non-academic research careers, for example at pharmaceutical companies, government agencies, consulting and technology firms, or think tanks. Job prospects vary widely across fields, with some—computer science, engineering, or economics—having very low unemployment rates, and others, for example the humanities, offering fewer and less desirable employment opportunities. Keep in mind, however, that someone with a PhD entering a different field or one that does not necessarily require a PhD may find that their degree sometimes does not help them or that they are even considered to be “overqualified” or as lacking practical skills and relevant professional experience.

Since there is no clear career path for PhD graduates, you should really take your time figuring out what field you want to work in later, what the career prospects for that field are, and if they are worth the time and effort you will have to invest to complete a PhD program. Your university should have data on the careers and salaries of their students, and should either display these details on their website or send you the relevant information if you contact them directly.

Master’s vs PhD: Application Process

The application process for master’s and PhD programs is overall very similar. In general, you will need to provide the following:

Frequently Asked Questions about Master’s vs PhD Degrees

How long does a master’s degree take vs a phd.

Full-time master’s degrees usually take 2 years to complete. Many universities offer the option to do a master’s part-time, which takes double the time. PhD programs in the US  start with an integrated master’s of 2 years of coursework (since you enter the program directly after completing your bachelor’s degree), followed by 3–4 years of independent research. 

Is a PhD harder than a master’s degree?

A PhD takes substantially longer and requires more self-motivation, organizational skills, and the willingness to carry on even when things do not go according to plan. You might also have other responsibilities, on top of your research, such as teaching or assisting your supervisor. But whether that is “harder” for you than a master’s degree that consists of mostly coursework and does not take more than 2 years depends on your interests and general working style. 

Is a master’s or doctorate better?

Master’s and doctorate degrees prepare you for different occupations and work positions, and which one is the right for you depends on what kind of career you are planning to pursue. Generally, a master’s degree is right for you if you want to deepen your career-oriented knowledge and skills for a specific profession, while a doctorate degree prepares you for a career in research, whether that is inside or outside a university.

Preparing Your Graduate School Essays

Now that you have figured out whether a master’s or PhD degree is the right choice for you, all that is left to do is to put your application together! Make sure that you focus on your chosen degree and its aim (research or a professional career) in all required documents—for example, highlight your professional and personal development in your CV for an MBA program, but the publication you got out of your bachelor’s thesis and how passionate you are about doing more research on the same topic for your application to a PhD program. 

As always, Wordvice can help with our professional Personal Statement Editing Services or Admission Editing Services , which help ensure that your application is error-free and showcases your full potential so that you get admitted to the graduate or doctoral program of your choice. For more academic resources on writing the statement of purpose for grad school or on how to request a letter of recommendation , head over to our Admissions Resources pages.

Wordvice Business & Writer Editing Services

After landing that sweet job position when you finish your graduate degree, be sure to get English editing services for any of your crucial documents before sending them to colleagues, clients, or users. Check out our list of business editing and writer editing services below.

  • Document Editing Services
  • Report Editing Services
  • Blog Editing Services
  • Editing Services for Writers
  • Script Editing Services
  • Book Editing Services
  • Assistant Professor vs Associate Professor: What's the Difference

smartsciencecareer blog

Masters vs PhD – What’s the best degree for me?

In the US, a Master’s degree is not required for a PhD – unlike most European countries, where it is a prerequisite. Thus, in the US, deciding between a Master’s degree and a PhD can be a challenging question. By understanding the distinction, you can determine which program aligns best with your aspirations and goals. This article will provide insights into the structure, requirements, and outcomes of both degrees, helping you make an informed decision.

MASTER’S VS PHD DEGREE – WHICH IS BETTER FOR MY CAREER?

students reflecting on Master's vs PhD degree – which is better for my career

If you’re a recent graduate student looking to further your academic career, a Master’s degree might be the first step. But for those aiming for a career as university professors or to lead their own research group, pursuing a doctoral program to get a higher degree could be the better option.

Choosing the right degree program requires understanding the main difference of Master’s vs PhD.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A MASTER’S AND PHD?

The most important difference between Masters and phd programs is the focus and the duration.

A Master’s degree is designed as an advanced study in a specific field following a bachelor’s degree. It typically involves structured coursework, sometimes combined with research, resulting in a thesis or project.

A PhD, commonly known as a doctorate, is a research-focused degree regarded as the highest academic degree in higher education. This doctorate degree usually requires a dissertation based on original research.

This table that summarizes the key differences when considering Master’s vs PhD degrees:

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO COMPLETE A MASTER’S OR A DOCTORATE?

A Master’s program typically takes one to three years to complete, depending on the type of degree and the field of study. On the other hand,  a PhD program can take anywhere from four to eight years , with the exact duration varying based on goals of the PhD candidates, the subject, the doctoral program’s requirements, and the time taken to complete the PhD dissertation.

IS A MASTER’S DEGREE A PREREQUISITE FOR A PHD OR DOCTORAL DEGREE?

Master Students preparing a doctoral degree

In the United States, a Master’s degree is *not* required for a PhD. In contrast, in most European countries, a Master’s degree is a requirement for a PhD.

In the US , many PhD programs accept applicants with only a Bachelor’s degree. This is because PhD programs in the US typically include a Master’s component in the first few years. Students take coursework, complete research rotations, and pass qualifying exams before advancing to the dissertation phase.

In Europe , PhD programs are typically shorter, lasting 3-4 years. As a result, students are expected to have a stronger foundation in research before starting their doctoral studies. A Master’s degree allows students to develop their research skills, learn about their field of interest, and explore different research topics.

Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between PhD requirements in the US and Europe:

However, there are some exceptions to the general rule that a Master’s degree is required for a PhD in Europe. For example, in some countries, students with a four-year Bachelor’s degree may be able to apply directly to a PhD program. Additionally, some European universities offer joint Master’s-PhD programs that allow students to earn both degrees in a shorter period. However, these are structured to streamline the educational process and are often very competitive.

IS A SEPARATE MASTER’S DEGREE WORTH THE EFFORT?

In the US, a Master’s is not a prerequisite for a PhD because PhD programs typically include a Master’s component in the first few years.  Thus, a  separate  Master’s degree is probably not necessary in the US.  Most common Master’s degrees cater to professional fields, and a typical Master’s degree program is often designed to be a terminal degree.

In contrast, in most European countries, the discussion about a  separate  Master’s degree does not make sense because a Master’s program is required to reach the qualification for the PhD level.

WHAT’S THE FOCUS OF MASTER’S VS PHD: COURSEWORK VS RESEARCH?

PhD Students working on a research project

A Master’s degree involves structured coursework which allows students to deepen their understanding of a particular subject . Some Master’s programs may also have a research component leading to a thesis.

In contrast, a PhD is primarily research-focused . While there might be some coursework in the initial years of study, the main focus is on independent research, leading to the creation of new knowledge.

Graduate programs in related fields like social work or clinical psychology may offer  specialized Master’s degrees , such as the Master of Social Work (MSW) or Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology, designed to build academic and professional skills.

If you’re wondering whether to take the next step towards a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a Juris Doctor (JD), which are considered  professional degrees rather than research degrees , assess the degree level that aligns with your professional goals.

For graduate students who have set their sights on becoming doctoral students, PhD programs offer a deep dive into postgraduate study. However, degree requirements for graduate school can be pretty rigorous, especially for a specialized Ph.D. program.

The life of a PhD student is marked by hard work and a deep commitment to contributing original knowledge to their field. Typically, Ph.D. candidates spend their academic year fully immersed in research projects, including anything from scientific research in clinical psychology to molecular biology.

ADVANTAGES OF A RESEARCH MASTER’S DEGREE

Opting for a research Master’s degree, such as a Master of Science, allows for a combination of coursework and a research project, often culminating in a thesis.

This path can provide rigorous training programs in research methodology and data analysis, valuable for those considering eventual doctoral degree pursuits.

Additionally, for those questioning if a doctoral degree is a good investment of time and resources, a Master’s program may be a sensible interim step to gain further work experience and professional development.

IS A PHD THE HIGHEST ACADEMIC DEGREE?

Students celebrating PhD degree

Yes, a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) is often regarded as the highest academic degree in many fields.

However, it is helpful to note that  a PhD is not universally the highest degree in all fields . For example, in professional fields like law and medicine, the  Juris Doctor (JD)  and the  Doctor of Medicine (MD)  are terminal degrees for professional practice but differ from a PhD.

Additionally, other degrees represent the highest level of professional achievement in their respective fields, such as the  Doctor of Education (EdD), Doctor of Business Administration (DBA),  or  Doctor of Engineering (EngD) .

In some cases, there are also specialized degrees that go beyond the PhD in certain fields. For example, the  Doctor of Science (ScD)  or  Doctor of Letters (DLitt)  may be considered higher or at least on par with the PhD, depending on the institution and country. These are often awarded for a substantial body of academic research and publication.

CAREER PROSPECTS AFTER A MASTER’S VS PHD DEGREE

It is important to consider how each degree can also shape your career in science. A Master’s degree can open up opportunities for higher salaries and specialized job roles that might require a deep understanding of a particular area. You also start earning earlier compared to a PhD candidate. For example, with a Master of Public Health, you might immediately enter the workforce in your specific domain.

A PhD prepares individuals better for a research career in academia or industry. However, many PhD graduates also pursue roles in consultancy or policy-making. Someone with a PhD entering a different field may find that their degree gives them an edge in research and analytical skills.

It is crucial to assess the career and salary outcomes of the respective degrees to determine which is the most suitable for you.

WILL A PHD HELP ME EARN A HIGHER SALARY?

PhD graduation hat representing higher salary with a PhD degree

Generally, individuals with a PhD tend to earn higher salaries than those with just a Master’s degree. The advanced knowledge, specialized skills, and research experience gained during a PhD program make individuals more valuable in the job market, leading to better job prospects and higher earning potential.

WHICH GRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAM IS MORE EXPENSIVE? MASTER’S VS PHD?

The cost of pursuing either a doctorate or a Masters degree is a significant factor. While a Master’s degree can also be costly, PhD programs often come with more opportunities for financial aid such as fellowships or teaching assistantships, which can significantly reduce your total cost.

Prospective students must research and compare the salary outcomes and potential debt of Master’s and doctorate degrees.

When considering graduate programs, financial aid is a significant factor. While the costs of a Master’s program can vary, many students take out student loans.

The cost of a Master’s degree can be offset by working as a research assistant, which helps financially and enhances practical skills and subject knowledge essential for a successful professional career in science. Similarly, doctoral programs often offer substantial financial support, such as stipends.

The availability and extent of financial support can greatly vary depending on the field of study, institution, and country. Not all doctoral programs offer substantial financial support, and some students may still need to rely on loans or personal funding. However, there are many  free or fully funded PhD programs .

The cost of tuition varies widely between institutions and countries. The duration of the programs can also affect the overall cost. Typically, a Master’s program is shorter in duration than a PhD, which might imply that even if the annual costs are higher for a Master’s, the total cost could be less due to the shorter time frame.

Finally, you must consider the indirect costs of graduate education, such as living expenses, which can vary widely and impact the  overall costs and duration of pursuing a graduate degree.

SCOPE AND DEPTH: MASTERS DEGREE THESIS VS PHD DISSERTATION

While both a thesis (usually associated with a Masters degree) and a dissertation (associated with a PhD) involve research, the depth and scope differ. A Master’s thesis focuses on a particular topic, offering a new perspective or a deeper understanding. In contrast, a PhD dissertation involves extensive research to create new knowledge or theory in the chosen field.

IS A CAREER IN ACADEMIA THE ONLY PATH FOR PHD GRADUATES?

No. While many with a PhD degree pursue roles in academia, others venture into the corporate world, non-profit sectors, and governmental roles. Industries that require specialized knowledge or research skills often value PhD graduates.

It’s worth noting that some sectors that do not require a PhD may find the expertise of someone with a doctorate advantageous.

FACTORS TO CONSIDER BEFORE APPLYING FOR A MASTER’S DEGREE OR A PHD

When deciding between a Master’s vs PhD, consider the following:

Your scientific career goals : Do you see yourself in academia or research?

Duration of study : Are you ready to commit several years to a doctorate?

Financial aspects : Can you support the cost of tuition or are there scholarships available?

Passion for research : A PhD will require intense, focused research. 

  • Master’s degrees are typically coursework-focused with some research, while PhDs emphasize extensive research.
  • PhDs generally take longer to complete than Master’s degrees.
  • Career opportunities vary, with PhDs preparing individuals mainly for roles in academia and research, though other industries also value doctorate holders.
  • Financial considerations are vital, with PhD programs often providing more financial support than Master’s programs.
  • A passion for research and commitment to the subject are crucial for those considering a PhD.

Deciding whether to complete a PhD or Master’s degree varies greatly depending on personal career goals and academic interests. For a lot of people, graduate studies at the Master’s level provide sufficient qualifications for their intended career paths. However, if you aim to immerse yourself in academia or high-level research, a PhD is likely the better choice.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

Which degree is right for me, a master’s or a phd.

Choosing between a Master’s degree and a PhD depends on your scientific career goals and personal aspirations. When considering an advanced degree, it’s essential to contemplate the significant differences between a Master’s degree and a PhD.

A Master’s program typically offers a structured path, often leading to a thesis-driven Master’s degree, which may be the best fit for students seeking to enhance their skills in a specialized area without the commitment to the long haul of a PhD study.

A PhD may be a better fit if you are interested in pursuing a research-oriented career or becoming a subject matter expert in a specific field. However, if you want to gain specialized knowledge and skills in a particular profession or industry, a Master’s degree could be the best choice.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF GETTING A PHD VS MASTER’S?

Earning a PhD offers several advantages. It allows you to  become an expert in a particular area of study  and opens up opportunities for advanced research and teaching positions. A PhD also enhances your critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills. Additionally, individuals with a PhD generally earn higher salaries than those with a Master’s degree.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO COMPLETE A MASTER’S VS PHD?

The duration of a Master’s or PhD program varies depending on the field of study, research topic, and individual circumstances. On average, it takes around 1-3 years to complete a Master’s, while it takes around 4-7 years to complete a PhD, including the time spent on coursework, research, and dissertation writing. Several key factors  influence the duration of a doctorate .

CAN I APPLY FOR A PHD PROGRAM WITH JUST A BACHELOR’S DEGREE?

Typically, most European PhD programs require applicants to have a Master’s degree or its equivalent, while US universities accept candidates with only a bachelor’s degree because their PhD programs contain a Master’s component.

CAN I SWITCH FROM A MASTER’S PROGRAM TO A PHD PROGRAM?

Yes, it is possible to transition from a Master’s program to a PhD program. Many universities offer an option to apply for a PhD program after completing a Master’s degree. However, admission is competitive, and you will need to meet the additional requirements set by the PhD program, such as research experience and a strong academic record.

CAN I PURSUE A PHD IN A DIFFERENT FIELD THAN MY MASTER’S DEGREE?

Yes, pursuing a PhD in a different field is possible than your Master’s degree. However, switching fields may require additional coursework and research experience to bridge the knowledge gap. It’s essential to consider the specific requirements and expectations of the PhD program you are interested in.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MASTERS VS PHD PROJECTS?

In a Master’s program, the final project usually focuses on applying the knowledge gained during the program and demonstrating Mastery of the subject. In a PhD program, the emphasis is on conducting original research that contributes to the existing body of knowledge in the field. A PhD project typically involves a more comprehensive and in-depth study.

WHAT ARE THE CAREER OPPORTUNITIES AFTER COMPLETING A PHD?

Completing a PhD opens up a wide range of scientific career opportunities. Graduates with a PhD often pursue careers in academia as professors or researchers. The path to become a professor is long, thus, reflect carefully whether it is worth it to become a professor.

PhD graduates can also work in research and development roles in industries, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and consulting firms. Additionally, a PhD can lead to leadership positions in various sectors and provide opportunities for entrepreneurship.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

I have used AI systems, including Grammarly, Google Bard, and ChatGPT, to enhance the English and comprehensiveness of this article. This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a small commission if you decide to purchase through my link. Thus, you support smartsciencecareer at no cost to you!

RECOMMENDED READING

The following articles may also interest you:

  • Free PhD programs versus fully funded PhD programs
  • How long does it take to complete a doctorate?
  • Does medical school ranking matter?
  • Is being a professor worth it?
  • Should I choose a big or a small university?
  • Pharmacologist salary vs pharmacist salary – who earns more?
  • Should I Become A Professor? Success Rate 3 %!
  • Job interview outfits in science – what to wear?

' src=

Sven Hendrix is a Professor of Neuroanatomy at Medical School Hamburg (MSH) in Germany. He leads a research group dedicated to the neuroimmunology of brain repair and the development of xenofree organoid models as alternatives to animal experiments. Additionally, he serves as the speaker for CENE, a center focused on academic career development across MSH, Medical School Berlin (MSB), and the Health and Medical University (HMU) in Potsdam and Erfurt, Germany.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Become part of the smartsciencecareer community!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

  • Online Degrees
  • Tuition & Financial Aid
  • Transferring Credit
  • The Franklin Experience

Request Information

We're sorry.

There was an unexpected error with the form (your web browser was unable to retrieve some required data from our servers). This kind of error may occur if you have temporarily lost your internet connection. If you're able to verify that your internet connection is stable and the error persists, the Franklin University Help Desk is available to assist you at [email protected] , 614.947.6682 (local), or 1.866.435.7006 (toll free).

Just a moment while we process your submission.

Popular Posts

difference between a master degree and a phd

Master's vs Doctorate: Which Degree is Right for You?

Graduate degrees are becoming increasingly popular. 

According to the world’s largest and most sophisticated database of labor market and talent data from Burning Glass Technologies, 19% of U.S. job openings in the year 2018 requested a graduate degree. And that trend isn’t changing any time soon. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects master’s-level occupations to grow by 17% by 2026. Employment for doctoral- and professional-level degree is also projected to grow by about 13%. Both of these projections are much faster than the 7% average for all occupations. 

The demand for both master’s and doctorate degrees is high. But how do you know which level of educational attainment is right for you? Does your industry or career aspirations necessitate one degree or another? Will you personally benefit more from a master's or doctorate?

We’ll show you how to take all these factors into consideration to help choose if you should get a master’s degree, or if you should complete your master's and go on to pursue a doctorate degree.

Master's vs Doctorate: What are typical program requirements?

Whether you pursue a master’s degree or doctorate degree program, it’s a significant commitment of time, energy and finances. Before you choose, you should understand the requirements for not only getting into a program, but also completing your master’s or doctorate degree.

Masters vs Doctorate_ Overview of Degree Requirements2.png

Now that you have an understanding of what committing to a master’s degree or doctorate degree entails, compare the focus of the program and coursework. 

Master's vs Doctorate: What’s the difference in content and coursework?

The focus of master’s degrees and doctorate degrees is different. 

A master’s degree is designed to deepen career-oriented knowledge and skills. A doctorate degree is a heavily research-based degree, designed to develop critical research,analytical and writing skills in an effort to fill industry knowledge gaps.

Because of these different goals, the makeup of the coursework and content is also distinct.

Master’s programs feature three different types of courses:

  • Core courses: These courses are required to complete your master’s degree and are considered essential knowledge to advance your industry expertise.
  • Electives: These are a selection of courses that allow you to further specialize your degree with concentrated knowledge in specific areas. They can also be used to broaden your experience in related subject areas.
  • Capstone course (or thesis): The culmination of a master’s degree, a capstone course or thesis usually involves conducting research and presenting your findings.

Doctorate programs are broken down into four distinct parts:

  • Coursework: These advanced courses are required knowledge for passing your comprehensive exam. 
  • Research Core: These courses impart essential research, analytical and writing skills to prepare you to complete your dissertation.
  • Comprehensive exam: The comprehensive exam tests your understanding of key concepts learned through your coursework. Passing your comprehensive exam is essential to beginning your dissertation.
  • Dissertation: You work with a dissertation committee to identify a research topic. Then you complete in-depth research, analysis, and writing before you defend your original research to your dissertation committee. 

As you consider these degrees, decide which better fits your academic and professional goals, as well as your personal interests and learning style.

Master's vs Graduate: How much will the degree cost?

We know that cost is a top concern for individuals deciding what degree to pursue. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the most difficult questions to answer. Cost estimates for a master’s degree can be anywhere from $30,000 to $120,000—and costs for doctorates can range just as widely. 

If you’re trying to evaluate the cost of a master’s vs doctorate degree you need to look at important factors like:

  • Type of institution: Whether you choose a public, private nonprofit or for-profit school will impact how much you pay in tuition. The reputation and rankings of a university also affect the cost of tuition. 
  • Time to graduation: How many courses you take at one time and the total number of credit hours you need to graduate affect the cost of both master's and doctorates. Doctorates depend highly on an individual’s time and commitment to completing the research and writing of an original dissertation. Also, keep your other personal and professional commitments in mind when estimating how long it will take to earn your degree (and how that will impact cost).
  • Transfer credit: If you have a professional certification, or have earned graduate-level course credit, you may be eligible to transfer credit toward your degree. Getting transfer credit can significantly reduce your total cost.

Remember: To complete a doctorate degree you must first complete a master’s degree. So if cost is a top concern, evaluate which institution and program will give you the best value. In some cases, you may even be able to complete both a master’s degree and doctorate degree at a lower cost than a master’s degree at a school with high tuition. 

Earning a doctorate is challenging and rewarding, but do you know what to really expect? Download this free guide for tips and insights to help you prepare for success.

Master's vs doctorate: what are the outcomes of each degree.

When it comes to the outcomes of a master’s or doctorate degree, you should look at three key factors: skillset, career prospects and salary expectations. Let’s dive into the differences between the outcomes of these two types of graduate degrees.

  • Skillset: Master’s degrees focus on the expert command of industry-specific skills, while working to develop critical-thinking and problem-solving skills. On the other hand, doctorate degrees are nearly the inverse—they heavily focus on research, analysis and writing in support of developing transferable skills that can be used to fill gaps in industry knowledge.
  • Career prospects: Career advancement is a primary goal for people who pursue master’s and doctorate degrees. Master’s degrees are seen as career-oriented degrees that prepare you for management and leadership positions. More and more, doctorate degrees are becoming the norm for top executive positions, as well as opportunities to transition your career into academia.
  • Income: Both master’s degrees and doctorate degrees significantly increase your salary expectations and lifetime earning potential. But which is worth more? According to the BLS, a master’s degree has the power to boost your earnings by 17% when compared to a bachelor’s degree, while a doctorate degree can bring in a salary 30% higher than a bachelor’s degree. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, an individual with a master’s degree can also earn more than $2.8 million in their lifetime, while a doctorate degree can earn you over $3.5 million.

Comparing the Benefits of Master's vs Doctorate Degrees

There are a lot of factors that go into choosing a master's vs doctorate degree. But as you evaluate all of the different aspects of these programs, make sure to keep your long-term goals in mind. We’ve outlined four key ways to compare the benefits of master's vs doctorate degrees against your goals.

Masters vs. Doctorate_ Why to Earn Each Degree.png

Master's vs Doctorate: Popularity meets possibility with online degrees

As demand increases for advanced degrees, professionals are looking for ways to make getting their graduate degree more attainable. That’s why online master’s and doctorate degrees are more popular than ever. Online degrees offer working professionals the opportunity to get their degree without stalling their career.

popularity-online-graduate-degrees.png

Getting your master’s degree or doctorate degree is a lifetime achievement that can help you advance your career. If you’re considering your options for a master’s or doctorate degree, explore Franklin University’s online master’s degrees and online doctorate degrees to find a program that can help you take your career to the next level.  

difference between a master degree and a phd

Related Articles

difference between a master degree and a phd

Franklin University 201 S Grant Ave. Columbus , OH 43215

Local: (614) 797-4700 Toll Free: (877) 341-6300 [email protected]

Copyright 2024 Franklin University

  • Interesting
  • Scholarships
  • UGC-CARE Journals

Difference Between Master’s Degree and PhD: Everything You Need to Know

Master's degree and PhD

ilovephd

Masters Degree vs PhD

Table of contents

The master’s degree, and just to clarify: what is a bachelor’s degree.

Do you know the difference between a master’s degree and PhD ? We’ll tell you about the characteristics of each, as well as their particularities. We want you to have all the information you need to choose the option that best suits your interests.

You should know that you have three main options after graduation. The first is to keep your undergraduate degree and get work experience right after graduation. The second option is to get a master’s degree to specialize in a particular subject. The third is a doctoral degree, where you can deepen your area of expertise by making your own contributions to research. In any of these options, you will need an essay helper since learning is not easy.

The Distinction Between Master’s and PhD: The Decision

Each of these branches of higher education seeks to prepare people not only for the world of work but also to enrich their field of study. We understand that these concepts can be interrelated, which is why many people don’t see the difference between master’s and doctoral degrees.

Nowadays, these degrees are highly prestigious because they indicate that the person who receives them has extensive knowledge in their chosen field. Some parents put pressure on their children to earn a master’s or doctoral degree, but we would like to make it clear that this is not necessary.

As we’ve said before, these degrees bring accolades that many parents want to brag about. This is not necessarily a bad thing; the problem is that they are forcing the young person to do something he or she does not want to do. It should be understood that it should be the graduate’s decision.

Many people think that following graduate school is the same as getting a degree. This is because they don’t quite understand the difference between a master’s degree and a doctoral degree. The latter two higher degrees have a much higher level of demand and interest.

To begin to understand the difference between a master’s degree and a doctoral degree, we’ll first tell you what a master’s degree is. It is the next level of higher education. To access it, you must have a professional degree. It’s basically an in-depth knowledge of a particular subject.

It can be a great way to direct your career into exactly the profession you’re looking for. You can also complete your studies by exploring new areas of your profession.

A master’s degree, on the other hand, is an opportunity for those who want to learn about new technologies affecting their career and upgrade their knowledge. A master’s degree typically lasts about one to two years.

Now we move on to the highest level of postgraduate education, the doctoral degree. The Department of Education explains that such training can last from three to five years. The goal is to provide students with the training and skills to conduct research in their chosen field, as well as to train university professors.

To get a doctoral degree, a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree are required. The level is much more challenging, and so it is normal to see high levels of stress among students. This is partly because you have to do research dissertations.

Most dissertations use the scientific method to reach conclusions. These studies are highly regarded by government agencies, private companies, professionals in the field, and institutions of all kinds. Generally, the research must be defended before a university tribunal of other Ph.

The cost of the research can be an issue for some people. Sometimes your own work is not enough to complete your dissertation. That’s why you can apply for a government fellowship if you meet the requirements.  These include: you must have a graduate degree, a grade of 1.6 or higher for state fellowships, and 1.5 for regional fellowships, and you must be enrolled in a doctoral program at a state or regional university.

When you complete an undergraduate degree program at a university, the qualification obtained is the graduate qualification for that degree (formerly a bachelor’s or diploma).

The general rule is that a bachelor’s degree takes four years to complete, but this period may be extended depending on the type of program chosen. Successful completion of this level requires the submission of a final dissertation confirming completion of the degree. Theoretically, after completing the set period, the individual becomes eligible to enter the professional world. This is a step before studying for master’s and doctoral degrees.

The bachelor’s degree is practically the first step in higher education, followed by the master’s and doctoral degrees. There are also other levels of graduate study. Examples include diplomas, specializations, and the famous MBA, which relate specifically to the field of business and administration.

What do you think of the difference between a master’s degree and a PhD? Would you like to earn one of these degrees?

  • master's degree
  • PhD positions

ilovephd

Top 10 iLovePhD Articles of 2023

Top 100 journal publications in the world 2024, ramalingaswami re-entry fellowship – re-ignite your research career in india, leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Email Subscription

ilovephd logo

iLovePhD is a research education website to know updated research-related information. It helps researchers to find top journals for publishing research articles and get an easy manual for research tools. The main aim of this website is to help Ph.D. scholars who are working in various domains to get more valuable ideas to carry out their research. Learn the current groundbreaking research activities around the world, love the process of getting a Ph.D.

WhatsApp Channel

Join iLovePhD WhatsApp Channel Now!

Contact us: [email protected]

Copyright © 2019-2024 - iLovePhD

  • Artificial intelligence

University of California, Merced logo

Phd Vs. Master's: Which Degree Is Right For Me?

Many college students choose to go directly into the workforce once an undergraduate degree has been achieved, and others choose to continue their education by enrolling in graduate school. So, what type of degree is considered a graduate degree? Undergraduate degrees are associate and bachelor degrees.  Master's and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees at the postgraduate level are graduate degrees. Graduate school can be costly and requires much time and dedication from the potential student. Any person considering this type of education must be informed of both options.

Potential students often do not understand the difference between these two types of postgraduate degrees offered at the University of California Merced. Both degrees require a bachelor's undergraduate degree. Both will also require acceptance into the graduate school containing general requirements and specific requirements depending on the student's field. Those are where the similarities of the two end. The differences are much more defined. 

On average, a bachelor's degree will take four years to achieve. These four years are required for any postgraduate degree. Depending on the type of degree chosen, the second cycle degree will take approximately 2 to 6 years. How quickly the pupil intends to start their career will have to be taken into consideration. These lengthy-time constraints can be a detriment for many potential students. Most of the time, students going into graduate school are adults who need to begin their careers to support themselves and sometimes their families, and this amount of time may not be conducive to their plans.

Expenditure

Cost is one of the major considerations a potential student should account for. As of 2020, the average price of an undergraduate bachelor's degree for a public university in California is $1300 for an in-state student and $8000 for an out-of-state student. Private universities are more expensive, $20,000 regardless of the state of residence. On average, the second cycle degree or the master's can incur a cost of $17,000 for in-state upwards to $32,000 for out-of-state students per year. As discussed previously, the average master's degree takes approximately one to three years to obtain after the undergraduate degree has been obtained. To receive a Ph.D., the student must commit to approximately three to seven more years of education. One difference between a master’s degree and a Ph.D. degree at UC Merced is that 97% of all Ph.D. students are fully funded. Ph.D. students have their tuition and a living stipend covered through teaching assistant and research assistant positions and through fellowships.

What is the person's reasoning for wanting to achieve additional education? This can range from a larger salary, current or potential employment requirements, or career changes. Any of these reasons would be conducive to enrolling in a graduate program, specifically the master's degree program. This postgraduate degree is most beneficial to those already in the workforce looking to excel in their careers or change careers. There are times that companies will hire within but want a more advanced degree, so the person will seek out the degree to obtain a higher position. There are also times in which a person has a goal to change his or her career path. They may already have an undergraduate degree and decide to seek a higher education degree to change their careers. The reasons for entering the Ph.D. program can be much more specific. Most students enter this type of education or want to teach or provide some other way to advance the field further. 

The Learning Process

The learning process for each degree is very different. The master's program uses the undergraduate degree knowledge and puts it into practical formats and applications. The year(s) spent in this will consist of book study and in-person or online classes taught by professors. It will have work that will be graded and those grades recorded. Projects, including group projects, will make up the bulk of the study. A capstone course will also be required to accumulate all things learned into a practical application project, usually completed as a group. The Ph.D., on the other hand, is made up primarily of research. There may be classes involved with professors, but the bulk of the time will be used to complete a lengthy publishable research thesis. This type of education requires much time, and students can often not work full-time jobs and seek this degree. 

Once students have decided to further their education into graduate programs, they should thoroughly research how far they would like the instruction to reach. Are they wanting to get into the workforce while striving to obtain the degree? If so, then the master's is most likely the correct choice. Do they want the prestige that comes with the word Dr. in front of their name? Or perhaps they are striving to be an expert in a particular field? If this is the case, then the Ph.D. is the correct choice. Whichever choice is made, the acceptance and understanding of the time, money, and effort involved is a must. For more information on the types of degrees available, visit https://graduatedivision.ucmerced.edu/about/graddiv today.

  • excelerate's blog

Additional Links

  • Executive Leadership
  • University Library
  • School of Engineering
  • School of Natural Sciences
  • School of Social Sciences, Humanities & Arts
  • Ernest & Julio Gallo Management Program
  • Division of Graduate Education
  • Division of Undergraduate Education

Administration

  • Office of the Chancellor
  • Office of Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost
  • Equity, Justice and Inclusive Excellence
  • External Relations
  • Finance & Administration
  • Physical Operations, Planning and Development
  • Student Affairs
  • Research and Economic Development
  • Office of Information Technology

University of California, Merced 5200 North Lake Rd. Merced, CA 95343 Telephone: (209) 228-4400

Twitter icon

  • © 2024
  • About UC Merced
  • Privacy/Legal
  • Site Feedback
  • Accessibility

Ask Any Difference

Masters vs PhD: Difference and Comparison

The education system of any country consists of several levels of study. A student tries to pursue education in a particular course, and they follow various levels of degrees in their academic years.

Each degree level consists of a specific amount of time required to complete the respective degree of a particular course.

Each degree of education is completed after a certain number of studies. Each degree has a different level of difficulty. Two of those degrees are 1. Masters degree, and 2. PhD degree.

Key Takeaways A Master’s degree focuses on acquiring advanced knowledge in a specific field, while a PhD emphasizes original research and the creation of new knowledge. Masters programs take 1-2 years to complete, whereas PhD programs can take 4-6 years or more. A Master’s degree is a prerequisite for pursuing a PhD, but the latter leads to more specialized career opportunities and the potential for higher-paying positions.

Masters vs PhD

Master’s degrees are graduate-level academic degrees awarded by universities or colleges, requiring coursework, research projects, and a thesis or exam. PhD degrees are the highest level of academic degree awarded by universities or colleges, requiring several years of coursework, research, and dissertation completion.

Masters vs PhD

A master’s degree is a degree that a college or institution offers after a student completes their bachelor’s degree. Whenever students opt for a particular course, they get to study it at different levels and difficulty levels.

During a master’s degree, they get to study their respective courses even more profound, and the complexity of the system is more than it was during the bachelor’s degree.

A PhD degree is a course’s most challenging level of degree. During a PhD degree, one gets to study their course even more profoundly, and one can also research a topic that interests them that is relevant to their practice.

In many countries, a PhD degree is considered the highest level of degree that one can achieve in their academic course.

Comparison Table

What is masters’s degree.

A master’s degree is a degree that is offered after a student completes their bachelor’s degree and before their PhD or doctorate.

An individual pursuing a master’s degree gets to study their subjects from their particular course in detail and even in a more profound manner.

A master’s degree consists of both theoretical as well as applied subjects. One must understand the theory of a particular topic and perform practical regarding the idea .

The evaluation done during a master’s degree is more detailed, and the analysis that is supposed to be done of a specific subject is more than the analysis that is done during a bachelor’s degree.

Whenever an individual completes their master’s degree, he is titled as the master of the course they are studying or have learned.

Various degrees that consist of both research and theory are science and arts. Different kind of material is taught in both of these courses.

Different countries have different course structures for their master’s programs. In countries like the United States of In America and Canada, the duration of a master’s degree is two years.

In countries like India , the duration of a master’s degree is three years. In the United Kingdom, there are part-time master’s degrees and full-time master’s degrees.

A full-time master’s degree takes one to two years. On the other hand, a part-time master’s degree takes two to four years to complete.

masters

What is a PhD?

“The PhD degree is one of the highest degrees of education an individual can study in their respective course. It is the short form of the”Doctor of Philosophy”. “The PhD degree is one of the highest degrees of education that an individual can study in their respective course. It is the short form of the “Doctor of Philosophy”.

A person can work in a specific field after completing their PhD degree, and they can also select the specialization over time.

The amount of research and studies required while pursuing a PhD degree is much more than the amount of research and studies required while pursuing a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree.

In many countries, it is considered the highest degree of education that one can pursue in their particular course. They also think that the person is eligible and capable of teaching the same subject in a college and university.

Some countries accept the coursework that students complete before their PhD degree. Some countries require a portfolio where students must mention their published papers.

During the PhD degree, a student must study and research their subject.

There are distance-learning PhD programs offered by many colleges for students who are not able to attend college physically.

Other than that, a PhD degree includes an oral exam where students must present themselves and their thesis to the panel of examiners.

However, many countries have a rule that a student must complete their bachelor’s degree and their master’s degree to opt for a PhD degree.

phd

Main Differences Between Masters and PhD

  • A master’s degree is completed before a PhD degree. On the other hand, the PhD degree is completed after the master’s degree.
  • To pursue a master’s degree, one must complete their bachelor’s degree. On the other hand, to complete their PhD degree, one must complete their bachelor’s degree and master’s degree.
  • A master’s degree holder gets comparatively fewer salary packages. On the other hand, the PhD degree holder gets more salary packages as they are experts of the subject and course that they have studied.
  • A master’s degree takes less time for complete. On the other hand, a PhD degree takes more time to complete.
  • A master’s degree has comparatively lesser studies. On the other hand, a PhD degree has comparatively more studies.
  • Financing a master’s degree is comparatively less. On the other hand, financing a PhD degree is comparatively more.
  • In most countries, it takes two to three years to complete a master’s degree. On the other hand, in most countries, it takes three to four years to complete a PhD degree.
  • The value of a master’s degree is comparatively less. On the other hand, the value of a PhD degree is comparatively more.
  • A master’s degree is closely related to career and ambitions. On the other hand, a PhD degree is closely related to the teaching profession .

Difference Between Masters and PhD

  • https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/02602938.2011.638738
  • https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01421590802366129

Last Updated : 13 July, 2023

dot 1

I’ve put so much effort writing this blog post to provide value to you. It’ll be very helpful for me, if you consider sharing it on social media or with your friends/family. SHARING IS ♥️

Emma Smith 200x200 1

Emma Smith holds an MA degree in English from Irvine Valley College. She has been a Journalist since 2002, writing articles on the English language, Sports, and Law. Read more about me on her bio page .

Similar Reads

  • Certificate vs Masters: Difference and Comparison
  • PhD vs Doctorate: Difference and Comparison
  • DNP vs PhD: Difference and Comparison
  • Ed.D vs PhD.: Difference and Comparison
  • a ThD vs a PhD: Difference and Comparison

Share this post!

9 thoughts on “masters vs phd: difference and comparison”.

This article doesn’t cover much that is useful for me.

This article provides a clear contrast between Master’s and PhD degrees. I didn’t know very much about the topic before reading this, but now I feel quite informed.

I agree with you, although there’s still much more to learn about the subject. I suggest further reading on the topics mentioned in the article.

This article doesn’t provide new insights on the topic.

This article is very informative and provides a thorough comparison of the two degrees.

The comparisons between a Masters and a PhD are presented very clearly in this article. This article seems very useful for someone who is considering pursuing further education.

I believe so too. It’s definitely a good starting point for someone considering the path to further education.

The article does a great job explaining the key differences between getting a Masters and a PhD. It’s very informative.

I think the article is really insightful, and the key takeaways help to understand the core differences between a Master’s degree and a PhD. It could be quite helpful to people who don’t have much knowledge about them.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Want to save this article for later? Click the heart in the bottom right corner to save to your own articles box!

Quick Guide: Your College Degree Options

There are generally four categories of college degrees: associate degree, bachelor’s degree, graduate degree, and doctorate or professional degree. Each category comes with its own particular subcategories, and there are some subtle differences between a doctorate and a professional degree.

If you ever find yourself lost in the sea of abbreviations for degrees, you're not alone. This quick guide is here to clear the air regarding the types of degrees available to you and what each one means.

Guide to College Degrees, Professional Studies & Certifications

Associate degree.

An associate degree is a two-year degree typically offered at community colleges, technical colleges, and career colleges. However, some four-year universities offer them as well. Examples of some associate degrees include Associate of Arts (AA) and Associate of Science (AS).

AS degrees are generally more narrowly focused and prepare students for science and math-related careers. AA degrees are broader and focus on fields outside of math and science such as liberal arts, business administration, criminal justice, and culinary arts.

Some students who earn an associate degree transfer to a four-year program to earn a bachelor’s degree. Others complete associate degrees and then go straight to work.

Bachelor's or Baccalaureate Degree

Bachelor’s degrees require students to complete four- or five-year programs in a specific academic discipline. The two most common types of bachelor’s degrees are bachelor of arts (BA) and bachelor of science (BS). Other types of bachelor’s degrees include the bachelor of fine arts (BFA), and bachelor of architecture (BArch).

Because bachelor’s degrees train students to enter a specific field, many professional careers require them. Earning a bachelor’s degree can open the door to many job opportunities and increase your potential income.

Some institutions offer a liberal arts and career combination program, also called a 3-2 program. This is a type of dual degree in which a student completes three years of liberal arts study followed by two years of professional or technical study. In the end, students earn two bachelor’s degrees, usually a BA and a BS.

An example of this is Columbia University’s 3-2 Combined Plan program in which students can earn a BA and a BS in five years.

Some colleges also let you earn a teacher certification by combining bachelor's degree study with state certification requirements. State requirements vary, but these programs usually feature professional education courses, including student teaching.

Graduate Degree

Graduate degrees are advanced degrees that some students pursue after earning a bachelor’s degree. The two most common are master of arts (MA) and master of science (MS). Other examples include master of fine arts (MFA) and master of business administration (MBA). A graduate degree is like an extension of a bachelor’s degree whereby a student further enriches their knowledge of their field and narrows their f ocus of study .

Graduate degrees usually take around two years to attain, but this can vary based on the degree. Many institutions allow students to enroll in a graduate program in a field unrelated to their bachelor’s degree. This may require some extra credit hours, though.

Professional Degree

Students earn professional degrees to become licensed to work in professions like medicine or law. The M.D. degree is an example. Professional programs generally require a college degree before you start them and then at least three years of study to complete.

Doctoral Degree and Professional Degree

The doctorate and professional degrees are the highest levels of education one can attain. They signify mastery of a subject and often come with the coveted title “doctor.” Although the two are similar, there are some important differences.

A doctorate or doctoral degree is a research-oriented degree focused on scholarly development. The most common doctorate is the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). Despite the name, a PhD covers many disciplines, not just philosophy.

A professional degree is an application-oriented degree, meaning it prepares students for a specific working position. There are many types of professional degrees. Some examples are: doctor of medicine (MD), doctor of pharmacy (PharmD), and doctor of medicine in dentistry (DMD) in the field of medicine, and juris doctor (JD) and doctor of juridical science (SJD) in the field of law.

A graduate degree does not need to precede a doctorate or professional degree. Often, students will go straight into a doctorate or professional program following their bachelor’s, however some programs will require a master’s degree to gain entry. Completion can take anywhere from four to eight years, depending on the field of study.

Many doctoral students work either full-time or part-time while they study in the program. This, along with the field they are studying, will significantly affect the time it takes to complete their degree.

Joint Degrees

Some students may choose to pursue a joint degree, also known as a dual degree, which means they simultaneously study for a bachelor’s degree and a graduate degree. Joint degrees can be pursued in the same college or can be split between two different colleges. For example, Berklee College of Music and Harvard University offer a dual bachelor’s/master’s program in which a student receives a bachelor of arts (BA) at Harvard and a master of music (MM) or master of arts (MA) at Berklee.

Depending on the program, it may be possible to study at the same time for a master's degree and a doctorate. For example, the University of Southern California offers a program leading to doctor of pharmacy and master of public health degrees.

How do academic degrees go in order?

There are four types of degrees. In order of level of education, they rank as associate degree, bachelor’s degree, master’s or graduate degrees, and doctorate or professional degrees.

How many degrees are there in college?

Most community colleges offer only two-year associate degrees, while most four-year colleges offer bachelor’s, graduate, and doctorate or professional degrees. Some four-year colleges may also have associate degree programs.

How many years do you have to be in college to achieve certain degrees?

Though it will vary between academic disciplines, associate degrees usually take two years to achieve, bachelor’s degrees take four years, master’s degrees take two years, and doctorate or professional degrees can take anywhere from four to eight years.

What is an eight-year degree?

An “eight-year degree” typically refers to a doctorate degree or PhD. Although some doctorates can be completed in as little as three years, these degrees typically require more time studying highly specialized subjects. Students in these programs often must defend a dissertation while already working a professional job.

What are the four years of college called?

The first four years of college are the undergraduate years, and a student studying for a bachelor’s degree is called an undergraduate. The four years refer to the total accumulated credit hours; a student may take fewer or more than four years to attain their undergraduate degree.

What does a graduate degree mean?

A graduate degree or master’s degree is an advanced degree that some students pursue after earning a bachelor’s degree. Earning a graduate degree signifies mastery of a particular field of study and focuses more intensely on a subject than a bachelor’s degree does. Graduate degrees usually take two years to attain.

What do you call a master's student?

A master's student is called a graduate student or “grad student” for short. A student still studying for a bachelor’s degree is called an undergraduate student or “undergrad student.”

How many years is a master's degree?

Graduate degrees usually take around two years to attain, but this can vary based on the degree. Many institutions allow students to enroll in a graduate program in a field unrelated to their bachelor’s degree, although it may require some extra credit hours.

Related Articles

difference between a master degree and a phd

MS vs PhD: Which Psychology Degree Should You Get?

An  undergraduate degree  proves a great starting point for people interested in careers involving psychology. To advance into occupations involving greater responsibility and pay, however, generally requires a graduate degree.

For instance, a master’s degree in psychology is one of the necessities to become a licensed therapist, such as a marriage and family therapist – a career the  Bureau of Labor Statistics  (BLS) predicts to grow a whopping 16% between 2020-2030. And becoming a  psychologist  – a position with an average median annual salary of $82,180 – requires earning a doctorate in psychology.

What Are MS and PhD in Psychology Degrees For?

The  MS (Master of Science) in Psychology  and the  PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) in Psychology  are degrees for people interested in advanced study in the discipline. Students obtain a greater understanding of human behavior and how to help others. Degree earners are often interested in careers as therapists, licensed psychologists, researchers, or professors.

Choosing Between a Master’s Degree in Psychology vs. a Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology Program

The choice between pursuing a Master’s Degree in Psychology vs. a PhD in Psychology boils down to individual interests and career aspirations. Many students find a MS in Psychology sufficient for the types of jobs they want. Others discover a doctorate necessary for the occupations to which they aspire.

What Is a MS in Psychology?

An MS in Psychology is a graduate degree that prepares recipients for a variety of careers. It also can serve as a building block to entering doctoral studies, and an MS program typically takes about two years to complete. Online MS in Psychology programs sometimes offers accelerated options in which ambitious students can finish in around 18 months.

While coursework varies by institution and personal interests, students in psychology master’s programs often take these classes:

  • Lifespan development
  • Research methodology
  • Cognitive psychology
  • Social psychology
  • Personality
  • Foundations of therapy
  • Family systems theory
  • Abnormal psychology

Some students focus on general psychology. Others gear their master’s program to a specific area. Some niche choices include:

  • Educational psychology
  • Forensic psychology
  • Clinical psychology
  • Industrial-organizational psychology
  • Sport psychology
  • Health psychology
  • Counseling psychology
  • Child and adolescent development
  • Applied behavior analysis

Who Should Get a MS in Psychology?

Students who want to expand their knowledge of psychology beyond the undergraduate level often seek a master’s degree. Some students pursue an MS to become more attractive candidates to schools when they apply to doctoral programs. 

Others enter the workforce after receiving their MS in psychology. They find careers in the following fields:

  • Advertising
  • Human resources
  • Criminal justice
  • Social services
  • Mental health

What Can You Do with a MS in Psychology?

Individuals who have earned a Master’s in Psychology find their degree a gateway to various types of jobs dealing with people and what influences their behavior. A sample of possible occupations is listed below.

What Is a PhD In Psychology?

A PhD in psychology is the highest-level degree within the discipline. Earning it signifies academic excellence and dedication to the field. In addition to mastering psychological theories and concepts, PhD candidates learn how to advance scientific knowledge through their own original research.

Who Should Get a PhD In Psychology?

Obtaining a PhD in psychology is a rigorous process. It involves classwork, passing an oral exam demonstrating competency, and completing a dissertation. Practicums, internships, and teaching experiences may also be part of the program.

Students thinking about entering such a program should possess a  strong background in psychology , such as a bachelor’s and/or master’s degree. They also should look closely at their career goals and decide whether a PhD puts them on the right path.

What Can You Do with a PhD In Psychology?

The expertise obtained from earning a PhD in Psychology opens doors to a variety of careers. Three sample positions include:

Many PhDs remain in academia. They teach classes at colleges and junior colleges as well as perform research in their area of interest within the field of psychology. The BLS lists the mean annual wage for postsecondary psychology teachers as $85,050. 6

Clinical psychologists diagnose and treat a variety of mental, emotional, and behavioral problems. Some specialize in certain areas, such as treating depression or eating disorders. Others work with specific populations, such as children or the elderly. The median yearly salary for a clinical psychologist in 2020 was $79,820 per the BLS. 7

These professionals apply their knowledge of psychology to the workplace. Companies and governmental organizations hire them to examine issues such as productivity, morale, teamwork, hiring, and organizational development. Their suggestions lead to workplace improvements. The BLS reports the median annual salary for an industrial-organizational psychologist in 2020 as $96,270. 7

PsyD Vs PhD at a Glance

Individuals wishing to earn a doctorate have another option besides a PhD in Psychology. They may pursue a PsyD (Doctor of Psychology). Selecting which to earn depends on the student’s educational and career interests.

In general, PsyD programs:

  • Focus heavily on applied psychology
  • Take 4-7 years to complete
  • Attract students interested in working as therapists inc community mental health, hospital, and private practice settings

By comparison, PhD programs in psychology:

  • Focus extensively on generating new knowledge through scientific research
  • Attract students interested in remaining in academia as professors and researchers, though many do  seek licensure and become practicing psychologists

What to Look for in Psychology Graduate Degree Programs

Online vs. on-campus learning.

Whether a student wishes to pursue a master’s degree or a doctorate, choices exist regarding the learning format. Some schools offer graduate-level psychology programs online. Choosing such a route can prove beneficial in terms of access, flexibility, and cost. 

Online studies remove geographical barriers when selecting an institution, which opens up a greater pool from which to choose. Remaining at home eliminates expenses related to travel and campus housing, and students with spouses or children do not need to upend their family’s lives to further their education and careers.

Students seeking online degrees should check the terms, however. Some programs include short residency requirements. Likewise, individuals may need to go to campus or other physical sites to complete research projects, internships, practicums, or other hands-on experiences.

Of course, regular on-site programs remain an option for students preferring traditional graduate school. A consistent schedule and the social aspect of attending classes physically alongside others still appeal to many students.

Psychology Certification and Licensure

Psychology-related occupations often require state licensure. Knowing the specifics for the state in which one hopes to find employment can guide educational and career choices and prevent unwelcome surprises down the line.

Psychologists, for example, typically need to complete the following:

  • A PsyD or a PhD in Psychology
  • An internship
  • A post-doc or 1-year supervised professional experience after the internship
  • A passing score on the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology 
  • Completion of a dissertation or case study

States usually require all licensed therapists to complete the following:

  • A master’s degree
  • A range of 2,000-4,000 hours of post-degree supervised clinical experience
  • A successful exam score

Applying to Psychology Doctoral Programs

Acceptance into a Doctoral in Psychology program involves applying to individual institutions. Competition for spots can be substantial, so candidates should apply to several schools in order to increase the chances of getting in. 

Some places are more selective than others and may present harder entrance requirements. Someone who has not completed an undergraduate degree in psychology or a sufficient number of psychology courses will likely need to address this gap before seeking admission.

Admissions Requirements for PsyD and PhD Programs

Depending on where a student applies, the prospective school may ask for the following::

  • Official transcripts from past collegiate studies at the undergraduate and graduate level, including classes taken, GPA, and degree(s) awarded with date
  • Proof of any internships, certifications, or licenses
  • A resume of work history, including dates and duties
  • A description of other relevant activities, such as volunteer work or participation in professional associations
  • Scores from the GRE and the GRE Psychology Test
  • 2-3 letters of recommendation that support the candidacy
  • Responses to essay prompts
  • A personal statement explaining why the student wants to pursue this degree
  • Interviews with faculty

Note that some programs look only at candidates who already possess a Master’s Degree in Psychology or a closely related field. Others accept students with a bachelor’s degree into a combined master’s/doctoral program.

Accreditation

Selecting a school with regional accreditation ensures the institution has met certain educational standards. Choose one approved by the  U.S. Department of Education  or the nonprofit  Council for Higher Education Accreditation  (CHEA). Your school’s specific graduate psychology program also should be accredited by one or both of these organizations.

Another important factor is checking if the program is accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA). 8  Satisfying licensure requirements in some states can be problematic without APA accreditation. Likewise, employers will often look at only job candidates who graduated from an APA-approved program and completed an APA-accredited internship.

Graduate Psychology Career Resources

The following organizations provide further information on licensure for different careers:

  • The Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards
  • The National Board for Certified Counselors
  • The Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards
  • Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification
  • Someone possessing a PhD is not a medical doctor. A PhD is a doctor of philosophy. In recognition of the expertise obtained from completing this rigorous course of study, holders of a PhD are entitled to use the title “Doctor” if they so choose.
  • One isn’t better than the other, just different. Which degree to pursue depends on individual interests and career aspirations. Aspiring therapists and counselors often choose a master’s program. Those wishing to become licensed psychologists must complete a doctoral program. Also, PhD programs focus heavily on research and often lead to working in an academic setting or consulting.
  • Some career options for people who earn a graduate degree in psychology include marriage and family therapist, mental health counselor, substance abuse counselor, counseling psychologist, researcher, and psychology professor.
  • A person holding a PhD in psychology is not a medical doctor and usually cannot write prescriptions. A few states do allow psychologists with training in psychopharmacology to prescribe a limited number of psychiatric medications. The majority of prescriptions, however, are written out by psychiatrists since they are MDs.
  • https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/marriage-and-family-therapists.htm#tab-1
  • https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm#tab-1
  • https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/substance-abuse-behavioral-disorder-and-mental-health-counselors.htm#tab-1
  • https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/market-research-analysts.htm
  • https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/training-and-development-specialists.htm
  • https://www.bls.gov/oes/2017/may/oes251066.htm
  • https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm#tab-5
  • https://www.accreditation.apa.org/accredited-programs

What is a Master’s Thesis: A Guide for Students 

masters thesis

A master’s thesis is an academic research output that is expected to showcase a student’s competence in a higher level of research as compared to an undergraduate one. The primary objective of a master’s thesis is to assess a student on the depth of their understanding, knowledge, and competence on the subject of their choice. It provides a scholarly and research foundation for students to build on if they are interested in pursuing higher academic degrees and professional work. 

Benefits of Writing a Master’s Thesis  

Undertaking a master’s thesis program enhances your career and academic prospects. In the academic sphere, those who have completed a master’s thesis program are in a more advantageous position when they seek admission to a PhD program. Research-focused disciplines, in particular, usually favour students who have completed their master’s thesis. Opting for a master’s thesis program also gives researchers the opportunity to pursue their interest area through study and research. Further, through the process of thesis writing, students also develop their skills in writing, putting forth an informed argument and developing research questions. A well-developed thesis can also be published as a research paper in peer-reviewed journals, thereby enhancing future academic and career prospects.  

Thesis Masters and Non-thesis Masters Program: Differences   

It is critical to note that all master’s programs do not have a thesis requirement. At the same time, some programs allow students to choose between a thesis and a non-thesis master’s program. In a thesis Master’s program, you are required to prepare a comprehensive scholarly paper under the advice of a faculty member that demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking that you have developed during the program. Hence, it is a mandatory requirement for the completion of your degree. However, in a non-thesis master’s program, you are not expected to write a thesis. You are nevertheless required to take additional classes and, by the end of the program, complete a Capstone project, a comprehensive exam, or a summary project. 

Master’s thesis and PhD Dissertation: Differences  

A Master’s thesis is very different from a PhD dissertation, though often, the words thesis and dissertation are used interchangeably not only by students but also by the wider academic community and publishers.   

  • A PhD dissertation is an original research by the doctoral candidate that contributes something new to the existing body of knowledge in the field, such as new theories and information. This should not have been published previously. In contrast, a master’s thesis is a scholarly paper that involves original testing of ideas and demonstrates the knowledge and skills the student has acquired and built during the master’s program.  
  • A master’s thesis deals or engages more with existing research or secondary knowledge, though depending on the subject, there can be research of primary sources as well. Here, the student certainly has to bring in their critical and analytical skills. The sources of data will generally be research papers, scholarly books, journal articles, government reports, statistics, and so on. However, in a PhD dissertation, the focus is on generating new and novel data, resulting in an original piece of work that external subject experts will evaluate. Hence, apart from the sources of data mentioned for the Master’s thesis, the significant component of sources of data for PhD dissertation will be generated from interviews, focus groups, surveys, laboratory experiments and so on. 
  • A master’s thesis is presented at the end of the master’s program, which is about one or two years. The thesis is a critical part of completing the degree. A PhD dissertation takes a considerable amount of time, ranging from 4 to 7 years. By this time, the candidate should have completed, apart from their dissertation, other requirements such as fulfilling a set of coursework, attending seminars/ conferences, presenting papers at seminars and publishing papers in peer-reviewed journals. 
  • The master’s thesis is completed and submitted at the end of the master’s program. The PhD dissertation is presented to earn the PhD degree. 
  • Another major difference between the two is the length. While a master’s thesis may be between 50 and 100 pages, the Ph.D. dissertation is more detailed, in-depth, and comprehensive, with a length of up to 400 pages. 

While all Master’s programs do not have a thesis requirement, completing a thesis provides a scholarly and research foundation for students to pursue higher academic degrees and professional work. A master’s thesis program can be a valuable experience for students interested in pursuing higher academic degrees and professional work in research-focused disciplines.

Paperpal is a comprehensive AI writing toolkit that helps students and researchers achieve 2x the writing in half the time. It leverages 21+ years of STM experience and insights from millions of research articles to provide in-depth academic writing, language editing, and submission readiness support to help you write better, faster.   

Get accurate academic translations, rewriting support, grammar checks, vocabulary suggestions, and generative AI assistance that delivers human precision at machine speed.  Try for free or  upgrade to Paperpal Prime   starting at US$19 a month  to access premium features, including consistency, plagiarism, and 30+ submission readiness checks to help you succeed.   Experience the future of academic writing –  Sign up to Paperpal and start writing for free!    

Related Reads:

  • How to Make Your Thesis Supervision Work for You
  • Research Outlines: How to Write An Introduction Section in Minutes with Paperpal Copilot
  • How to Paraphrase Research Papers Effectively
  • What is a Literature Review? How to Write It (with Examples)

Authorship in Academia: Ghost, Guest, and Gift Authorship

Quillbot review: features, pricing, and free alternatives, you may also like, how to write an essay introduction (with examples)..., similarity checks: the author’s guide to plagiarism and..., should you use ai tools like chatgpt for..., what are the benefits of generative ai for..., how to avoid plagiarism tips and advice for..., plagiarism checkers vs. ai content detection: navigating the..., plagiarism prevention: why you need a plagiarism check..., how long should a chapter be, how to cite social media sources in academic writing , what is a literature review how to write....

difference between a master degree and a phd

Uncovering the Difference Between Whey Protein and Whey Isolate: A Nutrition Professional's Guide

Expert opinion from cassia d muller, bechelor in nutrition · 2 years of experience · brazil.

The amount of protein each contains. Concentrated whey protein is obtained in the first stage of the filtering process, and therefore it contains a certain amount of fats and carbohydrates, and therefore has a lower and more accessible value. Whey isolate, on the other hand, goes through more purification steps, containing very low amounts of fats and carbohydrates, and also being a little more expensive.

Expert opinion from Livia Dickson Chen

Phd in nutrition · 11 years of experience · brazil.

Both are obtained from milk, and the main difference will be in the concentration of proteins in the same portion. Whey isolate will have more protein than whey protein. Whey protein has more carbohydrates and fats, including lactose.

Expert opinion from Roseane M Silva

Master in health sciences, bachelor in nutrition · 7 years of experience · brazil.

Whey Protein Isolate is a source of the best essential proteins as it contains complete protein structures, free amino acids and peptides.

→ See more questions and expert answers related to Whey Protein.

Disclaimer: This is for information purpose only, and should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. These are opinions from an external panel of individual doctors or nutritionists and not to be considered as opinion of Microsoft. Please seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Medical advice varies across region. Advice from professionals outside your region should be used at your own discretion. Or you should contact a local health professional.

Whey Protein image

IMAGES

  1. Comparing Masters and Ph.D. Programs

    difference between a master degree and a phd

  2. The Difference Between a Master's and PhD

    difference between a master degree and a phd

  3. Difference Between Master's Degree and PhD: Everything You Need to Know

    difference between a master degree and a phd

  4. masters degree vs doctorate

    difference between a master degree and a phd

  5. F.A.Q.s About A Ph.D.

    difference between a master degree and a phd

  6. What Is Bachelor Master Phd

    difference between a master degree and a phd

VIDEO

  1. PhD advice for PhD students 😍😋🥰

  2. Advice for PhD aspirants

  3. Master's vs. PhD: Navigating the Educational Landscape

  4. Finally got my PhD degree 🥹 Graduate life in Korean university is not easy. #indianinkorea #phd

COMMENTS

  1. Master's vs PhD

    The two most common types of graduate degrees are master's and doctoral degrees: A master's is a 1-2 year degree that can prepare you for a multitude of careers. A PhD, or doctoral degree, takes 3-7 years to complete (depending on the country) and prepares you for a career in academic research. A master's is also the necessary first ...

  2. Masters vs PhD

    A Masters degree is the next level of education after the completion of an undergraduate degree, commonly known as a Bachelors. These degree levels are often referred to in terms of cycles so that a Bachelor's is a first-cycle degree, a Masters is a second-cycle and finally, a PhD is the third-cycle of higher education (and the highest).

  3. Masters Vs PhD: The Difference Between Masters & PhD/Doctorates 2024+

    One of the key differences between undergraduate and graduate degrees, whether you pursue a masters or PhD, is the ability of graduate student to focus on a field and subject in which they are very interested. Plus, while a graduate degree may jumpstart your career, it is not perceived as mandatory as an undergraduate degree may be.

  4. PhD vs Master's Degree: What's the Difference?

    There are also differences between the structure of each program type. A master's degree program typically includes one to two years of classes with an internship or capstone project in the last year. A Ph.D. typically includes three to five years of classes, with two to three years of preparation for a dissertation.

  5. The Difference Between Masters and PhD Study

    The most obvious difference between a Masters and a PhD in terms of overarching course structure is length. Whereas a Masters is completed in 1-2 years, a PhD will usually take 3-4 years (if studied full-time) or 5-6 years (if studied part-time). 3-4 years may sound like a long time, but by the end of a PhD you'll not only researched, written ...

  6. Should I Pursue A Master's or A Ph.D.?

    How much time do you have to pursue a graduate degree? Master's degrees typically take two years to complete, while Ph.D. programs generally take five to seven years ( see Duke programs' time-to-degree ). That is a significant difference in commitment and opportunity costs. It might also play a key role in deciding which factors take higher ...

  7. Master's vs. Ph.D.: What's the Difference and Which One to Choose

    Ph.D.'s take a considerably longer time to complete than a master's, five to eight years on average, and they carry a rather high rate of noncompletion due to time and financial commitments. Many Ph.D. programs have stipends available, so it's important to inquire about that when researching a particular program.

  8. Master's vs PhD

    2. PhD: After earning a master's degree, the next step is a PhD, which entails both working and performing research at an institution. A PhD is an abbreviation for "Doctor of Philosophy.". It is the highest academic degree one can achieve. As such, it is a time-consuming pursuit that requires a lot of studying and research.

  9. Masters Vs PhD: The Difference Between Masters & PhD/Doctorates

    For most students, a bachelor's degree is the 'first' degree, a Masters is the 'second' degree, and a Doctorate degree, such as the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), is a 'terminal degree'. But that doesn't mean it's the same path for everyone or for all subjects. For instance, some nursing schools offer nursing bridge programs, which allow ...

  10. Master's vs. PhD: What's the Difference?

    A Master's takes less time, but it's not comprehensive and may not yield as high a salary as a PhD. Alternatively, a PhD takes two to three times as long to complete, but it could help you advance your career even further, command a higher salary, and become a recognized expert in your field. So, while it's a great idea to pursue higher ...

  11. The Difference Between a Masters and a Doctorate

    Both graduate degrees offer a narrower educational focus than the undergraduate experience. The higher the degree, the longer it takes to earn and the more specialized is its focus. We're taking a closer look at the master's and doctorate degrees to highlight differences and help you determine which might be most useful to you.

  12. Master's and Doctoral Degrees: What's the Difference?

    In some cases, a master's degree may hold advantages over a doctoral degree. For example, a master's degree in social work (MSW) may be more cost-effective than a doctoral degree, given the time and funds required to earn the degree and the pay differential. The admission offices at the schools you're applying to can often help you determine ...

  13. What Is the Difference Between a Master's Degree and a Ph.D.?

    Another significant difference between a master's degree and a Ph.D. program is the length of time they take to complete. Master's programs are much shorter and will typically take two years to complete. Some universities even offer accelerated programs that allow you to complete your master's degree within a single year.

  14. PhD vs Master's Degree: What's the Difference?

    The most basic difference between a master's degree and a PhD is the amount of time it takes to complete your degree program. A master's degree can be completed in two years if you are attending school full-time, while a PhD can last anywhere between five and nine years. The time commitment directly correlates to the amount of work you will ...

  15. Master's or PhD: Which One Should You Choose?

    3 key differences between programs. Before you can properly weigh the pros and cons of a master's degree vs. a doctoral program, you must understand the major differences between the two programs. And although that may sound like pros and cons in itself, a pros and cons list is based mainly on your personal preference.

  16. Master's vs PhD/Doctorate Degrees

    Master's vs PhD. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, earnings increase from the bachelor's level to the master's level by approximately 18%, while unemployment rates go down, from 3.5% (bachelor's) to 2.6% (master's) A PhD can increase your salary by approximately 21% compared to master's degree holders, according to ...

  17. Masters vs PhD

    When considering an advanced degree, it's essential to contemplate the significant differences between a Master's degree and a PhD. A Master's program typically offers a structured path, often leading to a thesis-driven Master's degree, which may be the best fit for students seeking to enhance their skills in a specialized area without ...

  18. Master's vs Doctorate: Which Degree is Right for You?

    A master's degree is designed to deepen career-oriented knowledge and skills. A doctorate degree is a heavily research-based degree, designed to develop critical research,analytical and writing skills in an effort to fill industry knowledge gaps. Because of these different goals, the makeup of the coursework and content is also distinct.

  19. PhD vs master's degrees (Differences between them)

    A master's degree is more career-focused than a PhD. While most people who are completing a PhD do so to enhance their career prospects, master's degrees are generally regarded as being more career-focused out of the two degrees. This is because PhDs focus more on the subject of study and expand knowledge and research in the field.

  20. Difference Between Master's Degree and PhD: Everything You ...

    The first is to keep your undergraduate degree and get work experience right after graduation. The second option is to get a master's degree to specialize in a particular subject. The third is a doctoral degree, where you can deepen your area of expertise by making your own contributions to research. In any of these options, you will need an ...

  21. Phd Vs. Master's: Which Degree Is Right For Me?

    To receive a Ph.D., the student must commit to approximately three to seven more years of education. One difference between a master's degree and a Ph.D. degree at UC Merced is that 97% of all Ph.D. students are fully funded.

  22. Masters vs PhD: Difference and Comparison

    A Master's degree focuses on acquiring advanced knowledge in a specific field, while a PhD emphasizes original research and the creation of new knowledge. Masters programs generally take 1-2 years to complete, whereas PhD programs can take 4-6 years or more. A Master's degree is often a prerequisite for pursuing a PhD, but the latter leads ...

  23. Quick Guide: Your College Degree Options

    A graduate degree or master's degree is an advanced degree that some students pursue after earning a bachelor's degree. Earning a graduate degree signifies mastery of a particular field of study and focuses more intensely on a subject than a bachelor's degree does. Graduate degrees usually take two years to attain. Read more

  24. MS vs PhD: Which Psychology Degree Should You Get?

    The MS (Master of Science) in Psychology and the PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) in Psychology are degrees for people interested in advanced study in the discipline. Students obtain a greater understanding of human behavior and how to help others. Degree earners are often interested in careers as therapists, licensed psychologists, researchers, or ...

  25. What is a Master's Thesis: A Guide for Students

    The PhD dissertation is presented to earn the PhD degree. Another major difference between the two is the length. While a master's thesis may be between 50 and 100 pages, the Ph.D. dissertation is more detailed, in-depth, and comprehensive, with a length of up to 400 pages.

  26. Should I Get a Master's Degree? 6 In-Demand Jobs That ...

    How to get the job: To become an epidemiologist, you'll need a bachelor's degree in a field like biology, public health, or social science and a master's degree or PhD in epidemiology. As an alternative, some epidemiologists get a master's in public health with an emphasis on epidemiology. 3. Marriage and family therapist

  27. Where Can You Earn A Ph.D. In Early Childhood Education Online ...

    A doctorate is the highest degree in early childhood education. Earning a Ph.D. in early childhood education can lead to opportunities as a college professor, an education researcher or a ...

  28. Uncovering the Difference Between Whey Protein and Whey Isolate ...

    PhD in Nutrition · 11 years of experience · Brazil Both are obtained from milk, and the main difference will be in the concentration of proteins in the same portion. Whey isolate will have more ...