Hello

I am nearing the end of my MSc. Mechanical Engineering and thinking about doing a engD with a company.

What would people recommend? What is best for my career path in terms of pay scale?
I heard people with an engD can expect around £40 starting salary, but how does this compare to your salary after 4 years in the industry and a grad scheme?

Thank You

Can anyone give stevemilw any advice?

Hi stevemilw,

I can only talk about my personal experience of just submitting a PhD in a related field.
I wouldn't say it was a good financial move, as for the first three years I have been receiving very little money, while in the fourth funding was over, and I had to fetch for myself. I had to get by on very little money from occasional part-time jobs. My EngD colleagues receive more money than the PhD candidates, and their funding extends for four years. However, as they need to work in their sponsors and complete an MReS during the EngD period, their chances of completing within the four years are small.

As far as employment goes, I know that there are plenty of people with a PhD or EngD looking for work. Two potential employers that interviewed me were mildly dissatisfied when I told them that I want the equivalent of a post-doc salary (£35k), and they opted to hire grad students instead.

The master and the PhD (and some lost time in between) took me six years. I do believe that if I had invested this time and effort in the industry, it would have been far more rewarding in financial terms. This is not to say that I wouldn't do the PhD again, I would, but for different reasons.

Thanks, this does help me.
I have done a MSc, so i think mine would still be 4 years.
I have decided to just get a job, although it would be nice to be a doctor, i feel like i need to move on with my life.
I get the feeling many employers know that anyone with an engD or Phd isnt necessarily smarter than the average graduate, they've just put more work into a specific area. If an employer doesnt value your phd/engD research in that field than your no better off than a masters student.
What salary did you get in the end if you dont mind me asking?
Is it as nice to be a Dr as you'd hoped? I sort of feel like i want to do it just so I can say i've reached the pinacle. Do many people get the ability to do when later in their careers, perhaps with their company?

I completed an EngD a couple of years ago. As already pointed out you are funded more and for the full 4 years. I completed my EngD early and have found everything I have learnt on the EngD to be incredibly useful in industry. I became chartered straight after completing the EngD which was a nice bonus after becoming Dr.! I would recommend anyone wanting to focus on industry research to pursue the EngD and those that wish to stay in academia to go for a PhD. The salaries for graduate EngDs are good and you will get over £40k.

It is nice to be addressed as Dr. but you do move onto the next challenge, or perhaps that's just me! I think it really accelerates your career and has opened a lot of doors for me that others do not have. I also get called frequently with job offers so you can really pick and choose your work.