I am currently a PhD student. I have previously tried doing Masters programmes but realized in the middle of those programmes that they were not for me and dropped out. I thought research is my type of thing and so I applied for PhD programmes in different schools until I was offered a place.I have soon started the programme and things are going on well except the rather-daunting challenge of managing my relationship with my supervisor (something that has been extensively discussed on this forum).
The problem is that I am doing my PhD in a relatively different field (different from what I have previously done in my undergraduate studies....and that was 10 years ago ,)). I have since been contemplating deferring the PhD, and taking up a Masters in this area before continuing with the PhD. My question therefore is, is there any point or benefits in doing that ? The skills and knowledge from the previous "uncompleted" programmes appear untransferrable to this programme (that is, if at all there are any).
Any guidance or experience shared in this respect will greatly help me in making a decision on whether or not to apply for a Masters programme.

Regards

Hi,

I didn't do a Master's before applying for a PhD. I think initially I struggled in terms of writing, as I had a few year's gap between BSc and PhD so in terms of writing appropriately for the level I had quite a lot of catching up to do.

I don't think you need a Master's to do a PhD. You need to do lots of reading to find out as much as you can about your area. Also it might be worth seeing if your uni does any Master's modules that ARE related to your subject area/skills for PhD and ask if you can attend.

Thanks Lindalou83 for the response. You have been very helpful. Your observations have helped clear the air for me and I now know I can do it.

Thank you.