I'm in a ridiculous dilemma at the moment. I've been offered a fantastic PhD at Glasgow Uni but my heart has always been set on the MSc in Rehab.Science at Caledonian Uni. The interview for the MSc went well, however I wont find out if i've been accepted for another couple weeks meanwhile my PhD supervisor needs a definite answer by Monday 27th. I know this is an incredible opportunity for me but I just don't know if I'll get a better job at the end of a PhD compared to an MSc???

I'd go for the PhD... Why? But I'm in sociology, and things work different for us. Normally you're not really considered a sociologist before you have the PhD, so if I could skip the master's, I'd definately do it...

Lucky you! I would go for the PhD too but it depends on how eager you are to get out to in the real world. If you have a specific career in mind have a look at the job adverts and see if a PhD would make a big difference. Good luck

I'd go for the PhD as well - after all, there's nothing stopping you from doing the MSc at a later date. Lots of people do a Masters later on for professional reasons as it's quite easy to do them part-time. You could always ask your supervisor if you can defer for a year but if it's a really fantastic then I'd go for that – the MSc will be there anytime, but the PhD project may well be a one-off. Difficult decision but I'm sure you'll make the right one!

Go for the PhD!

The ideal PhD doesn't come up very often..grab it while you can!!

Depends what you want to do as a career. If the masters moves you in the direction you want (esp if it involves a technical/professional/vocational training element) it might be your best option. Only do a PhD if you actually want to spend three years doing research - it wont necessarily get you a better job, just a different job. And you can do a PhD later on.

This is a toughie! It all depends on what you want to do - what do you define as a better job? Better job prospects (eg. A PhD is essential to get ahead in research/academia esp. in Sciences) or better pay (in industry you don't need PhD.) A friend said that people he knew that did Masters had no problems finding jobs in industry whereas people with PhDs had a harder time finding jobs in industry. Partly becasue they think you're overqualified! But you will apparently get promoted to management level faster.

I would also suggest thinking about the PhD project ... how interested are you in it? As there is no point in doing it if you're not committed? Can you do it for 3 yrs? If the answer is yes - go for it as the opportunity to do it maynot come again especially if it's really that fantastic! Is it funded? If yes go for it! Good luck with decision! : )

Go for PhD! and good luck to u for ur future