I've just graduated with a first in biomed science. i really want to do a phd, preferably in malaria, but i am confused as to whether an msc is preferred by phd offering institutes, or whether it is more economic and time efficient to go straight into a phd. i have had one year's lab experience in placement. i've heard arguements from both sides, what is the consensus of opinion??!

Well im in the same situation but had decided I wanted to do a PhD but as it is so late on now I cannot find one!

Go straight for a PhD, go for an MSc if you're unsuccessful. The only problem you have now is that there isn't much time to secure a place this academic year. However lots of supervisors are still looking for students. Keep an eye on the 'new projects' section of this site.

I would say it depends on how motivated you are. If you're ready and raring for a PhD - go for it. I completed my MMath last year but decided I wasn't ready at that point for a PhD so did a MSc. But now, i'm ready and off to start mine in September. But I certainly wouldn't recommend hanging around if you have already made up your mind.

thanks, i had planned to take this year out anyway

I was in the same boat. A masters was just too expensive so I'm working at my former university for 1 year and then doing a PhD at another university.

An MSc graduate generally looks better in a PhD competition, but it means doing another year of unpaid university with no student loan so you have to get a loan that's much more expensive to pay back.

If you already have a first and experience and want to do a PhD straight off, then go for it. I got a first too, but took a year out because I needed time out, and it was the best thing I ever did. Now ready and keen to start my PhD after all the travelling I did.