I have been speaking to supervisors and discussing potential research areas over the last 2 years since I started my undergrad degree (I like to plan ahead). The feedback I have had is very encouraging, funding is never certain but should be fine, and I should get a first but there is an outside chance I will totally bodge the last bit and get a 2:1 but it is unlikely :)
It is pretty much down now to a straight choice of time vs name/facilities rather than funding, potential supervisors, area of research or any of the usual parts alot of people dont think about until their final year ;-)

Should have preempted that one :) Yes they both do the areas I'm interested in, often in out of the box ideas which I'm really keen on. That's not to say they are the only two, but Cambridge in particular is doing some great work in my line of interest not to mention the facilities they have available to them. If I was 21 I would do the masters and apply no question purely on the areas research they do, but its more of a question now of which is of greater benefit, a Oxbridge degree or a qualifying a year sooner.

Hi all,

I am in the process of deciding what to do when I complete my degree and was after some advice. I should come out with a first or 2:1 and am looking to do a PhD as I want to go into research / lecturing etc. However I'm undecided whether to go straight into a PhD or do a 1 year masters then apply to Oxford or Cambridge.
I am a mature student (27) so time is obviously not my friend, but in your opinion is an Oxbridge PhD worth an extra years study?
I am studying astrophysics which is obviously quite a competitive field to get into which makes me wonder if it may be worth it to get the edge when applying for positions.

Thanks in advance,

Theinvoker