Pigeon said:I have the choice between doing a PhD in a topic which is very similar to my masters or starting on something slightly different, I find the topic very interesting at the moment but after doing something for one year already do you think it is a bad idea to do the same thing for another 3/4 years? Does anyone have experience or advice for this?
Thank you
There are several benefits to pursuing a PhD in the same topic as your masters. Firstly, you will already have a strong foundation and knowledge base in the subject area, which can make it easier to conduct research and contribute new insights. Additionally, you will have access to resources and connections that you established during your masters, such as mentors and colleagues, which can support and enhance your research. Finally, pursuing a PhD in the same topic can demonstrate your commitment and passion for the subject, which can be attractive to potential employers or academic positions.
While it is possible to continue your research from your masters in your PhD, it is important to note that a PhD requires original research and contributions to the field. Therefore, you may need to adapt or expand your research to make it novel and relevant to the current literature. However, your previous research can serve as a strong foundation and starting point for your PhD research.
No, it is not necessary to have a masters in the same topic to pursue a PhD. Many universities offer direct entry PhD programs for students who have completed their undergraduate degrees. However, having a masters in the same topic can demonstrate your expertise and commitment in the subject, which may be beneficial for your PhD application.
The length of a PhD program can vary depending on the specific university and program, as well as the individual student's progress. However, on average, it takes 4-6 years to complete a PhD in the same topic as masters. This includes coursework, research, and dissertation writing.
One potential challenge of pursuing a PhD in the same topic as masters is avoiding redundancy in your research. It is important to ensure that your PhD research is original and contributes to the current literature, rather than replicating your previous masters research. Additionally, the transition from masters to PhD can be challenging as the expectations and workload may be significantly higher. Time management and self-motivation are crucial for success in a PhD program. Finally, the financial cost of pursuing a PhD can also be a challenge, as many programs do not offer full funding or stipends for students.