ms phd bs

MA, MBA, BS, MS, MSW, PhD, PsyD: What Does it All Mean?

The benefits of college degrees, be it associate, B.A., M.A. or Ph.D level, have been touted and restated many times. Despite rising costs, the investment continues to be valuable one for a wide variety of people. That said, back it up a little bit: just what do all those different degree acronyms mean? Beyond that, what differentiates, say, a B.B.A. from a BSN?

To help answer those questions we put together the following list of definitions for what each degree acronym stands for as well as explanations of the meanings behind all the different terminology.

Associate Degrees

An associate degree is typically completed in two years of full-time study, but may take longer for part-time students. These undergraduate programs can be found at community colleges, vocational schools, technical colleges, and some universities. In general, associate degrees fall into three different categories: Associate of Arts (A.A.), Associate of Science (A.S.), or Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.).

Associate degrees are a great fit for career-oriented students who want to enter a technical or vocational trade that requires some post secondary education. Along with often being the quickest and cheapest route to a formal degree, an associate program can also be a stepping stone to a four-year degree. Many schools offer students the option to apply credits earned from an associate degree, which is generally 60 semester credits, towards a bachelor’s degree.

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A.A. Associate of Arts

The associate of arts is a basic-level undergraduate degree granted upon completion of a two-year program, usually at community or junior college, technical college or trade school. As such, these are typically a jumping off point towards pursuing a full bachelor’s degree.

A.S. Associate of Science

Similar to the A.A., the associate of science degree is the culmination of a two-year academic program. The A.S. is usually awarded to junior college students enrolled in science or tech-related programs.

Associate Degree Related Content

• Associate Degree Overview
• Associate Degree Programs in Medical Assisting
• Associate Degree Programs in Medical Billing & Coding

Bachelor’s Degrees

A bachelor’s degree is the most popular post-secondary degree option, and typically seen as the standard for employment in most professional fields. In most cases, a bachelor’s program takes four years of full-time study to complete. However, some majors may take longer, or schools may offer accelerated programs allowing students to finish their degree in less time.

The two most common types of bachelor’s degrees are the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and the Bachelor of Science (B.S.). There are a number of other options, though, that coincide with more specific major fields, such as the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.). Generally, a bachelor’s degree consists of 120 semester credits, with half being made up of general education or liberal arts courses. The other half is typically filled with courses geared toward a student’s particular major.

B.A. Bachelor of Arts

The usual degree path for majors in liberal arts, humanities or social sciences such as English, creative writing, fine arts or political science. A B.A. is typically awarded upon completion of a four-year undergraduate program at a traditional school or university.

B.S. Bachelor of Science

The bachelor’s typically awarded to undergraduates in science and technical fields.

B.F.A. Bachelor of Fine Arts

Awarded to majors like art history, theater, film studies and photography.

B.B.A. Bachelor of Business Administration

A business-oriented bachelor’s path, typically associated with management, accounting, marketing, etc.

B.Arch Bachelor of Architecture

A bachelor’s degree geared towards the architecture field.

BSN Bachelor of Science in Nursing

A degree path oriented towards the technical and hands-on training necessary to obtain a nursing license.

B.E. Bachelor of Engineering

Concentrates on engineering fields like electrical engineering, mechanical engineering and computer engineering.

Bachelor’s Degree Related Content

• Bachelor’s Degree Overview
• Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Criminal Justice
• Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Education
• Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Nursing

Master’s Degrees

Master’s degrees are graduate-level programs that typically take two years of additional full-time study after completion of a bachelor’s degree. Because most graduate students are already working professionals, many colleges and universities offer part-time or flexible master’s degree programs. These allow students to maintain their career while completing the degree at their own pace, but generally take longer than two years of study.

In order to apply for a master’s program, students usually must already possess a bachelor’s degree. Most students choose to pursue a master’s degree in order to advance in their chosen profession or enter a field that requires a high level of education. Many programs fall into one of two categories: Master of Arts (M.A.) or Master of Science (M.S.). The Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) is another popular option.

M.A. Master of Arts

The basic graduate-level degree granted to grad students in fields in the humanities, social sciences or fine arts.

M.B.A. Master of Business Administration

The Master of Business Administration is the master-level degree granted upon completion of a business administration or management-oriented program. In contrast to an M.A., M.B.A. programs are typically oriented around subjects more narrowly tailored towards business operations like accounting, marketing and analysis.

M.S. Master of Science

Typically awarded to graduate students in scientific or technical fields.

M.S.W. Master of Social Work

Similar to the M.B.A., the Master of Social Work is narrowly defined master’s degree focused on social work. M.S.W. programs may adhere to either a clinical track or practice track. The clinical track is oriented towards working with patients, while the practice track focuses on politics and policy as well as management.

Master’s Degree Related Content

• Master’s Degree Overview
• Master’s Degree Programs in Business (MBA)
• Master’s Degree Programs in Education
• Master’s Degree Programs in Health Care

Doctoral Degrees

A doctorate is the highest level of academic degree awarded by universities, and can take anywhere from three to eight years (or more) to complete. Some doctoral programs require students to already have a master’s before enrolling, while others can be started directly after completion of undergraduate study.

There are many different types of doctoral degrees, but the most common is the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.). Depending on the specific degree awarded, earning a doctorate can qualify graduates to teach at the university level, or work in a position that requires extensive training and education. Psychologists and medical doctors are two examples of professionals who must hold doctoral degrees in order to become licensed to practice in their field.

Ph.D Doctor of Philosophy

Despite what the name might suggest, this isn’t a degree for philosophers exclusively. A Ph.D is the doctorate-level degree granted in a variety of different disciplines. These are typically research-intensive programs pursued by those who’ve already acquired bachelor’s and master-level credentials in their field of study.

Psy.D. Doctor of Psychology

The Psy.D.is similar to a standard doctorate degree, but granted specifically for students pursuing psychology practice.

Doctoral Degree Related Content

• Doctoral Degree Overview
• Doctoral Degree in Psychology & Social Sciences

What do these letters stand for?

There are two parts; one can classify the educational level of the degree: “B” stands for bachelor’s degree; “M” stands for master’s degree; and “D” stands for doctoral degree. The second part denotes the discipline of the degree, like “S” for science, “A” for arts, or “Ph” for Philosophy.

What are the distinctions between arts and science degrees?

Depending on the school you attend and the kind of courses you take, you could earn an arts degree or a science degree. Typically, an “arts” degree means that you focused on a wide area of learning and discussion, while a “science” degree implies a deep, technical understanding of your subject.

What kinds of designations exist for doctoral students?

The highest degree you can earn in most liberal arts disciplines is a PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy. However, clinical and counseling psychologists earn a PsyD, Doctor of Psychology nomenclature; medical students earn M.D. degrees and law students can earn J.D. (Juris Doctor) degrees.

What about some of the other specialized degrees?

Distinctive nomenclature are named after applied disciplines, include Master of Social Work (MSW), Doctor of Social Work (DSW), Master of Education degree (MaEd), Master of Business Administration (MBA), or Doctor of Business Administration (DBA).

Now that you know some of the benefits of online learning, find a program that’s right for you. Browse our school listings below to get matched to an online school.

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College of education, health, and human sciences, differences between b.s., m.s., & ph.d. degrees in education.

It's commonly known that individuals who possess advanced degrees have more career opportunities and typically retain a higher salary throughout their lives. But how does that break down for those who pursue varying degrees in education?

4-Year Education Degrees

For anyone pursuing a career in education, a bachelor's degree is a necessity to have a meaningful career in education. Most schools will only hire teaching candidates who have at least a 4-year bachelor's degree in Education or a related field, and all public schools in Florida require teachers to hold a Florida Educator's Certificate (which require a minimum of a bachelor's degree).

Career Opportunities for 4-year Degree , .

• Middle and High School Teacher
• Elementary School Teacher
• Textbook Rep
• Adult Literacy or GED Teacher

Major Benefits

Master's Degrees in Education

Master's degrees in Education allow people to further and deepen their knowledge of education and policies, and specialize in a field of their choice. Getting a master's degree is typically a two-year process, requiring around 33 additional credit hours to complete. Many schools, including the FSU College of Education, offer a range of master's degrees, many in an online format .

Career Opportunities for a Master's in Education

• School Principal
• College Professor
• Educational Consultant
• Education Analyst
• Curriculum Specialist

Ph.D.s and Ed.D.s in Education

For those looking to dedicate their career to research, high-level teaching, and policy directorships, Ph.D.s and Ed.D.s are available. Beyond what you'll learn as a master's candidate, doctoral students in education research policy and techniques to find ways to have a larger impact on the education industry as a whole.

Career Opportunities for Ph.D.s and Ed.D.s in Education

• College or University Professor
• Lead Researcher
• Educational Policy Director at the Local, State, and Federal Level

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【學位縮寫】BA、BBA、BS、MA、MS、MBA、PHD 意思是什麼？

哈囉！我是英文庫的Tanya～ 之前有跟大家聊過 科系英文 、 碩士/博士/大學學位英文 ，這次則是要來告訴大家授予畢業證書時，學位縮寫 BA、BBA、BS、MA、MS、MBA、PHD  的中文意思是什麼。

通常你讀完4年制的大學，獲得的學士學位會稱作 Bachelor degree ，而得到碩士學位會稱為 Master degree ，依照每個科系所屬院的不同，會給予不同的學位。如果看到學位的第一個字縮寫是 B ，就會知道是拿到大學學位，如果是 M 開頭，就會是碩士學位。

先來看看 BA、BBA、BS、MA、MS、MBA、PHD 學位縮寫的中英對照 👇

如果你只是要講學士學位，不分系的話，可以統稱為 undergraduate degree ，碩士、博士學位則為 graduate degree 。舉例來說， BA、BBA、BS 這三個都屬於 undergraduate degree ， MA、MBA、MS、PhD 這四個則是屬於 graduate degree 。

BA 為 Bachelor of Arts 的縮寫，中文指的是文學士，不僅有語文相關會拿到這個學位，語言學、歷史學、文化研究、傳播等，都同樣是拿這個學位喔～如果將 Bachelor of Arts 的 Bachelor 換成 Master ，就會變成 Master of Arts ，縮寫為 MA ，就會變成文學碩士。

BBA、MBA 中文意思

BBA 為 Bachelor of Business Administration 的縮寫，中文指的是商業管理學士，與管理相關的科系，像是企管系、會計系、應用經濟、國企系等，但有時根據課程、主修內容的不同，經濟系或財金有時也會歸到 BS 裡。

跟上述的一樣，將 BBA 裡的 Bachelor 換成 Master 就會變成 Master of Business Administration （ MBA ）指的就是商業管理碩士。

BS 為 Bachelor of Science 的縮寫，中文指的是理學士，像是數學系、化學系，與數學計算、統計、理工、科學相關的系所，通常都會歸 BS 裡。 Master of Science 為理學碩士，縮寫成 MS 。

PhD  的全文為  Doctor of Philosophy ，但並非單指「哲學博士」，而是泛指所有的博士，所以不論你讀哪個科系，最後出來的學位通常都是會標上  PhD 。與博士相關的英文單字通常也會用到 PhD ，像是博士學生就會稱為 PhD student， 已經完成博士課程，但還未交出論文的人，稱作  PhD candidate ，意思為博士候選人。

獲得碩士、大學學位英文例句

如果你想要講自己獲得某個學士學位、碩士學位，那麼你也可以套用下面的句型，用在英文履歷或是英文自我介紹時都可以！

• I earned / got / completed + 學位 + in + 主修科目
• I graduated with + 學位 + from + 學校

I earned / got / completed my MBA  in marketing. 我完成行銷專業的商業管理碩士學位。 I graduated with an MS  from NTU. 我畢業於台大理學碩士學位。

That’s All for Today!

看完這篇文章後，下次也可以看看自己的畢業證書上，領到的學位是什麼～ 也祝福大家都能在求學的路途上順利畢業！ 下次如果有其他的英文問題，記得要再回來英文庫喔～

💛 想知道大學科系、院所的英文說法？可以參考 如何用英文描述自己科系？（含科系中英對照表！） 💛 想知道大學學位、碩士、博士說法，可以參考 【各種學位的英文】碩士/博士/學士的英文? 來搞懂！

MA, MBA, BS, MS, MSW, PhD – What Does It Stand For?

There are lots of benefits of obtaining a degree, be it associate, B.A., M.A. or Ph.D.

Of course, obtaining a degree can be quite expensive but still, there are lots of people who consider it a good investment.

Nevertheless, making a decision about a degree, you want or need to obtain, you need to understand what all these acronyms mean.

Also, what is the difference between, for example, a B.B.A. and a BSN?

If you want to learn about all these aspects, keep reading the article.

In this article, you can find information about all the available degrees and their specifics.

Article Table of Contents

• 1.1 A.A. Associate of Arts
• 1.2 A.S. Associate of Science
• 2.1 B.A. Bachelor of Arts
• 2.2 B.S. Bachelor of Science
• 2.3 B.F.A. Bachelor of Fine Arts
• 2.4 B.B.A. Bachelor of Business Administration
• 2.5 B.Arch Bachelor of Architecture
• 2.6 BSN Bachelor of Science in Nursing
• 2.7 B.E. Bachelor of Engineering
• 3.1 M.A. Master of Arts
• 3.2 M.B.A. Master of Business Administration
• 3.3 M.S. Master of Science
• 3.4 M.S.W. Master of Social Work
• 4.1 Ph.D. Doctor of Philosophy
• 4.2 Psy.D. Doctor of Psychology
• 5.1 What Do Those Letters Stand For?
• 5.2 What Is the Difference Between Arts and Science Degrees?
• 5.3 What Designations Exist for Doctoral Students?
• 5.4 What Other Specialized Degrees Exist?

Associate Degrees

Full-time students can obtain an associate degree in two years but part-time students may need more time to complete their training.

It is an undergraduate degree and it can be obtained at vocational schools, community, and technical colleges as well as some universities.

There are 3 main categories of an associate degree:

• A.A. – Associate of Arts
• A.S – Associate of Science
• A.A.S – Associate of Applied Science

If you are interested in technical or vocational career options, an associate degree is a perfect option for you.

You just need to get some post-secondary education to enroll in one of these careers.

It is a formal degree that can be obtained in the shortest period of time and with minimal expenses.

Also, it is a perfect stepping stone for those who plan to get a four-year degree in the future.

After completing such training program, you can transfer your credits towards a bachelor’s degree.

“Graduates with an associate degree had median annual salary of $50,230, compared with $36,210 for high school graduates. They also had a better unemployment rate.”  *Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2015

A.A. Associate of Arts

The associate of arts – it is an entry-level undergraduate degree that can be obtained after completion of two years of training.

It can be obtained at junior or community college, trade school or technical school.

Most students apply for it to make it easier to get a bachelor’s degree in the future.

A.S. Associate of Science

A.S. Associate of Science is similar to A.A and it can be obtained just after two years of full-time training.

To obtain this degree, you need to complete a program related to science or technology.

Read more:  Associate Vs. Traditional Education: Differences & Similarities

Bachelor’s Degrees

Most students tend to apply for a bachelor’s degree.

In other words, it is one of the most popular degree options when it comes to post-secondary education.

Also, it is a minimal training requirement for a whole variety of career options.

To obtain this degree, in most cases, you need to complete a four-year training program on a full-time basis.

Nevertheless, in some cases, you may need more time to obtain this degree or you can apply for an accelerated course and obtain your degree faster.

There are two main types of degree – Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and the Bachelor of Science (B.S.).

Also, there are some other variants usually related to some more specific areas such as Science in Nursing.

Typical Bachelor’s degree course contains 120-semester credits and half of them is general and liberal art disciplines.

The other half – it is subjects related to your majors.

“Bachelor’s degree holders had median annual wages of $70,400 in 2015 — nearly twice the median wages for all occupations and nearly $20,000 more per year than graduates with an associate degree.” *Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2015

B.A. Bachelor of Arts

Bachelor of Arts is a perfect option for those who want to pursue a career in such fields as liberal arts, humanities or social sciences such as English, creative writing, fine arts or political science.

To obtain it, you need to complete a 4-year program provided by a traditional school or university.

B.S. Bachelor of Science

Bachelor of Science is a perfect choice for students interested in science and technical areas.

B.F.A. Bachelor of Fine Arts

If you are interested in art history, theater, photography, and film studies, Bachelor of Fine Arts is exactly what you need.

B.B.A. Bachelor of Business Administration

Bachelor of Business Administration is a perfect degree option for anyone who wants to work in such spheres as management, accounting, marketing, etc.

B.Arch Bachelor of Architecture

Anyone, interested in architecture career, should apply for Bachelor of Architecture.

BSN Bachelor of Science in Nursing

This technical and hands-on training oriented degree is an ideal option for those who want to obtain a nursing license.

B.E. Bachelor of Engineering

Those who are interested in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and computer engineering, should apply for a Bachelor of Engineering degree.

Master’s Degrees

Master’s degree – it is a graduate-level training course.

You need about two years of full-time studies to complete it.

You can apply for this program only after obtaining a bachelor’s degree.

According to the data, most graduate students have a full-time job so colleges and universities tend to offer flexible schedules for them.

In such a case, you need more than 2 years to complete your training but it will allow you balancing between your work and studies.

As we’ve already mentioned, you need to have a bachelor’s degree to be able to apply for a master’s degree.

It is a great opportunity to advance your career options or enter a career field that requires a higher level of education.

There are three the most popular master’s degree options:

• M.A. – Master of Arts
• M.S. – Master of Science
• M.B.A. –  Master of Business Administration

“The BLS predicts 13.8% growth in employment for master’s degree holders between 2014 and 2024 — the highest of any level of education.” *Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2015

M.A. Master of Arts

This graduate-level degree is the best option for students interested in the humanities, social sciences or fine arts.

M.B.A. Master of Business Administration

You can obtain the Master of Business Administration after completing business administration or management-oriented training program.

Training programs offered for this degree usually oriented around subjects that are closely related to business disciplines such as marketing, accounting, and analysis.

M.S. Master of Science

If you are interested in science and technologies, the Master of Science is a perfect option for you.

M.S.W. Master of Social Work

The Master of Social Work is similar to M.B.A.  as it is closely related to social work and most programs are based on related subjects.

Usually, these programs comply with a clinical track or practice track.

The first one is related to work with patients while the second one – to policy, politics, and management.

Doctoral Degrees

A Doctoral degree is the highest academic degree and it can be obtained only in a university.

To complete your training, you need from 3 to 8 years and sometimes even more, depending on the field you are interested in.

Some doctoral degree programs are available only to those who have a bachelor’s degree while others can be obtained after completing an undergraduate program.

There is a variety of Doctoral degree options but the most popular is the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.).

After completing this degree program, you can work as a teacher in a university or apply for some careers that require extensive training.

For example, psychologists and medical doctors need a doctoral degree if they want to be licensed.

“Workers with a doctoral degree had both the highest median annual salaries — more than $100,000 — and the lowest unemployment of any level of educational attainment.” *Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2015

Ph.D. Doctor of Philosophy

To begin with, Doctor of Philosophy is a degree that is not only for philosophers.

It is related to a whole variety of disciplines.

Usually, it is programs that are oriented on some intensive researches.

You can apply for it if you already have a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree.

Psy.D. Doctor of Psychology

This doctoral degree is quite similar to the standard doctorate.

However, it is a good choice only for those who are interested in psychology.

What Do Those Letters Stand For?

These letters can be divided into two parts.

The first letter indicates the level of the degree:

• B – bachelor’s degree;
• M – master’s degree;
• D – doctoral degree.

The second part of the abbreviation stands for the field of training:

• S -science;
• Ph – philosophy and so on.

What Is the Difference Between Arts and Science Degrees?

As we’ve said before, there are two main types of degree fields – art and science.

Usually, art degrees cover a wide range of disciplines and issues.

At the same time, being a “science” student means you need to have some deep, technical understanding of your field of interest.

What Designations Exist for Doctoral Students?

When it comes to liberal art disciplines, Ph.D. or Doctor of Philosophy is the highest degree you can obtain.

At the same time, those interested in clinical and counseling psychology can obtain PsyD, Doctor of Psychology degree.

Medical students can apply for an M.D. degree and law students – for J.D. (Juris Doctor) degree.

What Other Specialized Degrees Exist?

Among other degrees, there are Master of Social Work (MSW), Doctor of Social Work (DSW), Master of Education degree (MaEd), Master of Business Administration (MBA), or Doctor of Business Administration (DBA).

After learning about all the available degree options and their specifications, you can make the right choice.

Just make sure to check various school to find the program that suits your needs most of all.

Noteworthy Resources

• Bachelor’s Degree: What Is It?
• List of College Degrees: What Each of Them Mean
• Associate Vs. Traditional Education: Differences & Similarities
• 10 Best Majors for Undecided Students
• 15 Best Jobs for Psychology Majors

BA, BSc, MA, MSc, PhD - what do they all mean?

BA, BSc, MA, MSc, PhD (and more) are abbreviations of British degrees.

They reflect the specific level and discipline of a qualification achieved at university.

While most courses are conducted on a full-time basis, there are options for part-time, distance learning and other flexible learning arrangements.

Here is a breakdown of some of the most common qualifications and ones that Aberystwyth University offers.

• BA = Bachelor of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences;
• BSc = Bachelor of Sciences;
• BENG = Bachelor of Engineering (Software, Robotics and Physics);
• LLB = Bachelor of Law.

Achieved after 3 to 4 years of study. The extra year (for a 4 year course) can be from a year studying abroad or a year working in industry.

Integrated-Masters:

• MARTS = Masters of Arts;
• MBIOL = Masters of Biology;
• MCOMP = Masters of Computer Science;
• MENG = Masters of Engineering;
• MMATH = Masters of Mathematics;
• MPHYS = Masters of Physics;
• MSCI = Masters of Sciences and Humanities.

4 years course (3-year Bachelors, 1 year Masters) that enables you to secure a loan for the full duration rather than having to fund a Masters degree separately.

• MA = Masters of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences;
• MSc = Masters of Sciences;
• MBA = Masters of Business Administration;
• MPhil = Masters of Philosophy: Advanced research Masters degree;
• MRes = Masters of Research: Contains some taught and research elements;
• LLM = Masters of Law.

Achieved after graduation from Bachelors level, usually 1-2 years duration.

• PhD = Doctor of Philosophy: for a range of disciplines.

Achieved after graduating from Masters level, usually 3-8 years duration.

A wide range of Undergraduate, Postgraduate and Further-Research courses – across the Arts and Sciences – are available at Aberystwyth.

Materials Science & Engineering MS/PhD

The Department of Materials Science and Engineering offers three graduate degree programs: the Master of Engineering (MEng), 5th Year Bachelor of Science and Master of Science (BS/MS), and the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).

Master of Engineering (MEng)

In collaboration with other departments in the College of Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering is offering a professional masters degree. The accelerated program is designed to develop professional engineering leaders in materials science and engineering who are seeking knowledge and leadership experience in MSE.

Prospective students will be engineers, typically with industrial experience, who aspire to substantially advance in their careers and ultimately to lead large, complex organizations, both in the public and private sectors.

You may choose to apply to either the full-time one-year program or part-time program for working professionals. You will be asked to choose which option you will be considered for during the application process. Both options employ the same standards and criteria for admissions.

5th Year Bachelor of Science and Master of Science (BS/MS)

The Department of Materials Science and Engineering offers a five-year combined BS/MS program to our undergraduate student cohort. In this program, the existing four-year undergraduate program (BS) will be augmented with a fifth year of graduate study that provides a professionally-oriented component, preparing students for careers in engineering or engineering management within the business, government, and industrial sectors. This five-year program emphasizes interdisciplinary study through an independent project coupled to coursework.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Students pursuing the PhD may also declare a designated emphasis (DE) in one of the following programs: Communication, Computation, and Statistics; Computational and Genomic Biology; Computational Science and Engineering; Energy Science and Technology; or Nanoscale Science and Engineering.

Contact Info

[email protected]

Berkeley, CA 94720

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Department(s)

Materials Science & Engineering

Admit Term(s)

Application Deadline

December 2, 2024

Degree Type(s)

Masters / Professional

Degree Awarded

GRE Requirements

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What's the proper order for multiple educational degrees/certificates?

Assuming someone has a PhD, MD, CISSP, CPA, CFA, MS, etc. etc. What's the proper way to order them after their name and is the comma needed after the last name? (i.e. Jane Smith, PhD, MD, etc. or John Smith MD, PhD, etc.)

• personal-name
• certification

• Why the down vote? –  Michael Commented Apr 27, 2017 at 20:38
• Comma following depends on what comes next. –  GEdgar Commented Apr 27, 2017 at 20:41
• 12 "John Smith" or maybe "John Smith, badass" –  JeffE Commented May 28, 2017 at 1:48
• What context are you writing out their name? –  Malady Commented Oct 26, 2018 at 2:10

4 Answers 4

Questions over titling are almost always a matter of local convention and personal preference. You can read more than you wanted to know over at Wikipedia:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Post-nominal_letters

A few rules of thumb:

If you're naming someone in a friendly context then your biggest concern is usually etiquette rather than technical correctness. If someone insists on being called "Jane Doe, PhD, MD" rather than "Jane Doe, MD, PhD" then it would be incredibly rude to object to them. Most people would not care, but if in doubt you should ask.

If you're establishing the credibility of someone, such as in a piece of journalism, then you list only relevant degrees starting with the highest degree. Even if multiple degrees are relevant it's likely that one degree will be most relevant.

If you follow the cite note for US degrees in the Wikipedia link above, you'll eventually get to this page , in which a protocol expert says that this is the appropriate order, with ties within each category being broken alphabetically:

Don't list degrees that have been superseded by another degree. That is, don't say "John Doe, PhD, MS, BS" because the MS and BS degrees have been eclipsed by the PhD.

• That all said, "MD, PhD" is the typical order; and not all master's or bachelor's degrees are superseded by the next degree. I know a physician who goes with "MD, MS" although I have no idea what the MS is in. –  Azor Ahai -him- Commented May 21, 2019 at 17:05

This suggestion by David may be a reasonable one in many contexts, particularly where you want to give a succinct summary of the expertise of the person. However, there are some contexts where it is appropriate to list all the tertiary qualifications of a person, even if some are undergraduate degrees that are eclipsed by higher degrees in the same field. For example, some staff pages for academics list all the degrees held by those academics, even though the undergraduate degrees are usually eclipsed by a PhD. This is often useful because it allows the reader to see the educational progression of that person, how they started their tertiary education, and where it led.

• 2 The question seems to be specifically about listing titles immediately after a name, not about listing degrees on a CV or a webpage. –  David Ketcheson Commented May 21, 2019 at 15:41

I don't think there's a clear consensus on this (the best guide I can find on the subject is the AMA Manual of Style , though they suggest personal choice determines the primary order) but it's usually something like

Firstname Lastname, MD, PhD, ABC, XYZ

where ABC and XYZ may be professional affiliations or specialized degrees like MPH.

See also the Chicago Manual of Style , though they don't really specify one consistent order.

My understanding is that two degrees may be listed if they are in different disciplines, even though in one discipline a degree may be lower in status. e.g. PhD, MPH where the PhD is in psychology and the MPH is in public health.

How else would one establish credentials in both fields.

You must log in to answer this question.

Not the answer you're looking for browse other questions tagged education personal-name certification ..

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Bachelors vs Masters vs PhD – Explained in Pictures

Ever wondered what is the difference between Bachelors vs Masters vs PhD?

This the the Best damn good explanation of What is PhD and while explaining that, you will know the difference in Bachelors vs Masters vs PhD. I have I have come across.

Bachelors vs Masters vs PhD

With a bachelor’s degree, you gain a specialty:

A master’s degree deepens that specialty:

Reading research papers takes you to the edge of human knowledge:

Once you’re at the boundary, you focus:

You push at the boundary for a few years:

Until one day, the boundary gives way:

Of course, the world looks different to you now:

So, don’t forget the bigger picture:

Now you know “ What is PhD ” and understood the major difference between Bachelors vs Masters vs PhD.

Are you ready to push the boundaries of human knowledge?

You might be undecided about studying PhD. Maybe this article inspired you to push the knowledge boundary.

If not read the following 2 articles.

• 5 Years, 20 Countries and 25 Universities to get into PhD
• Internship at Large Hadron Collider, PhD and Researcher in US Army

Next, you have to understand timeline and steps to get a PhD degree .

Remember – You need passion and time commitment to do PhD. Don’t apply for PhD because you can earn more money.

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Im an engineering (CS) 4th year student. My plan has always been to go for master after completion of engineering as i wasn’t sure if id get placed or not as my btech aggregate is a low (68%). I gave my gre and i have scored 1340 (740+600+3.5) and expecting a toefl score of 100+….

40 Comments

Well put and easy to understand and above all challenging.

The teaching of linear thinking as we have seen for centuries focusing in on one item of interest while many topics of research are related. In order for a person to find solutions to problems understanding matrices of related subjects leads to many doors of possibilities to finding solutions instead of satisfying a theory. Great diagram. While you see a circle, we should be visualising a globe. Life is not flat! Thinking should not be shallow nor linear.

When one takes a phd one wants to laser focus that research topic.

I’m just a 12 year old ensuring my future by knowing all of these stuff before I need to know it

I m pursuing 2 yr MBBS and i want to know whether to focus on csir ugc net for doing PhD or ms or MD which one has a good payscale

hiii every one i completed my btech in 2011 with 59.09% for these completing i spend 6 years 5months to complete it … … After that i started Mtech with in 2 years i have completed and i have a 3. 4 years of experience as a developer ….. now i want to do job in USA what was salary i can get for this profile …….. OR i need to study MS

Do you have the talent with the Node.js and the Mongo DB? Is you have proven track record of doing needful? Do you have doctorate?

Very good example, made me think better of where I need to be.

This is brilliant! To its creators and the admins of this website…thank you! 🙂

remember, even PhD, its look like an acne from a knowledge face

Sorry. I would have to disagree. I only have my masters. But I have encountered so many doctorate individuals who know far less than me. Sorry to disappoint you and contradict your article.

I think the big differnce, is that with masters you’ll only know more and more about more topics but not further than the human knowledge at the time. A PHD will mark you as someone that introduced something new to human knowledge that didn’t exist before, and that doesn’t imply the person knowing more or less, but that they pushed those boundaries.

does buisness schools accept GRE scores?what if i give GRE and then apply in the universities?any possibility?

Yes! Business schools do accept GRE scores. Here is the current list of business schools accepting official GRE scores for MBA admissions. Have a look. http://www.ets.org/gre/revised_general/about/mba/programs

I always thought it was “BS” for “Bull Shit”, “MS” for “More Shit” and “PhD” for “Piled Higher and Deeper”. Ah well…learn something new every day….

hi…. i am presently doing m.tech in gitam university. b.tech-74.21 m.tech-9(cgpa) up to first year i am taking gre on october… i dont have publications is there any chance to get the phd admission or can i apply for ms program only… help me

im get ready to do for phd in abroad. so what is essential factors my btech 58% and mtech 72%

Accurate admission requirements are to be found on university websites, not on public forums such as these. If you can’t find it, contact the admissions department of the university you want to apply to. Masters degrees are not always a requirement for PhD programmes, but sometimes they are.

Essential factors for PhD admissions: Again, check the websites. Research skills, vision and motivation are really important. You’ll need a research proposal.

Hi Krishna!

It’s good to hear that you are interested to pursue Ph.D program. In vast majority of cases, prior academic publications are not required for Ph.D admissions in case if you are applying for Ph.D programs after completing of masters or bachelors degree program. Although after joining in Ph.D program, a student produces ‘n’ number of academic publications. So producing a publication prior to Ph.D admission is not so mandatory.

I am working as asst professor in engineering college of india.

hello, I am working as asst. professor chemical engineering, want to do PhD in chemical engineering field , how would i get admission in UK/USA universities and what is the chances to get admission there and how much investment I need ? Please give full information regarding it.

Full information is generally available on the websites of the specific universities. Admissions requirements, application processes and programme cost (I assume this is what you mean by “investment”) are all found on the websites of the respective universities. Chances of admission vary from university to university and not all universities put those statistics on their website, but if you put in some effort to go looking for it yourself, I think you should be able to find it.

I have 16+ Years and completed my DECE in 97, Btech (CMJU) in 2012 and Masters (Middlesex,UK) in 2013. I am looking for Phd opportunities in US for telecom field.

Can you provide me some details of the good consultants in India who is good in helping such cases. Also what are all the other preparation I should take care.

Hello,is medical degree a bsc or masters?thanks

Neither. BSc is bachelor of science. Medical degrees are bachelor of medicine and surgery (MBBS, MBChB, BMBS, MBBCh etc depending on how you abbreviate Medicinae Baccalaureus, Baccalaureus Chirurgiae). You generally carry the title of “doctor” afterwards, though, even without a PhD.

this one some what explainable…but good.

Thank you.. Raghu ram. This info has helped me allot to know about ph.d in Abroad..

I like to read more about it.

This is a most innovative way to describe “what is PhD ?” and I am indeed lucky to be associated with Dr. Matt Might.

I am working as Asst Prof. In India with Highest qualification of Masters in Engineering. Masters in engineering is the course which does not belive only on semester patern but gives lot of exposour to research work. Now I am very interested doing research in the domain of Image Processing . What are the different job aportunities ( Excluding Education Industries) after PhD form USA in Computer Engineering ( specifically in Image Processing Domain) u can suggest???

You will find most of the opportunities in research laboratories. After completing a doctoral program, it is very obvious that you would be involved in full time research. In fact many students go ahead for a post doctoral program as well and take up teaching jobs at the respective Universities.

I am working as Asst Prof. In India with Highest qualification of Masters in Engineering. Masters in engineering is the course which does not belive only on semester patern but gives lot of exposour to research work. Now I am very interested doing research in the domain of Image Processing . What are the different job aportunities ( Excluding Education Industries) after PhD in Computer Engineering ( specifically in Image Processing Domain) u can suggest???

very interesting and so true! !!

A nice explanation… Cleared all doubts…

This is one of the best way to visually understand the difference between BS, MS and PhD.

well, tat was Awesome !!

Amazing post! I don’t know like such a supportive and motivational article in my life.

Amazing post! Even though I don’t think I will pursue a Ph.D. , I really want to come close to making that dent in my life.

WOW, this is an amazing and innovative way HSB. The post deserves more comments and appreciation. Keep it up 🙂

Very nice I hope to read more like this.

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BS/BA, MS, and PhD分别是什么学位？

可选中1个或多个下面的关键词，搜索相关资料。也可直接点“搜索资料”搜索整个问题。

•  bs
•  ba
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•  phd
•  学位
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1、BS：理学学士（Bachelor of Science ，）为学士学位的一种，学士学位由国务院授权高等学校授予。高等学校本科文凭毕业生，成绩优良，达到规定的学术水平者，授予学士学位。大学本科阶段的学业完成获得学士学位，本科理学毕业生的就获得理学学士学位。

2、BA：文学学士（Bachelor of Arts，），是指顺利完成高等教育语言文学类本科课程而获得的学士学位。学本科阶段的学业完成获得学士学位，本科文学毕业生的就获得理学学士学位。

3、MS：理学硕士（Master of Science）是指对于硕士研究生阶段专攻理科方向（如数学、物理、力学、化学、生物学、天文学、地学等专业）的学生的一种专业上的称谓。

4、PhD：哲学博士（Doctor of Philosophy），哲学博士的拥有人并不一定修读“哲学”。所谓哲学博士，是指拥有人对其知识范畴的理论、内容及发展等都具有相当的认识，能独立进行研究，并在该范畴内对学术界有所建树。

很多综合性的大学和理工科大学、师范大学等都设有理学硕士点，专门用于培养理科方面的人才。

硕士是一个介于学士及博士之间的研究生学位，拥有硕士学位者通常象征具有对其专注、所研究领域的基础的独立的思考能力。硕士课程通常安排在学士之后，一般而言全职的硕士课程需要二年的时间，但根据国家及科系不同，有的硕士只要一年就能取得，有的则需要三至四年。

有的国家采取学士、硕士一贯制的学制，例如德国、奥地利，而实施英美学制的国家中，也有不少开办一贯学制，缩短学生从高中毕业后至硕士之间的时程。有些硕士课程如MBA等，除了学士资格外，通常还会要求若干年的工作经验。在大部分的国家，硕士是攻读博士学位的基本门槛。

一般博士生在入读课程至获授博士衔期间，会经历以下阶段：

1、完成指定的修课式课程，通常是研究方法论或有关学术范畴的研究院程度课程。

2、撰写论文/研究计划书，并取得论文导师批准进行。

3、开始进行研究并撰写论文。此时，博士生可自称为博士候选人 (Doctoral Candidate)，或在个人学术资格清单上写上毕业学衔的简称加上 ABD (All but dissertation) 一词，如 Ph.D. (ABD)，表示自己只差博士论文答辩了。

4、呈交论文并通过论文答辩 (Viva-voce)。

BS：Bachelor of  Sciences，理学学士学位

BA：Bachelor of  Arts，文学学士学位

MS：Master of Sciences，理学硕士学位

PhD：Doctor of Philosophy，哲学博士学位，文理科均可

1）普通高等学校本科毕业生（包括统招专升本）毕业考试成绩合格，在校表现良好，就可以获得学士学位。有的学校要求过大学英语四级。

2）参加高等教育自学考试（本科），所有科目的加权成绩在该校所划定的分数以上（不同学校要求不同），毕业论文答辩良好及以上并通过学位英语考试，毕业后可以申请学士学位（有的学校还要求通过学位加试，即本专业主干课加试）。

3）电大开放教育本科生，必修课平均成绩75分及以上，选修课70分及以上，通过学位英语考试，论文答辩成绩为良（或以上）可申请由国家开放大学授予的学士学位。

4）脱产、业余（函授）的成人教育本科生（包括成人专升本）毕业后符合条件者（一般是在校表现良好、论文良好及以上、所有科目平均分70分以上、补考累计少于四门、通过学位英语考试）可以申请学士学位。

5）远程教育（网络教育）本科（含网络教育专升本）的学生毕业后符合相关条件者也可申请学士学位。

修课式硕士一般只需要完成特定的课程，并且达到学院所要求的成绩便可以毕业，而大部份哲学硕士课程则除了要求在修学课程上取得优异成绩和担任教学助理(Teaching Assistant)外，还要进行全职学术研究，并且撰写硕士论文才能毕业。

完成修课式硕士课程所需的时间为一年到两年不等，入学资格一般为学士毕业便可。

另一方面，由于哲学硕士需要进行全职研究和担任教学助理，所以入学资格要求会高很多，通常需要申请者拥有学士学位，并且取得二级荣誉一等，甚至一级荣誉或以上的成绩。完成哲学硕士课程所需的时间一般为两年到两年半，有些时候也会因为在研究上有困难而延长修业时间，但通常不会超过四年。

工商管理硕士除了需要学士资格外，通常还会要求学生拥有若干年的工作经验。

1）申请人必须已获得硕士学位，并在获得硕士学位后工作二年以上。

2）申请人应在教学、科研、专门技术领域做出突出成绩，在申请学位的学科领域独立发表过高水平的学术论文，或出版过高水平的专著，其科研成果获得国家级或省部级以上奖励。

3）具备申请博士学位基本条件的同等学力人员，应当在学位授予单位规定的期限内，向学位授予单位提交以下材料：

3.1）硕士学位证书；

3.2）最后学历证明；

3.3）准备申请博士学位的学位论文；

3.4）公开发表的有关学术论文，出版的专著，以及科研成果获奖的证明材料；

3.5）申请人所在单位向学位授予单位介绍申请人的简历、思想政治表现、工作成绩、科研成果、业务能力、理论基础、专业知识和外语程度等方面情况的材料（加印密封）；

3.6）两位教授或相当专业技术职务专家的推荐书（加印密封），其中至少有一名博士生指导教师。

学位授予单位应在规定的期限内，组织专家小组对申请人进行资格审查。对已确定具有申请资格的申请人，按本规定第十条的要求进行同等学力水平的认定。

参考资料来源： 百度百科-学位

1、BS：理学学士（英语：Bachelor of Science，拉丁语：Baccalaureus Scientia，简称B.S.，BS，B.Sc.或BSc），或称理学士，大学本科学位，授予修读自然科学相关专业，完成大学本科（台湾称为大学部）学业的毕业生。

2、BA：文学士（英语：B.A.或A.B.，词源来自拉丁语的artium baccalaureus），这一种是本科教育（undergraduate）学士学位，大部分大学授其予修读人文学科学科之学生，一般包括文学、语言学、历史、地理、文化研究和传意学等。

3、MS：理学硕士（拉丁语：Magister Scientiæ；英语：Master of Science；缩写为 M.S. 或 M.Sc.），是在一些国家中颁发给学习科学与社会科学方面硕士级课程的学位。

4、PhD：哲学博士（英语：Doctor of Philosophy，简称：PhD／Ph.D.／D.Phil.，又译研究博士），高级学衔之一，通常是学历架构中最高级的学衔。拥有人一般在大学本科（学士）及／或研究院（硕士）毕业，再进行相当年数的研修后，撰毕论文并通过答辩，方获发哲学博士学位。

1、BS是理学学士的简称，理学学士的英语是Bachelor of Science，拉丁语是Baccalaureus Scientia，所以英语简称为B.S.，BS，B.Sc.或BSc，或称理学士。

解释大学本科学位，授予修读自然科学相关专业，完成大学本科，台湾称为大学部学业的毕业生。

2、BA是文学学士的简称，英语是B.A.或A.B.，词源来自拉丁语的artium baccalaureus，所以英语简称为BA。

解释这一种是本科教育undergraduate学士学位，大部分大学授其予修读人文学科学科之学生，一般包括文学、语言学、历史、地理、文化研究和传意学等。

3、MS是理学硕士的简称，拉丁语是Magister Scientiæ；英语是Master of Science；所以英语简称为 M.S. 或 M.Sc。

解释是在一些国家中颁发给学习科学与社会科学方面硕士级课程的学位。

4、PhD是哲学博士的简称，英语是Doctor of Philosophy，所以英语简称为PhD／Ph.D.／D.Phil.，又译研究博士，高级学衔之一，通常是学历架构中最高级的学衔。

解释是拥有人一般在大学本科，学士或研究院的简称，硕士毕业，再进行相当年数的研修后，撰毕论文并通过答辩，方获发哲学博士学位。

其他学科学位的英语简称及含义。

1、文学硕士（Master of Arts；MA），文学硕士学位注重文学领域、比较文学等相关学科的交叉研究，关注文学学科发展的前沿动态，致力于文学批评新方法、新视野的探讨，致力于寻找新的教学和科研的生长点。

2、文学博士（DoctorofLiterature，Litt.D.）是指一种学位以及荣誉学位。在中文一般是指在大学中文学相关科系的研究所博士班毕业后可获得，但亦有纯粹因文学上的成就贡献而获得大学授予。在英美等地区，文学博士常代表比哲学博士更高的荣誉。

3、工学学士（Bachelor of Engineering，简称BE）工学学士为学士学位的一种，学士学位由国务院授权高等学校授予。高等学校本科文凭毕业生，成绩优良，达到规定的学术水平者，授予学士学位。

参考资料： 百度百科-理学士

1949年中华人民共和国建立之后，曾先后三次拟实施学位制度，但由于种种原因也一直未能真正实行。

1980年2月，第五届全国人民代表大会常务委员会第13次会议正式通过了《中华人民共和国学位条例》，明确规定我国实行世界上大多数国家推行的三级学位制，并从1981年1月1日起开始施行。1982年6月我国的首批博士学位产生。至此，我国的学位制度才全面趋于完善和成熟。

现代中国的学士学位由国务院授权高等学校授予，硕士学位、博士学位由国务院授予的高等学校和科研机构授予。

高等学校本科毕业生，成绩优良，达到规定的学术水平者，授予学士学位；高等学校和科研机构的研究生，或具有研究生毕业同等学历的人员，通过硕士（博士）学位的课程考试和论文答辩，成绩合格，达到规定的学术水平者，授予硕士（博士）学位。

授予学位的高等学校和科学研究机构，在学位评定委员会做出授予学位的决议后，发给学位获得者相应的学位证书。

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BS/BA, MS, and PhD分别是什么学位

• 更新： 2022-08-09 16:36

1、BS：理学学士（Bachelor of Science ，）为学士学位的一种，学士学位由国务院授权高等学校授予。高等学校本科文凭毕业生，成绩优良，达到规定的学术水平者，授予学士学位。大学本科阶段的学业完成获得学士学位，本科理学毕业生的就获得理学学士学位。

2、BA：文学学士（Bachelor of Arts，），是指顺利完成高等教育语言文学类本科课程而获得的学士学位。学本科阶段的学业完成获得学士学位，本科文学毕业生的就获得理学学士学位。

3、MS：理学硕士（Master of Science）是指对于硕士研究生阶段专攻理科方向（如数学、物理、力学、化学、生物学、天文学、地学等专业）的学生的一种专业上的称谓。

4、PhD：哲学博士（Doctor of Philosophy），哲学博士的拥有人并不一定修读“哲学”。所谓哲学博士，是指拥有人对其知识范畴的理论、内容及发展等都具有相当的认识，能独立进行研究，并在该范畴内对学术界有所建树。

很多综合性的大学和理工科大学、师范大学等都设有理学硕士点，专门用于培养理科方面的人才。

硕士是一个介于学士及博士之间的研究生学位，拥有硕士学位者通常象征具有对其专注、所研究领域的基础的独立的思考能力。硕士课程通常安排在学士之后，一般而言全职的硕士课程需要二年的时间，但根据国家及科系不同，有的硕士只要一年就能取得，有的则需要三至四年。

有的国家采取学士、硕士一贯制的学制，例如德国、奥地利，而实施英美学制的国家中，也有不少开办一贯学制，缩短学生从高中毕业后至硕士之间的时程。有些硕士课程如MBA等，除了学士资格外，通常还会要求若干年的工作经验。在大部分的国家，硕士是攻读博士学位的基本门槛。

一般博士生在入读课程至获授博士衔期间，会经历以下阶段：

1、完成指定的修课式课程，通常是研究方法论或有关学术范畴的研究院程度课程。

2、撰写论文/研究计划书，并取得论文导师批准进行。

3、开始进行研究并撰写论文。此时，博士生可自称为博士候选人 (Doctoral Candidate)，或在个人学术资格清单上写上毕业学衔的简称加上 ABD (All but dissertation) 一词，如 Ph.D. (ABD)，表示自己只差博士论文答辩了。

4、呈交论文并通过论文答辩 (Viva-voce)。

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List of BS MS PhD Scholarships in Denmark for 2024-25 (Check It)

Ready to study in Denmark and enjoy a Danish Lifestyle? Denmark is a beautiful country located in Nothern Europe. It is a Scandinavian country, meaning it’s part of a region that includes Norway and Sweden. This article will List BS MS PhD Scholarships in Denmark for International students to pursue their studies in Danish Universities. The number of international students continues to rise in Denmark. According to the latest figures, over 60,000 international students are studying in Denmark. ( Source ).

There are several scholarships available in Denmark. Scholarships help students to cover part of tuition fees, and help with living expenses. These scholarships are offered by the Danish government, universities, and private organizations. Studying abroad is like any travel – it inspires you to see things in new ways. While studying in Denmark you can also travel to other EU countries. Denmark is a kingdom of thriving cities and idyllic landscapes; an innovative society with a green lifestyle. The list of scholarships in Denmark for international students is given below.

List of BS MS PhD Scholarships in Denmark for International Students

Studying in Denmark can be very beneficial for you. It has Academic excellence, creativity, innovative thinking, recognized universities, inspiring professors, and global partnerships. Sounds appealing?

1) Denmark Government Scholarships

The Denmark Government Scholarship is offered by the Danish Ministry of Higher Education and Science. 8 universities offer Danish Govt scholarships to international students pursuing full-time degree programs.

Those 8 Universities are:

• Roskilde University (RUC)
• Copenhagen Business School (CBS)
• Aarhus University (AU)
• Aalborg University (AAU)
• University of Copenhagen (UCPH)
• University of Southern Denmark (SDU)
• Technical University of Denmark (DTU)
• IT University of Copenhagen (ITU)

Read more about Denmark Govt Scholarships

2) Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree Scholarship

This is a European Government Scholarship and the largest scholarship in the European Commission. Under this scholarship, the applicant can study in three different European countries and will get a combined degree.

The scholarship covers all the expenses including Airfare, Tuition, housing, and stipend. You can apply for the Master’s degree scholarship and choose Denmark.

• Read more about the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship
• See a list of approved Erasmus Mundus Masters courses in Denmark

3) Fulbright Denmark Scholarships

If you are an American scholar or postgraduate student at a master’s or Ph.D level, you can apply for a Fulbright grant for an entire academic year of study and/or research in Denmark.

• Read more about the Fulbright Denmark website

4) IT University of Copenhagen State Scholarships (ITU)

The IT University of Copenhagen offers a small number of state scholarships to students from outside the EU/EEA region. The scholarship applies to master’s degree applicants.

This scholarship will cover Free tuition and partial covering of living expenses. All applicants are automatically considered for this scholarship.

• Read more about IT University of Copenhagen State Scholarships

5) Technical University of Denmark Scholarships (DTU)

A limited number of tuition fee waivers are awarded to outstanding non-EU/EEA Master’s students with excellent academic performance. The university offers multiple programs at Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. levels.

• Read more about The Technical University of Denmark Scholarships

6) Copenhagen Business School Scholarships (CBS)

Copenhagen Business School offers scholarships for master’s students. You must be a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen. The CBS Scholarship covers:

• Full tuition fees.
• Monthly stipend to help with living expenses in Denmark.

7) University of Southern Denmark Scholarships (SDU)

The University of Southern Denmark (SDU) offers multiple scholarship programs. But the popular scholarship is the SDU Danish Government Scholarship. This program is available for applicants pursuing a Master’s degree program.

The scholarship provides partial or full tuition fee waivers.

• Read more about the University of Denmark Scholarships

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Conclusion: If you’re considering studying abroad, Denmark is a great option to consider. With its high-quality education, beautiful country, and student-friendly atmosphere, Denmark has something to offer everyone.

Related Posts: 

• List of European Countries Government Scholarships in 2024 (Fully Funded)

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Biological Sciences—MS, PhD

There has never been a more exiting time to become a biologist. Rapid advances in molecular biology and the mounting urgency to better understand the global ecosystem are converging to provide challenges for biologists in all disciplines. The graduate program in biological sciences at Michigan Tech frequently draws upon additional expertise in the areas of forestry, chemistry, mathematical sciences, mechanical engineering, and civil, environmental, and geospatial engineering—making for a stimulating, interdisciplinary, and intellectual atmosphere for career development.

Degrees Offered

The Department of Biological Sciences offers masters and doctoral graduate degrees in Biological Sciences. Students opting for the MS degree can expect to spend two years meeting their requirements. Throughout the program, students will hone their research skills, write a thesis, and complete additional course work. Students choosing to pursue a PhD in Biological Sciences typically take between three and six years to complete their degree requirements. PhD students will develop an original research question, execute research, write a thesis, and take both written and oral examinations to demonstrate competency in the discipline.

Degree Requirements and Timeline

For more information about departmental graduation requirements (for both the MS and PhD programs), please see Graduate Requirements. To prepare for arrival on campus and track items needed to complete in order to obtain a degree, see Degree Completion Timeline .

Program Strengths and Areas of Research Excellence

The Department of Biological Sciences has a number of areas of research excellence including health, ecology and environmental sciences, and biochemistry and molecular biology.

Degree Options

To complete a doctoral degree, students must complete the following milestones:

• Complete all coursework and research credits (see credit requirements below)
• Pass Qualifying Examination
• Pass Research Proposal Examination
• Prepare and Submit Approved Dissertation
• Pass Final Oral Defense

The minimum credit requirements are as follows:

Individual programs may have higher standards and students are expected to know their program's requirements. See the  Doctor of Philosophy Requirements  website for more information about PhD milestones and related timelines.

This option requires a research thesis prepared under the supervision of the advisor. The thesis describes a research investigation and its results. The scope of the research topic for the thesis should be defined in such a way that a full-time student could complete the requirements for a master’s degree in 12 months or three semesters following the completion of coursework by regularly scheduling graduate research credits.

The minimum requirements are as follows:

Programs may have stricter requirements and may require more than the minimum number of credits listed here.

This option requires a report describing the results of an independent study project. The scope of the research topic should be defined in such a way that a full-time student could complete the requirements for a master’s degree in twelve months or three semesters following the completion of coursework by regularly scheduling graduate research credits. 

Of the minimum total of 30 credits, at least 24 must be earned in coursework other than the project:

This option requires a minimum of 30 credits be earned through coursework. A limited number of research credits may be used with the approval of the advisor, department, and Graduate School. See degree requirements for more information.

A graduate program may require an oral or written examination before conferring the degree and may require more than the minimum credits listed here:

Bachelor's + 1 Year = Master's Degree

Our accelerated master's degree program is a faster, easier way for Michigan Tech students to earn a master's degree. Up to nine approved credits from your bachelor's degree can be applied towards your accelerated master's degree. Consult your graduate program director for your individualized plan. If you're thinking about pursuing a master's following your bachelor's this option may be the right choice for you. 

Additional Accelerated Master's Program Details

Focus Option

MS Focus in Medical Laboratory Management  

Students may elect to focus their MS studies in medical laboratory management (MLM). The focus option consists of approximately one-half science courses and one-half business courses—integrating both theoretical and practical aspects of laboratory sciences with management theory. The program is flexible and suitable for both the experienced medical laboratory scientist and the recent graduate. It not only provides knowledge and expertise in MLM, but also challenges the student to learn more about rapid developments in immunology, microbiology, and biochemistry. This non-thesis option within the MS degree allows for completion of the Biological Sciences MS degree within a relatively short period of time. Past candidate projects have included studies using computer analysis of cost accounting to study MLM, computer models for productivity analysis, and writing and assembling laboratory manuals. Applicants must have MLS(ASCP) certification.

Learn More About the MS in Biological Sciences

Additional Opportunities

Faculty, scientists, and graduate students of various departments and research institutes maintain close working ties for interdisciplinary study and research . Some opportunities include work with:

• several campus research groups, which study environmental microbiology for bioremediation and other applications;
• the Aquatic Ecology Research Group, which includes the Fish Ecology Group and the Remote Sensing and Ecosystem Science Institute;
• the Lake Superior Ecosystems Research Center (LaSER), which studies basic ecosystem processes within the aquatic and terrestrial portions of the Lake Superior watershed;
• the Phototechnology Research Center, which focuses on biotechnology, physiology, pathology, and biochemistry of plants, using traditional approaches—as well as the latest advances in genetic engineering and molecular microanalysis;
• the Environmental Engineering Center, which studies groundwater, soil and sediment systems, air emissions, pollution control, and waste treatment; and
• the Diesel Research Group studies diesel emissions, including the effects of emission-control devices and the use of alternate fuels.
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Pharmaceutical Sciences (BS, MS, PhD)

Office of Student Success and Engagement 270 Pharmacy Building Buffalo, NY 14214 716-645-2825 [email protected]

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Our internationally-renowned pharmaceutical sciences degree programs provide instruction and research training in drug discovery, development and delivery and clinical therapeutics through an interdisciplinary curriculum individualized to the needs of each student. 

The founding principles of pharmaceutical sciences were pioneered here at the University at Buffalo and we have upheld this tradition of excellence and international distinction for over 50 years. As a noted leader in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics research, we prepare students for careers in academia, the pharmaceutical industry, and regulatory agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

A pharmaceutical scientist is a qualified expert in aspects of the science and technology of medical products. This includes but is not limited to the discovery, development, manufacture, regulation, and utilisation of medical products - embracing how medicines work, how safe and effective products are brought to the market, their impact on the body and their effect on the prevention and treatment of disease.

View a list of specialized fields within the discipline.

Ph.D. vs M.S. - Which is Right for You?

Frequently asked questions , how do i support myself financially while i work towards my ph.d..

• Ph.D. students are guaranteed 5 years of salary and tuition support through teaching (GTA) or research (GRA) fellowships that also cover most of tuition costs.

Why do a Ph.D.?

• A Ph.D. degree is the primary graduate degree for students interested in conducting research that UTA Biology offers. 
• Students who complete the Ph.D. program often go into academia, biotechnology, biomedical industries, government research, or positions in research institute
• Ph.D. students are guaranteed 5 years of financial support and tuition support that funds students during their Ph.D., as long as they are making satisfactory progress in the program. 

Can I enter a Ph.D. program without a master’s degree?

• Yes, in fact the majority of Ph.D. students enter the program without a master’s degree

Why do a Master’s degree?

• Get a better job, or promotion at your current job
• Increase your competitiveness for applying to medical school

Master’s degree options:

• M.S. (Non-Thesis) – a course-based Master’s degree, primarily designed for either 1) professionals that want to further their education (e.g., those in industry, or in education), or 2) undergraduates that want to improve their chances of acceptance to a medical school or other graduate degree program
• M.S. Thesis – This is a research-based master’s degree. Currently we are not accepting students into this program, and all research-oriented graduate students are encouraged to consider admission to the Ph.D. program .

Location : Life Sciences Building, Room 337, 501 S. Nedderman Dr., Arlington, TX 76019 Mailing address : P.O. Box 19498 Phone : 817-272-2872

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BS/MS Dual Degree Program

Our program’s substantial graduate coursework gives a competitive advantage to BS/MS candidates like Lindsey Euscher when applying to PhD programs.

Jump-start your career in pharmacology and toxicology by combining your Bachelor’s in Science (BS) degree with a Master’s in Science (MS) in only five years.

Research-Oriented Curriculum

In addition to your academic coursework, once accepted to the BS/MS program, your focus will shift to your thesis research, as outlined in this  timeline.

Work with our highly accomplished faculty at every stage of experimental, hands-on research: studying biological processes, modeling novel compounds, synthesizing these compounds and testing their effects.

• gain insight into every stage of the research process
• build expertise in hands-on and analytical techniques
• develop interdisciplinary collaborative skills and strategies
• contribute to ongoing research into current health issues

Support for Your Interests

During the MS component of your studies, we will match you with outstanding, internationally recognized mentors to support your research interests. In addition to faculty in our department, you may conduct interdisciplinary research with faculty at the world-renowned  Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center  or in other departments on campus.

We fully fund student travel to major pharmacology conferences where you can present your research. We encourage our students to publish and we set up opportunities for you to meet researchers early in your studies, initiating professional connections to support your long-term goals.

Career Advantage

At the end of the BS/MS program, you will have completed substantial graduate coursework, giving you a competitive advantage in applying to PhD programs and a strong foundation for advanced graduate research.

Our highly competitive degrees also prepare students for MD and dental programs and positions in pharmaceutical and biotech companies as well as medical patent law.

• 4/3/23 Curriculum and Requirements
• 8/2/19 Admissions and Applying

For questions about the BS/MS program in pharmacology and toxicology, please contact:

Graduate Education

Pharmacology and Toxicology

Phone: (716) 829-2800

Email: [email protected]

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Home > Blog > Tips for Online Students > Tips for Students > Master’s vs PhD — These are the Main Differences

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Master’s vs PhD — These are the Main Differences

Updated: June 19, 2024

Published: October 31, 2019

The consideration between earning a master’s vs PhD is not always an easy choice. While many careers and personal aspirations may be complete with just an undergraduate degree (Associate’s or Bachelor’s), a lot of people continue their higher education to obtain graduate degrees. These include a master’s and/or a PhD.

Neither a master’s degree nor a PhD is considered to be a walk in the park. Therefore, it’s useful to understand why you would earn either and then decide how far to go.

Photo by  Good Free Photos  on  Unsplash

Definitions: master’s vs phd.

Bost a master’s and PhD are defined as postgraduate degrees, but they require different commitments and styles of learning.

1. Master’s Degree:

Mostly all master’s degrees will require the completion of an undergraduate bachelor’s degree to enroll. They generally all share the same common requirement for a thesis or dissertation to graduate.

Earning a master’s degree through a taught program will result in the completion of a Master of Art (MA), Master of Science (MS), or Master of Philosophy (MPhil). For those who earn their master’s degree through research, they will earn a Master of Research (Mre), in a tailored field of study. There are also degree-specific master’s programs like Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Education (M.Ed).

After earning a master’s degree, the next step is a PhD, which entails both working and performing research at an institution. A PhD is an abbreviation for “Doctor of Philosophy.” It is the highest academic degree one can achieve. As such, it is a time-consuming pursuit that requires a lot of studying and research.

You may be wondering, “Do you need a master’s to get a PhD?”

Technically, the answer is not always. Some students skip a master’s and go straight for their PhD, but they may lack research experience. While it could save money, the transition between a bachelor’s and a PhD is incredibly sharp. It may be harder to complete a PhD without the experience from a master’s.

Yet, some institutions may allow for the possibility to earn both your master’s and PhD in conjunction with one another. This will alleviate the transition between skipping a master’s and going straight to earning a PhD.

Should You Get a Master’s or PhD?

There are many considerations to factor when deciding between a master’s of PhD. For starters, it’s useful to consider the amount of time it will take, the cost, and the benefits and disadvantages of each. It is also of utmost importance to explore your own personal goals and reasons for wanting a graduate degree.

If your desired career of choice requires a PhD, like becoming a university professor, then you have your answer. If you want to start a business and benefit by networking while in school, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) could be a good idea. Consider what you want to pursue as a career and find out the requirements first.

Another useful thing to note is that a master’s degree can be used for a shift in careers. For example, if you attended college and earned a bachelor’s degree in humanities, but now you want to pursue science, you can still earn your master’s degree in a scientific discipline. On the other hand, a PhD is tailored to your field of study and specialty, so it will require that you are sure of your direction when you first earn your master’s degree.

Length of Time

A typical master’s degree program takes about two years full-time. However, there are accelerated programs that can be completed in just a year or so.

A PhD, in general, requires five to six years of studying, teaching, and research. However, it may even take some students up to eight or nine years to graduate. With this significant investment in time, it’s necessary to know if a PhD is right for you before starting.

The cost of both programs varies by institution and enrollment status of part-time versus full-time. However, since a PhD takes longer to complete, it will end up costing more. With that said, if you look into your return on investment, a PhD could end up yielding a higher salary, and therefore end up “costing less.”

Additionally, there is also the possibility of being paid to complete your PhD. Some students may receive an academic stipend, a university fellowship or apprenticeship or a reduced fee to earn their PhD while completing research (or teaching) at an institution. It’s also possible to get financial aid through a scholarship or grant.

As tuition rates continue to rise, it’s useful to look into alternative institutions for affordable education. For example, the University of the People offers a tuition-free master’s program in Business Administration and Education. This means you can study 100% online and graduate for less than the cost of most programs.

Weighing the Benefits

When comparing the two degree types, here are some benefits of each:

• Career-oriented
• Can open the door for more job opportunities
• Costs less than a PhD
• Takes less time than a PhD
• Helps you stand out from those with only an undergraduate degree
• You can perform research in your field of choice
• You become an expert in your field
• The prefix Dr. is added to your name
• You can teach in academia at the highest level

Required Commitment and Reasons to Pursue

Both a master’s and a PhD require a huge amount of hard work and utter commitment. You must be dedicated and motivated to complete either degree. Since most careers only may require a bachelor’s degree, having a master’s or PhD will set you apart from the competition. However, this should not be the sole reason to pursue either.

You may be wondering why would you earn either degree. Here’s a look at some motivational factors:

Reasons to Study for a Master’s

• Your career requires it (see next section)
• You want to advance your subject knowledge
• You want to experience graduate school and network with peers

Reasons to Study for a PhD

• You want to contribute new research to your field of choice
• Your career requires a PhD
• You want to earn the title of Dr.

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Required degrees by career.

Most people are motivated to pursue higher education because their desired careers require they do so. Here, we will break down those fields that require the completion of a master’s degree as it’s high on the list of reasons why to get one.

• Education Administration: To work as an administrator in an educational institution, you need to hold an advanced degree. A Master’s in Education (M.Ed) will provide you with the necessary knowledge and required skills to succeed in the field.
• Executive Level Business: A Master’s in Business (MBA) will not only place you ahead of the competition to land high-level positions in the field of business, but it can also be the jumping off point for becoming your own boss.
• Environmental Science: With issues in climate change and technological advancement, careers in Environmental Science are growing. As with most scientific careers, it requires a master’s degree where you will learn Applied Ecology, Environmental Policy, Environmental Chemistry, and more.
• Mental Health: To become a licensed practitioner and assist in mental health counseling, you will continue your education through a master’s degree in the field.
• Physical Therapy: Employers of physical therapists often prefer them to obtain a master’s degree in the discipline as the field is highly specialized.

Of course, some careers require a PhD. These careers are easy to spot because they have the prefix Dr. in front of them or the suffix like J.D. (Juris Doctor). To become a lawyer, doctor of medicine, veterinary medicine or psychologist/psychiatrist, you must obtain a PhD in the respective field.

Salary Differences Between Master’s and Ph.D. Graduates

According to a study performed by the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce , the overall evidence shows that the higher the degree you have, the higher your salary potential. However, the differences vary by subject level and field.

In general, the expected lifetime earnings of those with each degree level is as follows:

• High School Diploma: $973,000
• Bachelor’s Degree: $1.3 million
• Master’s Degree: $2.7 million
• Doctorate Degree: $3.3 million

The Bottom Line

Aside from the financial cost and length of time, the opportunity to earn a master’s and a doctorate degree can offer several benefits.

However, it is an undertaking that requires a lot of dedication and motivation on behalf of the student. As such, it’s important to perform research on your desired career’s requirements, as well as your personal interest in pursuing either a Phd vs master’s.

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BS/MS to PHD

Application deadline for winter 2025 has been extended to september 2nd. interested in an application fee waiver contact  [email protected]  for details..

The PhD program in Nursing at Loma Linda University School of Nursing is designed for those aiming to become leading nurse scientists, adept at integrating rigorous scientific research with influential leadership roles in nursing policy formation. This research-focused program emphasizes the critical role of data analysis and evidence in advancing nursing science, featuring an extensive curriculum. 

The PhD program emphasizes research by including 3 statistics classes in the core curriculum, while other programs only require 1. The curriculum builds on the foundational information and skills acquired through BSN education, and on the advanced knowledge and expertise gained in MSN education.

The LLU nursing school has a reputation of developing nurse scientists who contribute significant new knowledge to nursing practice and research.

Admissions Deadlines

All admission requirements must be completed by the deadline.  Deadlines are as follows:

• Fall – April 23  (quarter begins in September) 
• Winter – August 1  (quarter begins in January)
• Spring - January 15  ( quarter begins in March)

Admissions Requirements

• Baccalaureate degree in nursing from a regionally accredited program
• GPA of 3.0, both cumulative and in nursing courses
• Current United States RN license before application*
• Application with personal statement
• Three electronic recommendations** (recommenders will receive an email once application is submitted) – required: Recent College Professor (less than 3 years), Current Nurse Supervisor, Nursing Professional or Spiritual Advisor
• Official transcripts for all college credits
• Interview by faculty members in the School of Nursing

*California RN license required before start of classes

**  New baccalaureate graduates without an RN license must submit the following three recommendations from: Academic Faculty, Clinical Instructor, and a Spiritual Advisor .

Admission Requirements for International Students

International applicants (non-U.S. citizens and non-U.S. permanent residents) must meet all admission requirements for the chosen program. In addition, official international transcripts must be evaluated by an accredited evaluation service. A TOEFL score may also be required. Please visit  www.llu.edu/apply/intltrans  for more information.

Transcript Requirements

You must submit transcripts from all post-secondary institutions that you have attended, regardless of whether or not it applies to your prerequisite coursework. This includes all colleges, universities, military credit, Advanced Placement, CLEP, and unaccredited schools. Transcripts must be sent by the issuing institution(s) directly to LLU Admissions Processing. Transcripts provided in any other manner are unofficial and will not be accepted for admission.

Please have official transcripts sent to:

Admissions Processing Loma Linda University 11139 Anderson St Loma Linda, CA 92350 USA

Accreditations

Loma Linda University is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). The BS, MS, and DNP Programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The Nurse Anesthesia Concentration is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs .

Advanced practice nurse graduates, Nurse Practitioner (NP) and Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), are certified by the State of California Board of Registered Nursing and eligible to apply for certification by the American Nurses Credentialing Corporation , American Academy of Nurse Practitioners , and Pediatric Nursing Certification Board , as appropriate for the area of professional practice.The California State Board has approved all programs offered at the Loma Linda University School of Nursing. Many states may offer a compact license to individuals already licensed in California. If this opportunity is of interest to you, please contact your program director. Students who decide to pursue a license in another state should check with the applicable licensing authority in that state.

Our programs address and meet outcome expectations as articulated by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing Master’s (AACN), and DNP Essentials.

Cost of Attendance

BS to PhD - View Expected Cost of Attendance  Here

MS to PhD - View Expected Cost of Attendance  Here

NEXus (Nursing Education Exchange)

NEXus Information