<p>Hi there,</p>
<p>I plan to apply for a PhD in Mechanical Engineering probably next fall. I have already had a Masters in ME. </p>
<p>I am little bit concerned about the impression (I do not know whether it is hypothetical or real) that schools generally prefer doctoral candidates from internal application. I mean; while doing their masters, they give a petition to continue their doctoral studies without even applying externally. It may be harder than it sounds, and perhaps many will not qualify to PhD through such a route; however I think, its easier than applying through an external application. </p>
<p>As an international applicant having already a Masters and wanting to increase the chance to pursue a PhD, I am indecisive whether I should apply directly to PhD or take the route through a second MSc? If trying second MSc, how will the schools view it? If trying directly PhD through an external application, will I survive the fierce competition?
By the way, my ultimate goal is PhD.</p>
<p>Any idea, thoughts, insights will be highly appreciated.</p>
<p>Thanks</p>
<p>There is pretty much zero reason for you to get a second master’s unless you really tanked in your first one or you want to significantly change fields (like from electrical engineering to art). Since neither of those seems to be the case, you should apply to PhD programs next year.</p>
<p>Some programs prefer to take internal candidates, but in any given year there aren’t necessarily enough internal candidates to fill up an entire program, so programs usually select at least some (if not most) candidates from external pools. Most students who go to get an MS just get an MS and leave afterwards. Other schools encourage their internal applicants to go elsewhere for new experiences.</p>
<p>Thanks juillet, that was really insightful…</p>
<p>However,
What about our MSc, even if it was on the same major, was very specific and directed, could not we use another MSc to change the subject in the field? Same field but different subject?
Increasing the chance to pursue a PhD through using internal dynamics and the chance to learn about professors, academic culture, alternative collaborations…What about them? It may not be so simple as it seems; it may not be a waste of time…It can be reused to rebuild the know-how in that specific subject…I do not know exactly, I am only brainstorming…</p>
<p>I really wonder how the schools will evaulate a try for a 2nd Master’s? What would be the viable reason to mention for pursuing a second MSc and using it as a tool for PhD?</p>
<p>No, apply directly for the PhD. It’s the best bet for you getting into a program and getting some sort of funding. No one wants to fund Masters students.</p>
<p>Thanks guys and gals
I also wonder whether it is possible to get admitted by an MSc program if not admitted by the PhD program…I might consider an MSc if not admitted by Phd of the same program…I mean is there a possibility that if I am not admitted by the Phd program, is there a chance for me that the adcom would evaluate me for an MSc degree?
How will the process work out? Could simply stating it in the SOP be sufficient? I do not want to terminate all chances if not admitted by the PhD program, through an MSc, hopes could still stay alive?</p>
<p>Thanks</p>