Have you considered postgraduate study in the sciences? Many students pursuing science degrees ask themselves that question at some point in their college careers. There are a number of options available for international students who choose to do so, and the answer really depends upon your interests and career goals.
PhD vs. Bachelor or Master of Science
Are you working toward a
career in research or applied science? If research is your goal, a PhD is
generally required; some PhDs also become independent consultants to government
and business.
While earning a Ph.D used to be the ultimate goal of all postgraduate science students, that trend appears to be changing. According to The Chronicle of Higher Education, students are beginning to discover the benefits of a professional science degree, the Master of Science, rather than pursuing a PhD. Institutions such as Michigan State University are trying to retool the MS to become something like the MBA of the science world, requiring students to take courses in business and management, in addition to the traditional core classes of the major.
Regardless of whether you decide to pursue an MS or a PhD, it is important to be prepared for the application process. Most graduate schools will ask you to provide your transcripts, TOEFL® and GRE® or standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, and a biographical admissions essay. Be sure to check with your desired graduate school for specific admission requirements and deadlines for submission.
There is a wealth of free information and advice pertaining to prospective graduate students on Internet sites such as www.gradschool.about.com, and www.siam.org. Be sure to speak with your current advisors and professors, who can offer insightful advice and www.gradschool.com guidance to help you choose the best path for your career and interests.
For more information, visit IIE Network, JobWeb, and the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics.
