Research-based Graduate Degrees

Discussion in 'General Distance Learning Discussions' started by sentinel, Sep 4, 2007.

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  1. sentinel

    sentinel New Member

    What are the advantages and disadvantages of a research-based graduate degree versus a graduate degree which combines coursework and a thesis or dissertation?
     
  2. dlady

    dlady Active Member

    I personally have found coursework, because it provides you with a structure, easier than when you have to go off and do your own research. Conversely, doing your own research is much more rewarding, so, I guess, the question is, what is the tradeoff you want to make between satisfaction and structure?
     
  3. BillDayson

    BillDayson New Member

    While I don't have any personal experience, I do have some concerns. How realistic those concerns are, I'm not sure.

    1. Lack of breadth. Do graduates of a doctoral program that consisted of nothing but dissertation research have the breadth in their discipline to work and teach courses outside their narrow area of interest? Here in the US, things like comprehensive examinations address that.

    2. Lack of structure. American programs typically spell out their policies and procedures pretty clearly. Students have a good idea of what they are facing and what's expected. But my impression (perhaps false) is that with 'research degrees', everything is kind of negotiated with a supervising professor. The details of what happens between admission and dissertation submission are largely up to him.

    3. Lack of support. On-campus doctoral students are typically involved in departmental research activities. They work alongside their professors. In fact, the whole 'research degree' model kind of looks like an academic apprentiship. But is that really happening with DL students? I have this fear of being told to go away and don't bother anyone until my dissertation is ready.
     
  4. RFValve

    RFValve Well-Known Member

    If you have a graduate research degree and don't have any graduate coursework, this could be a problem if you want to teach at a US or Canadian University or College where 18 graduate credits are normally required to teach in a specific discipline.

    Research degrees are less structured and less suitable for students lacking self discipline. The main advantage is that because no course work is required, research degrees make an excellent choice for those looking for distance learning opportunities. Most research degrees are potential DL degrees if you negotiate them as this with your supervisor.
     
  5. dlady

    dlady Active Member

    I have no desire to teach, but still for my own clarification, I always thought it was a Doctorate or Masters in the field, or, where the degree was in a different or related field, 18 graduate credits in the subject.

    So for example, if one had a PhD in, I don’t know, History or something, they would be qualified to teach history; however if they wanted to teach humanities, a related topic but a field different than their degree, they would need the degree, and additionally 18 hours in humanities.
     
  6. RoscoeB

    RoscoeB Senior Member

    I'm currently working on a research doctorate. And as much as I love writing, I have to admit there are times when I feel isolated. Now that I have two readers (both professors and holders of PhD), the work seems more exciting. The interaction gives me a real boost.

    A good book on the topic is Authoring a PhD by Patrick Dunleavy. I learned of this title through Dr. Bear and Dr. Douglass. Perhaps one of them could share their thoughts about the book.

    Roscoe
     
    Last edited by a moderator: Oct 5, 2007
  7. Woho

    Woho New Member

    just ordered it. thanks for the tip!
     
  8. Rich Douglas

    Rich Douglas Well-Known Member


    "Douglas." I think I tipped it to you in a PM, IIRC.

    Great book on the differences between taught (courses-plus-"small book" thesis) and no-course-requirements-but-"big book" thesis.
     
  9. RoscoeB

    RoscoeB Senior Member

    Sorry about that.
    Thanks for the correction.

    Roscoe
     

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