The difference between a Masters and a PhD
You might wonder sometimes what the actual difference is between a Masters thesis and a PhD. Generally, the former takes 2 years while the latter takes at least 3. Our own regulations give the following general definitions of the two degrees:
"A PhD thesis will demonstrate, in the context of a substantial and
original contribution, mastery of the subject of concern and well as a
furthering of understanding in that field of knowledge, through the
discovery of knowledge, the formulation of theories, or the innovative
re-interpretation of known data and established ideas."
"A masters thesis must be a substantial work generally based on independent research which shows a sound knowledge of the subject of the research, evidence of the exercise of some independence of thought, and the ability of expression in clear and concise language."
Obviously there is room for overlap here, and examiners have the option of passing a Masters thesis as a PhD and vice versa. Below is one examiner's opinion of what the difference is between a Masters and a PhD:
"The regulations give the examiners an opportunity to argue the case for the upgrading of an (Masters) dissertation to a (PhD). I have thought about this, but although I believe the thesis to be of a very high standard ..., it lacks a number of elements which I would expect to find in a doctorate, e.g.,
- The thesis lacks an elaborated theoretical framework. While not insensitive to theoretical issues, ... the thesis does not offer us a theoretical framework through which to "read" the data.
- The thesis also lacks a "literature review", that is a systematic review of the theoretical and comparative literature relating to the empirical material covered in the thesis. A good knowledge of the wider literature ... is revealed throughout the thesis, but nowhere is this pulled together in a theortical narrative.
- While none of these omissions detracts from the (masters) thesis, it means that a good deal more work would be needed to convert the thesis into a doctorate."