How long does it take to get a PhD once you already have your masters?

Question

I'm one year into a three year program for a master's in public policy and administration. How much longer would it take me if I also wanted to get a PhD?

Answer 1

While I'm not entirely sure what the norms are in your field, it seems like the norm in mine is 3 1/2-5 years if you already have a MS.  I've seen a very select few seem to get done in 3 or fewer years, and a few more still need longer than 5 years.  (My field's very lab-research-dependent, so it can vary quite a bit due to circumstances beyond your control or only barely within your control.)

Basically, a master's degree seems like it'll add another 1-3 semesters to your time in grad school for most people than it would be had you gone straight to the Ph.D. with your undergrad degree.  You can transfer the courses you earned, usually, but you still have to get up to speed and started on two projects (presuming you have something to write up for your master's) rather than just the one.  However, you *do* get more experience with the process if you do a MS/MA first like you would be.

Answer 2

It really depends on how intensively you plan to complete your PHD, and the type of program. Probably on average about 4 years.

Answer 3

According to a lot of my grad student friends (and the degree discriptions from various schools) it should take you three years to complete your PhD, depending on what you are studying and the research money that is out there for your field.  

Answer 4

Well, what country are you in? In the UK a Masters is a one year course and a PhD would only be another 2 years after that - 3 years just to get a Masters seems ridiculously long to me.

Answer 5

Since it sounds like your in the USA - getting a PhD usually takes anywhere from 5-8 years.

you have

coursework

exams

dissertation

defense of dissertation

post doc work

etc

I guess if it was quick and easy, everyone would have one.

Answer 6

Standard degrees (without 'sandwich' /placement years) in UK

Bachelor 3 years (with or without hons)

Masters 1 year after Bachelors

Master of Philosophy (MPhil) 1 year after Master (just a title, not limited to philosophy)

Doctorate (Philosophy Doctorate) 1-2 years after MPhil depending on discipline studied.

Typically in Europe the standard Bachelor degree takes an extra year to accommodate for differing entry points. Almost a foundation or consolidation year before the 'real' course starts.

US System is based on the Spanish, but depends on the individual University / College.

Your progression sounds like:

3 BA

1 MA

1 MPhil

2 PhD

Making a minimum of 7 years total.

Best of luck and enjoy it. Remember it's not ALL about study :-D