Is getting a PhD from a UK university equivalent to a PhD in the US?

Question

I'm from America and have been recently toying with the idea of getting a Psych degree in the UK (for experience and cost mostly). However, I was wondering if I come back to the states for a job, does my degree mean the same?

My friend, who's getting his Math degree in Edinburgh only has to go for five years as opposed to seven in the States.... does that makes a difference???

Answer 1

Are you counting seven years from starting as a college freshman? The difference may be in the preparation for university and selectivity over there.

Basically, a PhD is a PhD. None of them are exactly "equivalent," since it all depends upon whom you studied with and what sort of connections they have to help you find academic employment.

British universities are very strong, although students who go abroad for a Ph.D must work a bit harder to obtain a position in the United States.