Is the MS degree a prerequisite for a PhD?
An MS is not a prerequisite for starting the PhD program. However, you can obtain an MS degree in the course of the PhD program (and many students choose to fill out the paperwork to do so). The coursework for the MS degree usually takes 1.5 or 2 years to complete. The written PhD qualifying exam is typically taken after 1.5 years. The oral PhD qualifying exam is taken in the semester following the written exam. You become a “Ph.D. candidate” after you’ve found a research adviser, formed a committee, and written and defended a proposal on your dissertation research. You don’t have to wait until after the MS degree to take the PhD qualifying exams, write the proposal, etc.
