Thesis or Non-Thesis option with a Master's degree?

[jread]

What are the advantages and disadvantages of each option? To me, the non-thesis option seems better because you get to take more courses and you don't have to do all that writing. The thesis option requires less hours but you have to... well... write a thesis.

All input is appreciated

 

[PrinceofWands]

I didn't realize it was ever optional.

 

[CollectiveUnconscious]

Depends on if you are satisfied with your masters or you want to pursue a doctorate (or research field) afterward. Thesis --> PhD(research)/No Thesis -->Satisfied with terminal.

 

[CollectiveUnconscious]

Originally posted by: PrinceofWands
I didn't realize it was ever optional.

It is for certain programs at certain universities.

 

[jread]

Ah, so unless I want to be a professor later in life, the non-thesis option would work for me. What about for those who are not sure? I imagine there have to be some non-thesis folks who eventually decided to go back for a Ph.D.

 

[CollectiveUnconscious]

Originally posted by: jread
Ah, so unless I want to be a professor later in life, the non-thesis option would work for me. What about for those who are not sure? I imagine there have to be some non-thesis folks who eventually decided to go back for a Ph.D.

When in doubt, do a thesis. It's good for you.

 

[AtlantaBob]

Originally posted by: CollectiveUnconscious

Originally posted by: jread
Ah, so unless I want to be a professor later in life, the non-thesis option would work for me. What about for those who are not sure? I imagine there have to be some non-thesis folks who eventually decided to go back for a Ph.D.

When in doubt, do a thesis. It's good for you.

Exactly. When I was getting my M.S. there was no stinking non-thesis option! (Well, actually, there was, but the profs wouldn't let you choose it.)

 

[ScottyB]

When I go for my Master's, I have to do a thesis. Of course it will be a collection of short stories, or a novella, or a portion of a novel. Much easier than a long-ass essay.

 

[thirtythree]

I chose non-thesis. Research is not for me.

 

[spanner]

What major?

 

[rgwalt]

Often times in science and engineering you will be able to get some level of funding for a thesis Masters. For a non-thesis option, you will likely have to pay for the education. Doing a research project proves to potential employers that you can do independent research and that you are a problem solver. Plus it shows you have the ability to manage yourself by setting timelines, etc.

Personally, I would do a thesis masters. Then again, I just finished my Ph.D., so I'm probably biased.

R

 

[compnovice]

A lot depends on your professor and if you are being paid as an RA... Be prepared to put in a lot of work for a thesis.. Also, before joining a professor be sure to talk to his ex-students (not current ones) to get a fair idea about his work ethics and knowledge about the subject...

Thesis will help you if you have already decided to get into a particlar specialization and will help in getting a few publications. However, it might limit your job options to that particular field of specialization...

 

[jread]

Originally posted by: spanner
What major?

Software Engineering.

Also should add that I work full-time and will be a part-time student. I don't have time to be a teaching assistant or sip coffee with the professors. I do not want my school work or job to suffer because I'm more absorbed in one than the other. I have to find a balance between the two.

 

[radioouman]

Thesis. I did a non-thesis and I regret it.