Hi everyone. I am new to this forum. Recently, I have tried to do some finding on the difference between master (engineering) in coursework based and research based because I am facing difficulties to choose between them as my future path.
Research based sounds quite risky for me because I am new to that Uni. Unknown to the characteristics of all lecturers is what I am fear most (especially facing uncooperative relation with supervisor). Secondly, research management probably is another issue I have to deal with. However, it will provide me a stronger research foundation for PhD in my future.
Coursework based sounds a safer route to me. However there is a question lies to me. Is it true that a coursework based master graduate (engineering) can apply for PhD programme? If it is true, the only con for coursework based master would be a tougher start for PhD programme in future, right?

Hi Riena 988, I am doing engineering PhD in one of the public uni. This is my 7th month. I am doing fast track PhD since I obtained first class for my degree. In my opinion, no matter what route you are pursuing, it's not going to stop you from taking PhD.

Master by coursework is safe, but you still need to do a mini final year project within one semester. Everything is by your own, test assignments, projects. You are going to face it. If by MsC by research will be also based on yourself. You will face conference, papers, thesis, presentations, prosiding. bla bla bla. You will never stop doing research. Chance for you to grad within 1 year is merely impossible in the case of Engineering.

Fear in finding research based supervisor is really a challenge. The uncooperative and dictate ideas which makes me feel so uncomfortable. I feel the same way. By the way, which uni you plan to pursue. you can pm me.

Are you self funded to study? Cos research work is also a good way to earn some income as a an RA or Tutor while doing ur research work

Hi Riena_988.

I have completed my master in engineering (coursework) and get an offer to pursue Phd. During coursework, you have to prepare a dissertation, a simple thesis.

In my opinion, both of the study program is good. I choose coursework as I am currently working and didn't have much time to stay in the lab for research purpose.

I advise you to the MSc if you want to pursue a PhD in the future (because it allows you to specialize in certain forms of engineering)


Perhaps tanjinjack would give better advice since he's done both Mres and MEng before (and now doing PhD)

This post has been edited by Cottoncandyclouds: Aug 17 2014, 01:55 AM

Hi, to whom it may be concern,

I have a MSc fellowship (12months to 18 months) available for qualified candidate. Please refer to this link. With the monthly allowance, you do not have to pay any single sen for your own study.

click the Picture link as below "GRA vacancy to further a Master in Engineering".

https://forum.lowyat.net/index.php?showtopi...&#entry71141655]https://forum.lowyat.net/index.php?showtopi...&#entry71141655

This post has been edited by kevin5059: Oct 29 2014, 12:16 PM

you got first class honour degree and you have the privilege to skip master and staright study for phd?

are you working now? it's rather tough to concentrate on studying while working , am i right?

I'm currently unemployed (to concentrate more on my study). Ya, it's true. Most of my coursemates are having tough time completing their masters.

I'm currently unemployed (to concentrate more on my study). Ya, it's true. Most of my coursemates are having tough time completing their masters.

im now in 8th semester. just doing MSc.
Master in Eng just course work. 1 year can finish

If i may put things into perspective:
Master by coursework = employment, things are lay upon you, you just need to study, pass your exams and a dissertation.
Master by research = entrepreneurship, a research topic, subject or area is normally pre-determined (better still if you can suggest one). you've gotta find your own ways to resolve the problems, towards which, is worth conferring a Master degree.

no such things as "tougher" to start a PhD program with a coursework Master degree, i have seen many started even without one.

good luck