Did you Know?

British research degrees are ‘unstructured’ and earned, mostly, on the thesis or dissertation alone. I’ve seen on forums, where someone is contemplating a thesis only degree, American academics (presumed) insist that coursework is necessary. I presume they are ignorant of the greater world… I say, you British produce fine scholars…Kudos

Anyhow, a British bachelor’s degree is generally a three-year degree - before pursuing a research degree (M.Phil or PhD) British academics must first earn a one year honors degree, which is based on coursework. British graduate students will work closely with an advisor in their research and learning – but course work is usually not part of the requirement (after the honor’s degree). In contrast a U.S. PhD student will likely complete another ninety credit hours (or more) of course work (3-4 years full time and then some). The important distinction is that learning doesn’t end with classes in the British system – it’s just unstructured. Of course, the nice thing about courses is that they go on your transcripts and validate that you at least participated in a seminar on a particular subject.

Australia and South Africa have similar systems…