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If you are planning to apply for a Masters degree abroad, you may find your profile a good fit for a number of programs at the same university, at times even within the same department – think MS Data Science vs MS Computer Science or MS Geology vs MS Geophysics. Even the same Masters program may offer multiple masters degrees, one is thesis-based, and the other is non-thesis based. Whatever the case, there might be a million questions that crop up in your mind before you apply to an MS program abroad. You might have questions regarding the skills that you would require and the scope that you have in future. Before you delve deeper into it, let us first check out the top 4 things that you should consider before choosing the subjects that you want to pursue a Master’s degree in.

1. Each department is different

Each department is different, and therefore the models for thesis and non-thesis programs will also vary. Hence, it is a good idea to properly research and apply for the multiple degree programs that are most suitable for you. The application requirements vary significantly from one university to the other. So, if you are planning to apply to two programs in the same university, you should do proper research about all the eligibility criteria. For this, you will have to visit departments’ website, connect with admission offices, or even ask your professors or counsellors, as they will guide you better.

2. If you are applying for a thesis master’s, you do not need prior experience

It is not mandatory to have prior experience in conducting research, but the most important thing here is to have an interest in the field. Before submitting your application, be sure that you will enjoy both reading and writing on various topics in the field. It is crucial to find out the areas that you are passionate about. You should select the electives based on your interests and skills.

3. You will be able to pursue a PhD even after doing a non-thesis master’s degree

Most people think that the thesis Master’s degree is the only path to doctoral studies. But that is not the truth. There are several PhD programs that you can enrol in even after completing the non-thesis Master’s degree programs. But before you start the application process, you should check out the requirements of the university where you want to apply.

4. Understanding if applying for multiple Master’s programs in the same university is beneficial

The answer to this question cannot be a simple yes or no. This depends on the course you want to study. The multi-application might or might not work in your favor. You might believe that applying for more than one course at the same university shows that you are very keen to join the university. But this tactic may not improve your chances of getting a spot in the university.

Can applying to two programs at the same university is a right decision?

Some universities encourage students to apply in one course. However, most universities will be fine if you are applying to more than one course. Here your statement of purpose will be the key. It should not appear astonishingly different in your applications as it will cast a doubt on your genuineness both as an applicant and a person.

Can be a wasted choice

There is no point in signing up for two courses if both these courses are a variant of each other. The best example for this is B.Eng and M.Eng. But many universities often ask the student to choose an alternative course so that if they do not get in one, they might get in the other. So, making more than one application in the related subject may be a complete waste of time.

If you have a doubt, you can ask at an open day

Open days are the best days that will help you find out what different courses are all about. You can ask as to which electives you should take and how flexible are each of these. This will help you to come out with a much clearer idea. Applicants are encouraged to participate in open days and discuss the various options with admissions office members.

At Jamboree too, each year we help thousands of students make it to their dream program. This is possible only with the help of sound application strategy, profile building and enhancement, and applying to the right set of universities at the right time. Connect with our experienced counselors for an admissions roadmap now!

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