phd in uk vs us

View the latest institution tables

View the latest country/territory tables

8 big differences between the US and UK PhD experience

And one important similarity. 

Helen Robertson

Credit: Malte Mueller/Getty

And one important similarity.

11 March 2020

Malte Mueller/Getty

In 2019, I took a risk by moving halfway around the world as a postdoctoral researcher in molecular evolution.

Since then, I’ve been struck by how different the grad school experience is here at the University of Chicago in the US, compared with my time at the University College London in the UK, where I completed my PhD in 2017.

Here’s what I’ve noticed:

1. UK grad school interviews are shorter and more lab-specific

In the UK, you’re likely to apply directly to a lab for an advertised project or one that you develop with your supervisor.

In the US, the application process is more centralized. You usually apply to a school instead of a lab. Some programs even require you to take a standardized Graduate Entry Program test, though this seems to be on the decline .

Grad school interviews in the US tend to be longer. They can involve a series of interviews, tours, and faculty events over a number of days.

2. In the US, a work-life balance is harder to achieve

I’ve been surprised by how all-encompassing a US doctorate can be. Even after the first year of teaching, the number of seminars, journal clubs, and university-related activities make the US PhD experience very grad school-centric.

I was fortunate during my UK-based PhD to approach it more like a full-time job than a continuation of my masters year. There were intense periods that required late nights in the lab, but I had time to pursue other interests , which provided some balance and made me more productive at work.

Of course, it’s difficult to generalize about working patterns. Demanding schedules are not wholly dictated by the country you’re studying in. A recent study found that 76% of surveyed grad students spent more than 41 hours a week on their project.

3. It takes longer to complete a PhD in the US

Probably the best-known difference is the time it takes to complete a PhD.

UK PhD programs tend towards three years in length, although it’s increasingly getting closer to four years – a trend that might soon be reflected in funding arrangements .

It’s a different story in the US, where, according to the Survey of Earned Doctorates , students take an average of 5.7 years to graduate.

4. UK PhD fees tend to be lower

Fees err on the more expensive side in the US, as they do for undergraduate degrees – although this isn’t always true for international students.

US PhD fees, coupled with the longer study time, means that the costs associated with grad school are generally higher than in the UK, even before living costs are considered.

If you have a funding body attached to your project, it will likely pay your tuition fees as part of its finance package. But this flags a major difference between the two countries: funding and scholarships.

5. Many US students need to apply for their own funding

From my understanding, most advertised science-based PhD projects in the UK are attached to funding, which covers tuition fees, bench costs, and living expenses. The tax-free PhD stipend set by all UK Research Councils is £15,285 (approximately US$20,000), although other funding bodies pay more.

In the US, there is no national funding level – your level of financial support will be dictated by your school or lab. This means there is generally much more encouragement for US PhD students to apply for their own funding than there is in the UK.

This is good experience for a future scientific career, but if you have to work additional hours to supplement scholarships, you’ll ultimately end up with less time for your project.

6. US PhD programs are more structured

This is particularly true in the first year for US PhDs, which includes lectures, exams, and lab rotations. Only at the end of the first year, after passing your qualifying exam, do you have the opportunity to pick the lab you’re going to pursue your PhD research in.

In the UK, I started in the lab that I spent the duration of my studies in. This meant no structured classes or rotations in my first year, and I began my own research right away.

PhDs that are run through a Doctoral Training Centre (DTC) – centres that manage the Research Council-funded PhD degrees – are increasingly popular in the UK, and include classes and rotations during the first year, but often without the frequent exams and coursework that characterize grad school in the US.

7. There is more focus on defending your thesis in the UK

Writing my thesis was the final hurdle of my UK PhD experience. It gave me the opportunity to document my ideas, successes (and failures), and the context of my project. I defended my thesis in a closed session with two examiners: one internal to my institution, and one external.

From what I’ve seen, finishing a doctorate in the US is less focused on a thesis. Instead, your committee determines that you have completed sufficient work and skill attainment to warrant your defense. Only then can you write your thesis, and defend it in a public session.

In the UK, it’s unlikely you’ll know your examiners well, but a US PhD defense is assessed by the same thesis committee that have known you for the duration of your studies.

8. Teaching is an added bonus in the UK

My UK PhD funding set no teaching requirements: instead, I was free to teach labs and mark coursework at the discretion of my supervisor. And I was paid for any teaching hours I did.

Teaching requirements in the US vary from school to school. For some students, working as a teaching assistant is necessary to pay fees and living expenses – particularly if you don’t have comprehensive funding.

There might also be minimum teaching requirements for the duration of your PhD in the US. In this respect, the time commitment and financial compensation of teaching is very institution-specific.

One important similarity: The lab you join will determine your experience

Despite the differences in structure and requirements between UK and US PhDs, one thing that is common to them all is that, ultimately, your PhD is going to be shaped by the lab you decide to join.

If have a positive working environment and appropriate guidance and support from your supervisor, and you’re interested in and motivated by your thesis topic, then your grad school experience will likely be rewarding.

And that’s true regardless of the country you’re studying in.

• +44 (0) 207 391 9069
• PhD Chapters
• PhD Proposals
• Viva Preparation
• PhD Applications
• Personal Statements
• Proofreading & Editing
• PhD Application

PhD in the UK vs PhD in the US: Key Differences

27th March 2024

Speak right now to our live team of English staff

A doctoral journey is a significant milestone for many aspiring academics. Whether you’re drawn to the cobbled streets of Oxford or the vibrant campuses of California, deciding where to pursue your PhD can shape your academic trajectory. Today, we’ll explore the key differences between undertaking a PhD in the UK compared to the US, considering crucial aspects such as structure, duration, funding, thesis requirements, and career prospects.

1. Structure

In the UK, PhD programmes typically follow a more structured format. These programmes commonly involve focused research from the outset, with minimal coursework requirements. Conversely, in the US, PhD courses typically blend coursework and research. US programmes emphasise a comprehensive education, integrating coursework to build a strong foundation before delving into research.

The duration of a PhD programme differs significantly between the UK and the US. UK programmes are generally shorter, typically lasting three to four years. Conversely, US programmes tend to be longer, averaging around five to seven years. The extended length of US programmes allows students to explore coursework and research extensively, offering a more comprehensive educational experience.

Funding mechanisms for PhD students vary between the UK and the US. In the UK, students often secure funding through scholarships, grants, or institutional stipends. Funding opportunities are competitive but are typically guaranteed for the duration of the programme. In contrast, US PhD programmes commonly offer assistantships or fellowships, providing students with tuition waivers and stipends in exchange for research or teaching responsibilities. Additionally, external funding sources, such as government grants or private foundations, play a significant role in supporting doctoral research in the US.

4. Examination

The process of thesis examination, known as the viva voce in the UK and the dissertation defence in the US, also differs between the two countries. In the UK, the viva voce is an oral examination where the candidate defends their thesis before a panel of examiners. This examination is typically rigorous and may last several hours, with the outcome determining the award of the PhD. In the US, the dissertation defence involves a public presentation followed by a question-and-answer session with a committee of faculty members. While both examinations assess the candidate’s research and understanding of the subject matter, the format and expectations may vary.

5. Career Prospects

Both the UK and the US offer diverse career opportunities for PhD graduates, although the paths may differ slightly. In the UK, PhD holders often pursue careers in academia, research institutes, or industry. The compact nature of UK PhD programmes may appeal to those seeking a quicker entry into the workforce. Conversely, US PhD graduates are well-positioned for academic roles, research positions, industry careers, or leadership roles in government and non-profit organisations. The extended duration of US programmes provides ample time for skill development and networking, enhancing career prospects.

The Bottom Line

While pursuing a PhD in the UK and the US both offer unique advantages, prospective students should carefully consider factors such as programme structure, duration, funding opportunities, thesis requirements, and career pathways. Ultimately, the choice between the two destinations depends on individual preferences, academic interests, and career aspirations. 

Looking for support at any stage of your PhD journey? We’re here to help. From refining research proposals to polishing final theses , our team offers comprehensive assistance tailored to your needs. Reach out today to learn more about how we can support you every step of the way.

You may also like...

How to Write a PhD Personal Statement: Essential Tips and Examples

How to Make a PhD Research Proposal: Essential Guide & Tips

How Long Does a PhD Take in the UK?

Scholarships

Events & Webinars

Course Finder

Universities

Back to all Blogs

11 Secrets of a PhD in Europe vs USA that Matter

A PHD in Europe or USA?

They’re VERY different!

If you are trying to decide between pursuing a PhD in the USA vs a PhD in the UK, you should think more about which fits you best. There are 11 major differences between the two systems and you need to choose the one that fits you best:

Masters Degree

Typically, in Europe, you would join a PhD program after completing your Master’s degree. In the US, you would spend a few years taking courses (alongside research) to get your Master’s degree.

If you already have a Master’s degree, you may get a course waiver, which could reduce the time needed to complete your PhD.

Most of the US universities ask for GRE and TOEFL in your application for PhD program. But this not mandatory for PhD in europe, including UK and German universities. Though TOEFL, preferably above 90, is highly recommended for international students.

Choose your project before starting your PhD

For PhD in the UK (and Europe) , you need to choose a project before starting your PhD program.

This is different from the US , where you typically apply to a department for your PhD first and your thesis and research evolves in a year or two.

There are no class requirements for a PhD in the UK . You begin your research right away. The assumption is PhD students know their research areas. After all, you start by applying to a professor / lecturer with a research area in mind.

Now, that might be true for some students. Others may want to get exposed to new ideas and potential research topics. In addition, they may also want to have a wider peer group that gets formed in classes.

PhD in US vs Europe: Time to completion

PhD programs in the UK (and rest of Europe) take around 3 to 4 years to complete .

After a PhD in the UK, students generally go on to their postdoctoral research.

In the US , a PhD may take up to 5 or 6 years.

After a PhD in the US , students tend to go directly from graduation to academia or research jobs without a postdoc.

In many UK (and European) universities, there are firm guidelines on just how long a PhD takes and those are more important than individual decisions by a student’s advisers. In comparison, in the US, some students can fly through their PhD in 3 years with tremendous amounts of research, while others can take as long as 8 to 10 years to complete their PhD.

There are different systems within Europe.

In Sweden and other Scandinavian countries, a PhD takes 4 to 5 years and includes additional teaching duties. Students in these schools are considered as employees. They receive monthly salaries which are comparable to the salaries earned by graduate students working in various industries and are taxable as well. A PhD student is allowed to either present or attend at least one conference anywhere in the world, expenses for which are taken care of by the research group.

In Germany, a 4-year PhD is considered too long and funding might not be available after the first three years of the PhD program.

Work-life balance

This point is less about the PhD in question, and more about the cultural difference between the UK (and Europe) and the US, but this could be a factor in your decision making if you are particular about the type of culture around you and the kind of lifestyle you wish to have.

The PhD lifestyle is much more relaxed in the UK (and in Europe). You will have more time for yourself as well as your friends and family in the UK, while pursuing your PhD.

In the US, PhD students are often overworked with more teaching and grading responsibilities. They also have a lot of class work.

PhD in UK vs US: Hierarchical Structure

In the US, PhD students report to and directly interact with their professors, but some of the PhD programs in the UK are headed by the Professor but there is also a Reader and a Lecturer. Students sometimes feel this hampers their flexibility to work, while restricting their exposure to the lab as well as the head of the lab.

Uncover the secrets of a Successful PhD

Seek advice from our counsellors today!

Get important information on Whatsapp

Future opportunities.

Some students feel that the US offers more opportunities to PhD students in academia as well as jobs. This can be true as the US has many universities offering teaching positions as well as companies offering jobs to PhD students.

However, irrespective of whether you earn your PhD from Europe or the US, some experts say you may have to hustle to find a great job after your PhD.

Different Stipend (salary)

For most PhD in the UK (and Europe), stipend (or salary) comes centrally from the universities or from Government research organizations. These stipends (or salaries) may be limited to only 3 years.

In the US , stipend (or salary) comes directly from your supervisor without any limitation on the duration of the PhD. Unlike in big US universities, there are fewer TA responsibilities for PhD students in UK universities.

In many cases, you don’t need to pay tax on your income as a graduate student in the UK (and Europe).

In Germany , international PhD students are funded for 3 years by the German government.

Less Publications

In the UK , you have less chances of getting published . Your time is more focused on your thesis document.

Less Chance of Faculty Position Afterwards

In the US , students opt for faculty positions after receiving their PhD .

This isn’t necessarily the case with PhD students in the UK , who opt for postdoc positions to remain in academia.

Get in Touch with Our Counselors!

More Similarity Than Differences

The UK (and European) universities are being influenced by the US system. Many UK universities’ Computer Science schools have Doctoral Training Programs which are essentially 4-year PhD programs, with the first year focused on teaching. These programs offer more flexibility about what you end up doing and who you end up working with. Also, these programs often are sponsored by industries, which means these have higher stipends and you may get an adviser in industry.

So, which one to choose – UK (or Europe) PhD vs US PhD?

Apart from the factors mentioned above, you should focus on the quality of the research group and reputation of the professor. You should look at the top conferences about your topic of interest and note where the papers come from. That’s your best clue as to which university / school you should choose.

Begin your Overseas Journey with us

Recent blogs.

Doing a PhD in Europe vs. the US

Are you thinking of doing a PhD abroad? There are some considerable differences between European and American PhD programs that you should know about before applying. Read on to determine which program is right for you.

Qualifications

It is often not possible to do a PhD in Europe without first earning a Master’s degree. In the US, many PhD programs accept applicants who only have a Bachelor's degree. Students usually earn a Master’s as part of the PhD program after they have completed a few years of coursework and passed certain exams. This doesn't mean that all doctoral candidates in American PhD programs have entered the program straight from undergrad. Several still choose to do a Master’s first before applying for a PhD. In some programs students who already have a Master's might not be required to take as many courses as students with just a Bachelor’s, but this isn't always the case. 

Time to Degree

European PhD programs are shorter than those in the US. For example, it takes three years to complete a PhD in France, Norway, the UK, and Germany. Across Europe, a three to four year PhD in common. In comparison, six years is the average time to degree in the US with many PhDs in the humanities taking seven or eight years to earn their degree.

Thesis Topic

PhD candidates in Europe must choose their thesis topic and supervisor during the application process. Students apply for specific vacant doctoral projects that are usually tied to a professor’s research. As part of their application, they must create a research proposal for this project. It is also possible (in the UK for example) to apply to a department rather than a specific position, but applicants must still include a research proposal and are advised to contact potential supervisors before applying. In the US, candidates apply to a department’s PhD program, rather than a specific PhD project. While they have to discuss their research interests and identify potential supervisors in their applications, students do not decide on their thesis topic until their second or third year. In fact, many science and engineering programs have students rotate between different labs in their first year before deciding on their supervisor and dissertation project.

Teaching Requirement

PhD candidates occasionally have the opportunity to teach in Europe, although teaching is not a requirement in many countries. In the US, PhD candidates are often required to teach undergraduates, often as teaching assistants for a large lecture class. A teaching assistant leads smaller tutorials for 20-30 students and grades their exams and papers. Most PhD students will TA one class each semester for two to three years. Several American PhD programs also have mandatory pedagogy courses for graduate students.

Many European PhD programs require students to do little to no coursework. Candidates start working on their dissertation projects right away. American PhD programs, regardless of the field, require students to take two to three years of courses and seminars about topics across the discipline before they being working on their dissertation.

Funding and Salary

In several European countries, PhD students are seen as employees and have work contracts. As employees, PhD students pay into health insurance, pension, and unemployment insurance. In countries where PhD students are not employees (such as the UK and Italy) students apply for university scholarships, external fellowships, or research grants for funding. Tuition fees are drastically lower in many European countries compared to the United States. Funding at American universities varies widely, as do tuition fees. Private universities have higher tuition than public state schools (though international students usually higher tuition at state schools). The top schools offer five-year funding packages which cover tuition and fees and provide a monthly stipend. They also often include health insurance and conference travel. At other schools, students must compete for fellowships at the university, state, or national level to fund their PhDs. In some departmnets students will be paid and receive partial tuition credit for take teaching assistantship or research assistantship positions.

Comprehensive Exams

Most European PhD programs do not require students to pass qualifying exams to progress through their PhDs. There are some notable exceptions, like Sweden, where PhD candidates do an oral and written exam at the halfway point of their PhD. In the US, students usually have to pass a series of comprehensive exams before they can start working on their dissertation. The exams test the student’s knowledge of the major fields within their discipline. While every university will have a slightly different exam structure, there is usually an oral and a written component. Sometimes students also have to orally defend their dissertation proposal. After the candidate has completed their coursework and passed all the required exams they are considered ABD (all but dissertation).

Discover related jobs

Discover similar employers

Accelerate your academic career

5 Reasons You Should do Your PhD Abroad

Have you ever considered doing your PhD abroad? There are several major ...

Practical Advice for Moving to Germany to Study or Research

Everything you need to know about moving to Germany to research or study...

Should I Do a PhD?

Four questions to ask yourself before deciding to do a PhD.

PhD, Postdoc, and Professor Salaries in Denmark

Interested in working in Denmark? Learn how much PhD students, postdocs,...

A Guide to English Proficiency Tests

Here is an overview of the four most widely-accepten English proficience...

Keep Calm and Ace Your Interview

These tips to help manage your nerves before, during, and after the inte...

Jobs by field

• Electrical Engineering 167
• Machine Learning 152
• Programming Languages 142
• Artificial Intelligence 133
• Mechanical Engineering 119
• Molecular Biology 118
• Materials Engineering 117
• Electronics 111
• Materials Chemistry 104
• Cell Biology 103

Jobs by type

• Postdoc 310
• Assistant / Associate Professor 128
• Research assistant 103
• Professor 97
• Researcher 84
• Engineer 82
• Lecturer / Senior Lecturer 75
• Management / Leadership 48
• Tenure Track 46

Jobs by country

• Belgium 297
• Netherlands 124
• Switzerland 113
• Morocco 105
• Luxembourg 64

Jobs by employer

• Mohammed VI Polytechnic Unive... 105
• KU Leuven 104
• Ghent University 82
• KTH Royal Institute of Techno... 66
• University of Luxembourg 63
• ETH Zürich 58
• University of Twente 37
• Eindhoven University of Techn... 37
• Silicon Austria Labs (SAL) 29

This website uses cookies

Getting a PhD in the UK vs Getting a PhD in the USA

• by Canice Silas

Getting a PhD in the UK vs Getting a PhD in the USA both follow similar procedures, students are expected to undergo extensive research, a series of examinations or vivas, and then submit a dissertation to obtain it. The structure of these three components differ in both countries while the purpose of obtaining it remains the same.

Each step involved in planning, preparing and obtaining a PhD is crucial. It is worth considering that efforts made at each stage will result in building a strong foundation for research students. Although there are significant differences between the systems of higher education in the UK and the USA, ‘successful time management skills’, ‘communication skills – verbally, written and published’, ‘the ability to perform under perpetual pressure’ and a positive attitude towards your research are some of the essential components that when possessed by students will enable them to acquire their PhDs in an efficacious and productive manner.

The demand for doctoral students has been rising as a result of increased scientific research and the need for college-level teachers and researchers in industries, “On average, which country has better compensation for PhD students?” A PhD program is generally five to six years. 35% of the UK’s population possesses at least a bachelor’s degree; (In the world, this is a high percentage.). The USA’s high demand for faculty (and teachers) is partially responsible for its high number of PhD graduates.

Table of Contents

Importance of a PhD

A PhD is a globally recognized postgraduate academic degree which is awarded by universities and is evidence of the bearer’s commitment to the profession. While it is not a mandatory requirement in every field, it is essential in various career paths. Some fields and careers will directly require a doctorate or specialized degree at some point.

On the other hand, in some parts of the world such as the USA, there’s actually a ‘PhD Degree’ which is obtained after a master’s degree alongside a formal structure of a doctoral process and specific doctoral elements.

Decision-Making Factors

Personal preferences and the desired outcomes after three to five years are decisive. In this respect, three major points are quite important: well-paid positions in the industry, becoming a principal investigator at a university, or even a future as a solopreneur or entrepreneur. In each regard, some diplomats and similarities are evident, which will be examined in the next section.

Factors to Consider When Deciding Between Getting a PhD in the UK vs Getting a PhD in the USA

Duration of program.

For students who want a new academic adventure, a PhD from the USA will have them study some classes relevant to their subject, pass lengthy written exams, and write a dissertation to get their degree. Getting a PhD program in the UK, meanwhile, will be much less troublesome and shorter, with but a few classes and tests and an ‘80,000-word requirement. This will surely be a relief to individuals already weary from spending an entire year in a Master’s course, and, who are longing to fulfill that fancy doctorate in less time.

Personal Preferences

In addition to finances, personal life is another factor that may influence your decision on where to study. Do you want to experience living in a different country? Are certain living conditions important, such as the availability of certain dietary requirements, or the climate? Are there any family or personal commitments to consider, that would make studying in either country easier or more difficult for you?

What can you see studying abroad doing for your personal growth? The answers to these questions will only be answered by you. If you are fortunate to know more than one person who has done a PhD in the country you plan to do this in, their insight will provide valuable information for you.

However, as everyone will have different opinions and experiences, make sure your friends only give you advice rather than dictate what YOU should do, as only your experiences as a PhD student will be unique to you.

Career Goals

It is very common for students to apply to PhD programmes, especially in the USA, because they are interested in doing high-level research in academia. In the UK, graduate students apply for a PhD simply to advance their career, not necessarily to do full-time research in the long term. This is why US graduate students in the sciences often have a balls-to-the-walls approach to their studies and invest several years before getting their degree—you know, really buckling down and collecting data for the next ‘big paper.’

In many PhD programs in the US, there is little emphasis on continuing schooling. There are a few foundation classes and exams that students need to undergo . Then you go straight into doing a collaborative research project for about 5-7 years, this is not including time off for personal events (weddings of friends, fathers dying, etc.). English programs in the US are increasing at a much faster speed.

Long-term Implications

Living and working in the USA or the UK could become a hassle as well, especially considering the recent advancements in global culture and technology. While a British or American PhD will make it a little less complicated to live and work in the EU or US, respectively, Antonio Horta-Osorio ‘s story shows that that can change abruptly due to arbitrary reasons.

Having only one nation to comfortably work in the world is nowhere near as good as having two. It is also important to realize that the ratified nature of those regulations only protects those who already reside in Britain and the United States.

Comparing Getting a PhD in the UK  vs Getting a PhD in the USA

One should know that there is a difference when it comes to moving to the UK from the US or vice versa. The two countries are similar in terms of culture but there are so many different laws, rules and regulations between the two countries that can make a difference.

In America, students are taught to learn on the safe side and not on the reckless side while in the UK they are taught the opposite. Moreover, there are minor cultural differences that one should be aware of before considering getting a PhD in the UK vs getting a PhD in the USA.

If you would like to learn more about the different aspects of getting a PhD in the UK vs the US, then draw your seat closer let us look at various factors that differentiate getting a doctorate in the United Kingdom and the United States.

Admission Process

The documents that make up the application for both the US and the UK are similar, but not identical. Often, PhD candidates in both countries will need a research proposal , examples of work, transcripts, and proof of English proficiency.

In the UK, students can apply to a specific program and the research proposal can be flexible within the discipline of the department. In the US, students apply to the program and work with a supervisor to refine their research proposal. Since the PhD in the UK is only three years and in the US more often five or six, students applying to the US typically need to show that they have a master’s degree or a lot of equivalent experience.

In both cases, strong academic backgrounds, clear research goals, and research experience are prioritized. However, UK universities are often more focused on finding PhD candidates who can be ambitious and self-sufficient, whereas US universities are perhaps more focused on finding PhD candidates who fit the most obvious gap that has been identified in the department.

Cost of Tuition

The UK may seem to be more expensive because the average tuition fee for international PhD students is about £22,000 yearly, while USA tuition averages about $35,000. However, UK fees include healthcare coverage, while only private universities in the US offer student healthcare plans.

Application Requirements

In the UK, the main requirements are an undergraduate degree along with a Master’s degree and the possibility of a college entrance exam . Commonly, these entrance exams are standardized tests, which one can get, in certain specialized centers like the British Council . For most programs, a part of the application is also the submission of a research proposal. In the case of specific universities, it’s the standard process for getting onto a doctorate program. The students who go to the UK to do a PhD have one advantage in that they are likely to have English as their first language.

In the case of the US, it depends, normally, on the institution and the department that one is applying to. Moreover, for international students, they must prove English proficiency by taking TOEFL iBT or IELTS.

Selection Criteria

Academic background is one of the most important selection criteria in the US. Students are also required to take the GRE test and have a high grade point average (GPA) from their master’s degree. Finally, some universities require students to have relevant work experience in the area of their PhD interest before applying.

In the UK, universities usually demand a minimum of a 2:1 mark on the undergraduate degree, as well as a distinction on the master’s degree. Some universities ask applicants to take the GRE test and submit their scores if they are not native speakers, others only need students to provide proof of their English language proficiency.

Many universities require students to submit detailed research proposals and find a supervisor willing to support their research before they can submit their applications.

Funding Opportunities/Cost of Tuition

In the UK, PhD students might be eligible for a student stipend, which is often called PhD Funding or PhD Support. This is similar to a bursary, but is specifically aimed at PhD students. The stipend can be awarded for 3 years, with potential for an additional 3-4 years. The typical minimum stipend awarded can range from £15,000 to £22,000 per year, which is tax-free.

On the contrary, PhD students in the USA have opportunities to receive funding from the university through teaching and research assistantships. Commonly, PhD students in the USA gain the opportunity to become Teaching Assistants (TA) or Research Assistants (RA), which usually requires around 20 hours per week. This work typically involves leading discussion seminars, marking exam papers, undertaking laboratory preparation and experiments, and general lecturing. This support provides students with a monthly stipend, which typically ranges from $2,000 to $3,000 per month in addition to a tuition waiver for a certain number of credits per semester.

Program Structure and Duration

One of the distinguishing factors between UK and US programs is the level of coursework required. The UK requires students to take more formal academic coursework and may require students to take more of it towards the beginning of the program than is required in the United States. In the United Kingdom, a student may not start their dissertation or research work until they have passed some of these required classes and, in some programs, some measure of competency examinations. United States programs generally call for fewer formal requirements, whereas UK course requirements are spread out throughout the program.

In the UK, completion time for a PhD ranges from 3 to 4 years, while in the US it is generally 5 to 8 years. The UK projects are shorter because a master’s degree is a prerequisite for entry. In the US, getting a master’s degree in the process of going for a doctorate is quite common, and the additional qualification makes the projects longer. In addition, a distinction should be made between progression time and actual doctorate time.

Research Component

In the UK, the research phase for a PhD is condensed into a three-year window of time, which makes UK PhDs significantly more focused than American ones. In the US, it often takes two years for students to complete the research phase alone, with a typical range being one to three years. The key reason some students take significantly longer to complete a PhD in the US than in the UK is also linked to funding: in the UK, the PhD is often free to the student.

So unlike US students, UK students do not have to search for their own funding, and a UK PhD is less likely to run into years of additional research because the student also has to hold a full-time job. In addition, UK students are not expected to take on teaching assignments as part of their PhD programs.

Supervisor-Student Dynamics

The forms that typical supervision takes are not the same in both the UK and the USA. Supervising a PhD student in the UK is usually considered to involve less frequent meetings than in the USA, and be slightly more hands-off. A typical PhD in the USA will see students in regular meetings sharing chunks of their writing, whether dissertation chapters, papers, or conference papers. This is only one of a few reasons why PhD students from the USA coming to the UK need to be extra prepared for more total self-study hours.

These differences change the relationships between supervisors and supervisees. The other is the typical division of power with the academic advisor. In the UK the supervisor is a formal advisor, giving advice when asked of him or her, and the PhD candidate has no problem in reminding the advisor that they are the authoritative figure in the relationship. In the USA, the advisor is more than just an advisor.

Also, they have the authority to sign off on the PhD committee paperwork which is an important part of the PhD process. They can even prohibit the student from taking the dissertation proposal defence, the dissertation defence, or the student from graduation if they were to refuse to sign off on the student’s dissertation.

Publication and Research Output

Postgraduate and research funding projects in the United States are higher than in the United Kingdom. Typical attitudes towards publishing research in the UK and the USA are very different. In the UK, the focus is often more on getting research published in peer-reviewed journals, which are then read by other academics but cost quite a significant amount of money to access. On the other hand in the USA, the emphasis is more on getting the research out to those who will use it in practical contexts and so articles are aimed at a more general audience.

Work-Life Balance as a PhD student

There is much concern about the mental health and general well-being of PhD students due to the demands of their studies. It is often noted that the more independent style of a US PhD means greater work hours and perhaps less work-life balance. However, these claims are unsubstantiated and the following comparison of conditions indicates that they are not necessarily true.

If you are a PhD student, the work-life balance will be similar in both the US and UK. For the remote PhD student or those with long days spent at a computer, taking regular breaks is important for physical as well as mental health. Moreover, it is important to ensure that these breaks are not taken at the same time every day and it is important to remember that our work is often desk-based, so we do need to take care of our bodies as well as our minds. If you are working in a lab or an office it will also offer a welcome break from the screen and for many.

Post Studies Life

This is the part where many people will choose to live in the country they studied in. Also, each country has its own set of minimum stay requirements making it hard for students to get out and travel beyond the borders within the first year of their studies. This is something that could be a limiting factor in the advantage of choosing the country to study in.

Advantages of Getting a PhD in the UK Over Getting a PhD in the USA

Higher commitment to equality and fairness.

The UK government places a strong emphasis on upholding principles of equality and fairness, ensuring that every individual, regardless of their background, is provided with equitable opportunities

Full Funding for all PhD Students

The UK government wholeheartedly supports the education and research endeavors of PhD students by fully funding their programs. This comprehensive financial support includes tuition fees and living expenses, eliminating any financial burdens and allowing students to focus solely on their academic pursuits.

Shorter Programs and Faster Completion Times

Recognizing the value of time, UK universities have taken concrete steps to streamline PhD programs, resulting in shorter durations and faster completion times. By implementing efficient structures and tailored processes, students can expedite their research and complete their programs in a more timely manner, thus optimizing their academic journey.

Total Focus on Research, No Extra Classes

In the UK, PhD students are enabled to fully immerse themselves in their chosen field of study without any distractions. Unlike some other educational systems, PhD students in the UK are not obligated to engage in coursework outside of their subject area, allowing them to focus all their energy and attention on conducting groundbreaking research and making significant contributions to their respective disciplines.

Generous Visa Possibilities Post Graduation

The UK government values the presence and contributions of international students and offers a range of generous visa possibilities for those who wish to remain in the country after completing their PhD programs. This allows students to continue their careers, embark on meaningful employment opportunities, and contribute to the growth and innovation of the UK while enjoying the vibrant and diverse culture that the country has to offer.

Advantages of Getting a PhD in the USA Over Getting a PhD in the UK

Abundant opportunities.

The United States of America, renowned for its world-class universities with international acclaim, provides an unparalleled allure for ambitious individuals pursuing their academic and professional aspirations. With a multitude of distinguished institutions, the USA offers an abundance of opportunities for intellectual expansion and the attainment of global recognition, attracting researchers from all corners of the globe.

Abundant Financial Support

The availability of abundant financial support and scholarships further enhances the attractiveness of these countries as research destinations, providing aspiring researchers with invaluable resources to fulfill their scientific endeavors. The United States, in particular, is known for its generous funding opportunities and prestigious fellowships, making it even more appealing to those who seek to push the boundaries of knowledge and innovation.

Networking Opportunities

The multitude of universities scattered throughout the vast expanse of the USA lays the foundation for potential collaborations and networking opportunities, expanding horizons and fostering meaningful connections that can propel research to unprecedented heights. The academic communities within both countries are vibrant and diverse, offering a platform for interdisciplinary collaboration and the exchange of ideas. By fostering such an environment, researchers can draw inspiration from various fields and perspectives, allowing for the generation of groundbreaking discoveries and advancements.

With this rich tapestry of advantages, both countries undeniably emerge as paramount destinations for postgraduate studies . Not only do they offer state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge research infrastructure, but they also provide a supportive ecosystem that nurtures intellectual curiosity and innovation. The academic institutions within these countries prioritize excellence and strive to create an environment that is conducive to the pursuit of knowledge and the advancement of society as a whole.

Both the UK and the US are popular destinations for international PhD students to study. The opportunity of getting a PhD in the UK or getting a PhD in the USA certainly has its advantages. Both nations are renowned for their quality provision and it is at this level where the differences begin to start. International fees are typically much higher in the US than in the UK; on average, a two-year-long PhD can cost around $80,000 without a scholarship.

By comparison, in the UK international students can expect to pay around £40,000-£50,000 for a four-year program, so the average yearly in the US would be more expensive. Although it may not appeal financially to students with not much money, the ability to work whilst studying in the US makes it a much more feasible option than the UK.

Share this:

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on X (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
• Click to print (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Mastodon (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Nextdoor (Opens in new window)

Canice Silas

Canice U. Silas is a dedicated scholar who has channeled the last 20 years of his life to various forms of scholastic pursuits. He holds a BSC in Industrial Chemistry and a master's degree in Inorganic Chemistry from the prestigious Imo State University, Owerri. Mr Silas is set to complete his PhD in Inorganic Chemistry within the next six months. Passionate about the classroom from his elementary school days, Mr Silas grabbed the first opportunity that came his way at the Imo State University where he worked as A. A and currently K. O. Mbadiwe University, as a lecturer and as well has been into educational consulting for thousands of students across various tertiary institutions in the world.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

20 countries offering affordable doctoral degrees or no-cost phds, phd careers: popular misconceptions about postgraduate study, you may also like.

• 8 minute read

10 Cheapest Cities in the UK for PhD Students

• 13 minute read

10 Tips to Save Money As A Doctoral Candidate in The USA

• 5 February 2024

• 7 minute read

Benefits of Studying in Canada as an International PhD Student

• 25 February 2024

• 9 minute read

Top 12 Destinations for Postgraduate Studies in 2023

• 9 December 2023

• 10 minute read

Top 10 Menial Jobs For PhD Students in the UK

• 11 December 2023

Discover more from Doctorate Guru

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

• 5 Things American Grad Students Need to Know About Doing a PhD in the UK

Thinking of heading across the pond to do your PhD? You’re not alone! According to the latest student mobility figures from UNESCO, over 19,000 Americans recently attended British universities, making the UK the most popular study abroad destination among US citizens.

But what do you need to know about PhD study in the UK? And how does it differ from doctoral programmes offered by American universities? This blog aims to answer those questions, as well as providing useful information on applications and funding opportunities.

#1 PhD programmes in the UK are a little different to those in the USA

American PhD programmes (or should I say ‘programs’?) usually involve comprehensive training, with lessons, seminars and lectures an important element of the preparation needed to tackle the dissertation.

By contrast, PhDs in the UK place more emphasis on being able to dive into your research project right from the start , whether that means beginning your dissertation / thesis or commencing the lab experiments that you’ll be analysing later on.

This is one of the reasons why a UK PhD is usually shorter than its American cousin, taking between three and four years of full-time study .

Although British doctoral programmes don’t typically place as much emphasis on training as their American counterparts, students still have plenty of opportunities for extra-curricular activities like teaching , publishing and presenting at academic conferences .

In order to pass your PhD, you’ll need to successfully complete an oral exam known as the viva , taking a similar format to a PhD defence. Indeed, you’ll be required to ‘defend’ your thesis against a panel of experts and their probing questions.

#2 The application process depends on your PhD

When you’re applying for a PhD at a British university, the process largely depends on your research area, as well as the kind of project you want to undertake.

If you’re applying for a PhD in the Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences , it’s likely that you’ll be making your own research proposal : a document that clearly outlines your project and underlines the significance of the work you want to do. You’ll need to scope out potential supervisors who will be willing to guide you through the process.

For STEM subjects , on the other hand, it’s more common for students to apply to a project that’s already been planned and agreed on – often with funding attached. Applications in this case are more like a job interview, where you prove your capability of taking on the PhD project in question.

You can find thousands of calls for proposals and advertised projects on our website.

#3 Make sure you meet the entry requirements

It’s quite common in the USA for Bachelors students to go straight to a PhD, but this isn’t always the case in the UK – you’ll normally need a Masters-level qualification to meet the entry requirements for a British PhD (particularly for AHSS subjects).

#4 There are several funding options for American students

There are several viable options for funding a PhD in the UK, from studentships funded by the UK government to international scholarship schemes and federal loans. We’ve covered a few of the main ones below.

Research Council studentships

The seven Research Councils are the biggest funders of PhD research in the UK:

• Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC)
• Biotechnology and Bioscience Research Council (BBSRC)
• Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC)
• Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC)
• Medical Research Council (MRC)
• Natural Environment Research Council (NERC)
• Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)

These organisations offer studentships that include a tax-free, annual stipend of around £17,668 (USD $20,788) as well as a contribution to PhD tuition fees.

Previously, this funding was only fully available to UK students, but as of the 2021-22 academic year, international students (including Americans!) are eligible too.

Please note that you still apply directly to the university for this kind of funding, rather than the Research Councils themselves.

Fulbright Scholarships

The Fulbright Commission aims to foster cultural and scholarly connections between the UK and the USA, funding student exchanges between the two countries.

Fulbright Postgraduate Awards are one element of this, providing a full tuition fee waiver for outstanding US students to undertake a year of PhD study at a UK university, as well as a generous living cost stipend and healthcare coverage.

PhD programmes at selected universities are eligible for this funding, as well as Masters courses.

The application deadline for next year’s round of Postgraduate Awards has now passed, but you can find out more about how to apply on the Fulbright Commission website.

Marshall Scholarships

Marshall Scholarships also provide funding for talented American students to embark on PhD study at any UK university .

This financial support comprises a tuition fee waiver, an allowance for living costs, a return ticket from the USA and educational expenses.

These scholarships cover three years of PhD study, with extensions only available in limited circumstances.

The deadline for Marshall Scholarship applications has now closed.

Federal student aid

It’s possible to secure federal student aid for a PhD in the UK. First of all you should check that your prospective university participates in a federal student aid programme.

There are two options available to graduate students:

• Direct Unsubsidized Loans
• Direct PLUS Loans

Direct Unsubsidized Loans are non-means-tested and can provide up to $20,500 per year (this amount depends on your cost of attendance and other financial support you have, such as university scholarships). The total amount of unsubsidized loans you can claim is $138,500 . Compared to subsidized loans, the US government does not contribute towards the interest on these loans while you’re studying and for the first six months after you’ve finished the course.

Find out more about Direct Unsubsidized Loans .

Direct PLUS Loans are intended to contribute towards any other study costs not already covered by loans or financial support. This means they can make up for a shortfall from a Direct Unsubsidized Loan.

Find out more about Direct PLUS Loans for grad students .

You’ll need to pass a credit check in order to apply for federal student aid. You can find out more about repayment plans on the US Department of Education website.

#5 Applying for a student visa is straightforward

After you’ve chosen your PhD programme and sorted out your funding, you can start thinking about applying for a student visa.

We’ve written a comprehensive guide to how student visas in the UK work , but these are the basics:

• You can begin your visa application online six months before the start of your PhD
• You’ll need to provide proof of your confirmation of acceptance for studies (CAS) – this is a statement that your prospective university will supply
• The application process is mostly online although you’ll have to submit fingerprints and a passport photo at a visa application centre in the States

You’ll need to provide evidence of your financial support:

• £1,334 per month (USD $1,835) for up to nine months for courses in London
• £1,023 per month (USD $1,405) for up to nine months for courses outside of London

The UK student visa allows you to work 20 hours a week part-time during term time and full-time during academic breaks.

If you decide to stay in the UK after your PhD, the Graduate Route visa offers international postgraduates the opportunity to live and work in the UK for up to two years after their course finishes.

Our postgrad newsletter shares courses, funding news, stories and advice

You may also like....

5 differences between PhDs in the USA and the UK

They're the world's most popular destinations for graduate (or postgraduate) study, but how do the USA and the UK compare as PhD options?

The UK Graduate Route – information and FAQs for postgraduate students

The new UK Graduate Route is now open, offering a post-study work visa to anyone who has completed a degree at a UK university.

7 things you should know about Research Council PhD studentships

Looking for a quick guide to Research Council studentships for PhD study? Here's what you really need to know about the UK's most generous PhD funding.

FindAPhD. Copyright 2005-2024 All rights reserved.

Unknown    ( change )

Have you got time to answer some quick questions about PhD study?

Select your nearest city

You haven’t completed your profile yet. To get the most out of FindAPhD, finish your profile and receive these benefits:

• Monthly chance to win one of ten £10 Amazon vouchers ; winners will be notified every month.*
• The latest PhD projects delivered straight to your inbox
• Access to our £6,000 scholarship competition
• Weekly newsletter with funding opportunities, research proposal tips and much more
• Early access to our physical and virtual postgraduate study fairs

Or begin browsing FindAPhD.com

or begin browsing FindAPhD.com

*Offer only available for the duration of your active subscription, and subject to change. You MUST claim your prize within 72 hours, if not we will redraw.

Do you want hassle-free information and advice?

Create your FindAPhD account and sign up to our newsletter:

• Find out about funding opportunities and application tips
• Receive weekly advice, student stories and the latest PhD news
• Hear about our upcoming study fairs
• Save your favourite projects, track enquiries and get personalised subject updates

Create your account

Looking to list your PhD opportunities? Log in here .

Stack Exchange Network

Stack Exchange network consists of 183 Q&A communities including Stack Overflow , the largest, most trusted online community for developers to learn, share their knowledge, and build their careers.

Q&A for work

Connect and share knowledge within a single location that is structured and easy to search.

Which differences are there between Math PhD programs in the US and in the UK regarding admission, funding, and reputation?

I'm an American citizen and a Junior at a US institution and I've recently been compiling a list of graduate schools to apply to. I'm mostly interested in differential geometry and geometric analysis. In addition to domestic institutions I have been looking at institutions in the UK such as the London School of Geometry and Number Theory, Cambridge, Oxford, etc...

Are there any fundamental differences in the way UK PhD programs admit and train their students? As an international student would I also be able to obtain funding for my education the same way I would be able to in the United States? Finally, how are UK PhD's looked upon in the American Academic job market? I imagine there shouldn't be much difference but there could be some politics I'm overlooking. Thank you.

• graduate-admissions
• graduate-school
• mathematics
• united-kingdom

• Hi, and welcome to Academia! I took the liberty of editing your question to be a bit more specific, since you apparently do not ask about anywhere outside the US, but the UK in particular. –  Stephan Kolassa Jun 3, 2015 at 14:28
• 2 There are many separate questions in this post. It would probably be better to split the main ones into separate questions. –  Roger Fan Jun 3, 2015 at 14:31
• 1 This question about PhD in the US compared to Europe highlights some of the differences between US/Europe Phd including UK. –  gman Jun 3, 2015 at 14:45
• The London School of Geometry and Number Theory has a similar setup to PhD positions in the US - it has a first year of coursework, after which you choose an advisor. By comparison the coursework in a Cambridge or Oxford PhD is rather little. I imagine because of this it is easer to obtain a place in the London School without a masters, whereas this is quite rare for Oxbridge maths PhDs. –  R D Jun 3, 2015 at 14:59

3 Answers 3

I am a first-year PhD student at Oxford, having done some graduate work (and my undergrad) in the US. My answer might be a bit institution specific as Ruadhai Dervan suggested above, but it appears there are some trends across the UK that are quite different from in the US.

"Are there any fundamental differences in the way UK PhD programs admit and train their students?" - Most students seem to enter a PhD program in the UK with a fairly specific field of study in mind. For my applications to Manchester, Warwick, and Oxford I had to write a research proposal for a fairly specific topic for each application, as well as have an idea of who might supervise this research. Many students deviate substantially from these ideas, but almost all students here work in a very similar area to what they applied for. In contrast, I know many US students who started out doing pure mathematics preliminary exams and found themselves finishing a thesis in a very different area, such as Numerical Analysis or Mathematical Biology. These things happen much more infrequently in the UK, in part because the programs are much shorter. The Oxford PhD is designed as a 3 year course, though many students take 4 or more years in practice. Some institutions are starting Doctoral Training Centres where a first year of training and project mentoring occurs. This is similar in flavour to US institutions having preliminary or qualifying exams, but these are often much more directed than in the US. I have not heard of any UK program where anything like preliminary or qualifying exams takes place, so that appears to be a US component of graduate school not present here. I would suggest looking at specific institution overviews of their PhD courses to get an idea of how they compare to US PhD programs.

Another important difference is the emphasis here on research as opposed to teaching. Most students in my program do some teaching, but it is frequently less than three hours a week. In comparison, my MS program in the States had me teaching 10+ hours a week, often with 10 or so hours of prep and grading. I also began doing research the week I arrived, whereas a US student may spend some years deciding on a specific topic to study. PhD students here also spend less time attending classes, and coursework requirements seem to be incredibly minimal compared to most programs in the US.

"As an international student would I also be able to obtain funding for my education the same way I would be able to in the United States?" - Probably not in general. Most US students in my experience are funded as Teaching Assistants, and they spend a lot of time teaching. Students are paid for their teaching services here, but the quantity is so much less that the funding from teaching is nowhere near enough to cover tuition and living expenses for most students. Exceptions probably exist, but most students here seem to be funded from grants their supervisors have, grants or scholarships they have gotten (e.g. Fullbright, Marshall scholarships), or similar things. You can apply for loans subsidized by the US government as well, just as you would for a domestic program. Many students are now funded through the Doctoral Training Centres, but at Oxford the funding for these is almost entirely for UK/EU students.

Your third question is a bit difficult for me to answer without any experience, so I will refrain from conjecturing. Most people have suggested to me that other factors, such as quantity and quality of publications, conferences and connections made, etc, are more important than where you obtained your PhD.

I would suggest finding a copy of Steven Krantz' book 4 , and read through it as soon as you can. It is directed almost entirely at students applying for or entering US programs, and is useful just to get an idea of what the whole enterprise of a PhD is about.

I feel like I wrote this rant somewhere else, but at the danger of repeating myself, let me just say: going to the UK (or Europe more generally) for a Ph.D. after a Bachelors in the US is not a very good idea. The philosophy about what a Bachelors degree is is so different in the UK vs. the US that only the best US students are really ready to start a European Ph.D. program and complete it in a timely manner before their funding runs out. Most European Ph.D. programs start from the default assumption that you will finish in 3 years (though I think in the UK especially, there's been a recognition of the flaws of this system, and move toward getting students a 4th year), and have a fairly hard deadline. Most US programs will guarantee you 5 years of funding, with a 6th often being possible in practice (and sometimes a 7th, though this depends a lot on the university situation). European students are starting having done much more serious coursework, which in theory makes a shorter Ph.D. with minimal coursework and starting a thesis problem instantly more reasonable (though it's still a struggle for a lot of people; theses don't necessarily come on deadline).

I think it would be more reasonable to join a European program after doing a serious masters (note that Andrew Krause who answered above already had a masters before starting at Oxford). However, there are still other concerns: the funding situation in most EU countries is not all sunshine and rainbows for local students and usually heavily biased against non-EU students. LSGNT (which sounds like a more reasonable option than most) says that funding for non-EU students is "limited," for example.

Of course, it would be silly to say it's never a good idea, but going anywhere outside the US and Canada is making it harder for yourself in a number of ways, without it being clear what the payoff is. In terms of reputation, a few places in Europe have very strong reputations in the US (Oxbridge and Imperial in the UK, some of the Paris's in France) but beyond that, the situation is basically like going to a respectable but not especially prestigious school in the US: if your work stands on its own, it will take you places, but the name of the school is unlikely to even help get you a second look except through the reputation of your advisor.

• 1 I'd add to this that supervisors matter far more in the UK than in the USA, certainly outside lab-based PhDs. Your relationship with your supervisor is individual and crucial, you rely on them far more and their reputation will matter post PhD. –  ctokelly Jun 4, 2015 at 18:29
• @ctokelly I think that's a hard thing to adjudicate, but your comment doesn't ring true to me. I'm sure it's harder in the UK to be some what independent of your advisor because there's so much time pressure, and you have less of a chance of "shopping around" with different advisors in the department. But the relationship is still crucial, and their reputation is still going to matter a lot. –  Ben Webster Jun 5, 2015 at 0:58
• I might well be misrepresenting American academia or extrapolating incorrectly from the social sciences and humanities in the UK, so correct me if needs be! When a doctoral student walks into my school, he or she is assigned a supervisor, say me, and then I am in effect their sole reviewer, mentor, network introducer and viva organiser for the duration of their studies. They don't have a cohort, just me and their project. Of course we try to ameliorate the risks by having 'second supervisors' and by organising training events etc, but still, it all hangs on that relationship. –  ctokelly Jun 5, 2015 at 6:32
• 1 @ctokelly I guess I think of the difference as being that in the UK you start roughly where a US student would expect to be 2 years into the program. (In my experience) at the start of your Ph.D. you're taking classes and trying on different advisors for size (in some disciplines, they even have a formal rotation system), but once you choose an advisor and get into the research, you are essentially totally dependent on your advisor (exactly how much depends on discipline, etc.). Maybe the dependence is even greater in the UK; I can't rightly say. –  Ben Webster Jun 5, 2015 at 10:07
• Point taken @BenWebster. –  ctokelly Jun 5, 2015 at 12:15

Here are some points on UK PhDs:

Most Uk PhDs are 3 (up to 4 years) and applicants have completed a masters when they start.

Applications are generally directly for a particular project and done directly through your proposed supervisor.

Little or no coursework is included as part of the PhD, focus is entirely on research.

The London School of Geometry and Number Theory is a Doctoral training centre (DTC). These are more similar to the American system. They are 4 years and only require a bacholars. The first year involves taught course and results a Masters, then you choose a PhD project for the next 3 years. Admissions are generally done centrally.

Funding, if available, will generally cover tuition fees and a stipend ~£12000 per year. Some additional income can be made by teaching/marking. Although generally the time spent on this is small.

A large amount of funding comes from EPSRC and other research council grants. These are generally limited to UK/EU students. However, other sources of funding do not have these restrictions. You probably need to enquire on a case by case basis.

An additional issue is that non-EU students generally have to pay higher tuition fees. This makes them harder to fund than EU students.

There are various scholarships and funds that provide funding to international students. For US students I know of the Fullbright commision . Although I'm sure there are others.

You must log in to answer this question.

Not the answer you're looking for browse other questions tagged graduate-admissions graduate-school mathematics united-kingdom ., hot network questions.

• How to center caption under underlined text
• Handshakes Combinatorics Problem
• How do you prove transitivity of equality?
• Review not needed after review
• Is bike tyre pressure info deliberately hard to read?
• Integrating slower growing functions to find a faster growing function
• Why does White castle into Black's attack in the King's Indian, and then run away afterwards?
• Calculating Living Area on a Concentric Shellworld
• How to typeset commutative diagrams
• Did Gambit and Rogue have children?
• VS Code not launching after incorrect command execution on Ubuntu 22.04
• How can I hang heavy bikes under a thick wooden shelf?
• Why don't professors seem to use learning strategies like spaced repetition and note-taking?
• What is the difference in meaning between the two sentences?
• Why is the magnitude of the cross product equal to the parallelogram spanned by the two vectors?
• How might a physicist define 'mind' using concepts of physics?
• Is the barrier to entry for mathematics research increasing, and is it at risk of becoming less accessible in the future?
• Python matrix class
• Short story about a neurodivergent child who becomes a pilot
• Understanding the Amanda Knox, Guilty Verdict for Slander
• Effects if a human was shot by a femtosecond laser
• Could a 200m diameter asteroid be put into a graveyard orbit and not be noticed by people on the ground?
• What is every charm combo in Hollow Knight?
• My vehicle shut off in traffic and will not turn on

• Remember me Not recommended on shared computers

Forgot your password?

UK vs US PhDs

By 35mm_ March 4, 2018 in History

Recommended Posts

Hey everyone I wanted to start a thread about choosing between UK and US PhD programs. As many of us might be stuck between these very fortunate but equally distressing choices, I felt some advice from folks here might prove helpful.

Some of such questions that have crossed my mind so far: 

What are some of the major differences that one should consider while making a decision? 

Does a three year PhD from UK disadvantage you in the US?

Does one make you better prepared for the job market than the other? 

How much weightage should one give to accessibility of archives?

I have been told that US programs typically prepare you more for teaching while in the UK one has to actively seek these opportunities? 

Are certain fields more popular in one place over the other? (For example science and war seems to be huge in the US while themes about empire and science seem to be more widely discussed in the UK)

 P.S I am a history of sci&tech applicant currently deciding between UPenn/Princeton and Cambridge (HPS) / Oxford (History of Science). 

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

The reality is that, everything else aside, US programs do a much better job of preparing you for the US job market. If you’re planning on applying for US TT jobs in 6 or 7 years, Princeton and UPenn are going to leave you better-placed. In the UK you’ll be starting your dissertation pretty much as soon as you enter and that wasn’t appealing to me—there’s something to be said for coursework and exams. The two to three years I have to get my head around various fields and to take classes outside of my field is invaluable. 

I will more than likely be going to a UK university this upcoming semester. After doing quite a bit of research and talking to UK postgraduates and PhD candidates, the differences disappear quite quickly. Most UK universities offer PhD candidates the ability to teach, take classes, and extend your dissertation to 4 years (but not any further). On top of that, the UK has more funding options for European research trips (at least the universities I applied to) because the cost of travel is cut by 80% in comparison to the USA. However, the real issue comes down to finances. American universities tend to offer funding for all candidates, while the UK makes you compete with the rest of the graduate school. In short, most UK universities have started to realize that the rigidity within the 3-year system has made them less attractive to international students, therefore, the universities are beginning to change and adopt some of the perks from the American system.

historyperson

US PhDs are more competitive on both sides of the Atlantic (at least in US history), and certainly more competitive in the US. Especially when your US PhD options are Penn or Princeton. Doing coursework and comprehensive exams will prepare you to teach, which is what most professorships emphasize. The US degree will serve you better by setting you up for a broader range of options. While non-academics can be impressed by European institutions on your CV, in my experience most historians recognize a US degree as a better indicator of depth and breadth of training. And it's other historians who will be evaluating you for a job, if you want to enter academia. It's still possible for you to give yourself that depth and breadth on your own, and to be an impressive historian, coming out of a UK institution. But in the early going, you will have to work harder to demonstrate that you can teach, know your field well, etc., and I don't see a great reason to put yourself through that if you don't have to.

The only caveats: if your archives are all in Europe, yes, there's an advantage to basing yourself in the UK--when it comes time to research. In my mind this is still a secondary concern to having coursework, comps, and a longer, more competitive program in the US, especially if your US program options have some guaranteed fellowship years (no teaching) where you can base yourself in the UK for a research year or two. I'd imagine Princeton, at least, is good at this. If your 100% perfect advisor is in the UK, and your American advising options don't feel quite right, that's another reason to consider a UK degree over an American one, as advisor fit is the most important factor when deciding between reasonably funded offers. And, of course, if you have personal reasons for wanting to be in the UK, you're in the best position to make that judgment call. But if your goal is a tenure track job in a history department, my money is on the US degree as the easiest, most competitive way forward. There are great postdoc opportunities in the UK and Europe, which would likely be the most beneficial way to get some time in the UK into your career. 

(all with a caveat that I don't know the History of Science job market) (and that getting a terminal MA in the UK can be a great option for boosting an application--my comments pertain only to a US vs. UK PhD dilemma)

• OHSP and PaulaHsiuling

Averroes MD

14 hours ago, 35mm_ said: Hey everyone I wanted to start a thread about choosing between UK and US PhD programs. As many of us might be stuck between these very fortunate but equally distressing choices, I felt some advice from folks here might prove helpful. Some of such questions that have crossed my mind so far:  What are some of the major differences that one should consider while making a decision?  Does a three year PhD from UK disadvantage you in the US? Does one make you better prepared for the job market than the other?  How much weightage should one give to accessibility of archives? I have been told that US programs typically prepare you more for teaching while in the UK one has to actively seek these opportunities?  Are certain fields more popular in one place over the other? (For example science and war seems to be huge in the US while themes about empire and science seem to be more widely discussed in the UK) Thanks!   P.S I am a history of sci&tech applicant currently deciding between UPenn/Princeton and Cambridge (HPS) / Oxford (History of Science). 

I'm in Religion, but I think the answers still apply. I also was picking between Oxford and Harvard, and chose Harvard... Although for me, I lost my funding source at Oxford... But, even if I had gotten funding at Oxford, I'd still have chosen Harvard (or any other highly ranked US program).

Don't know.

As long as there is no major knock against it, I would choose Princeton. You gotta be realistic with placement after graduation. You are already fighting an uphill battle. 

In addition, I think US program will train you better, due to (1) stricter language requirements, (2) coursework, (3) comprehensives, (4) teaching, etc. However, this isn't to deny that there must be some super stars at UK programs... I'm just saying: if you have a choice between US and UK--especially when one of those choices is Princeton or UPenn--the choice becomes easy.

lordtiandao

A US degree from a prestigious school is certainly more recognizable on the job market. HK universities all prefer graduates from top 10-20 US universities and it's becoming increasingly difficult for PhDs from HK, UK, and elsewhere to find tenure positions here.

In short, choose US PhD.  I've talked with PhD students from UK, French, Israeli, Swiss, and German universities and they're all jealous of my PhD training- the ability to study so much more than your dissertation topic through coursework and exams.  And, oh, readily available teaching opportunities.

21 hours ago, Tigla said:  In short, most UK universities have started to realize that the rigidity within the 3-year system has made them less attractive to international students, therefore, the universities are beginning to change and adopt some of the perks from the American system.

At the moment this really just means maybe (depending on the school) giving you four rather than 3 years to complete your dissertation, it doesn't mean years of coursework devoted to establishing expertise in fields, which is the main difference between the two systems.

3 hours ago, OHSP said: At the moment this really just means maybe (depending on the school) giving you four rather than 3 years to complete your dissertation, it doesn't mean years of coursework devoted to establishing expertise in fields, which is the main difference between the two systems.

Yes, that is correct. However, the blanket statement/idea that the UK is far behind American programs is starting to become harder to defend. I have been offered research assistantships for my first year which is followed by teaching responsibilities for the next two years at both Oxford and University of Birmingham. Also, conference and travel funding has been moved from a university-level decision to the department. From my experience, the UK system is realizing its deficiencies and attempting to mitigate them in order to become more competitive with American PhDs. However, the UK system is still geared towards crafting a dissertation within a defined topic/area (and probably will remain so regardless of the changes).

What is your research area? Cambridge is far better than Princeton/UPenn in some areas, but pales in comparison to others.

anon1234567

Thank you everyone! That was very helpful!

2 hours ago, psstein said: What is your research area? Cambridge is far better than Princeton/UPenn in some areas, but pales in comparison to others. That was my impression as well. Histories of science and the empire, which is what I study, seem great at Cambridge. 

4 hours ago, psstein said: What is your research area? Cambridge is far better than Princeton/UPenn in some areas, but pales in comparison to others.  

Agreed. The Cambridge History of Science program is superb. That's a blanket statement. 

If you choose to stay on this side of the pond, then Penn over Princeton. Penn's History and Sociology of Science is excellent. Their training is what other programs aspire to, their faculty is supportive, and the student body is cohesive and very friendly. 

But Princeton over Penn if you want a broad history training. Penn's HSS is a stand alone program. Not sure what their relationship is with the history department. Penn's history department, however, is superb! 

But look at placement rates because history of science grads usually get history jobs, rather than history of science jobs, those are rare. 

8 hours ago, anon1234567 said: Agreed. The Cambridge History of Science program is superb. That's a blanket statement.  If you choose to stay on this side of the pond, then Penn over Princeton. Penn's History and Sociology of Science is excellent. Their training is what other programs aspire to, their faculty is supportive, and the student body is cohesive and very friendly. 

Princeton is a good HoS department, but lacks faculty in a few critical areas. Tony Grafton's quasi-retirement has left them in a very tough spot with regard to early modern work. Jenny Rampling is a good scholar, but Newman/Principe/their students have done early modern chymistry to death.

Well yes, it is nested in the broader history department, which is excellent. But all the schools/programs @35mm_ was admitted into are excellent, so really the decisive factors are mentorship, placement, funding, and location.   

gnossienne n.3

Princeton's HoS is a standalone degree within the History department. It's not a standalone department, though it has a separate application process from the History PhD. The relationship between the departments is sort of moot, given they are in fact the same department.

For what it's worth, Cambridge is significantly stronger than Oxford for HoS, in terms of both name recognition and topic coverage. You'll know your interests and presumably have weighed the programs against those yourself, but Cambridge is known for HoS in ways that Oxford is not.

• 2 weeks later...

Katzenmusik

I was just talking with a scholar who holds an Oxbridge Ph.D.  He told me about his post-Ph.D. job search back in the US, and how difficult it was. He had absolutely no scholarly network in this country and no experience teaching whatsoever.  He didn't even know if he would enjoy teaching, a job which he had theoretically committed to doing (in the best-case scenario) for the rest of his career. 

Fortunately, after herculean job-search efforts, he did eventually get a tenure-track position, figured out teaching, and it all worked out.  But it was pretty scary for a bit and could easily have gone the other way.

He did say the positive aspect of a UK Ph.D. was just being able to focus purely on the dissertation for those three years, with no other distractions. He seems to have briefly lived the idealized life of the mind. But I did get the sense that he regretted the choice, from a practical standpoint.  

I vote for Princeton!  :-)

• 5 weeks later...

Decided on Penn!

I spoke to my prospective supervisor at length and figured Penn would be best as a lot of the faculty in my field is there plus the coursework and language requirements would greatly help in writing the dissertation. 

• glycoprotein1 and psstein

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Already have an account? Sign in here.

• Existing user? Sign In
• Online Users
• All Activity
• My Activity Streams
• Unread Content
• Content I Started
• Results Search
• Post Results
• Leaderboard
• Create New...

Important Information

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use

US vs UK PhDs

<p>Hi everybody,</p>

<p>This is actually a bit more complicated. It’s more like:</p>

<p>US engineering PhD at a top-tier department, with an established supervisor in a large research group</p>

<p>vs</p>

<p>UK engineering PhD at a top-tier department, with a newish lecturer in a small research group</p>

<p>Here’s an evaluation of all of the factors important to me at the moment, in no particular order:</p>

<p>Prospect of obtaining a good postdoctoral position

• Probably much more difficult to obtain a US post-doc position with a UK PhD (I’m not sure at this stage whether I want to do a post-doc, though).</p>

<p>Doing research that matches my interests

• Both options will be in my general area of interest. I’ve talked quite a bit to my potential supervisor in the UK, and he’s been quite considerate of my interest, and has suggested some things which are very commensurate with both of our interests, skills and philosophies. On the whole, I’m guessing that a more established supervisor would be less flexible and less inclined to be influenced by his graduate students.</p>

<p>Relationship with supervisor

• Working in a small group means more one-to-one time with my supervisor.</p>

<p>Relationship with other graduate students

• As a counterpoint to the above, a large group of graduate students means there’s the possibility of larger discussions and collaborations.</p>

<p>Quality of research possible

• Higher research output in the larger groups, compared to the UK position, and the established supervisors are obviously more experienced in their areas than the potential UK supervisor.</p>

<p>Taking classes

• You don’t have to do any classes for a UK PhD. I’ve heard (from two different academics) that the classes taken by US PhD students don’t really have any significant impact on the future quality of their research, but serve simply to broaden their base of knowledge.</p>

<p>Time to degree

• As a result of the taking of classes: UK PhDs are awarded in about 3 years, US PhDs are more like 4 or 5 years.</p>

<p>Uncertainty in all factors

• It’s uncertain whether I will be able to work with my supervisors of choice in the US. Equally, it’s uncertain what the trajectory of the UK supervisors career is, though I’ve heard from students in the department that he is very hard working, demanding, and dedicated.</p>

<p>/wall of text</p>

<p>Basically, I’m quite confused and would appreciate any additions and amendations people could make to the above evaluation.</p>

<p><em>bump</em></p>

<p>Really, I’d appreciate as much or as little as anybody can offer. Even just impressions about the difference in reputation of the two degrees.</p>

<p>Where do you want to work/live afterwards? If UK, go there. If US, do that one.</p>

<p>The reason US PhDs are longer is that they have far more classwork. UK PhDs have little to no coursework. Each country thinks their way is better.</p>

<p>You can take classes to broaden knowledge and earn a master along the way of your phD (if you didn’t have a master / had one in a different field)</p>

<p>How about money? I know that to get a PhD in the UK as a US citizen there is virtually no funding and I would have to pay out the nose. Likewise (and sounding like your situation) to get a PhD in the US as a UK citizen you are not eligible for certain government sponsored training grants and the like, but often they are still able to work out funding for international students. Do they pay you to get your PhD in the UK?</p>

<p>Depending on your field of engineering, your PhD coursework is vital to your research. Many engineering PhD programs in the U.S. have a purely coursework based qualifying exam that a large portion of pre-candidates fail.</p>

<p>I suppose I probably want to end up in the UK. But I really don’t know.</p>

<p>Both the UK and US universities will give me comparable funding, though they won’t buy comparable lifestyles (the UK being more expensive overall). I’m British, by the way.</p>

<p>What’s an example? I’m in chemical engineering, and both of the chemical engineering professors with US PhDs who I’ve asked about this thought coursework didn’t aid research much. They indicated that it was just another hoop students had to jump through.</p>

<p>I don’t doubt that I’d find at least some of the coursework new and interesting, but some won’t be, and I’m not sure how much any of it will help me in the long run.</p>

<p>I also applied to US and UK PhD programs (though I’m in Biology). So I’ve probably only looked into this just as much as you have. UK PhD may be shorter/easier, but there’s a reason for this. In the US it takes a long time to get a PhD because you’re thrown this mostly novel project, and you’ve got to grind your way through it from beginning to end. (Ah, the infamous stories of a Harvard PhD.) You don’t do this with a UK PhD. What that means is that, when you do a post-doc, it would be harder for you, if you haven’t had to do completely independent work for a long time.</p>

<p>Also it is true that if you want to end up working in the US, you should do your PhD in the US, and ditto for the UK.</p>

<p>Personally, my decision came down to the culture of the people. I interviewed at UK and I realized I couldn’t stand it. I like the forward, outgoing, adventurous and confident spirits of US students and even faculty. I want to be able to do crazy innovative experiments in grad school. UK schools (as well as many of the more traditional schools in the US) don’t seem to foster an environment that supports this.</p>

<p>I think in terms of making a logical decision, the only thing you have to worry about is where you want to end up working. Other than that, this should be a decision that comes from inside. You probably already know which one you like, where you’d be happiest for the next 3-5 years.</p>

<p>The main reason most UK PhD program don’t have coursework is that the undergraduate programs are generally a bit more advanced (in terms of the level of coursework covered). That, in turn, is because most UK undergraduate programs only focus on the subject that the student is majoring in whereas most US programs feature a wide range of ‘general education’ courses that take up, certainly in the first year or two, a lot of the courses. Some UK PhD courses require a ‘taught’ (e.g. coursework) masters to be completed first although this generally isn’t the case for engineering courses.</p>

<p>I don’t know that there’s much basis for these gross generalizations. There only thing one can really say is that every case will be different and should be considered separately.</p>

<p>Did you do your undergrad in the UK or in the US? And do you have a Master’s already? As mentioned by another poster, US undergrad programs are less “concentrated” so the first year of PhD coursework is essential for a US undergrad. UK undergrads probably do more specialized coursework so they will be better prepared. I received my undergrad from Canada, which is in-between the two systems and I’ve found my PhD coursework to be invaluable, although it may be partially that I’m in an electrical engineering systems program which is very math intensize.</p>

How are US and UK university systems different?

The UK and US higher education systems are very different from each other, and it’s important to make these clear to students considering applying to both

Augusto Neto

• More on this topic

You may also like

| ˈaɪ laɪk təˈmeɪˌtoʊ, ju laɪk təˈmɑːtəʊ |

Unless you are an amateur linguist and phonemics buff like me, the phonetic symbols above probably mean very little to you. But they highlight American and British English pronunciation differences in all their glory.

I like to quip, echoing George Bernard Shaw’s witticism, that Britain and America are two nations divided not just by their common language but by their utterly distinct higher education cultures. Indeed, this divergence is so pronounced that one might jest they’re the academic equivalent of tea versus coffee: each has its aficionados, and never the twain shall meet without a bit of a stir.

The symbols above read “I like tomato, you like tomato”, by the way. The former pronounced in the American way and the latter correctly.

Student experience: a transatlantic divergence

The student experience in the UK and the US reflects the broader educational ethos of each country.

In Britain, the university journey is heavily based on self-guided learning. Students often find themselves navigating their academic paths with fewer contact hours, necessitating a profound degree of independence from the outset. This approach cultivates a scholarly environment in which self-motivation and personal initiative are paramount, with the onus on students to delve deeply into their subjects outside the confines of the classroom.

Across the Atlantic, the American university experience is more structured, with a higher volume of contact hours fostering a different form of academic engagement. This system creates a dynamic campus life in which learning extends beyond the academic to encompass a wealth of extracurricular pursuits. American universities excel in crafting an all-encompassing environment that supports not only intellectual growth but also personal development through clubs, societies and sports, making the campus a vibrant community hub.

Another key difference between the two is the way in which students choose their subjects. In the UK, students must apply to a specific subject – such as psychology, history, maths and so on – which they will then study in-depth over the next three to four years. As they continue through their degree, students will have the opportunity to select modules in areas of their subject that they are most interested in, in order to specialise their learning more.

In the US, however, students can apply to a university with no idea of what they want to study. In their first year, they can choose a range of classes, across different faculties, to explore various disciplines and discover what they enjoy the most. In subsequent years, students can then whittle down their class choices to be more targeted and will eventually have to declare a “major” in their second or third year. This will be the subject that they will graduate in.

This means the US allows students a lot more flexibility to explore a range of academic areas and interests, while the UK affords students the opportunity to delve in-depth into a subject of their choice.

This dichotomy extends beyond academic structures, influencing student lifestyles and interactions. UK students might find their schedules more flexible, but also more challenging in terms of time management and self-discipline. By contrast, US students often navigate a more prescriptive timetable, balancing the demands of coursework with an array of extracurricular commitments.

Thus the transition between these systems can be striking, as students adapt not just to different academic expectations, but also to different social and cultural norms.

How many contact hours are there?

The number of contact hours – the time students spend under direct instruction from professors – highlights a significant difference between the UK and the US educational systems.

In the UK, a student might expect between eight and 16 contact hours a week, reflecting the system’s emphasis on independent study. This framework assumes that students will spend considerable time outside the classroom engaging in extensive reading and research to further their knowledge.

Conversely, in the US, students typically experience 12 to 20 hours of contact time each week. This difference is indicative of the American approach to education, which favours a more hands-on, guided learning experience. Here, the structure is designed to keep students consistently engaged with their coursework, through a mix of lectures, discussions and practical sessions, ensuring a steady pace of learning and immediate support from faculty.

This contrast in contact hours not only reflects differing educational philosophies, but also impacts students’ daily lives and study habits. UK students must cultivate a high level of self-discipline to manage their independent study effectively, while their US counterparts are often more tightly scheduled, with a greater portion of their learning directed by faculty. This fundamental difference shapes not just the academic but also the personal development journey of students in each context.

The discipline of learning: self-directed versus structured

The discipline of learning in higher education, particularly the balance between self-directed study and structured instruction, varies markedly between the UK and the US.

The UK higher education system places a strong emphasis on self-directed learning, expecting students to take the initiative in exploring their subjects beyond the classroom.

This approach encourages students to develop critical thinking skills, self-discipline and a deep engagement with their field of study. The expectation is that much of a student’s learning will occur independently, through reading, research and preparation for seminars and exams.

This model promotes a scholarly independence from the outset, preparing students for the rigours of academic and professional life.

By contrast, the US system is characterised by a more structured approach to learning. Students benefit from a higher number of contact hours and a continuous assessment regime that provides regular feedback on their progress.

This structure ensures a more guided learning experience, where students have frequent interactions with faculty and a clearer framework within which to work.

The American approach closely intertwines academic learning with a plethora of extracurricular activities.

The transition between these systems can be challenging for students, requiring an adjustment to new ways of learning and studying. While international high school students going to university in the US might be more familiar with the continuous assessment and the need for regular participation in class discussions, those who elect to go the UK for university must adapt to a greater emphasis on independent study and the consequent need for self-motivation.

Campus life and housing: from halls to dorms

The architectural tapestry and living quarters of universities in the UK and the US further accentuate the distinctiveness of each system’s student experience.

In the UK, university campuses often blend historic and contemporary architecture, reflecting centuries of academic heritage. Student housing typically comes in the form of halls of residence, where freshers (first-year students) live in close-knit communities, fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual support. In all but very rare cases, students have their own bedrooms.

These accommodations often include catered options, providing students with meals. As students progress in their university journey, many move into shared houses or apartments in the local town or city, marking a rite of passage that encourages greater independence.

US universities are known for their sprawling campuses that serve as self-contained communities, complete with residential halls, dining facilities, recreational centres and sometimes even shopping districts.

First-year students usually reside in dormitories, often in shared bedrooms. Dormitories are central to the American college experience, providing a social atmosphere that encourages students to forge connections and immerse themselves in campus life.

The emphasis on campus facilities and extracurricular engagement in the US reflects a holistic approach to education, where personal development is considered just as important as academic achievement.

The contrast in campus styles and student housing between the UK and the US is emblematic of the broader cultural differences that influence university life. For international students, adapting to these environments is an integral part of the overseas educational experience, offering a window into the values, traditions and social dynamics of their host country.

Sports at college – or should I say ‘university’?

The attitude towards collegiate sports is a vivid illustration of the cultural divide between UK and US universities, akin to the contrast between a leisurely cricket match and an intense American football game.

In the US, collegiate sports occupy a central place in university life, embodying much more than athletic competition. Major sports, especially American football and basketball, command substantial followings, turning university athletes into campus celebrities and games into large-scale events. This fervent support for college sports is underpinned by significant institutional investment, with some student-athletes receiving scholarships that fully cover their education as a reward for their sporting excellence.

By contrast, while sports are indeed a part of university life in the UK, the scale and intensity of engagement are markedly less pronounced. British universities foster a sporting culture that values participation and the social aspects of sports, rather than the competitive fervour and commercial aspects prevalent in the US. Sports societies and teams in the UK offer students opportunities to engage in a range of activities, from traditional sports such as rugby and football to more niche interests. However, these activities rarely attain the spectatorship or the high-profile status seen in American universities.

Pedagogical styles: a diverse palette

The pedagogical styles of UK and US universities showcase a spectrum of approaches to teaching and learning, each system reflecting its unique educational traditions and philosophies.

In the UK, the academic structure leans towards lectures and seminars as the primary modes of instruction.

Lectures provide a broad overview of a topic, while seminars offer a forum for deeper exploration and discussion, often in smaller groups. This arrangement encourages students to prepare thoroughly, promoting an environment where independent thought and critical analysis are paramount.

Tutorials offer personalised attention, allowing for detailed feedback and discussion of students’ work. This method underscores the UK emphasis on developing students’ ability to think independently and engage critically with their subject matter.

In the US, the educational approach is notably more diverse, incorporating not only lectures and seminars but also a wider variety of interactive and practical sessions, such as labs, workshops and studio classes. This diversity reflects the American emphasis on hands-on learning and the application of theory in practical contexts. Such an approach is designed to engage students in a variety of learning environments, catering to different learning styles and fostering a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

The pedagogical styles in both the UK and the US are designed to cultivate different skills and attributes in students. While the UK system emphasises depth of knowledge and independent critical thinking, the US approach encourages a broader engagement with the subject, emphasising practical skills and collaborative learning.

The nomenclature of academia

The terminology used within the academic communities of the UK and the US further illustrates the distinct identities of each educational system.

In the UK, the hierarchy of academic titles begins with “lecturer”, advancing through “senior lecturer” to “reader”, and finally to “professor”, the last denoting the pinnacle of academic achievement and recognition. This progression reflects a career path defined by research output, teaching excellence and contributions to the academic community.

Conversely, the US academic system employs titles such as “assistant professor”, “associate professor” and “professor”. These ranks not only signify different stages of an academic career but also often entail varying responsibilities and expectations in terms of teaching, research and service to the university community.

The title of “professor” in the US, similar to the UK, represents a significant achievement, identifying a senior academic with a distinguished record of scholarship.

This difference in nomenclature is more than just semantic; it reflects the underlying values and traditions of each educational culture. For students and academics crossing the Atlantic, understanding these titles and what they represent can be an important aspect of navigating the academic environment and fostering mutual respect and collaboration.

• Science and Math Textbooks
• STEM Educators and Teaching
• STEM Academic Advising
• STEM Career Guidance
• Science Education and Careers

PhD in the UK vs US: Is it Worth the Effort?

• Thread starter LizarD0
• Start date Aug 24, 2011
• Tags Phd Uk
• Aug 24, 2011
• Nonreciprocal quantum batteries exhibit remarkable capacities and efficiency
• Quantum chemistry and simulation help characterize coordination complex of elusive element 61
• QUIET: A place to study qubits shielded from the effects of cosmic rays

I think the standard career boost is doing a post-doc in the US and exploit PhD students who think that ridiculous competition for "prestigious schools" and 60+ hours work/week are normal and acceptable, not doing a PhD there and be exploited yourself. Unless you find a PhD program that skips the coursework (I don't see a need for it in the fields you are interested in) I think a PhD in the US would be a waste of time for you.  

• Aug 25, 2011

Anonymous217 said: Oxford seems to be the only other option with a great physics grad department.

Anonymous217 said: Oxford seems to be the only other option with a great physics grad department so you may be severely limiting yourself on location diversity.

One thing all of you mentioned is the need to change location. How important is it really? The two directors of studies and a lot of my supervisors have spent their entire academic life in Cambridge (and only a fraction of them for family reasons). I realize that a lot of scientists are constantly on the move, but would I be at a significant disadvantage if I stayed in one place? I've already found potential PhD projects in Cambridge in which I'm interested and whilst I don't have anything keeping me here, I quite like the place and wouldn't mind staying for three more years. Edit: Thanks for all the replies so far. I'll only look for PhDs in the US that will skip coursework, this may involve me contacting the unis asking for this as I heard they do it occasionally as a special case.  

There is no reason why you would need to change location. Staying at the same place seems to be more the norm than the exception in the UK (it is certainly true for most of the PhD students I've come across here, including my own student). After all, most researchers prefer to recruit people that have already shown an ability to do the work, meaning e.g. a final year project is a common way into a PhD. Hence, the only reason to move somewhere else would be if you can't find a suitable PhD position in Cambridge. Btw, the need to move around becomes relevant once you reach the post-doc stage; not before that.  

Thanks f95toli! It's good to know that changing location doesn't matter as much as I thought it did. I am actually planning on doing a fourth year project within the group I'm thinking of joining for the PhD. It now seems to me that I may end up staying in Cambridge if all goes well. I will apply elsewhere as well though, I don't like limiting my options for as long as possible.  

streeters said: Imperial, Manchester, Durham and a few more.

Anonymous217 said: Sure, the grad school doesn't necessarily matter, but I am talking in the general sense. Of course there are exceptions.

That's a bit pedantic to describe the term "grad school", as I was talking in the general sense (it would be hard to be specific in an online website). Intuitively, it's better to go to a school with the best research group suited to you, and generally, higher "ranked" schools would have better research opportunities available (I'll repeat: in the general sense).  

• Aug 26, 2011

Anonymous217 said: That's a bit pedantic to describe the term "grad school", as I was talking in the general sense (it would be hard to be specific in an online website). Intuitively, it's better to go to a school with the best research group suited to you, and generally, higher "ranked" schools would have better research opportunities available (I'll repeat: in the general sense).

f95toli said: The reason for why I keep going on about this is because many people seems to be unaware of how different the systems in the US and the UK (and the rest of Europe) are.

Related to PhD in the UK vs US: Is it Worth the Effort?

What is the difference between a phd in the uk and a phd in the us.

The main difference between a PhD in the UK and a PhD in the US is the length of the program. In the UK, a PhD typically takes 3-4 years to complete, while in the US it can take 5-7 years. Additionally, the structure and requirements of the programs may vary, with the UK focusing more on independent research and the US incorporating coursework and exams.

Is a PhD from the UK recognized in the US and vice versa?

Yes, a PhD from the UK is recognized in the US and vice versa. Both countries have highly reputable universities and a PhD from either country is valued worldwide. It is important to research the specific institution and program to ensure it is accredited and recognized in the desired location.

What are the funding opportunities for a PhD in the UK and the US?

Funding opportunities for a PhD in the UK and the US may differ. In the UK, PhD students may receive funding through grants, scholarships, or teaching/research assistantships. In the US, funding may also be available through these options, as well as fellowships, stipends, and loans. It is important to research and apply for funding opportunities early in the application process.

What are the job prospects after completing a PhD in the UK or the US?

Both the UK and the US have strong job prospects for PhD graduates. In the UK, PhD holders can pursue academic positions, as well as opportunities in industry, government, and non-profit organizations. In the US, PhD graduates can also pursue academic positions, as well as careers in research and development, consulting, and other fields related to their area of study.

Is getting a PhD in the UK or the US worth the effort?

The answer to this question ultimately depends on the individual's goals and priorities. Both the UK and the US offer high-quality PhD programs and valuable experiences, but the decision should be based on personal factors such as research interests, funding opportunities, and career goals. It is important to carefully consider all aspects and weigh the effort, time, and resources required before committing to a PhD program in either country.

Similar threads

• Jan 18, 2024
• Sep 21, 2019
• Feb 23, 2023
• Dec 8, 2023
• Jan 2, 2019
• Apr 4, 2024
• Mar 9, 2024
• Jun 16, 2021
• Apr 1, 2021
• Oct 17, 2016

Hot Threads

• Good textbook(s) for self-studying Quantum Physics
• Expressing Neurodivergency Obstacle in Grad School Personal Statements
• Schools   Which University should I go to for my undergrad in physics?
• Other   What's the point of a thesis?
• Admissions   Need advice for Low GPA / Good Research / HEPth PhD application

Recent Insights

• Insights   Views On Complex Numbers
• Insights   Addition of Velocities (Velocity Composition) in Special Relativity
• Insights   Schrödinger’s Cat and the Qbit
• Insights   The Slinky Drop Experiment Analysed
• Insights   How to Solve a Multi-Atwood Machine Assembly
• Insights   The Lambert W Function in Finance

UK vs US Phd

Quick Reply

Related discussions.

• MRes - Is it offered in any discipline?
• BEng / MEng / PhD
• MPhil vs PHD
• Master Economics: LSE vs Cambridge vs UCL vs CEMFI vs BGSE
• A level options for a Maths degree at Oxbridge?
• Bath vs Goldsmiths vs Northumbria vs York (online MSc Artificial Intelligence)
• Bayes vs Manchester vs Nottingham vs Cranfield MSc in Finance- International student
• Seeking Advice: Finance vs. Health Data Science - Which Master's Program Should I Cho
• Merton Oxford or St John's Cambridge
• Masters conversion vs normal Masters
• MSc Statistics -- LSE with scholarship vs Imperial
• Masters/conversion courses
• Is A MSc finance or related worth it ?
• Applying to study a PhD in the US
• Warwick Math Fin vs. UCL Comp Fin vs. Toronto University Math Fin
• Biomedical Science in the UK vs Australia?
• Applying to masters in US from Russell group - theoretical
• Warwick vs UCL vs LSE for a career in private equity/ quant/ acturial science
• Advice for an American applying for master's in CS?
• Careers advice electrician vs electrical engineering

Last reply 10 hours ago

Last reply 1 day ago

Last reply 2 days ago

Last reply 5 days ago

Last reply 6 days ago

Last reply 1 week ago

Last reply 2 weeks ago

Last reply 1 month ago

Last reply 2 months ago

Articles for you

Making the grade: A* students share their revision tips and secrets

Will artificial intelligence put legal graduates out of work?

Why industry placements are so important for business students

You don’t need to take a law conversion course for the SQE… but here’s why you should

Rankings released! QS World University Rankings 2025 

The QS World University Rankings 2025 are now live ! 

Being the first of its kind to incorporate both employability and sustainability factors into the methodology , the QS World University Rankings provides the higher education sector, governments and students a reliable rankings system that identifies the world’s leading universities in a range of performance metrics. 

This year’s ranking is the largest – featuring 1,500 universities from 106 countries and territories across the globe. For the thirteenth consecutive year Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the US has placed first. 

Who are the top ten universities in the QS World University Rankings 2025? 

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), US 

2. Imperial College London, UK 

3. University of Oxford, UK 

4. Harvard University, US 

5. University of Cambridge, UK 

6. Stanford University, US 

7. ETH Zürich – Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Switzerland 

8. National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore 

9. University College London, UK 

10. California Institute of Technology (Caltech), US 

Notably, Imperial College London has moved up four places – the biggest improvement among the top ten.  Their progress is attributed to several factors, including their improvement in the ‘Sustainability’ category, (scoring 99.7 out of 100 overall) and in various research metrics including ‘Citations per faculty’, which they earned 86.5 last year, compared to a total of 93.9 this year, for example. 

New entrants  

There are 21 newly ranked institutions in the QS World University Rankings 2025, with the highest debutant being the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) in the United Arab Emirates, with a ranking of 485th – the University scored 100 in indicators ‘International students’ and ‘International faculty’.  

Global highlights of the QS World University Rankings 2025 

China and India’s universities have seen the biggest upward movements for both the number of institutions increasing their ranking position and for the number of significant moves (defined as 10 places or more) in the QS World University Rankings 2025.

Other highlights in institutional performance globally are: 

The UK’s strongest performance is in the ‘International Student Ratio’ indicator. It achieves the world’s second-highest average score among countries with ten or more ranked universities, behind only Saudi Arabia – underscoring the global appeal of UK higher education institutions and their ability to attract a diverse student body. 

The US continues to boast one of the world’s most renowned higher education systems for their reputation, according to employers and academics – this is clear in the ranking as four of the top ten universities, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Harvard University, Stanford University and University of California, Berkeley (UCB) earn 100 in the ‘Academic reputation’ indicator. 

Canada  

Canadian universities are performing exceptionally in ‘Sustainability’, with two universities among the world’s top five, including the world’s most sustainable institution, the University of Toronto . 

Australia  

Three Australian institutions are in the world’s top 20 – with the University of Melbourne and the University of Sydney each climbing one position to 13th and 18th respectively. Australia also dominates in ‘International research’ in the Asia-Pacific region, claiming nine of the top 10 positions. 

Africa  

South Africa holds the African continent’s top four positions in the rankings – with the University of Cape Town (ranked 171st) being the continent’s highest-ranked institution, an improvement of two places from the previous year. Cairo University (Egypt) completed the top five in Africa, ranking 350th globally. 

Latin America  

Latin America has four representatives in the top 100, one from each of its four largest economies: Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA) in Argentina (71st); Universidade de São Paulo in Brazil (92nd); Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (UC) in Chile (93rd); and Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) in Mexico (94th). 

Related QS Insights

What to expect from the qs world university rankings 2025 .

Rankings released! QS International Trade Rankings 2024 

What to expect from the QS International Trade Rankings 2024

How university ratings helped Universidad Fidélitas develop new partnerships and recruit international students

Sign up for industry insights

Receive the latest insights, expertise and commentary on the topics which matter most in higher education, straight to your inbox.

I'm a British mom living in the US. In the UK kids get a shorter summer break and have mandatory uniforms.

• I'm British, and my kids go to school in the US, where we live.
• There are notable differences between the education system in America and my native UK.
• I envy the British version because it is much easier for children — and their parents.

When my British friends ask what it's like to educate my kids in the US, the first issue they raise is the risk of school shootings .

Last year, no fewer than 21 people died, and 42 were injured in incidents of gun violence in and around American schools .

In contrast, the last school shooting in the UK — when a gunman murdered 16 elementary students and a teacher — happened in 1996. As a result, the public called for tighter gun controls, which the British government enforced.

My friends' next question is often related to academic achievement.

In 2018 — the most recent year the research was performed — the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) ranked the overall knowledge and skills of British 15-year-olds as 13th in the world in reading, literacy, mathematics, and science.

The same assessment found that 15-year-olds in the US were ranked 25th globally.

It's difficult to compare public school systems forensically because of the countries' vastly different populations and government infrastructures.

However, feedback from my British friends has convinced me that the setup in the UK is more user-friendly for kids and parents.

Here are three key reasons.

Kids in the UK start school as young as 4

By law, children in the UK enter the publicly-funded British school system as young as 4 .

Most begin full-time classes in "reception" — the first step on the educational ladder — in the September after their 4th birthday. Research has consistently shown that early childhood education helps kids develop academically and socially .

Related stories

It also relieves a huge financial burden on working parents, who no longer have to pay babysitters or nursery schools for private childcare .

The age at which American parents are mandated to send their children to school depends on the state. In New York, for example, they are only obliged to attend by law after first grade.

School breaks are better spread out in the UK

My friends in the UK can't believe my kids have an entire 10-week summer break from school.

"What on earth do you do with them for 10 weeks?" my daughter's godmother once asked. She grimaced when I told her we fork over thousands of dollars for day and sleep-away camps .

Almost every child in Britain gets a six-week summer break, two weeks at Christmas and two weeks at Easter. There is usually a one-week "half-term" in February, May, and October.

Responding to parents' complaints about the length of the standard summer break , some education authorities reduced it to five as an experiment. The extra week was added to the May half-term, giving kids 10 days off instead of five in the Spring.

Kids wear uniform

Most government-run schools in the UK require students to wear a school uniform . The protocols contrast those in the US, where most public school kids can wear what they want to class — albeit within reason.

As a mom whose teens can waste hours picking an outfit to wear every morning, I'd like uniforms to be compulsory nationwide. I'm tired of the endless arguments over what clothes are "appropriate" or not.

Meanwhile, I shudder when I hear about "elite" cliques of high schoolers dressed head to toe in Lululemon . I can't bear to think of a kid being bullied because they're wearing something from Old Navy instead.

A friend said her kids wear what they want for a few designated days on the UK school calendar, such as the last day of term. "The stress of competitive dressing is high-octane," she said.

Uniforms are not only levelers but also support the idea of a community or team. Kids look more put together in a uniform, and it's good training for entering a profession.

Do you have a powerful story highlighting the differences between education in the US and other countries? If you'd like to share it with Business Insider, please send details to [email protected] .

Watch: All the differences between Tim Hortons in the US and the UK

• Main content

• Forgiveness
• Resurrection

• Evangelical
• Religion News

Keir Starmer vs Rishi Sunak Debate: A Christian View

British politics is not divided on religious lines, unlike the USA.  There was little for Christians to be excited or offended about in last night’s UK election debate between Sir Keir Starmer and Rishi Sunak.

It struck me how different politics is between the US and the UK.  The truth is that after the anguish of the Brexit years we just aren’t  as divided along partisan lines as the Americans. In the USA 80% of UK Evangelicals will likely vote for one of the two candidates , over here that is definitely not the case. British Christians see no issue with voting Conservative or Labour. Perhaps partly because there really isn’t the same divide between the parties on social issues.

In the debate itself social issues that are of interest to Christians didn’t come up. The focus was on the contrast between the image the two leaders want to put across with their soundbites.  Sunak wanted us all to believe he was a safe pair of hands who had taken bold action to protect us during COVID and would keep us safe by spending more on defence and sending illegal immigrants to Rwanda.  Starmer stressed his background as having run the Crown Prosecution Service, and portrayed himself as a calm methodical man with a plan to rebuild the UK after 14 years of  the Conservatives breaking it so it no longer worked for us.

The debate was repetitive, and very light on detail.  Personally I did not like the way it was set up or moderated.  The two leaders did seem quite hostile towards each other at points and both were asked not to talk over each other and to talk less loudly.  Wasn’t exactly Christian values on display but at the same time on a number of issues they seemed anxious to agree on.

Neither of them would admit to needing to raise taxes across the board, though Starmer did talk about a few specific taxes he would put up including removing the non-dom loopholes that we know Sunak uses and removing tax exemption on private schools.  Starmer was eager to point out that for all his tax lowering promises Sunak had raised taxes many times in the last few years.

On tax Sunak kept saying Starmer would raise taxes “for every family” by £2000 which he presented as a figure calculated by our independent civil service. Starmer said it was nonsense and the civil service have distanced themselves from this figure saying it should not be presented as their work. This smacked of dishonesty and has been called an outright lie by independent commentators, and just adds to the idea that politicians cannot be trusted to be truthful.

Sunak admitted that he used private healthcare and education. Starmer, however,  said he wouldn’t under any circumstances pay for a family member to jump the mounting NHS waiting lists or get a better education than they could in a government funded school.  For some Brits the NHS and Education are both almost like a religion and Sunak was happy to paint himself as an apostate on that issue, presumably hoping that even those who can’t afford to help themselves in that way would aspire to be able to do so, and hence admire him.

Both of them made valiant attempts to appear understanding and compassionate towards the questioners who reported struggling with the cost of living and failing public services.  Somehow the idea that Sunak understood financial pressures on ordinary working people rang rather flat knowing that he and his family are richer than King Charles III!  Starmer is also currently quite wealthy and insulated from the cost of living crisis, but was eager to stress he grew up in a family who worried about whether they could afford to pay bills.

Both of them were keen to appear tough on immigration. It is sad that nobody is willing to say that giving people who are fleeing from war a fresh start here and an allowing them to work is actually good for society. Instead Starmer said that his prosecution experience convicting with terrorists and gangs has taught him how we can break up the people smuggling gangs currently exploiting the vulnerable by selling unsafe boat trips across the channel.  He was also eager to allege that Sunak clearly didn’t think his deporting illegal immigrants to Rwanda plan wasn’t going to work or he wouldn’t have called the election.

Starmer kept saying it was time for a change and that you couldn’t trust Sunak as he had been part of a 14-year failed government. He did sound like he might be the prime minister in waiting all the polls predict him to be. But he didn’t really inspire huge confidence. He is aiming for a quiet competent image, which is perhaps exactly what we need after all the theatrics of the last few years in UK politics.

As Christians we should be praying for both candidates and that God would have mercy on our nation.

Why Does Trump the Felon Still Have Evangelical Support?

Jesus is not a republican or a democrat

Professionalism vs. Compassion

Ten Things Jesus Did NOT Say

• General Christian
• Politics and Religion
• social action

• Library of World Religions
• Advertise With Us
• Write for Us
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service
• Do Not Sell My Data
• Radiant Digital
• Manage Newsletter Subscriptions
• Unsubscribe From Notifications

Get the Reddit app

A subreddit dedicated to PhDs.

UK vs US PhD

I’m an American who did my MA in the UK a few years back, and now that the pandemic is winding down a little bit, my husband and I are discussing the possibility of moving to the UK so I can do my PhD.

I’m still on the fence because this means that a) we’d have to sell most of our stuff or store it before we move, b) I’d likely be self-funded, c) I’m not sure what my husband would end up doing for work.

Of course, when comparing the financial costs and the time spent, doing a PhD in the UK makes the most sense.

Does anyone have any thoughts on this or have any advice?