Redesign PhDs and Masters says top-level UK group

Key recommendations from the group include:

• rethink the masters degree/PhD landscape so that PhD degrees generally last for 4 years, with the first one or two years potentially leading to a Masters degree which could develop specific skills;

• maintaining public spending on research in the current economic climate.

The government Chief Scientific Advisor and co-Chair of the CST, John Beddington, said the UK’s research provides real benefits to the economy and society which amply justify public and private investment. “However the world is changing. This position, and all the benefits it brings to the UK, is under threat from strong investments by existing and emerging economies. [...] A strategy properly focusing our efforts will ensure science spending can compete successfully with other financial pressures in a tough economic climate.”