My Grad School Thoughts - Masters/PHD

[cardiacclep]

There is really no purpose in having a doctoral program if it doesn't lead to an advanced license or advanced research. Doctoral students are supposed to make some sort of contribution to their field.

Exactly this!!!!! Cheap and fast have there place in undergrad or even masters (most times) but when you get to PhD level this is not acceptable. As you stated, the goal of a PhD is to expand to the existing level knowledge in a particularly finite area of study. This takes time, sacrifice and at times bringing many students to the brink of breaking down because.........IT IS REALLY HARD. Casually shopping around for a no name online PhD or doctorate makes no sense and such degrees are treated with the respect they deserve which is none.