dogbones Posted July 21, 2019 Share Posted July 21, 2019 Hi: Just wanted to see if we could get a thread going where people could compile a collective list of characterizing features of the various PhD programs out there today? For example, MIT is probably more in depth than most schools but not as broad ranging as Harvard, in a sense? If we could get a discussion going about this I think it would be very helpful for everyone. Aloha from Hawaii! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
EXP Posted July 21, 2019 Share Posted July 21, 2019 To what end? Why do you believe those things about MIT and Harvard? Besides, unbiased comparison between two programs is very difficult, as no one has been to more than one. I would argue that the breadth and depth of education between two similarly-ranked schools is immaterial. A more important distinction here is number of professors you want to work with and/or strength of fields of specialization. Finding out this information, for me, was a good exercise in getting to know the programs better and helped me form my own preferences. I don't think anyone would complain if you compiled a list of fields of specialization at the top 100 schools, but I doubt it's the best use of your time. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dogbones Posted July 22, 2019 Author Share Posted July 22, 2019 Hi EXP, I suppose you're right... I was just getting bored watching nothing happen on this forum and thought I'd chime in! Have a great night everyone! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
laborsabre Posted July 22, 2019 Share Posted July 22, 2019 I think there is value in discussing your question - especially if we ask about specific things that do not require opinions. In particular, it would have been nice to know what schools use comprehensive exams in the first year. For some people this might be helpful on the margin during decision time. From what I have gathered some schools have begun to get rid of these or reduce their importance. I don't have a positive or negative opinion of them, but some people do. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dogbones Posted July 22, 2019 Author Share Posted July 22, 2019 Hi laborsabre, I would definitely be interested in any development of this discussion! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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