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Hi, I have recently completed a Taught MSc Economics at a top 10 UK university and was interested in continuing on a MPhil/PhD. Since I have found full time employment in an Economist role, I was looking to do the PhD on a part time basis in the UK. Unfortunately, my MSc results were not very strong. I had an average of just 59% (58% from the taught and 60% from the research component) which is just a pass. Many of the PhD programs I have checked usually require at least a good Merit (of 65%+) or a Distinction. My undergraduate degree was quite strong (First-class honours, within top 5) with very high scores (80%+) on all quantitative subjects as well as my dissertation, however, I got my undergraduate only from a top 50 UK university which is not very strong in research. My question is therefore if you guys have any idea what the chances are of getting into a PhD programme with a weak MSc? Is the master qualification usually a k.o. criteria or do they put more weight into the proposal and work experience or can one demonstrate suitability through taking the GRE?. Further, do you know if part time (self funded) programmes have the same entry requirements as for full time programmes? If chances are too low of getting into any programme, would you have any suggestions of alternative routes? I.e. doing a second master to show academic suitability? My research interests are in economic growth and development as well as financial economics. Thanks for your help!