Many master’s programs give two options to the students to pursue their degree in.One is a thesis program and the other is the regular course-based or coursework program.Many times students mistakenly choose or apply the wrong program without knowing the difference between them or the real purpose of these programs.

Course-based Masters Degrees are mainly based on course modules taught through lectures, lab work, seminars or distance learning.They mainly have a structure consisting of core, elective and optional units and require enrolment in these units, attendance for all timetabled classes, and completion of assignments.Most Coursework based Masters may have a research element and may require completion of a minor thesis.

On the other hand, research-based Masters Degrees require students to carry out their own research project in a specialized field of study. These degrees normally take longer to complete than coursework Masters Degrees.They require the submission of a thesis that is based on an independent research project. Here the students work independently and get the support of their supervisors and school. In some cases, students are required to attend units in order to expand their skills in areas of research.

But the main and important difference between the two is the level of independence you get while studying. In a coursework degree students get guidance from their professors for doing their independent study and research through very less credits of the degree, whereas in a research based degree , students need to make up majority of their credits through a large project based on their independent study and comparatively receive lesser tutor support than that on a taught degree. However, they are granted support from their supervisors who help them develop their research proposal.

So what are the advantages and disadvantages of one over the other?

A coursework program gives you access to a variety of subjects whereas in a research based program you are narrowed down to a single focus of interest
For PHD aspirants a research based program is an amazing opportunity to get insights on what a PHD study looks like whereas a course work program gives a great chance of employability in the outside world.


So to conclude , a coursework based masters is a better choice for students who want to improve their employability by gaining advanced knowledge of a subject. This is relevant if students have a certain career in mind that requires a specific qualification. Research based degrees on the other hand are viewed as valuable preparation for undertaking PhD studies, with many funding bodies awarding money only to PhD students who have completed research programs.

So choose the correct program based on your own future career interests.Hope this helps!
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